2-Day Private Tour to Zhangjiajie from Shanghai by Air with Accommodation

Experience the Magic of Zhangjiajie in just 2 Days from Shanghai — with Airfare and Comfort Included

If you’re dreaming of exploring the remarkable scenery that inspired the Avatar movies, this 2-day private tour to Zhangjiajie from Shanghai offers an effortless way to see some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes. For $760 per person, you get everything from airfare, hotel accommodation, entrance fees, and local guides, making it a convenient, all-inclusive escape. We love how the tour combines hiking, spectacular vistas, and the thrill of walking on the world’s longest glass bridge. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off means you won’t be wasting time figuring out transportation, and you can focus on soaking up the scenery.

Two standout features are the guided visits to key sights—like Tianzi Mountain—and the chance to walk across the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge. These experiences aren’t just photo ops; they’re immersive moments that let you really understand why Zhangjiajie is so special. A third bonus, especially for those who love a bit of adventure, is the opportunity to walk through BaiLong Elevator and visit the Pillar of the Southern Sky.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour requires moderate physical fitness since there’s quite a bit of walking and some uphill climbs. It’s not for those with mobility issues or who prefer a very relaxed pace. Also, if you hope to stay longer in Zhangjiajie, be aware that your flight back to Shanghai is included in the basic package, but you can opt to extend your stay without any trouble.

This experience suits travelers who want a deep dive into Zhangjiajie’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning, especially those who appreciate expert guides and prefer private, tailored experiences. The glowing review from Christine, who called her guide Tony “so knowledgeable” and praised the organization, highlights the personalized, attentive service you can expect.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Flight, hotel, entrance fees, and meals make planning straightforward.
• Expert Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides bring Zhangjiajie’s natural wonders to life.
• Breathtaking Sights: Expect stunning views from Tianzi Mountain, the glass bridge, and Pillar of the Southern Sky.
• Active but Manageable: Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels who enjoy walking and outdoor exploration.
• Flexible Exit Options: You can choose to fly back to Shanghai or extend your stay.
• Authentic Experience: The tour emphasizes immersive natural sights, not just touristy stops.

Exploring Zhangjiajie in Depth

Starting Point: Shanghai to Zhangjiajie

The journey begins early with your driver meeting you at your Shanghai hotel. The drive to Shanghai Pudong Airport is straightforward, and the 2.5-hour flight transports you to the heart of Hunan Province. Flying is a huge time-saver, allowing you to maximize your limited days in this scenic region. If you opt for the morning flight, you might even have time to stroll around Wulingyuan town, soaking in local life before heading to your hotel.

Day 1: Arrival and Leisure in Wulingyuan

Once you arrive, your driver will transfer you directly to your hotel in Wulingyuan. While the tour doesn’t specify afternoon activities, many travelers enjoy a gentle walk around Wulingyuan town, soaking in the mountain views and local vibe. Your first full day of adventure begins bright and early the next morning.

Day 2: The Heart of Zhangjiajie’s Natural Wonders

Your day starts with a guided tour of the Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Scenic Area, home to some of the most distinctive pillar-like formations that resemble a fantasy landscape. Your guide will help you navigate the area, ensuring you see highlights like Tianzi Mountain.

Tianzi Mountain: Cloud-Kissed Cliffs

You’ll take a shuttle bus and cable car up to Tianzi Mountain, where the views of karst formations shrouded in drifting clouds are unforgettable. The landscape here looks like a scene from a rolling, otherworldly painting, with sheer cliffs and forests stretching in every direction. According to reviews, this part of the tour offers the chance to learn about the area’s geological features and experience the natural beauty that inspired the Pillar of the Southern Sky.

The Glass Bridge: Walking on the Edge

Next, you’ll visit the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the longest glass bridge in the world. Walking across this transparent walkway high above the canyon is both exhilarating and slightly nerve-wracking. It’s perfect for those who want a thrill and fantastic photo opportunities. Travelers mention that the scenery on either side is spectacular, and the experience is well worth the minor adrenaline rush.

