3-Day “Secrets Of Zhangjiajie” Deep Photography Tour

An Authentic Photographer’s Journey Through Zhangjiajie

If you’re a photography enthusiast dreaming of capturing the otherworldly spires and floating mountains of Zhangjiajie, this 3-Day “Secrets Of Zhangjiajie” Deep Photography Tour is designed just for you. For $380 per person, you get a carefully crafted itinerary that takes you beyond the usual highlights into some of the most stunning, lesser-visited spots. Expect to spend about three days exploring some of the most photogenic landscapes in China, guided by local experts who understand just how to get you the perfect shot.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers full-time access to “secret” vantage points—places away from the crowds—and a full 360-degree perspective of Zhangjiajie’s dramatic scenery. Second, the guides are praised for their deep knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

One possible consideration is that the tour requires participants to arrive a day earlier or on the morning of the tour to fit the schedule comfortably, but that’s a small price to pay for the convenience of included pickup and drop-off.

This tour suits serious photographers and travelers who want to see Zhangjiajie through a lens, especially those eager to discover unique viewpoints or avoid the crowds. If you love nature, storytelling, and authentic experiences, this is a trip you’ll remember.

Key Points

• Expert guidance ensures you find the best angles and secret spots for photography.
• Full access to lesser-known viewpoints offers unique perspectives on Zhangjiajie’s famous landscapes.
• Comfortable transportation and included pickup make it easy to focus on capturing images rather than logistics.
• A mix of iconic sites and hidden gems provides variety, from Avatar’s floating mountains to peaceful streams.
• Real value for photography lovers willing to pay a bit more for personalized, in-depth access.
• Highly rated guides enrich the experience with stories, history, and local insight.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Day 1: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park & More

The adventure begins with a visit to the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, arguably the most famous part of the area. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for over 3,000 sandstone pillars that resemble something out of a fantasy novel. Here, you’ll walk among towering formations that have inspired countless photographs and movies. Although the admission ticket isn’t included, the walk here is a must-see for any landscape photographer.

Next, you’ll board the BaiLong Elevator, the world’s highest outdoor elevator at 326 meters, which whisks you up to the mountain in about 1.5 minutes—an experience in itself. It’s a fantastic way to save energy for the more scenic exploration ahead.

Then, it’s on to Yuanjiajie, the iconic “Floating Mountain” area that served as the inspiration for Avatar. The pillars here are larger and more impressive, with the famous “Hallelujah Mountain” just a camera’s click away. The views are jaw-dropping, with formations that look both alien and majestic.

Following this, you’ll head to Tianzi Mountain, which has a rich history linked to a Ming Dynasty hero. The scenery here features sharp, slender sandstone peaks that seem to pierce the sky. Besides the natural wonders, you’ll hear some fascinating legends about the area.

Lastly, you’ll visit a less crowded vantage point—the Sky Garden Terrace—where photographers can enjoy unobstructed views with minimal travelers. This spot offers a fantastic 360-degree view with villages nestled amid towering rocks, making it a perfect picture-perfect moment.

Day 2: Exploring the Serene Golden Whip Stream

The second day is dedicated to Golden Whip Brook, considered one of China’s most beautiful streams. Its 6 km flat canyon walk provides ample opportunity to capture crystal-clear water, sandstone formations, and local flora. The well-paved trail makes for a relaxed walk—”a walk into pure nature,” as one reviewer puts it.

Along the way, expect to see hundreds of uniquely shaped sandstone peaks and maybe even some playful monkeys. This part of the tour emphasizes a more natural and intimate experience, perfect for capturing peaceful landscape shots.

Day 3: The Dramatic Heights of Tianmen Mountain

The final day takes you to Tianmen Mountain, famed for its cliff paths, glass walkways, and panoramic views of Zhangjiajie. At 1500 meters, it’s the highest spot in the area, offering breathtaking vistas that are different from the ancient sandstone forests. Here, you’ll get a chance to walk on super-exciting glass walkways, capturing high-altitude shots of the landscape below.

More impressively, Tianmen Mountain holds four Guinness World Records, which could make for some fun facts and impressive images. The landscape here is dramatic and diverse, providing a fitting finale to your photographic journey.

The entire day is about six hours of exploration, with a focus on capturing expansive views and dramatic cliff formations.

The Practicalities and Value

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is private and comfortable, easing your movement between sites without the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded tours. Pickup and drop-off are included, making your logistics seamless, especially if you arrive a day early.

Guides and Expertise

Guides like Lina, Eric, and Mike are praised for their deep local knowledge and friendly attitude. They don’t just point out sights—they share stories, history, and tips that help you understand what you’re seeing and how to photograph it best. Multiple reviews mention their passion and professionalism, making the trip both informative and fun.

Cost and Value

At $380 per person, this tour might seem on the higher side compared to standard group excursions, but considering the personalized guidance, secret viewpoints, and comprehensive itinerary, many travelers find it well worth the investment. Entrance fees are additional (around 829 CNY or $114 USD), but the value lies in avoiding crowded tourist spots and gaining access to exclusive vantage points.

Who Will Love It

This experience is perfect for serious photographers or travelers eager to get extraordinary shots of Zhangjiajie’s landscapes. If you’re someone who values local insight, hidden viewpoints, and a relaxed pace, you’ll appreciate the carefully curated stops and expert guidance.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the ability to access less crowded, secret viewpoints truly sets this apart. The guides know the best spots to avoid the throngs and get the most stunning shots.

Second, the emphasis on full-time guidance with a local who understands both the landscape and your photography goals makes a huge difference. The detailed stories and tips help deepen your appreciation while improving your photos.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the cost, especially since entrance fees are extra. Also, the physical fitness level should be moderate, as some areas involve walking and standing on uneven terrain. Plus, arriving early or the night before is necessary to fully enjoy the schedule, which might not suit all travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a photography lover with an adventurous spirit who wants to go beyond the typical tourist paths, this trip delivers. It’s ideal for those keen to capture iconic scenes, hidden vistas, and unique angles, all while enjoying the guidance of knowledgeable locals. Also, if you prefer a private, tailored experience rather than a large group tour, this option caters to that desire.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, private transportation is provided throughout the trip, including pickup and drop-off.

Do I need to arrange my own accommodations? No, the tour does not include hotel stays, but it suggests arriving a day early or on the morning of the trip to fit the schedule comfortably.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees are paid separately, totaling around 829 CNY (approximately $114 USD) for all sites.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels? The tour recommends moderate physical fitness because of walking and uneven terrains, but it’s generally manageable for most travelers in good health.

Can I customize this trip? Since it’s a private tour, guides are flexible in some respects, especially if you want to spend more time at specific spots or adjust the pace.

What kind of photographic opportunities can I expect? Expect to capture famous sandstone pillars, floating mountains, scenic streams, and breathtaking panoramic views—all with expert guidance on the best angles and times.

Final Thoughts

This “Secrets Of Zhangjiajie” photography tour offers a rare chance to see one of China’s most stunning landscapes through a lens. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just a surface visit, seeking out those hidden spots and breathtaking viewpoints that make for memorable photos. With knowledgeable guides, private transport, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a chance to create a visual story of Zhangjiajie that’s uniquely yours.

While the cost is slightly higher due to entrance fees and specialized access, many travelers find the experience and the quality of guidance justify the price. It’s a great fit for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see Zhangjiajie without the crowds, capturing its magic in full 360 degrees.

If you want an intimate, authentic adventure that combines nature, stories, and picture-perfect scenery, this tour is a compelling choice. Just remember to arrive prepared for some walking and to bring your camera gear ready to seize those incredible moments.