Guilin’s stunning karst landscape isn’t just a backdrop for photographs — it’s an invitation to explore with the ease and flexibility that only private driver services can offer. Whether you want to glide along the Li River on a cruise that makes the scenery come alive, or prefer the comfort of a customized day trip to Longji Rice Terraces, Guilin is a city where private transportation makes the experience effortless and more personal. One tour we particularly like is the 1 Day Li River Cruise with Private Guide & Driver, which combines the iconic river scenery with a guided look at Yangshuo’s countryside, all in one seamless day. This tour is perfect for travelers who want stunning views without the hassle of arranging transfers or navigating on their own.
If you’re arriving at Guilin’s airport or train station and want a smooth start or end to your trip, the private arrival transfers and station pickups make getting into the city or to Yangshuo straightforward and stress-free. For those keen on exploring beyond the usual, options like the Longji Terrace Fields-Pingan Village Tour or Dazhai village give you the flexibility to hike, photograph, and mingle with locals at your own pace.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of private driver services suited for different interests and budgets:
– Full-day scenic river cruises with onboard lunches and guided countryside tours (#1)
– Customizable day trips exploring Longji Rice Terraces, Ping’an Village, and Dazhai (#3)
– Convenient airport and train transfers to make your arrival and departure effortless (#4)
– Evening boat cruises on Guilin’s Four Lakes, with great night views (#6)
– Flexible, all-day private car hire for tailored explorations, from Yangshuo to Longji (#2)
Now, let’s look at each of our top Guilin private driver services.
1. 1 Day Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo with Private Guide & Driver
This full-day tour combines the classic Li River cruise with a guided exploration of Yangshuo’s countryside. The day begins with a pickup from your hotel around 8:30 am, followed by a scenic drive to Zhujiang Dock. The 4-hour cruise offers breathtaking views of limestone peaks, lush hills, and quaint villages, with onboard Chinese buffet lunch included. The cruise’s highlight is the picture-perfect scenery that truly lives up to its reputation. After disembarking around 2 pm, your guide takes you on a walking tour of West Street and the surrounding areas — the lively heart of Yangshuo’s culture. The transfer back to Guilin takes about 1.5 hours.
What makes this tour stand out is its expertly guided experience combined with the cruise’s natural beauty, rated 5.0/5 from 91 reviews. Tour guide Tony’s patience and knowledge make this a highlight for first-timers and repeat visitors alike. The $219 per person cost reflects a premium experience, but the personalized service and scenic value justify the price. Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with photo opportunities, local culture, and a relaxing cruise.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, guided way to see Guilin’s iconic karsts and Yangshuo’s vibrant streets, suitable for those valuing comfort and local insights.
2. 1 Day Private car with English-speaking driver service
This flexible service charges $136 for up to 8 people, making it an economical choice for families or small groups. The private car and English-speaking driver help you customize your day — whether you want to head directly to Yangshuo, explore Longji Rice Terraces, or visit off-the-beaten-path villages. The driver can suggest great local restaurants, help with tickets, or just enjoy the scenery with you.
With a rating of 5.0/5 from 24 reviews, this service gets high marks for reliability and ease of communication. Guests mention how helpful the driver was in organizing multiple stops and making the day flow smoothly. The fully air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, and you only pay for attractions you visit. It’s a versatile option suited for travelers who prefer a personalized itinerary and the independence of self-guided exploration.
Bottom Line: Best for groups who want control over their day without the hassle of public transport or language barriers.
3. 1-Day Longji Terrace Fields-Pingan village Tour with the English Speaking Driver
For around $78.54, this self-guided tour takes you to the stunning Longji Rice Terraces, famous for their intricate, layered appearance. The driver picks you up from your hotel and takes you directly to the terraces. You’ll have time to explore Ping’an Village, snap photos from the popular viewing platforms, and hike along the terraces at your own pace. With no tour guide included, you get to set your own schedule, whether that’s a quick stroll or a leisurely photo session.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on independent exploration at a reasonable price. The driver manages transportation, so you don’t need to worry about navigating. Guests praise the driver, Hill, for his helpfulness and punctuality. The tour is ideal for those who want to experience the terraces without feeling rushed, and are comfortable exploring on their own.
