A Complete Guide to the Guilin Yangshuo Full-Day Tour with Silver Cave & Bamboo Rafting

If you’re after a day that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and a touch of adventure, this private tour from Yangshuo offers a well-rounded experience. For $230 per group (up to two people), you get to explore Guangxi’s most impressive karst caves, cruise along the famous Li River, and walk through Yangshuo’s historic West Street. You’re also treated to hotel pickup and a private driver—making it a hassle-free way to see some of China’s most iconic sights.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural landscapes with authentic local culture. The highlight for many is the Silver Cave, with its cathedral-sized chambers and shimmering stalactites that seem to glow with their own light. The Li River cruise is equally mesmerizing, offering postcard-worthy views of the Nine Horses Hill and other limestone formations that make this region world-famous.

A second standout feature is the optional Moon Hill hike—if you’re feeling energetic, the 800-step climb rewards you with incredible views and a chance to walk through a natural moon-shaped arch. However, if you’re not keen on stairs or have mobility concerns, this part is optional, which makes the tour flexible for different travelers.

One potential consideration is that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly because of the hiking involved, especially at Moon Hill. But for those who love natural wonders and scenic cruises, it’s an ideal fit. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, photography, and outdoor exploration, especially if you appreciate craftsmanship, scenic landscapes, and cultural towns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Caves: Guangxi’s largest karst cave offers cathedral-sized chambers filled with shimmering stalactites.
Iconic River Views: The Li River cruise showcases famous peaks like Nine Horses Hill, perfect for memorable photos.
Authentic Local Vibe: Yangshuo’s West Street delivers local crafts, bites, and a lively atmosphere.
Convenience: Hotel pickup and private driver make for a smooth, stress-free day.
Optional Hike: Climb Moon Hill for panoramic views—an 800-step trek that’s well worth the effort.
Cultural Insight & Flexibility: The tour balances nature and history while allowing some flexibility in activities.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Hotel Pickup and Early Morning Ease

We appreciated the hotel pickup in Yangshuo, which meant no fuss about transportation—our driver was waiting on time, ready to whisk us off to our first destination. This setup is especially handy if you’re staying in Yangshuo, as it saves time and avoids the hassle of navigating local transport.

Visiting Silver Cave: Guangxi’s Largest Karst Wonder

The Silver Cave is a highlight of this tour. As the largest of its kind in Guangxi, it offers a chance to walk through cathedral-sized chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites that seem to shimmer with silvery light. The lighting inside is carefully designed to accentuate these formations, creating an almost otherworldly glow.

Travelers report that the crystal formations are well worth the visit, with one noting: “The stalactites shimmer like diamonds, and the sheer size of the chambers makes it feel like walking through a natural cathedral.” The cave is easy to navigate, with walkways and lighting that allow for comfortable exploration.

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Optional Moon Hill: A Breathtaking Photo Op

Just 8 km from Yangshuo, Moon Hill is an optional highlight. The 800-step hike to the top is a bit of a workout, but the reward is a panoramic view of the surrounding karst landscape and the iconic moon-shaped arch carved through the limestone. This spot is famous for its photo potential—one reviewer mentions: “The view from the top is breathtaking, and the moon-shaped window frames the landscape perfectly.”

If you’re short on time or prefer not to climb, you can skip this part without missing the core experience, as it’s optional.

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Discovering Xingping Old Town & Enjoying Lunch

Next, you’ll visit the historic Xingping Town, an old trading hub with narrow alleys, traditional shops, and a sense of timeless charm. Although lunch is not included, the tour offers plenty of options for local eats on Xingping Old Street. We suggest trying some of the local rice noodle dishes or barbecue skewers—simple yet flavorful.

The town’s old-world vibe gives a real taste of local life, and many travelers enjoy wandering its streets before the boat cruise.

The Highlight: Li River Bamboo Rafting & Iconic Views

After lunch, the Li River cruise begins. It’s a gentle, 50-minute bamboo raft ride starting from Xingping Pier, allowing you to relax and soak in the natural scenery. The raft passes famous landmarks like Mural Hill and Yellow Cloth Shoal, with the Nine Horses Hill coming into view—a perfect spot for photos. As one reviewer noted, “The scenery is truly mesmerizing, with limestone peaks rising dramatically from the river.”

The electric bamboo raft provides a peaceful, eco-friendly way to see the landscape, and many describe it as a highlight of the day for its tranquility and beauty.

Wrapping Up and Returning to Yangshuo

After the cruise, you’ll head back to Yangshuo, where the tour concludes. You’ll have time to stroll through West Street, browse local crafts, or simply relax at a cafe, reflecting on the day’s highlights. The convenience of a private driver ensures you’re back comfortably and on schedule.

Practical Details & Why They Matter

Transportation & Group Size

The tour is private, which means no waiting for strangers or adjusting to a large group. Your driver is Chinese, English-speaking, and traditional Chinese—helpful for any questions or cultural insights. This setup allows a more personalized experience, especially if you want to spend extra time at certain spots.

Duration & Flexibility

The 8-hour schedule feels just right for seeing the key sights without feeling rushed. Starting at 9 am and returning by late afternoon, it provides enough time to enjoy each stop comfortably. The optional Moon Hill hike can be tailored to your energy level.

Cost & Value

At $230 for a private group of two, the cost reflects the convenience and personalized nature of the experience. Considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, private driver, and multiple stops, this is a fairly good value for travelers seeking a curated, hassle-free day.

What to Bring & Wear

Comfortable shoes are a must—especially if you plan to hike Moon Hill. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen), water, and a camera are also essential. The tour involves walking and some light hiking, so pack accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and comfort. If you love scenic photography, the Li River views, and natural caves, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a private, flexible schedule rather than a crowded group tour.

However, if you have mobility issues, especially with the stairs at Moon Hill, you might want to plan differently. The tour does not cater to wheelchair users, mainly due to the hiking involved.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded look at some of Guangxi’s most stunning sights, all with the convenience of private transportation and a flexible schedule. The Silver Cave dazzles with its crystal formations, while the Li River cruise provides unforgettable views of limestone peaks that seem to rise straight out of a painting. The visit to Xingping Old Town adds a touch of local charm and history, rounding out a truly enjoyable day.

For travelers who value authentic scenery, comfortable logistics, and a personalized experience, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suitable for those eager to explore China’s iconic karst landscape without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transportation.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for families, but keep in mind the 800-step hike to Moon Hill might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there are ample options on Xingping Old Street, offering local dishes and snacks.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are essential, especially if you plan to hike Moon Hill. Also, bring a sun hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture the scenery.

Can I skip the Moon Hill visit?
Absolutely. The Moon Hill stop is optional, and if you prefer to relax or explore other parts of Yangshuo, your guide can accommodate that.

How long is the Li River bamboo rafting?
The bamboo raft cruise lasts approximately 50 minutes, providing a peaceful way to view the limestone landscape.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Not really. The hike at Moon Hill involves climbing about 800 steps, and the cave involves walking on uneven surfaces, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The personalized private setup, the combination of natural wonders and cultural spots, and the flexibility to tailor optional activities make this a standout option for travelers seeking a balanced experience.

In all, this tour from Yangshuo offers a taste of Guangxi’s best natural and cultural sights, wrapped in the comfort of private transport. Whether you’re snapping photos of dramatic limestone peaks or wandering through historic streets, it’s a day that captures the essence of this beautiful region.

You can check availability for your dates here: