Guilin is famous for its stunning karst landscape, which makes it a perfect destination for memorable tours. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise on the Li River, exploring ancient villages, or hiking through rice terraces, Guilin offers a wide array of experiences that showcase its natural beauty and local culture. We particularly love the Li River cruises, like the one from Guilin to Yangshuo, for their breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere. The 1 Day Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo with Private Guide & Driver captures the essence of Guilin’s scenic waters and limestone peaks beautifully. It’s ideal if you want a personalized experience with a smooth, comfortable journey.
For those interested in seeing impressive rice terraces and exploring minority villages, tours like the Longji Rice Terraces with Minority Village or the Longji Rice Terraces & Minority Villages Private Day Tour deliver a close-up look at local culture and extraordinary landscapes. Plus, adventure seekers will enjoy the Yangshuo Highlights Tour, which combines boat rides, ancient towns, and mountain views—all in one day. Scroll down for detailed insights into each tour to help you plan your perfect Guilin experience.
1. 1 Day Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo with Private Guide & Driver
At number 1, this full-day private tour offers the quintessential Guilin experience: cruising the Li River while soaking in some of China’s most iconic limestone karsts. The 4-hour cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is complemented by onboard commentary, a Chinese buffet lunch, and a guided exploration of Yangshuo’s countryside and West Street. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and escort you smoothly through the day, perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, personalized adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is its private aspect—you’re not stuck with a big group, and your guide can tailor the experience to your interests. Guests praise the “picturesque” scenery and the flexibility of exploring Yangshuo afterward. The journey ends with a leisurely walk on West Street, giving you a taste of local life. This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed yet immersive day, with excellent reviews and a solid value at $219 per person.
Bottom line: If stunning scenery and personalized service top your list, this tour delivers on both. It’s perfect for travelers who want to balance scenic cruising with cultural exploration.
2. One Day Private Longji Rice Terraces with Minority Village tour
Positioned at number 2, this private tour takes you into the heart of Guilin’s rice terrace country. The highlight is the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, which have been cultivated for over 600 years. Your guide will explain the traditions of the Yao and Zhuang minorities before you visit Huangluo village. Afterward, you’ll trek to two of the most scenic terrace views, like the “Seven Stars with the Moon” formation at Ping’an village.
Guests rave about the “stunning” terraces and the guide’s personalized attention, with reviews noting the enriching visits to local villages and the delicious food in Ping’an. The tour offers a mix of cultural insight and breathtaking landscapes, all within an 8-9 hour day for $79 per person. It’s especially suited for those interested in ethnic minority cultures and scenic hikes.
Bottom line: This tour offers a great balance of culture and natural beauty, perfect for travelers eager to learn about local traditions while enjoying spectacular views.
3. 1-DAY Private Longji Rice Terraces and Minority Villages Tour
At number 3, this private day tour emphasizes the classic Ping’an Rice Terraces and the scenic landscapes of Longji. The tour’s unique feature is the walk through the “9 Dragons and 5 Tigers” formations, as well as visiting the famous “Seven Stars with the Moon” hills. You’ll start with a pickup from your hotel, then enjoy about 3 hours of hiking and sightseeing. The guide will share stories about the rice terraces’ history and the local Zhuang culture.
This tour is highly rated, with guests appreciating the “breathtaking views” and the guide’s attentiveness. It costs $142 per group (up to 4), making it a good value for small groups or families. It suits travelers who want a deeper, more active experience of the terraces and local villages at a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting an authentic, active immersion into Guilin’s rice terrace landscape combined with local culture.
4. 1-Day Guilin Tour to Reed Flute Cave, Xianggong Hill, Bamboo Boat and Night Show
Number 4 offers a comprehensive private day tour that packs in Guilin’s top attractions in a single 12-hour day. Highlights include the Reed Flute Cave, a stunning underground cavern filled with stalagmites and stalactites, and a visit to Xianggong Hill for panoramic views of the Li River. The tour also features a bamboo raft cruise along Xingping River and the famous Liu San Jie Impression Light Show in the evening.
Guests love this tour for its efficiency, with many reviews praising the “well-organized” itinerary and the helpful guide. It’s especially good for travelers with limited time who want a taste of Guilin’s natural and cultural highlights. The tour costs $89.01 per person, offering great value considering the number of sites covered.