BaiLong Elevator & Cliff Walks

Your final stop is the BaiLong Elevator, an engineering marvel that whisks visitors up a vertical cliff for panoramic views. From here, you’ll explore the Pillar of the Southern Sky, one of Zhangjiajie’s most iconic formations, and walk across the first Bridge under Heaven. This part of the tour provides a close look at the area’s unique rock formations—a real highlight for geology lovers.

Day 3: Departure and Optional Extensions

If you’ve chosen the “tour ends in Shanghai” option, your driver will take you to the airport for your flight home. The entire process is streamlined, letting you leave with memories of stunning scenery and a sense of accomplishment. For travelers who want to linger, there’s the option to stay longer in Zhangjiajie, perhaps to explore Tianmen Mountain or other less-visited areas.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The private guide and all-inclusive package are arguably the greatest advantages. Having a knowledgeable local guide (like Tony, praised in reviews) who can tell you about Zhangjiajie’s geology and history enriches the experience far beyond just viewing the scenery. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you avoid navigating busy public transport or taxis, which can be challenging in unfamiliar places.

The scenic stops are carefully chosen to showcase the best of Zhangjiajie’s unique landscapes—towering pillars, cloud-shrouded mountains, and the world’s longest glass bridge. The inclusion of a flight from Shanghai minimizes travel time, giving you more hours to explore the sights.

The Cost-Value Balance

For $760, this tour offers considerable value considering it includes airfare, accommodation, entrance fees, guided service, and some meals. When you factor in the convenience and expert guidance, it becomes an attractive option for travelers seeking a stress-free experience without sacrificing quality.

Authenticity and Comfort

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one traveler noting that her guide “organized Tianmen Mountains trip for me after the tour,” which underscores the personalized service. The 2-night hotel stay provides some breathing room, so you’re not rushing through sights or feeling exhausted.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Zhangjiajie who want a curated experience packed with highlights, without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for travelers who value guided insights and prefer a private, flexible schedule. It suits those with moderate fitness levels, eager to enjoy hiking and walking but not looking for strenuous adventures. If you’re interested in natural landscapes, photo opportunities, and the Wow factor of glass bridges and towering rock formations, this trip delivers.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private tour from Shanghai to Zhangjiajie offers a well-rounded, immersive experience into one of China’s most visually astonishing regions. The inclusion of flights, hotel stays, guided tours, and entrance fees means planning is minimal, and you can focus on enjoying the scenery. Whether it’s the cloud-covered Tianzi Mountain, the thrilling glass bridge, or the unique pillars that inspired cinematic scenes, you won’t be disappointed.

Travelers who appreciate authentic natural beauty combined with expert guidance will find this tour highly rewarding. It balances comfort and adventure, making it a smart choice for those short on time but eager to see one of China’s most iconic landscapes.

FAQs

How does the tour handle transportation?
You’ll be picked up at your hotel in Shanghai and taken to Pudong Airport for your flight. Upon arrival in Zhangjiajie, private transportation arranged by the tour company will handle all transfers between sights and your hotel.

Is breakfast included?
Yes, the tour includes two breakfasts at your hotel, along with lunch on the second day. Food on the first day isn’t included, so you might want to grab something before heading to the airport.

Can I extend my stay in Zhangjiajie?
Yes, the tour offers the option to stay longer after the initial two days. If you wish to explore more sights, you can do so without issue, but note that the standard package includes flights back to Shanghai.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since there’s some uphill walking and outdoor exploration. Dress for outdoor weather—layers are always a good idea, and don’t forget sun protection.

Are the sights suitable for all ages?
Most sights are accessible for those with moderate physical fitness. However, if mobility is limited, some areas with stairs or uneven terrain might pose challenges.

What if I want to stay in Zhangjiajie longer?
You can customize your trip by extending your stay or arranging additional tours. Just coordinate with your guide or tour provider beforehand.

This tour strikes a fine balance between convenience and authentic adventure, making it an excellent way to tick off Zhangjiajie’s most celebrated sights without the stress of logistics. For those eager to see the legendary pillars and soaring cliffs that made this area famous, it’s a journey worth taking.