If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing some of China’s most iconic scenery, this 3-day private tour of Guilin might just be what you’re looking for. It takes you through the city’s top sights, a leisurely cruise down the Li River to Yangshuo, and a visit to the breathtaking Longsheng Rice Terraces. The tour, priced at $328 per person, is flexible and customizable, making it ideal whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone eager to explore beyond the usual.
What we love about this experience? First, the personalized attention from your guide — especially if they’re as thoughtful and patient as Tom, one reviewer’s favorite. Second, the stunning landscapes you get to see: from elephant-shaped hills to the intricate terraces carved into mountain sides. The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite comprehensive, so be ready for some busy days and a fair amount of walking or boat cruising.
This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, well-organized experience that hits all the must-see spots with some flexibility. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, scenic cruising, and local culture, this could be a smart choice. It’s perfect for those who value guided insights but also want some free time to explore on their own.
Key Points
- Customized itinerary tailored to your interests keeps the experience personal.
- Stunning scenery: from Elephant Trunk Hill to the Li River to Longsheng rice terraces.
- Flexible options: choose between different rice terrace sites and cruise levels.
- Expert guides: knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Tom, enhance the trip.
- All-in-one package: includes transportation, entrance fees, and meals (if opted).
- Limited group size (up to 12): ensuring personal attention and a more intimate experience.
An In-Depth Look at Guilin’s 3-Day Private Tour
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Day 1: Exploring Guilin’s City Highlights
Your journey begins with a warm welcome from your guide — usually in your hotel lobby. This first day is all about setting the scene of Guilin’s natural beauty and history. The tour is flexible, which means you can follow a suggested itinerary or customize it with your guide based on your interests. This flexibility is a plus for travelers who like to focus on what excites them most.
The sightseeing kicks off at Elephant Trunk Hill, the city’s most recognizable symbol. The natural rock formation resembles an elephant drinking from the river, and it offers some great photo opportunities. Following that, you’ll visit Fubo Hill, renowned both for its natural beauty and historic carvings etched into the stone — a bonus for history buffs and those who appreciate some cultural depth.
A local restaurant serves up a tasty lunch — a welcome pause in the day’s busy sightseeing. Afterward, the group heads to Reed Flute Cave, a natural wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites, some lit up to enhance their otherworldly appearance. This is often described as a highlight for its natural beauty and striking formations like the Tower-shaped Pine and Crystal Palace.
The day wraps up with a stroll through Seven Stars Park, a large urban park famous for its limestone peaks, lush greenery, and scenic spots. The entire day provides a good mix of natural and cultural sights, making it a well-rounded introduction to Guilin.
Day 2: Longsheng Rice Terraces and Local Culture
The second day takes a sharp turn into the countryside. After breakfast, you’ll hop into your private vehicle for the journey to the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces. This region, carved into the mountain landscape, offers some of the most dramatic scenery on the tour.
You have two options for exploring the terraces: visiting Dazhai or Ping’an. If you choose Dazhai, you’ll take a cable car directly to Golden Buddha Peak — a quick way to see the terraced fields from above. The cable car trip adds convenience, especially if you prefer not to hike straight away.
Alternatively, the Ping’an village offers a more active experience, allowing you to hike through the terraces and enjoy sweeping views of the “dragon’s spine” landscape. You’ll also visit spots like West Hill Music or the No.1 viewing platform for panoramic views.
A delicious lunch with local flavors is served in the village, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. The tour then takes you to Huangluo Long Hair Village, home to the Yao ethnic group. Here, you’ll see a captivating long hair show and learn about local traditions — adding a cultural layer to your scenic excursion.
Day 3: Li River Cruise and Yangshuo
The highlight for many travelers is the Li River cruise to Yangshuo. Your guide will pick you up early, and you’ll transfer to Zhujiang Pier for the cruise. You can opt for a 4-star cruise with more amenities and a buffet lunch, or a simpler 3-star option with a Chinese-style meal.