Bottom line: For a full day of Guilin’s best sights, this tour offers convenience and variety, ideal for first-time visitors wanting a hassle-free experience.
5. Longji rice terraces & minority villages private day tour
Number 5 highlights the Longji Rice Terraces and local ethnic villages in a private 10-hour tour. The trip includes visits to Huang Luo Yao Village and Ping’an, with a focus on understanding the Yao and Zhuang cultures. The tour’s private nature allows you to explore at your own pace, with all transportation and entry fees included for peace of mind.
Reviewers praise the “fantastic views” and the guide’s knowledge of local customs. The flexible itinerary means you can enjoy optional activities like local food tastings or additional hikes. It’s good for travelers seeking an intimate, cultural experience with scenic hiking. The tour price is $193 per group, making it a great value for small groups.
Bottom line: This tour combines cultural discovery with stunning scenery, suited for those who want an in-depth experience of Guilin’s rice terraces and local villages.
6. Private day tour: Guilin-LiRiver bamboo boat-Yangshuo Highlights
At number 6, this customizable private day tour covers Guilin’s key highlights, including Reed Flute Cave, Daxu Ancient Town, a Li River bamboo rafting, and Xianggong Hill. The itinerary is flexible, with the guide adjusting the day to your interests. The tour features a bamboo boat cruise and visits to scenic and historic sites.
Guests value the personalized approach, saying guides are “friendly,” and the tour is “well organized.” The tour is ideal for those wanting to combine cultural sites, river experiences, and mountain views without being tied to a rigid schedule. The price is $135 per group, which is good value for a full day of tailored exploration.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want to customize their Guilin experience with a private guide and avoid the crowds.
7. 3-Day Private Guilin Tour with Li River Cruise and Yangshuo
Number 7 covers a comprehensive three-day private tour, ideal for those wanting to explore Guilin thoroughly. Highlights include underground Reed Flute Cave, Seven Star Park, Elephant Trunk Hill, and a scenic Li River cruise ending in Yangshuo. Over three days, you’ll also explore local villages, temples, and scenic viewpoints.
Guests appreciate the depth and flexibility, with reviews noting guides who are “knowledgeable” and “attentive.” The tour costs $629 per person, reflecting its extensive itinerary and private service. It suits travelers with more time who want a detailed, relaxed exploration of Guilin and surroundings.
Bottom line: For a deep dive into Guilin’s highlights with personalized attention, this three-day tour is hard to beat.
8. 1 Day Private Tour: Li River Cruise from Guilin & Yangshuo Biking
This number 8 offers a full-day adventure combining a Li River cruise with a biking tour in Yangshuo. The cruise lasts about 4 hours, offering views of limestone peaks, rice paddies, and bamboo groves, while the afternoon biking lets you explore the countryside at your own pace.
The tour is praised for its “amazing” scenery and the guide’s “helpful” attitude. The price of $172 per person balances the scenic experience with active exploration, making it excellent for travelers who enjoy both boat rides and cycling. The itinerary gives you time to browse West Street afterward for souvenirs and snacks.
Bottom line: An energizing way to combine Guilin’s natural beauty with outdoor activity, suitable for active travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Guilin: Classic Private Full–Day Tour
Number 9 is a straightforward private day trip that hits Guilin’s main sights. It includes Reed Flute Cave, Xianggong Hill, a Li River cruise, and the Liusanjie Impression Show. The tour is flexible and covers the essential highlights efficiently.
Reviews note the “well-organized” nature and “knowledgeable” guides, making it a reliable choice for first-time visitors. Priced at $99, it offers solid value for a full-day tour, perfect for those with limited time but wanting a rundown.
Bottom line: An accessible, convenient introduction to Guilin’s scenic and cultural treasures.
10. Guilin Classic Li River Day Tour with Xianggong Hill
This number 10 tour combines a Li River cruise with a visit to Xianggong Hill for panoramic views. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see Guilin’s landscapes from both water and mountain perspectives. The private driver picks you up, ensuring a smooth experience.
Guests mention the “breathtaking landscapes” and the benefit of private door-to-door transport, making this tour comfortable and stress-free. It’s an 8-9 hour option for $79 per person, ideal for those wanting a scenic, relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers seeking scenic views and the ease of private transport.
