1 day tour Avatar Mountain and Grand Canyon & Glass Bridge

Experience the Best of Zhangjiajie in One Day

This one-day tour in Zhangjiajie takes you through some of the most iconic sights in China’s Middle China region. For $239 per person, you’ll visit Avatar Mountain, Tianzi Mountain, and the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, all with the comfort of private transport and guided commentary.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances timing and flexibility—early entry means avoiding crowds at popular sites like Yuanjiajie, and the local guides are skilled at showing secret viewpoints, making the experience both immersive and special. The inclusion of skip-the-line access and a luxury vehicle adds a level of comfort and efficiency that can make a packed day feel relaxed.

On the flip side, one consideration is the moderate 2-hour hike involved, which might be tiring if you’re not used to walking. Also, the price excludes some entrance fees and optional activities, so budgeting a little extra is wise.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see Zhangjiajie’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail and prefer an organized, guided experience. It’s especially suitable if you’re short on time but still want to tick off the major sights.

Key Points

• Early access to avoid crowds at top attractions
• Includes private transport and a knowledgeable guide
• Highlights iconic sites like Avatar Mountain and Glass Bridge
• Flexible pacing with secret viewpoints and optional cable car rides
• Good value considering transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary
• Moderate physical activity required, mainly walking and some hiking

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 1 Day Tour in Zhangjiajie

If you’re looking to see the best of Zhangjiajie in a single day, this guided tour offers a well-rounded experience, carefully designed for those who want to maximize their time without rushing through the highlights. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect and why it might be right for you.

Starting Early: The Advantage of Pre-Dawn Beginnings

The tour kicks off with a 7:30 AM hotel pickup—an hour that might feel early, but it’s key to beating the crowds. By arriving at the Wulingyuan Scenic Area early, you gain priority access and avoid the lines that form later in the day. Our guide, whose name we didn’t catch but who was incredibly knowledgeable, explained that this approach allows visitors to enjoy peaceful viewpoints and better photos.

The Bailong Elevator: A Vertical Marvel

The first highlight is the Bailong Elevator, which is not just a quick ride but a spectacle in itself. This glass elevator climbs 1,280 meters in just under two minutes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs. Standing at the top, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking vista of Hallelujah Mountain, the towering, cloud-swathed formation that became an instant icon after filming the movie “Avatar.”

Travelers rave about the elevator — one reviewer called it “the moment the elevator exited the mountain, revealing the breathtaking Hallelujah Mountain landscape,” emphasizing how impactful it is.

Yuanjiajie: The Avatar Filming Location

From there, you’re led to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, famous as the original inspiration for Pandora’s floating mountains. The main route passes by the First Bridge Under Heaven, Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, and the Lost Souls Platform. The terrain here is mostly flat boardwalks, making it accessible and suitable for most physical levels, though some walking is involved.

What we love about this part is the local guides’ secret viewpoints, which offer rare perspectives of the iconic peaks. The guides are flexible, allowing you to linger or move on quickly depending on your interest.

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Tianzi Mountain: The Sea of Clouds and Peak Views

Next, a 25-minute shuttle bus ride takes you to Tianzi Mountain, known for its sea of clouds and fantastical peaks. Highlights include Helong Park, Imperial Brush Peak, and Fairy Maiden Presenting Flowers. For those pressed for time, there’s an optional Tianzi Mountain Cable Car (¥72) that can save about an hour of hiking and give you more time later in the day.

Reviewers point out how stunning the views at Tianzi Mountain are, particularly when the clouds roll in—a classic Zhangjiajie scene.

Afternoon: The Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge

By mid-afternoon, the tour transitions to the Grand Canyon Scenic Area, about an hour’s drive from the mountain parks. The highlight here is the world’s highest and longest glass-bottom bridge, stretching 430 meters over a 300-meter drop. It’s a jaw-dropping feat of engineering and provides spectacular canyon views.

If you’re feeling adventurous, options like bungee jumping or ziplining are available for an extra fee. The photo opportunities are plentiful—walk near the edges for the best dramatic shots without the crowds.

Optional Hiking and Boat Ride

For those who want more, the hiking trail takes you from the Glass Bridge past the Skydrop elevator and Rainbow Square, ending with a boat ride out of the canyon—a peaceful way to wrap up the day. If time is tight, a shorter visit focusing on the bridge and nearby viewpoints is perfectly acceptable.

Practical Details and Budget Considerations

The total cost of about CNY662 (~$93 USD) covers admission fees for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Grand Canyon, the Bailong Elevator, and Tianzi Mountain Cable Car, plus transportation and guide service. Remember, optional experiences like the Grand Canyon project and meals are extra.

One of the nicest aspects is how well-organized and comfortable the experience is. Travelers mention the luxury bus and dedicated guides, which significantly enhance the experience by saving time and adding insight.

What We Think

We found that the early start makes a big difference, allowing us to beat the crowds and enjoy more peaceful views. The guided secret viewpoints are a real treat, giving us perspectives we wouldn’t find on our own. The balance of walking, cable cars, and optional activities caters well to different fitness levels and interests.

However, if you’re not comfortable with moderate hikes or have mobility issues, you might find some parts tiring. Also, remember this is a packed schedule, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to see the highlights efficiently and value guided insights. It’s perfect for those who want stunning vistas without the hassle of planning, and who appreciate early access to avoid the crowds. If you’re adventurous and physically moderate, you’ll likely enjoy the optional cable cars and hikes.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For panoramic views, cultural authenticity, and easy logistics, this tour hits the mark. The cost is reasonable considering the transportation, guides, and entrance fees included. It offers great value for travelers short on time but eager to see Zhangjiajie’s most famous sights.

The knowledgeable guides, combined with the early access, ensure you’ll see these spectacular landscapes at their best. You’ll love the photo opportunities and the insider tips for secret viewpoints. The comfort of private transport and skip-the-line privileges make for a smooth, enjoyable day.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown or travelers who prefer organized experiences to maximize sightseeing and minimize stress.

In short, it’s a reliable, value-packed way to explore Zhangjiajie’s jaw-dropping scenery without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from around 7:30 AM with hotel pickup, and typically concludes around 5:00 PM, covering a full day of sightseeing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a private air-conditioned vehicle takes you between sites, helping optimize your day and comfort.

What is the price of the tour?
The total per person is $239, which includes most entrance fees, transportation, and guiding, but excludes optional activities and meals.

Do I need to prepare for physical activity?
Yes, expect about 2 hours of walking and some hiking, so moderate fitness is recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, outdoor clothing suitable for variable weather, and perhaps a snack or water for breaks.

Are there wheelchair or mobility accommodations?
The tour involves some walking and steps, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Can I customize this tour?
The itinerary is somewhat flexible, especially at Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain, but the overall schedule is fixed to maximize site visits.

Is lunch included?
No, but there are quick meal options near Tianzi Mountain or en route to the canyon.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, provided children are comfortable with walking and heights. Always check with your guide about specific needs.

This comprehensive tour offers a practical way to experience Zhangjiajie’s most iconic scenery comfortably and efficiently. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply eager to tick off one of China’s most famous landscapes, this guided experience delivers authentic beauty and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: