Nanning, the capital of Guangxi Province, might not be as famous as nearby Guilin or Yangshuo, but it’s a fantastic hub for exploring some of China’s most stunning natural and cultural sights. What sets Nanning apart is its accessibility to extraordinary landscapes like the Detian Waterfall, which is one of the world’s largest transnational waterfalls, and the ease of booking private or guided tours that make discovering these sights straightforward and memorable. We particularly like the Nanning Detian Waterfall Private Day Tour for its personalized approach and the chance to get up close to one of Asia’s most impressive waterfalls. If you’re into scenic nature, cultural experiences, or just a hassle-free day trip, Nanning delivers.
Whether you prefer a comfortable private tour, a quick transfer, or an immersive multi-day journey, the options below cover a wide range of interests. From peaceful cruises past karst peaks to countryside explorations and waterfalls, these tours make it easy to see the best of southern China with expert guides and local insights.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find private day trips to Detian Waterfall, with options for full-day personalized experiences (Nanning Detian Waterfall Private Day Tour), quick private transfers from Nanning’s train stations (Nanning Train Station to Nanning Hotel), an 8-day private tour covering Guilin, Yangshuo, and Detian Falls (Guilin-Nanning: 8-Day Li River, Rice Terraces & Detian Falls), and a day trip combining Detian Waterfall with Mingshi or Dongnayuwan Bay (Nanning: Detian Waterfall & Mingshi Day Trip). Each offers a different way to experience Nanning’s nearby natural wonders with varying levels of comfort, adventure, and culture.
1. Nanning Detian Waterfall Private Day Tour
This full-day private guided tour is perfect for those wanting to see one of the world’s largest transnational waterfalls without the hassle. For $200 per person, you’ll enjoy round-trip transfers from your Nanning hotel, with a guide to enrich your experience. The tour includes entrance tickets and shuttle bus access to the scenic area, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized nature—you won’t be part of a large group but instead can tailor your visit. The scenic area is home to more than 40 attractions, including the massive tiered Detian Waterfall, which connects with Vietnam’s Ban Gioc Waterfall. During your visit, you can ride a bamboo raft, get close to the main waterfall on foot, or climb to a panoramic viewpoint for an expansive view of the falls.
The guide’s local knowledge adds depth, sharing stories about the waterfall’s origin and the border region. The tour is well-suited for travelers seeking a comfortable, all-inclusive day trip with stunning scenery, a bit of adventure, and plenty of photo opportunities. The main drawback? It’s a full day, so be prepared for a 3-hour drive each way.
Bottom Line: A hassle-free, personalized way to see one of Asia’s most impressive waterfalls—great for nature lovers and those short on time.
2. Nanning Train Station to Nanning Hotel
For travelers arriving in Nanning by train, this private transfer service offers a simple, stress-free way to get from the station to your hotel. At about $37.34 per person and just 40 minutes, it’s an affordable and convenient option that avoids the hassle of taxis or public transport, especially after a long journey.
The service includes various vehicle choices, all licensed, insured, and maintained for comfort and safety. Your driver is professional and knowledgeable about the area, so they can provide tips or answer questions along the way. This service is ideal if you’re arriving late or want to start your trip without worrying about navigating unfamiliar streets.
While it doesn’t include sightseeing, this transfer lays the groundwork for a smooth trip. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and efficiency right after arriving in Nanning or those with tight schedules.
Bottom Line: An economical, reliable way to start your visit on the right foot—especially useful if you want to hit the ground running.
$37.34 per person
3. Guilin-Nanning: 8-Day Li River, Rice Terraces & Detian Falls
This 8-day private journey offers a comprehensive look at Southern China’s most stunning landscapes. For around $1,900 per group (up to 2), you’ll explore Guilin’s famous karst peaks, take a scenic cruise past lush countryside in Yangshuo, and visit the Detian Waterfall.
What makes this tour special is its blend of nature, culture, and photography. You’ll walk along ancient Zhuang rice terraces at Dragon’s Backbone, experience traditional villages, and enjoy the Impression Sanjie Liu Show. The tour includes private transportation and insider visits to local villages, giving you a deep dive into the area’s traditions.
Most reviews highlight the personalized attention and the chance to see multiple highlights in one trip. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers with a week to spare who want an immersive experience, combining scenic cruises, cultural visits, and outdoor adventures. The downside is the higher cost and longer duration, which requires more planning.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a multi-faceted, in-depth experience of Guangxi’s natural beauty and cultural richness in one trip.
$1,900 per group up to 2
4. Nanning: Detian Waterfall & Mingshi Day Trip with Pickup
If you’re after a full-day scenic adventure, this trip combines the majestic Detian Waterfall with either the Mingshi Countryside or Dongnayuwan Bay. For $270 per person, it includes door-to-door pickup, which simplifies logistics and keeps the focus on enjoying the scenery.
The highlight is feeling the mist of the waterfall while sipping coffee with a view. Afterward, you’ll drive along the Hena Expressway through picturesque landscapes, with your choice of exploration—either the peaceful Mingshi village, famous for its rivers and limestone peaks, or the tranquil Dongnayuwan Bay.
The tour emphasizes ease and comfort, with an English-speaking guide and travel insurance included. Reviews appreciate the scenic drive and the chance to relax in beautiful surroundings without the hassle of planning each detail.
This trip is best suited for nature lovers who want a flexible day out, especially if you’re interested in combining multiple scenic spots. The main drawback is the price, which reflects the convenience and private nature of the tour.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, flexible day trip for those who want to experience Nanning’s surrounding beauty without the stress of planning.
$270 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If a personalized, all-inclusive day at Detian Waterfall appeals, the private tour (Tour #1) is hard to beat. For quick, straightforward transportation, the transfer from train station (Tour #2) works well. Want a deep dive into Guangxi’s landscapes? The 8-day tour (Tour #3) provides breadth and cultural richness. Prefer a scenic day trip that combines waterfalls with countryside exploration? The Detian & Mingshi trip (Tour #4) is your pick.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the multi-day tours, as they fill quickly. Think about your fitness level—some tours involve walking and boat rides— and your interests—whether nature, culture, or convenience are your priority.
Final Thoughts
Nanning offers a surprising variety of tours that reveal both natural beauty and cultural depth. From the awe-inspiring Detian Waterfalls to scenic cruises and traditional villages, you can tailor your experience to match your interests and schedule. For travelers seeking an easy, personalized day, the private waterfall tour is a top pick. If you want to cover more ground, the 8-day trip offers a comprehensive adventure.
No matter which option you choose, these tours are a great way to make the most of your time in southern China. Be sure to book early, especially for popular excursions, and get ready to enjoy some of the most stunning scenery in the region.