Zhangjiajie is a place where nature’s artistry is on full display—towering rock formations, mist-shrouded peaks, and lush greenery create landscapes that feel almost unreal. This makes it a perfect destination for full-day tours that pack in the highlights without wasting your precious vacation time. Whether you want to ride the world’s longest cable car, explore the famous Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, or walk across glass pathways cradled high in the mountains, there’s something for every kind of explorer. We particularly like tours that combine convenience with personalized experiences, like this private Full-Day Private Tour of Zhangjiajie (Wulingyuan) National Forest Park, which takes the hassle out of planning and lets you focus on the stunning scenery.
If you’re after jaw-dropping mountain views, check out the Tianmen Mountain, famous for its sky-high cable car and the iconic Tianmen Cave. For those wanting a mix of awe-inspiring nature and cultural sights, the Full-Day Trip to Tianmen Mountain offers a comprehensive experience, combining scenic rides with visits to temples and Tujia culture. Below, you’ll find detailed breakdowns of each tour, helping you decide which fits your interests and travel style.
1. Full-Day Private Tour of Zhangjiajie(Wulingyuan) National Forest Park
At number 1, this Full-Day Private Tour of Zhangjiajie (Wulingyuan) National Forest Park offers a personalized experience for those eager to soak up the natural beauty without the hassle of navigating on their own. Starting with hotel pickup, the tour takes you into the UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can enjoy a cable car ride up Tianzi Mountain for panoramic views. The tour also includes visits to the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, famous for its inspiration for the movie Avatar‘s floating Hallelujah Mountains, and other key spots like Misty Mountain and lush valleys.
What makes this tour stand out is the private guide, which means you can explore at your own pace and avoid the crowds. The itinerary includes a combination of transportation and expert insights, making it perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into Zhangjiajie’s geological wonders without the stress of planning. While admission tickets aren’t included, the convenience of round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off means less hassle and more time to enjoy breathtaking scenery.
Guests comment on the attentive guides and the stunning landscapes, with one reviewer remarking, “The forest was amazing. Our tour guide was in the hotel lobby 1 hour before, and shared the facts about the Forest. Took us to places where we could have better views and take photos. He was really great.” This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a private, flexible adventure with a focus on natural beauty.
Bottom line: For a seamless, personalized day in one of China’s most stunning parks, this private tour offers excellent value for around $130 per person.
2. Full-Day Private Tour of Tianmen Mountain
At number 2, the Full-Day Private Tour of Tianmen Mountain is perfect if towering mountains and dramatic vistas are your thing. This tour includes a ride on the longest cable car in the world—a highlight that offers sweeping views as you ascend to Tianmen Mountain. Once at the top, you’ll visit the Tianmen Mountain Temple and walk through Tianmen Cave, a natural arch that’s become one of the area’s most iconic features.
The tour is flexible with a duration of 6-7 hours, and you get to choose your pickup location from either Wulingyuan or Zhangjiajie. The guide helps you navigate the mountain’s highlights, which include the skywalks and scenic viewing platforms, perfect for snapping memorable photos. Reviewers mention how the views and glass walkways are “a must-see,” emphasizing the dramatic scenery you won’t find elsewhere.
This trip is well-suited for travelers curious about China’s spiritual sites and eager to experience a mountain landscape that combines natural beauty with cultural elements. The inclusion of the Tianmen Mountain Temple adds a layer of history and tradition to the day. Keep in mind that this tour is more active, with some walking and stair climbing involved.
Bottom line: For around $123, this private tour offers an unforgettable mountain experience that combines natural wonders with cultural insights, ideal for those with a sense of adventure.
3. Full-Day Private Tour of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
At number 3, this Full-Day Private Tour of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park provides a comprehensive look at the first national forest park in China, famous for its stunning rock formations and the inspiration for Avatar. Starting with hotel pickup, your guide will take you into the park for about 4 hours of exploration, including a cable car ride up to Tianzi Mountain and a ride on the Bailong Elevator—an 1100-foot glass elevator that whisks you down in about 2 minutes.
This tour’s standout feature is the combination of scenic transportation and personalized commentary, which makes it a good choice for travelers who want a detailed experience with all the must-see sights. The ticket prices are included for the cable car and elevator, so the cost is straightforward. After Tianzi Mountain, you visit Yuanjiajie, the film-inspired floating mountains.
Reviewers highlight the value for money, noting that the guide’s knowledge and ability to take them to the best viewpoints made the experience memorable. The tour is suited for those who want a thorough but flexible day in Zhangjiajie’s iconic landscape.
Bottom line: For about $168, you get a full, guided exploration of Zhangjiajie’s signature scenery, perfect for travelers who want an in-depth experience.
$168.00 per person
4. From Zhangjiajie: Full-Day Trip to Tianmen Mountain
Rounding out our list at number 4, the From Zhangjiajie: Full-Day Trip to Tianmen Mountain stands out for its comprehensive itinerary and cultural focus. This private 8-hour trip includes a ride on the world’s longest gondola to reach the summit, where you can walk along cliffside paths and take in views of Tianmen Cave and the surrounding peaks. You’ll also visit the Tujia Folk Customs area to experience local culture, making it more than just a scenic ride.
This tour’s highlights are the spectacular cable car ride and the chance to walk on miles of paths built onto cliffs, which are particularly dramatic during clear weather. The tour is suitable for travelers who love a mix of nature and cultural sights. One review mentions that the gondola offers “amazing views,” and the walkways provide a unique perspective of the mountain landscape.
Note that this tour costs $360 per person, reflecting its all-inclusive private nature and the extensive sightseeing involved. It’s best suited for those looking for a full, immersive day with personal attention and cultural insights.
Bottom line: If you’re after a full, scenic adventure combined with cultural stops and don’t mind the higher price, this tour delivers a memorable day at Tianmen Mountain.
$360 per person
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Zhangjiajie
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and what aspects of Zhangjiajie excite you most. If you prefer a private, flexible experience with more time to explore at your own pace, the first and third options are excellent. For spectacular mountain views and a taste of local culture, the Tianmen Mountain trip offers a memorable day, especially with the longest cable car ride. Those who want a comprehensive tour with cultural insights might prefer the full-day Tianmen Mountain trip, which combines scenic rides with visits to temples and local Tujia attractions.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, as private guides and popular sites can fill up quickly. Tours that include admission tickets and round-trip transportation often save you money and hassle, making your day smoother and more enjoyable.
Zhangjiajie offers a variety of full-day tours tailored to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want a private escape into nature, a mountain adventure with cultural highlights, or a detailed exploration of the Avatar-inspired landscapes, there’s a perfect trip waiting for you. For a stress-free experience, consider booking one of these tours in advance—these landscapes are too spectacular to miss on a rushed visit.