As you glide down the river, you’ll enjoy views of limestone peaks, lush greenery, and traditional fishing boats. The cruise is a calm, picturesque experience that captures the essence of this iconic landscape. Be sure to bring your camera — the scenery is postcard-perfect.
Upon arriving in Yangshuo, the afternoon is yours. Options include renting a bicycle or taking a walk through the countryside, exploring the famous Ten-Mile Gallery — a road lined with karst formations that look like a living painting. Alternatively, some visitors like to stop at Moon Hill, a massive arch-shaped hill offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.
You can also opt to end the day early or extend your stay in Yangshuo — the tour can be tailored to your plans, providing flexibility that many travelers appreciate.
More Great Tours NearbyTransportation & Group Size
All transportation is private and air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the transfers. The group is limited to 12 participants, which means more personal attention from guides and a more relaxed atmosphere. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge, patience, and friendly manner — essential qualities for making the experience enjoyable.
Value and Cost Analysis
At $328 per person, the price includes entrance fees (if you choose a package), lunch, cruise tickets, and door-to-door transfers. Some reviews mention that the total cost of the trip, including meals, can reach quite high (around €900 for two people), but this is largely due to the inclusive nature and private guiding service. Comparing this to other tours, the private aspect and flexibility make it a good value for those seeking a curated experience.
A Word of Caution
One thing to keep in mind: this tour is quite full and involves various activities, from sightseeing to hiking and cruising. If you’re not used to busy days or long walks, pace yourself accordingly. Plus, some might find the overall cost high, especially considering that the tour doesn’t include additional meals or personal expenses beyond what’s listed.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with some free time built-in. If you’re eager to see Guilin’s top sights with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy scenic boat rides and hikes, this hits all those points. It’s especially attractive if you value personalized attention and want to explore both city highlights and rural landscapes in one trip.
The Sum Up
The Guilin 3-Day Private Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to some of China’s most stunning scenery and cultural highlights. With a focus on flexibility, personalized guides, and scenic destinations, it appeals to travelers who want to balance sightseeing with authentic experiences. The landscapes — from Elephant Trunk Hill to the Longsheng rice terraces — are spectacular, and the inclusion of a Li River cruise makes this a truly memorable trip.
While the cost might seem steep for some, the private guiding, convenience, and ability to customize your days deliver good value for a hassle-free adventure. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want to see the best of Guilin and Yangshuo without the stress of planning every detail themselves.
If you’re after a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and comfort, this tour will leave you with lasting memories of China’s iconic karst landscape.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts three days, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
What’s included in the price?
The package includes a private guide, private transportation, entrance fees (if you choose the package), lunch, and cruise tickets.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the guide will discuss your interests, and you can choose whether to visit Dazhai or Ping’an rice terraces, and how to spend your free time in Yangshuo.
Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Most activities involve walking or mild hiking, such as exploring terraces or scenic spots. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but check specific needs with the provider.
What type of cruise is available?
You can opt for a 4-star cruise with buffet lunch or a 3-star cruise with a Chinese-style meal. The cruise offers scenic views of the Li River.
How big are the groups?
Groups are limited to 12 participants, ensuring more personal attention.
Are meals included?
Lunch is included if you select the package option, but not in the basic tour.
What’s the best time to go?
Check availability for current start dates; generally, spring and autumn are ideal for scenery and pleasant weather.
Can I end the tour in Yangshuo?
Yes, you have the option to conclude the tour in Yangshuo if you prefer more time exploring the town.
Is this tour good for families?
While suitable for most, consider the busy schedule and walking involved; discuss specific needs with the provider beforehand.
This 3-day Guilin experience offers a fantastic way to see some of China’s most photogenic landscapes with the comfort of guided service. Whether you’re after scenic views, cultural insights, or relaxing boat rides, it’s a trip that balances all those elements well.
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