Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water town private tour

A Perfect Day for Short-Stay Travelers in Beijing
This private tour packs a lot into a single day — visiting Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town for just $105 per person. With a duration of around 9 hours, it’s tailored for travelers eager to maximize their time without sacrificing authenticity. What makes this trip stand out? First, the personalized experience with a private driver and no other visitors joining your group, and second, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off that takes the stress out of navigation and planning.

We especially appreciate the smooth, air-conditioned transport that keeps you comfortable despite Beijing’s often unpredictable weather. The included bottled water is a small but thoughtful touch, keeping you hydrated as you explore. On the flip side, one thing to consider: you’ll need to buy your own entrance tickets, which adds a little extra planning and expense.

This tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want to see a Majestic section of the Great Wall and experience a quaint water town that feels a world away from Beijing’s hustle. It suits travelers who prefer a private, flexible schedule and want to avoid big tour groups — perfect for couples or small families eager to enjoy a personalized journey.

Key Points

• Exclusive and private experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Hassle-free transfers with hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies your day.
• Stunning vistas at Simatai offer some of the most dramatic views of the Great Wall.
• Gubei Water Town’s charm combines water, mountains, and ancient architecture.
• Cost includes bottled water, but entrance tickets are paid separately.
• Perfect for travelers short on time who still want a comprehensive experience.

The Experience of Visiting Simatai and Gubei Water Town

When planning a trip to China, many travelers want to see iconic sights like the Great Wall, but the logistics can sometimes feel overwhelming. This private tour from Beijing offers a neat solution, combining two of the most scenic areas in one day — Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town. At $105 per person, it provides a well-rounded experience, especially considering the hassle-free logistics included.

Starting with Convenience: Pick-up and Transport

The tour begins with a hotel pickup — a real blessing after a long flight or busy sightseeing schedule. Your driver, who speaks English and is courteous, will be waiting in the lobby, holding a sign with your name. The air-conditioned vehicle is spacious enough to ensure comfort, and since the cost includes gas, tolls, and parking, you don’t need to worry about additional fees or navigating unfamiliar roads.

The ride to Gubei Water Town and Simatai is smooth, allowing you to relax as you enjoy the scenic countryside. The private nature of this tour means no mingling with strangers, giving you the flexibility to customize your experience or ask questions during the drive.

First Stop: Gubei Water Town

Gubei Water Town is often called “Wuzhen in Beijing,” a reference to its waterway-filled layout, traditional architecture, and mountain backdrop. This charming town surrounds Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir and offers a mix of water, mountains, and ancient village scenery. It’s particularly picturesque, with narrow alleys, old bridges, and traditional buildings that seem frozen in time.

Here, you can stroll around, take photos, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The admission fee (not included) is around CNY150, and the town is open from 8:00 to 18:00, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Many travelers appreciate that this stop provides a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the Great Wall, offering a taste of local life and historic architecture.

Next: The Simatai Great Wall

The highlight of the day is Simatai, considered one of the most spectacular and rugged sections of the Great Wall. Its steep, winding pathways and dramatic vistas make it a favorite among those seeking a more authentic and less commercialized experience. Ticket prices are about CNY40, but you’ll need to reserve your spot in advance, as reservations are required, and multiple departure times are available (10:00, 12:00, 14:00, etc.).

The tour includes a complimentary shuttle bus that takes you directly to the Wall, saving you from a tiring climb. Once there, you’ll have the opportunity to walk along some of the most impressive sections of the Great Wall, with some parts offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Be prepared for uneven pathways and stairs, which can be a challenge if you have mobility issues or limited physical fitness.

The Return Journey and Flexibility

After exploring the Wall, you can catch a shuttle back down at your chosen time — around 12:30, 13:30, 15:30, or 16:30. The driver will wait for your return to the vehicle, making your day hassle-free. The tour concludes with a comfortable ride back to Beijing.

Authenticity, Value, and Traveler Experience

What makes this tour appealing is the combination of authentic sights and personalized service at a reasonable price. Travelers who want to avoid the crowded, tourist-packed sites will appreciate that this is a private experience, with only your group participating. A reviewer noted, “The driver drove smoothly and provided timely advice and translation,” which goes a long way in making the day both enjoyable and stress-free.

The views at Simatai are frequently praised; one reviewer called the experience “very pleasant,” highlighting the timely, smooth driving and the chance to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The guidance and driver’s familiarity with the area, even if not explicitly called a guide, significantly enhance the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain or language.

That said, you’ll need to purchase the tickets separately, which requires some advance planning. The cost of entrance fees isn’t included, but the overall price still represents good value considering the convenience and personalized service.

Who is this tour best suited for?

It works particularly well for independent-minded travelers who prefer a private, flexible schedule and want to visit scenic and less commercialized sites without the hassle of organizing transport or worrying about language barriers. It’s also suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved at the Wall.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is a smart choice if you’re looking for a comprehensive but manageable day trip from Beijing. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the Great Wall without the tour bus crowds, appreciate a personalized experience, and enjoy charming, less touristy spots like Gubei Water Town. The hotel pickup and drop-off make it especially attractive for those with limited time or tired feet, and the stunning views at Simatai are worth the visit on their own.

However, if you’re someone who prefers guided commentary or wants to explore the sites more deeply, you might want to supplement this tour with a guide service later. But for an efficient, scenic, and enjoyable day, this private tour really hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $105?
The cost covers round-trip private transfer, gas, tolls, parking fees, bottled water, and an English-speaking driver in an air-conditioned vehicle. Entrance tickets are not included.

Do I need to book my own tickets for Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall?
Yes, you need to purchase entrance tickets separately — around CNY150 for Gubei Water Town and CNY40 for Simatai — and reservations are required for Simatai.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, with flexible timing for the Wall visit depending on your preference.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility. You can choose when to visit each site and how long to stay, based on your interests.

Is this tour suitable for kids or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and uneven pathways at the Wall, so it’s better suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

What should I bring on the tour?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and a camera. The tour provides bottled water, but you might want to carry additional snacks if you prefer.

To sum it up, this private Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and convenience. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see some of China’s most iconic sights with a personal touch, without the chaos of large group tours or complicated planning. If your time in Beijing is limited but you want an authentic, memorable experience, this tour deserves serious consideration.