Bottom Line: A great budget-friendly option for photography enthusiasts and confident hikers wanting to see the terraces at their own pace.
4. Private Arrival Transfer: Guilin International Airport (KWL) to Downtown Hotel
Starting your Guilin trip with ease, this private transfer service for $25 per person ensures a smooth ride from Guilin’s airport to your hotel. The professional driver will meet you at arrivals with a sign, helping you avoid taxi confusion or language barriers. The vehicle is private, comfortable, and all costs are included — no surprises.
Rated 5.0/5 from 3 reviews, many travelers appreciate how this service simplifies their arrival. Whether you’re arriving late or after a long flight, this is the easiest way to start your Guilin experience without hassle.
Bottom Line: A dependable, affordable option for stress-free airport pickup, especially for first-time visitors or those arriving late.
5. 1-Day Longji Terrace Fields-Dazhai village Tour with the English Speaking Driver
This $78.54 self-guided tour explores the Dazhai village and Longji Rice Terraces at your own pace. The driver transports you from your hotel to the terraces, where you purchase entrance tickets and then explore Dazhai’s picturesque scenery, hiking along terraced fields, or visiting local villages. The flexible schedule allows you to focus on what interests you most.
Guests praise the driver, who is helpful and punctual, for enabling a personalized experience. This tour is well-suited for those who want to avoid group tours and prefer independent sightseeing, especially with limited time but a desire to see the terraces and local minority villages.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a budget-friendly, flexible day trip with the convenience of private transport.
6. Guilin Four lakes night cruise with the English speaking driver from Guilin hotel
At just $47.13, this evening cruise offers a relaxing way to see Guilin’s illuminated lakes. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to the scenic area, where the boat tour lasts about 2 hours. The cruise features music fountains and traditional performances, with panoramic views of the twin pagodas and city skyline at night.
Guests mention the magic of the lights and the lively atmosphere. It’s a peaceful yet lively way to spend an evening, especially for travelers who enjoy water scenes and local performances. The cruise being inclusive of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to its appeal.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a low-key, scenic night out in Guilin with cultural highlights.
7. 1-Day Relaxing Li River Cruise Private Tour With the English Speaking Driver
This private tour for about $151.84 offers a luxurious cruise experience along the Li River, combined with a private driver. The day begins with pickup at 7:45 am, followed by a scenic 4-hour cruise with a buffet lunch onboard. The boat’s 3 or 4-star level accommodations and quiet comfort make this ideal for travelers wanting a relaxing, scenic journey.
The highlight is the tranquil scenery of karst hills and sleepy villages, perfect for unwinding. The driver then takes you to explore West Street in Yangshuo, adding a cultural touch. With a single review praising its relaxing pace, this tour suits those who want serenity over adventure.
Bottom Line: A refined, leisurely river cruise option suited for relaxation and comfort, great for couples or travelers seeking serenity.
$151.84 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the best private driver service in Guilin, consider your priorities:
– For a comprehensive day combining scenery with guided insight, the Li River cruise with guide is hard to beat.
– If customization and flexibility are your top concerns, the private car service offers the freedom to tailor your itinerary.
– For budget-conscious travelers wanting to explore the terraces independently, the Longji terraces tour provides excellent value.
– Travelers arriving in Guilin can start smoothly with the airport transfer.
Consider your interests (scenery, culture, convenience), your budget, and your physical activity level, especially if hiking or walking is involved. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or festivals, to lock in your preferred time slot.
Guilin’s private driver options cover every need — from scenic river cruises to hassle-free transfers. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious guided tour or a flexible self-guided adventure, these services will help you make the most of your time in this stunning corner of China. For a smooth trip, plan ahead and choose the options that match your travel style — early booking is always safer. Now, get ready to enjoy Guilin’s unforgettable landscapes without worrying about logistics.