From Kunming: 15-Day Private Tour to Guilin and Yangshuo

Planning a trip through China’s southwestern wonders? This 15-day private journey offers a well-rounded mix of breathtaking natural scenery, intriguing local cultures, and comfortable transportation. Starting from Kunming, you’ll explore iconic sites like the Stone Forest and Reed Flute Cave, journey through lush rice terraces and minority villages, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Li River cruise to Yangshuo. Guided by friendly experts, this tour promises a manageable pace with plenty of opportunities to soak in authentic sights and sounds.

Two things we especially appreciate are the focus on local cultural interactions, like visiting Zhuang and Miao villages, and the chance to see diverse landscapes—from waterfalls and canyons to rice terraces and karst formations. The itinerary balances sightseeing with relaxed breaks, making it accessible for most travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure.

A potential consideration is the long travel distances between some locations, which might mean a fair amount of train or transfer time. If you’re someone who prefers a more leisurely pace or has mobility concerns, it’s worth considering how the schedule fits with your travel style.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive look at China’s lesser-known but visually stunning southwestern region, combining natural marvels with cultural insights. It’s ideal for those who enjoy planned, guided experiences that maximize sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From waterfalls to rice terraces, the scenery is varied and striking.
• Cultural immersion: Visits to minority villages offer authentic glimpses into local traditions.
• Comfortable logistics: Bullet train travel and private transportation streamline long-distance travel.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major highlights like the Stone Forest, Huangguoshu Waterfall, and the Li River cruise.
• Balance of activities: Mixes sightseeing, cultural visits, and free time for exploration.
• Accessible for most: Designed for travelers comfortable with walking and moderate physical activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The journey begins in Kunming, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” where you’ll be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel. An early highlight is the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its towering limestone formations that resemble petrified trees. We love how the guide emphasizes the geological wonder and its significance in Chinese culture, making it more than just a photo op.

Next, you travel to Lijiang via bullet train — a smooth and efficient way to cover the 3-hour distance. In Lijiang, the focus shifts to the romantic old town and Baisha Village, where you can wander narrow streets and get a feel for local life. The free day here means you can explore at your own pace, perhaps visiting the iconic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or enjoying local Naxi cuisine.

On the return trip to Kunming, you’ll visit the Stone Forest again, this time with more time to appreciate its scale and detail. It’s one of those sites that truly live up to the hype, offering dramatic natural sculptures that seem straight out of a fantasy world.

From there, your journey takes you into Guizhou Province, where the scenery becomes even more extraordinary. The Maling River Canyon is a major highlight, with towering cliffs, lush greenery, and dramatic waterfalls. Travelers have noted the scenic beauty here, describing it as one of the most captivating natural areas on the trip.

The Forest of Ten-Thousand Peaks near Xingyi adds a mystical element, with peaks that seem to float in the mist. The nearby Wanfeng Lake offers tranquil reflections that make for memorable photos. Traveling along one of China’s most beautiful highways, the 24-Bend Road, adds a scenic drive filled with lush hills and winding roads.

One of the high points of the tour is the Huangguoshu Waterfall complex, known as Asia’s largest waterfall system. The sight of water plunging from heights amidst mist and rainbows is awe-inspiring. The visit to Buyi People Village offers cultural insight into a vibrant minority community.

The trip continues to Guiyang and then to Kaili, where the Shiqiao Miao Village and Qingman Miao Village give you a taste of local craftsmanship and traditions. These villages are colorful and alive, with a palpable sense of community.

The journey through Rongjiang introduces you to Langde Long-skirt Miao Village and Huanggang Dong Village, where authentic minority lifestyles are still very much alive. Be prepared for vibrant costumes and traditional customs that have been preserved for centuries.

As you reach Longsheng, the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces are a feast for the eyes. The terraces cascade down mountain slopes, creating a patchwork of greens and browns that change with the seasons. Visiting a Zhuang village here offers further cultural context.

Finally, the Li River cruise to Yangshuo is a highlight. The jagged karst peaks, reflected in calm waters, create some of China’s most iconic views. In Yangshuo, a countryside trip allows you to experience rural life, markets, and perhaps a bamboo raft ride.

The tour concludes with a visit to Reed Flute Cave, known for its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, and Elephant Trunk Hill, a classic symbol of Guilin.

The Practical Side: What Travelers Should Know

This trip includes private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, a live guide, and bullet train tickets—a package that simplifies logistics and maximizes sightseeing. The price of $3,149 per person reflects good value considering the extensive itinerary, private guides, and included transportation.

Meals and beverages are not included, so you should budget extra for local dining. The tour emphasizes comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring parks, villages, and scenic sites. Weather can vary, so packing layers, sunscreen, and rain gear is wise.

For those concerned about accessibility, keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, especially at sites like the Stone Forest and rice terraces. Travel during this trip is geared toward those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Language-wise, guides speak English and Traditional Chinese, facilitating communication and cultural exchange. Booking is flexible, with a cancellation policy allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to see a side of China that’s less crowded and more scenic. If you’re drawn to spectacular landscapes like waterfalls, rice terraces, and karst peaks, you’ll find plenty to love here. The visits to minority villages add meaningful cultural depth without feeling touristy or staged.

It’s also a good fit if you prefer organized, guided trips that handle all the logistics, freeing you to focus on experiencing the sights. However, if you prefer slow-paced travel or have mobility restrictions, you may want to consider how the itinerary’s travel distances and walking demands align with your needs.

For anyone excited by natural beauty paired with authentic cultural encounters, this journey provides a well-structured way to see some of China’s most captivating landscapes, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a private guided tour. It promises a memorable adventure through one of China’s most visually stunning regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour is designed for most travelers, it is not recommended for children under 8 years old or those with mobility or health concerns, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain and moderate physical activity.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals and beverages are not included. You might find that local restaurants offer delicious regional dishes, so budget extra for dining.

What should I pack for this trip?
Comfortable shoes for walking, warm clothing for cooler evenings, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and rain gear are recommended. Weather can vary, so layering is key.

How do I get around between sites?
Private transportation and bullet train tickets are included, making long-distance travel more comfortable and efficient.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is organized with a set itinerary, but you might be able to discuss minor adjustments with your guide or the provider, FUN CHINA TOURS.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This 15-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and comfortable travel logistics. It’s a fantastic way to see southwestern China’s most scenic and culturally significant sites without the stress of planning every detail yourself. Perfect for travelers who crave authentic experiences paired with jaw-dropping vistas, it’s a memorable way to explore a lesser-known side of China.

You can check availability for your dates here: