Beijing Private Tour to Badaling Great Wall and Longqing Gorge with Boat Ride

A Full Day of Iconic Sights: Beijing’s Badaling Great Wall and Longqing Gorge Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Great Wall of China and experiencing some stunning countryside scenery, this private tour hits the sweet spot. For around $187 per person, you’ll enjoy a well-organized 8-9 hour journey from central Beijing, with the convenience of hotel pickup, private transportation, and all entrance fees included. Your guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, will lead you through what many describe as a seamless, informative, and enjoyable day.

We particularly love that this tour combines two top attractions—Badaling and Longqing Gorge—without wasting precious sightseeing time trying to organize transport and tickets on your own. The included cable car rides at the Great Wall allow you to skip the steep stairs and enjoy spectacular panoramic views. Later, the boat ride in Longqing Gorge offers a serene escape into nature, with cliffs and stone formations that look like they’ve come straight out of a Chinese painting.

One small consideration: since the tour is quite packed, it requires good weather and stamina for walking and hiking. Also, places like Badaling can get crowded, especially in peak season, which might reduce the serenity some travelers seek. But if you’re after a hassle-free day with expert guides and a good mix of history and nature, this trip will likely check all your boxes.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see two major sights in one day without the headache of planning logistics. It suits those who appreciate authentic outdoor scenery, enjoy learning from engaging guides, and want a balanced mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Convenience: All logistics like transportation, tickets, and meals are handled for you.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding and make the day enjoyable.
• Stunning Views: Cable car rides and boat cruises deliver picturesque landscapes and memorable photo opportunities.
• Time Efficiency: Combining two attractions in one day maximizes your sightseeing without rushing.
• Authentic Experiences: The tour includes traditional Chinese lunch and opportunities for culturally rich photo moments.
• Good Value: The comprehensive package offers a lot of experiences for the price.

Exploring Beijing’s Hidden Outdoor Treasures

This tour offers a rare chance to see the impressive Badaling Great Wall and the tranquil Longqing Gorge in one day. It’s a great way to balance history with natural beauty, especially if your time in Beijing is limited but you want a meaningful outdoor experience.

The Badaling Great Wall: A Marvel of Engineering

Our journey begins early, with hotel pickup around 8 a.m. in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the transfer comfortable—even after a long trip from your hotel. As you drive out of the city, the landscape transforms from busy urban streets to peaceful countryside, punctuated by iconic landmarks like the Olympic Stadium and Juyongguan Great Wall.

The Badaling section of the Great Wall is arguably the most famous and accessible. Built originally for military defense, it’s steeped in history, and as you ascend via the cable car, the views are breathtaking. The highest point, Beibalou, at about 1,015 meters, offers a sweeping vista of the wall winding over the hills. Many reviews praise guides like Cathy Zhang for sharing engaging stories, and for making sure visitors get the most out of their visit. One reviewer notes, “Cathy Zhang was super knowledgeable and efficient,” which hints at how guides elevate the experience.

Expect about two hours to explore, walk along the battlements, and snap countless photos. The cable car round trip is included, so you won’t have to worry about strenuous climbs. Instead, you’ll get to focus on enjoying the views and imagining what it was like to defend China’s borders centuries ago.

The Cultural and Natural Beauty of Longqing Gorge

After a traditional Chinese lunch—often praised for its flavor and variety—you’ll head to Longqing Gorge, about a 30-minute drive from the Great Wall. This picturesque site is a highlight for many travelers, especially those who enjoy spectacular landscapes and peaceful water scenes.

The gorge is often compared to Guilin’s Li River, but many say it surpasses its fame for sheer beauty. The cliffs and peaks are dotted with stone cones, swords, and pillars, carved over centuries by nature. The clear waters reflect the sky, creating a mirror-like surface perfect for photos or simply soaking in the tranquility.

The highlight here is a cruise around the lake, roughly 30 minutes long. Many reviews mention how this boat ride offers unforgettable views and a chance to see rock formations that resemble animals—a fun and whimsical detail. One guest described the scenery as “fantastic,” emphasizing that even if it’s a small cruise, it’s well worth the peaceful experience.

Why This Tour Works

The structured schedule means you gain a comprehensive taste of China’s outdoor marvels without the stress of planning each step. The private transport means flexibility and comfort, and the guides’ enthusiasm makes learning about China’s history and culture lively rather than dry.

Many reviewers have praised their guides, like Lucy and Edward, for their good English, patience, and local insights. That makes a difference when you’re processing the history of the Great Wall or trying to understand the stone formations at Longqing Gorge.

The Practical Details

The tour operates from around 8 a.m. and lasts until late afternoon, with hotel pickup and drop-off within the 4th ring road, simplifying your logistics. The price includes lunch, bottled water, entrance fees, and all tickets, which means no surprise expenses—an important consideration for budget-conscious travelers.

