18‑Day Southwest China Paradise Tour – Yunnan & Guizhou Cultural & Nature Explorer

Our Contacts

Address

15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000

Email

info@goldentrailtravel.com

Phone

+84(832) - 126 - 699

18 Days Experience the Southwest Paradise of China

CODE: GDT2143

Private Tour

Duration: 17 - 21 days

Price from: Contact

Route: China - Guilin - Dali - Lijiang - Shangri-la - Beijing - Shanghai - Xian

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 18‑day expedition through China’s breathtaking southwest region—highlighting Yunnan and Guizhou provinces. Begin in Kunming and explore the Stone Forest, then dive into the ancient town charm of Dali and Lijiang before marveling at the UNESCO‑listed Yuanyang rice terraces, illuminated by sunrise and sunset panoramas. Continue to Guizhou to witness surreal karst landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant ethnic minority life among the Miao and Dong communities. This fully guided voyage features domestic flights, private transfers, culturally rich homestays, boutique hotels, expert English‑speaking guides, and included meals. Ideal for culture seekers, nature lovers, and photographers, this all‑inclusive adventure reveals the “paradise” of southwest China in comfort and authenticity.

Highlight

Yunnan’s Iconic Landscapes: Visit Stone Forest, Erhai Lake, and UNESCO‑listed Yuanyang rice terraces.
Ancient Towns & Heritage: Explore Dali and Lijiang Old Towns with their cobbled streets and local traditions.
Ethnic Village Immersion: Stay with Miao and Dong families, learn traditional crafts, and join local festivals.
Spectacular Natural Wonders: Hike through Guizhou’s karst terrain, Huangguoshu Waterfall, and walk across ancient suspension bridges.
Panoramic Flights & Drives: Domestic flights save time; scenic drives reveal hidden valleys and dramatic peaks.
Comfort & Culture Combined: Carefully selected accommodations, expertly guided, meals featuring local cuisine.

Service

HOTELS
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels

Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian speaking guide can be arranged with on request.

Remarks:
Prices are except Chinese public holidays, local fairs or events.
Golden Trail Travel reserves the right to adjust the price caused by exchange rate
No guide on the flight and Yangtze River cruise.
Recommended hotels are subject to change in actual booking
Special requirements should be advised to Golden Trail Travel in advance.
Golden Trail Travel reserves the right of final explanation for any change due to the reasons beyond our control.

Inclusion

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrival Beijing

Transfer service to hotelMeals: No MealsArrive in Beijing, the capital city of China and one of the great travel destinations of the World, offers sights and cultural relics found no where else on Earth. Be met at the ansferred to your hotel. Free at leisure for the rest of the day.

Day 2: Beijing

Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of HeavenMeals: Breakfast, LunchDepart from your hotel in the morning to visit Tian'anmen Square, the World's largest urban square and the Forbidden City, the largest and most complete ancient imperial palace in the world. Then visit the Temple of Heaven in the afternoon. You might easily imagine the vivid spectacle of a great sacrifice to the Heavens for a good harvest here. Peking Opera is available for your optional night entertainment(on your own expense)

Day 3: Beijing

Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird Nest, Water CubeMeals: Breakfast, LunchThe star attraction of China is its Great Wall, a massive defensive structure built to keep intruders from entering the mainland. Today you will have the opportunity to traverse the ancient steps of Mutianyu Great Wall which is one of the best-preserved and most accessible sections. Then back to the city. Enroute we will have a photo stop at Bird Nest and Water Cube. Peking Roasted Duck will be a good choice as your optional dinner(on your own expense).

Day 4: Beijing - Xian

Hutong tour, Take high speed train to XianMeals: Breakfast, LunchIn the morning, take a relaxing Hutong Tour by rickshaw to visit the ancient lanes and alleyways of Beijing. This Hutong Tour will give you an insight into the lives of ordinary Chinese people and reveal their social culture in today's Beijing City. Be transferred to the train station for the flight to Xian in the afternoon.

