Stepping into Xinjiang through this 8-day tour offers a chance to see some of China’s most breathtaking natural scenery, from the snowy peaks of the Tianshan Mountains to the mysterious, windswept Ghost City of Karamay. For about $2,380 per person, you get a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural encounters, and adventurous hikes—all led by knowledgeable guides who will help you peel back the layers of this lesser-known corner of China.
What we particularly appreciated was the chance to visit Heavenly Lake, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting snow-capped peaks, and to experience the authentic culture of the Tuva people in Kanas and Hemu villages. The trip’s highlight is the contrast—viewing both lush, green landscapes and stark desert landforms, sometimes just a few kilometers apart. However, the itinerary does involve a fair amount of traveling over vast distances, so be prepared for some long drives.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, natural beauty, and small-group adventures, this tour will suit you well. It’s perfect for those looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience with a good balance of scenery, culture, and a touch of adventure.
Key Points
- Natural wonders: From Heavenly Lake to Kanas Lake and Ghost City, this tour is a showcase of Xinjiang’s diverse landscape.
- Cultural insights: Visiting Tuva families and traditional villages offers a glimpse into local lifestyles and traditions.
- Active experience: Expect hikes of 3-8 km, ideal for those who love walking and exploring on foot.
- Expert guidance: Personal tour guides and small groups ensure a more intimate and informative experience.
- Varied landscapes: The route includes mountains, lakes, canyons, and desert-like Yardang landforms, providing visually stunning contrasts.
- Value for money: The tour includes many entrance fees, activities, and transfers, making it a comprehensive package.
An In-Depth Look at the Urumqi: 8-Day Xinjiang Tour
Planning more time in Urumqi? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point: Urumqi and Heavenly Lake
Your journey begins in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, where a guide will meet you at the airport. The first real highlight is Heavenly Lake (or Tianchi), perched at nearly 2,000 meters. As you stand by the lake, you’ll find yourself surrounded by snowcapped mountains that reflect off the water, creating an almost surreal scene. We loved the boat ride included in the visit, which gives a different perspective of the lake’s tranquil beauty. The reflection of the surrounding peaks can be so clear that you feel like you’re gazing into a mirror.
The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so packing warm clothing and layers is essential—especially if you’re visiting outside summer months. The scenery here is a photographer’s dream, with vibrant colors and stunning natural formations.
Keketuohai National Geopark: China’s Hidden Geological Treasure
Driving north, the tour takes you to Keketuohai National Geopark, a highlight for geology buffs or nature lovers. The park features granite canyons, colorful forests, and the Hu’erci River, winding through landscapes that look like they’ve come straight from a fantasy novel. The visit to China’s largest mining pit is particularly noteworthy, as it exposes the raw material extraction that helped fuel China’s industrial growth in the 1960s. It’s a top-secret site that geologists once called the “Jerusalem” of their field, and standing at the edge of the pit, you get a sense of the scale of China’s resource wealth.
This part of the trip is especially interesting for anyone curious about China’s industrial past and how natural resources are mined and processed. The geological formations and colors of the canyon are a visual treat, easily explaining why this area is designated a geopark.
The Transition to Kanas: Nature’s Hidden Gem
From Keketuohai, the journey continues to Burqin town, the gateway to the Kanas region. The drive provides ample opportunities to admire the changing scenery—vast open landscapes, forests, and river valleys. Arriving at Kanas Lake, the scenery is mesmerizing. The lake’s surface, often framed by snow-tipped mountains, is so reflective that it looks like a mirror. A walk of about 8 km along the Kanas River takes you past three gorgeous bays, with views changing constantly as you hike. This is a rare chance to avoid the shuttle bus and experience the landscape on foot, making the scenery more intimate and memorable.
In Kanas Village, you visit a Tuva family’s wooden house. Visiting local families allows you to see how traditional lifestyles persist amid the natural beauty. Conversations with Tuva people reveal their daily routines, clothing, and crafts, offering an authentic cultural exchange. The performance by a local Tuvas band adds a lively touch to the visit, providing a glimpse into their musical traditions.
More Great Tours NearbyHemu Village and the Tuva Experience
Next, the tour takes you to Hemu Village, a small settlement famed for its misty mornings and stunning river scenery. The 3 km hike along the Hemu River offers peaceful moments away from tourist crowds, with cows wandering freely and children playing with sheep in their yards. The visit to a Tuvas museum highlights traditional clothing, artifacts, and stories from the community, giving context to their way of life.
The atmosphere here feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with the early morning mist floating over the valley. It’s one of those moments that makes you realize how remote and unspoiled this part of China still is.
Wucaitan and Ghost City
On the way back from Hemu, your journey includes a stop at Wucaitan (“Five-Color Shore”), a landscape of contrasting terrains—lush vegetation on one side, desert and Yardang landforms on the other. The area’s diversity makes it a photographer’s paradise, and it highlights the geological complexity of the region.
Later, the Ghost City of Karamay offers a different kind of spectacle. Known for its Yardang landforms, the area produces eerie sounds as the wind hits the rocks—resembling cries, screams, and even ghostly yells, hence the name. The landscape feels almost otherworldly, and it’s a favorite among those interested in natural formations that seem to have a story to tell.
Karamay and Departure
The last leg of the tour takes you to Karamay, a city known for its oil fields and the Ghost City. The oil infrastructure along the route hints at the region’s economic importance. After a visit to the Ghost City, your guide will transfer you back to Urumqi for your departure.
What to Expect and What You’ll Love
This tour balances outdoor exploration with cultural insights, making it ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. The small group size (limited to 15 participants) ensures you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions about the sites and local customs.
The active components—like hikes along Kanas River and Hemu River—are manageable but rewarding, providing a sense of adventure and closeness to nature. Expect buses and private cars—the latter being well-equipped with big windows for scenic viewing.
One aspect to consider is the long drives between sites—sometimes several hours—so bring snacks, water, and patience. Weather can vary from mountain chill to desert heat, so dressing in layers is a good idea.
Authenticity and Value
The cost covers many entrance fees, activities, and transfers, making it a comprehensive package. The inclusion of local guides and cultural performances enriches the experience, allowing you to understand the region’s diversity deeply.
Many travelers have remarked on the stunning views, especially at Heavenly Lake and Kanas Lake, calling them “breathtaking” and “more beautiful than expected.” The chance to meet Tuva families and see their traditional lifestyle adds a genuine, human touch to an otherwise scenic journey.
Final Thoughts
This tour suits explorers who are eager for adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural encounters. It’s perfect if you enjoy hiking, photography, and discovering lesser-visited corners of China. While it involves some long drives, the landscapes and experiences along the way make it well worth the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned vehicles with large windows, ideal for viewing the landscapes comfortably.
What should I pack for this trip?
Comfortable shoes for walking, warm clothing for mountain areas, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or purchase meals during stops.
Can I expect to see local cultural performances?
Yes, a performance by a Tuvas band is included, offering a lively insight into their musical traditions.
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, due to the walking involved in hikes and uneven terrain, it is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
Final Verdict
This 8-day Xinjiang tour offers a well-rounded look at some of China’s most striking and diverse landscapes, along with authentic cultural encounters. For travelers eager to see snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and mysterious landforms while engaging with local communities, it’s a fantastic choice. The carefully curated itinerary balances active exploration with relaxed sightseeing, all led by guides committed to sharing the region’s stories and secrets.
While the long drives may not suit everyone, the scenery, the stories, and the chance to step into a part of China few outsiders see make it a memorable journey. If you’re ready for an adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural richness, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting impressions—and plenty of photos to prove it.
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