It’s worth noting that the boat ride in Longqing Gorge lasts about 20-30 minutes, which some may find a bit short, but the scenery and boat trip reviews suggest it’s a worthwhile experience. Also, the tour is designed for most travelers, including families, and vegetarian options are available if you specify ahead.

Authentic, No-Hassle Experience

What really makes this tour appealing is the balance of structure and flexibility. You get to enjoy well-chosen sites with guides who keep the momentum lively and engaging. The included cable car rides eliminate fatigue and let you enjoy the views without extra effort. The lunch provides a taste of local cuisine, often a highlight for guests who appreciate a good meal after a morning of walking.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a full, guided day that covers the iconic Great Wall and a scenic gorge, without the stress of organizing transport or tickets. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic outdoor scenery, engaging guides, and value for money. If you’re traveling with family, this tour’s pace and mix of history and nature make it a solid choice.

It also suits visitors who prefer small group or private settings to crowded tour buses, as reviews consistently praise the guides’ attention, flexibility, and friendliness. If you’re after breathtaking views and cultural insights, this tour offers a well-rounded and memorable experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Morning Pickup and Drive to Badaling

Your day begins early with hotel pickup around 8 a.m., which ensures you beat some of the crowds at the Great Wall. The ride to Badaling takes approximately 1.5 hours, during which your guide provides a lively commentary on the history of the Wall and Chinese culture, setting the scene for what you’re about to see.

Many reviewers mention the beautiful countryside scenery en route, which is a peaceful contrast to Beijing’s hustle. Passing by Olympic Stadium offers a quick photo opportunity, and if you’re interested, your guide can stop for pictures—just ask!

Exploring the Great Wall at Badaling

Once there, you’ll take the cable car up to the highest point, Beibalou, to enjoy sweeping views. The cable car is included in your ticket, making it easy and convenient—many travelers appreciate this, as it saves energy and time.

Two hours is a comfortable amount of time to walk along the battlements, explore watchtowers, and soak in the scenery. The section is famous for being one of the most well-preserved parts of the Wall and often less crowded than other sections, although it can still get busy.

One reviewer, Dibyendu, enthusiastically mentions breathtaking views and ample photo opportunities, emphasizing the importance of guides like Leo who make these moments special.

Lunch and Transition to Longqing Gorge

After a hearty Chinese meal—often lauded for its authentic flavors—you’ll board your private vehicle for the short drive to Longqing Gorge. This break allows you to rest and prepare for the afternoon’s tranquil water journey.

Longqing Gorge: Nature’s Marvel

Arriving at Longqing Gorge, you’ll be greeted by towering cliffs and lush peaks. The description “smaller Li River, but more beautiful” recurs in reviews, highlighting why many find it a hidden gem. The stone formations, cliffs, and the mirror-like water create a perfect setting for photography and peaceful reflection.

The boat cruise offers a gentle 30-minute ride, during which you’ll see stone cones and formations, many resembling animals or objects, adding a playful element. Guides like Lucy note how they describe the rock formations, making the experience more engaging—even if the boat ride itself is short.

Returning to Beijing

After exploring Longqing Gorge, your private vehicle will take you back to your hotel, concluding a day filled with iconic sights and natural beauty. Many reviews mention how smoothly the day flows thanks to the professional guidance and well-planned itinerary.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is a fantastic choice if you want a comprehensive outdoor experience that marries history with scenic landscapes without the hassle. It’s a well-structured day that balances the grandeur of the Great Wall with the serenity of Longqing Gorge, all wrapped in guided commentary that makes these sites come alive.

The inclusion of tickets, transportation, lunch, and boat rides means you get excellent value for money. Plus, the highly praised guides help you avoid common pitfalls like long queues or miscommunications, making your day relaxed and enriching.

Final Thoughts

This private Beijing tour offers an excellent way to see two of the city’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites in one day. It’s perfect for travelers who value convenience, expert insights, and authentic scenery over crowded group experiences. Many reviewers mentioned how guides like Lucy, Edward, and Cathy made the day memorable and tailored it to their interests, which is a big plus.

If you’re after breathtaking views, engaging guides, and a hassle-free itinerary, this tour delivers. It’s suited for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to combine history, nature, and local flavor—all in one memorable day.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour typically begins with hotel pickup around 8 a.m., giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Chinese lunch is included, and reviewers have praised its flavor and authenticity.

How long is the boat ride at Longqing Gorge?
The boat ride lasts about 20-30 minutes, offering scenic views of cliffs and formations.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides often customize based on your interests, and reviews mention guides like Cathy and Lucy for their flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and reviews include families traveling with kids. Vegetarian options are available if advised in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for walking on the Great Wall and exploring the gorge.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This tour strikes a great balance between history, scenery, and comfort, making it a memorable way to see some of China’s most beautiful outdoor sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or photography enthusiast, it offers a well-rounded experience that many travelers cherish long after they return home.