Beijing: 2-day Small Group Great Wall Hiking Gubeikou&Jinshanling

A visit to China isn’t complete without standing on the Great Wall of China. This 2-day small group tour offers a chance to walk along some of the most captivating sections—Gubeikou and Jinshanling—away from the tourist crowds. For just $268 per person, you get to hike, learn, and stay overnight in a local farmer’s guesthouse, all with a knowledgeable local guide leading the way.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances authenticity and adventure—you’ll walk through untouched sections like Gubeikou and enjoy panoramic views from Jinshanling without the throngs of day-trippers. Plus, the overnight stay in a simple, welcoming farmstead adds a genuine touch to the trip. The second highlight is the flexibility; hiking the less-restored, rugged parts of the Wall offers a sense of discovery and a real connection to the monument’s history.

A potential consideration is the physical demand; the hikes can be lengthy and challenging, especially if you’re not used to walking for several hours on uneven terrain. Also, there’s no toilet along the Path, so travelers should be comfortable with nature and carry their own supplies.

This tour will appeal most to those with a sense of adventure, an interest in authentic travel experiences, and a reasonable level of fitness. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a quick photo op—this is about really feeling the history and beauty of the Wall.

Key Points

• Authentic hiking experience on restored and untouched sections of the Great Wall
• Overnight stay at a local farmer’s guesthouse for a taste of rural life
• Expert local guides provide practical leadership and insights
• Less crowded sections like Gubeikou offer solitude and original architecture
• Two-day itinerary allows a deep exploration with varied scenery
• Value-driven price includes accommodation, transportation, and entrance fees

An In-Depth Look at the Two-Day Great Wall Hike

When we think about the Great Wall, images of sweeping stonework, watchtowers, and rugged mountain scenery come to mind. This tour hits all those marks—and more. Starting early from Beijing, you’ll be transported in a climate-controlled vehicle, with a seasoned driver ensuring a comfortable ride. The group is small—just up to ten travelers—so you’ll get personal attention and the chance to ask questions.

Day 1: From Jinshanling to Shalingkou

Your first stop is Jinshanling, a section renowned for its well-preserved watchtowers and dramatic views. After a short, steep ascent of about 40 minutes, you arrive at the East-Five-Eye watchtower. From here, the landscape unfolds in all directions—mountains, ruins, and the classic brickwork of the Wall. This section offers a mix of restoration and original structures.

The walk westward from Jinshanling to Shalingkou takes around three hours, during which you’ll encounter original, unrestored portions of the Wall, with some watchtowers and beacon towers zigzagging over the mountain ridges. Meeting local farmers along the way is a highlight; you may even get a chance to try some simple, home-cooked snacks or chat about their lives.

Reviewers like Benjamin appreciated the home-cooked breakfast and dinner, noting that the guides kept everything smoothly organized. The scenery here is stunning, and the less-restored sections give a more authentic feel, far from the commercialized parts of the Wall.

Day 2: Gubeikou to Jinshanling

The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, you head to Gubeikou, a less-visited, wild stretch of the Wall. Starting at Coaling Dragon Hill, the walk begins around 8:30 am—an ideal time to beat the crowds. Gubeikou is known for its original and rugged architecture—it’s more atmospheric and less touristy than other sections.

The hike along this stretch will take approximately 5 hours over about 9 km. You’ll pass through areas that saw major historical battles, including campaigns from ancient China, the Japanese invasion, and even WWII conflicts. The vistas are breathtaking—mountains, ruins, and the ancient stonework in all its raw beauty.

Michelle praised her guide Yaxin for being so informative, adding that the quiet, untouched nature of Gubeikou made the experience all the more profound. The hike is physically demanding, but extremely rewarding for those looking to connect with the Wall’s history and environment.

Accommodation and Meals

Overnight stays are arranged at a local farmer’s guesthouse, providing a simple but authentic experience. You’ll share a twin room, and the setting offers a chance to experience rural life in China. Meals are included—local, home-style dishes that reflect the region’s flavors—making this more than a standard tour.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

The tour includes entrance fees, transportation, and bottled water during hikes. The guides mainly serve to lead the way rather than give detailed historical commentary, so if you’re after in-depth history, consider supplementing with your own reading.

You should bring comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a small daypack for water and snacks. There are no toilets on the Wall, so plan accordingly. Trekking poles are available if you need them, and you’ll want to carry some snacks to keep your energy up.

The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness—the hikes can be strenuous, with uneven terrain and some steep sections. The group size of 10 means you’ll get personalized attention but also a lively, shared experience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the guides as knowledgeable and friendly, noting how they balance practical guidance with a relaxed approach. Michelle describes her guide Yaxin as “outstanding,” especially for making the experience so informative and enjoyable. Others mention the stunning views and the authentic atmosphere of the less touristy sections as highlights.

One reviewer called the experience “exhausting but exhilarating”, emphasizing the physical effort involved but also the deep satisfaction of reaching the end. They appreciated the chance to walk on original sections of the Wall and enjoy the quiet of the early mornings before the crowds arrive.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers seeking an active, authentic, and less touristy experience of the Great Wall. It’s ideal if you want to cover more ground than just a quick photo stop and enjoy stunning scenery and historical immersion. The overnight in a local guesthouse adds a meaningful cultural touch, making it a good fit for those curious about rural life in China.

While physically demanding, it’s well-suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels who are comfortable with long walks and uneven terrain. It’s not a good choice if you prefer comfortable, low-effort sightseeing or have mobility issues.

The Sum Up

Choosing this 2-day hike on the Great Wall offers an authentic, rewarding experience far from the crowds. It combines scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and genuine rural hospitality in a way that few tours can match. You’ll walk through some of the most breathtaking sections—Gubeikou’s wild beauty and Jinshanling’s preserved architecture—with expert guides ensuring your safety and enjoyment.

This tour is best for adventure-minded travelers who want to see the Wall as it was meant to be seen—rugged, historic, and peaceful. The value is excellent, considering the included accommodation, meals, and transportation. If you’re prepared for some physical effort and crave a genuine connection with the Wall’s landscape and history, this trip is a fantastic choice.

For anyone wanting a deep, meaningful exploration of the Great Wall—beyond the typical crowds—this tour delivers an experience that will stay with you long after you leave China.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Expect hikes of up to 9 km over uneven terrain, some steep sections, and long walking hours. Travelers should be comfortable with physically demanding activities.

What should I bring for the hikes?
Bring comfortable walking shoes or boots, sunscreen, a hat, a small daypack, water, snacks, and toilet paper. Trekking poles are available if needed. Since there are no toilets on the Wall, plan accordingly.

How is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps ensure a more personalized experience and easier group management.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, two lunches, and dinner. Meals are typically homemade and reflect local flavors, offering a taste of rural Chinese cuisine.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay overnight in a simple, twin-shared room at a local farmer’s guesthouse. It’s a chance to experience rural life and enjoy a comfortable, authentic environment.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver takes you between the sites and back to Beijing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This 2-day Great Wall hiking tour offers a blend of adventure, history, and authentic cultural experience—perfect for travelers wanting to go beyond the standard tourist paths and really feel the spirit of this ancient marvel.