11. 1 Day Private car with English-speaking driver service
Number 11 offers a flexible, private vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver. This allows you to customize your own Guilin day, whether you want to visit Yangshuo, Longji Rice Terraces, or other attractions. The vehicle fits up to 8 people, making it great for families or groups.
Guests appreciate the “seamless” experience and the driver’s helpful suggestions. The $136 price covers the entire day, excluding attractions, giving you the freedom to craft your own itinerary. It’s especially suited for independent travelers who prefer control over their schedule.
Bottom line: For ultimate flexibility and private transport, this service is a smart choice.
12. From Guilin/Yangshuo: Longji Rice Terraces and Ethnic Minority Village Day Tour
Number 12 emphasizes ethnic minority culture and scenic rice terraces in an 8-hour trip. It includes visits to Huang Luo Yao Village and traditional performances, as well as a walk through the terraced landscape. The guide shares insights about local customs, making it a culturally rich experience.
Guests praise the “well-organized” tour, with reviews highlighting the beautiful views and helpful guides. It’s priced at $168 per person, suitable for those wanting a mix of sightseeing and cultural activities in a manageable day.
Bottom line: An excellent option for travelers curious about minority cultures and enjoying scenic hikes.
13. Private Day Tour: Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village
This tour combines the Longji Rice Terraces with a visit to Huangluo Long Hair Village, famous for the Yao women’s long hair. It offers a full-day experience with a private guide, focusing on local customs and stunning landscapes. Optional upgrades include cable cars and hikes.
Guests often mention the “spectacular” scenery and the guide’s friendliness. Priced at $100 per person, it’s ideal for those wanting an in-depth cultural experience combined with scenic views.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers keen to learn about Yao traditions while enjoying the breathtaking rice terraces.
14. Private Day Tour of Yangshuo Xianggong Mountain and Yulong Bamboo Boat
Number 14 offers a personalized day exploring Yangshuo’s mountains and rivers, including Xianggong Mountain for the views and a bamboo raft on the Yulong River. The tour includes entrance fees and plenty of time to relax and take photos.
Guests mention the “friendly” guide and “beautiful” scenery, with the flexibility to enjoy a casual day in the countryside. It’s priced at $125.66 per person and suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a local touch.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a mix of mountain vistas and river floats, with personalized attention.
15. 4 Days Guilin Essence and Yangshuo Countryside Tour
Finally, the 4-day private tour offers an in-depth exploration of Guilin and Yangshuo. It includes a Li River cruise, Longji Rice Terraces, and visits to West Street, Elephant Trunk Hill, and local villages. This multi-day option is best for travelers wanting a relaxed, comprehensive experience.
Reviewers highlight the “wonderful” scenery and “professional” guides, making it a good value at $779 per person. It’s perfect for those who want to immerse themselves without rushing, and it’s advisable to book early to secure availability.
Bottom line: For a thorough, private exploration, this extended tour is hard to beat, especially for those wanting a detailed Guilin itinerary.
How to Choose Your Guilin Tour
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, time available, and interest areas. If scenic water views are your priority, the Li River cruises are hard to beat, especially with options like the private cruise or the Li River & biking combo. If you’re fascinated by rice terraces and minority villages, Tours like the Longji Rice Terraces offer immersive cultural experiences and stunning landscapes. For those with limited time, the Guilin Highlights Tour covers many top spots efficiently, while the 3-day Guilin Tour is ideal if you want a more relaxed, comprehensive experience.
Practical tips include booking early for popular tours like the 4 Days Guilin Essence especially during peak seasons, and choosing private tours if you value flexibility. Always check if transportation, entry fees, and guides are included to compare value effectively.
Guilin’s diverse landscapes and cultural scenes provide a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you prefer floating down the Li River, hiking through rice terraces, or exploring ancient towns, there’s a tour tailored for you. For those seeking natural beauty combined with local culture, options like the Longji Rice Terraces or the Yangshuo Highlights stand out. For a quick yet comprehensive taste, the Guilin Highlights Tour is hard to beat. Remember, booking early ensures you get the dates and guides that match your travel plans. Now’s the time to plan your Guilin adventure—these tours promise a memorable journey through one of China’s most iconic landscapes.