Lantau Island Full Day Tour (2024) 150+ booked

A Practical Look at the Lantau Island & Hong Kong City Highlights Tour

If you’re visiting Hong Kong for the first time or short on time, this Lantau Island Full Day Tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into both the natural beauty and urban vibrancy of this dynamic city. For around $99.81 per person, you’ll spend roughly eight hours exploring iconic sights like the Big Buddha, the fishing village of Tai O, and the bustling districts of Central and Sheung Wan. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour promises a mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and a taste of local life.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines a scenic journey with authentic city walking. The visit to Lantau’s mountains and coast offers stunning panoramas of the Big Buddha and Tai O, while the city walk through Central and Sheung Wan reveals Hong Kong’s historic neighborhoods and lively markets. Plus, the inclusion of a free snack and vegetarian meal adds a nice touch of local flavor.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour schedule might feel a bit tight, especially at the Big Buddha, which some reviewers mention was rushed. Also, it involves some public transportation and walking, so travelers should be prepared for a fair amount of movement. But overall, this tour suits those eager to see a broad slice of Hong Kong’s culture, scenery, and daily life without spending a fortune.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided experiences with local insights, enjoy stunning views, and want value for money in your day out, this tour is likely to be a hit. It hits the right notes for first-time visitors and travelers with limited time who want to maximize their Hong Kong experience.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining Lantau’s natural sights with Hong Kong’s bustling city districts
• Affordable price offering value through multiple sites and included meals/snacks
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance understanding of local culture and landmarks
• Hassle-free logistics with a convenient meeting point and use of public transport
• Authentic experiences like visiting Tai O fishing village and the Big Buddha
• Group size limited to 30, ensuring a more personalized experience

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour strikes a practical balance between scenic sightseeing and culture. We start early at the MTR Hong Kong Station near Central, where your guide will meet you at 9:45 am. This central location’s proximity to major transportation options makes it convenient to join the adventure without a long trek. Having a mobile ticket means you’re ready to go without paper fuss, and most travelers find this setup straightforward.

Ngong Ping 360 & Big Buddha

The very first stop is at Ngong Ping 360, where you’ll get a chance to soak in spectacular views of Big Buddha and Lantau Island’s rolling hills. The cable car ride offers panoramic vistas of lush greenery and distant cityscapes, a highlight for many visitors. The admission is free, which adds to the excellent value, though this can be a busy spot, especially during peak hours.

Next, the Tian Tan Buddha commands the itinerary. As one of the largest outdoor Buddha statues in the world, it’s an awe-inspiring sight that’s more impressive in person than many photos can capture. The included admission ticket ensures you won’t have additional costs here. Expect to spend about an hour exploring the base, climbing the steps for a closer view, and perhaps buying a souvenir or two from the nearby market stalls. Several reviews mention that this is a “beautiful experience,” and that the guide Grace made the visit engaging and informative, boosting the overall enjoyment.

Tai O Fishing Village & Dolphin Watching

Then, it’s on to Tai O, a fishing village that provides a glimpse into Hong Kong’s traditional side. The rustic stilt houses and narrow alleyways evoke a different pace of life, contrasting sharply with the city’s skyscrapers. Visitors often enjoy walking along the waterfront and browsing local shops, especially for gifts and snacks.

For those lucky enough, there’s a chance to see Chinese White Dolphins—a rare and treasured sight. Although the tour mentions a dolphin cruise as part of the experience, reviews suggest that some may find the timing tight or might need to plan for their own additional transportation if they wish to explore further. Still, the inclusion of the dolphin cruise adds a unique element to the day, and many say it’s worth the effort.

Ending at City’s Largest Outlet Mall

The final stop is at Tung Chung, home to Hong Kong’s largest shopping mall. Here, you can relax, indulge in some retail therapy, or simply enjoy a casual meal before heading back to the city center via train. The tour’s ending point is convenient, especially for those who want to continue exploring or return to their hotel.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, with many highlighting Nancy and Grace for their knowledge, humor, and helpfulness. One reviewer notes, “Nancy our tour guide was great,” and another says, “Grace was knowledgeable, funny, and very helpful.” This personal touch makes a big difference, turning a sightseeing trip into a more memorable experience.

Multiple reviews mention the stunning scenery at Nong Tong and Big Buddha. One wrote, “Nong Tong is a breathtaking part of the world,” and others describe the views as “beautiful” and “majestic.” The photo opportunities are plentiful, and the experience of walking up to and around the Buddha is frequently described as awe-inspiring.

The food aspect is appreciated, with a free local snack included and a vegetarian light meal that many travelers describe as tasty and satisfying. It’s a nice way to try some local flavors without fussing over where to eat.

Possible Drawbacks

Several reviewers note that the schedule can feel rushed, especially at the Big Buddha. One mentions, “It was left to the last and felt rushed,” which suggests that avid photographers or those wanting more time might find the pacing tight. Plus, some travelers found the meeting point a bit confusing initially, but most agree that the provided instructions are clear enough once you’re on-site.

The Practical Value for Travelers

This tour offers great value by bundling several highlights into one day. The admission tickets to the Big Buddha and the dolphin cruise are included, which can add up if booked separately. The price of under $100 makes it accessible for many travelers, especially considering the multiple sites visited and the guided commentary that enhances understanding and appreciation.

The transportation included—mainly via public transit and the cable car—is efficient but requires some flexibility from participants. Walking and standing are part of the experience, so comfortable shoes and a level of physical readiness are recommended.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors eager to cover Hong Kong’s top sights without the hassle of planning each element. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic vistas, cultural sights, and authentic local neighborhoods. If you’re short on time but want a well-organized, informative day, this tour offers a satisfying overview of Hong Kong’s diverse offerings.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a comprehensive day in Hong Kong that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and lively city scenes, this tour is a solid pick. The knowledgeable guides, impressive views, and value make it especially attractive for first-timers or travelers with limited time. The inclusions—admission tickets, snacks, and meals—add to the convenience and overall value.

While the schedule can be a little rushed at times, especially at the Big Buddha, the experience delivers a rich blend of scenery and culture for the price. Whether you’re snapping photos of the distant skyline from Ngong Ping or wandering through Tai O’s stilt houses, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Hong Kong’s varied landscape.

This tour suits those who love guided explorations, enjoy authentic local experiences, and want a taste of both nature and city life—all wrapped into one well-priced package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at sites like Big Buddha and Tai O.

Do I need to bring my own transportation tickets?
No, the tour includes public transportation, but bringing an Octopus Card can make the process smoother.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Most reviews suggest the schedule is tight, especially at the Big Buddha, so if you prefer more leisurely exploration, you might feel rushed.

Does the tour include enough local food?
The tour offers one free snack and a vegetarian meal, which many travelers find satisfying, though if you’re a foodie, you might want to explore additional options on your own.

What are the meeting and end points?
It starts at Hong Kong MTR Station near Central and ends at Tung Chung MTR Station, making it easy to continue exploring or return to your hotel.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since the tour involves some uphill climbs and outdoor walking.