Day 5: Xian

Terracotta Warriors, Xian City Wall, Muslim QuarterMeals: Breakfast, LunchEnjoy your full day visit to the Terracotta Warriors, one of the world's most important archaeological finds, with troops, horses and carriages in battle formation. And then, visit the massive Xian City Wall, which stretches round the old city. Xi'an was always a walled city, and today’s wall represents one of the oldest and best preserved Chinese city walls, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world. After that, you could have a free time at Mulism Quarter for you to explore the local specialty and snacks. There is also the option to attend fantastic Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner(on your own expense).

Day 6: Xian - Guilin

Shaanxi History Museum, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Fly to GuilinMeals: Breakfast, LunchFinish up your Xian tour by visiting the famous Shaanxi History Museum. After lunch, visit to Small Wild Goose Pagoda, where you could also have chance to visit Jianfu Temple as well as the local shadow play. Then you will be transferred to the airport to board a short flight to Guilin, a well-known scenic city in southwestern China.

Day 7: Guilin

Longji Rice Terraces Scenic Area, Minority VillageMeals: Breakfast, LunchIt will be a quite different day today. Pick up from hotel lobby in the morning, drive for about 2 hours to visit the famous Longji Rice Terraces Scenic Area, enjoying the magnificent view created by the man-made power. You will also have chance to visit the local minority village and enjoy the local food which can be only seen in mountainous area. There are Zhuang and Yao people residing here. In the late afternoon, drive back to Guilin for overnight. Four Lake Night cruise can be your optional night activities which you could discuss and book with the local guide.

Day 8: Guilin

Li River Cruise to Yangshuo, West Street, Countryside tour, Drive back to GuilinMeals: Breakfast, Lunch boxIn the morning you will be driven to the Pier for the Li River Cruise (about 4 hours, lunch served on board). Savour the fairy-tale scenery while cruising down the meandering river to Yangshuo. The landscape from Guilin to Yangshuo is truly a masterpiece of nature. The crystal waters, straight-out-of-a-painting mountains, peaceful farm fields, hard-working-but- ever-smiling fishermen and wandering water buffaloes inspire poetic musings of Guilin’s charming life. After disembarkation, have a walk along the famous West Street. In the late afternoon, take a bicycle riding to enjoy the beauty of Yangshuo countryside and Yulong River area before the transfer back to Guilin.

Day 9: Guilin - Kunming

Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Take high speed train to KunmingMeals: Breakfast, LunchToday before you flight to Kunming, you will have a short city tour to Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin City and then the colorful Reed Flute Cave, the showcase of distinctly-colored stalactites and stalagmites. After the tour, be transferred to the railway station to take the high speed train for your short flight to Kunming.

Day 10: Kunming

Stone ForestMeals: Breakfast, LunchDepart from your hotel in the morning, you will take a visit to the Stone Forest, created by ancient winds and water erosion over millions of years. The tall rocks seem to emanate from the ground in the manner of stalagmites, with many looking like trees made of stone, creating the illusion of a forest of stone. It has been known since the Ming Dynasty as the first wonder of the World. After the tour, you will be driven back to Kunming.

Day 11: Kunming - Dali

Fly to Dali, Erhai Lake Ecologic Corridor, Three Pagoda, Xizhou Bai's Houses, Dali Ancient TownMeals: Breakfast, LunchIn the morning, you will be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Dali, the ancient political, economic and cultural center of Yunnan area. Upon arrival, you will first be transferred to the ecologic corridor of Erhai, enjoy the beautiful lakeview. Biking tour along the lake bank is available, depending on your physical condition and personal request. Then in the afternoon, then visit Three Pagodas, the symbol of the history of Dali, and Xizhou Bai's Houses (Yan's Courtyard included) where you can see what the Bai people's houses like. Then drive back to check in hotel in ancient town and visit Dali Ancient Town, a gateway to the ancient Silk Road in Southwestern China.

Day 12: Dali - Lijiang

Take train to Lijiang, Lijiang Ancient TownMeals: Breakfast, LunchOptional tours & activities in Dali: Half day tour to visit Mt. Cangshan; Riding a bicycle around Erhai Lake to enjoy the beautiful landscape; Or you can learn tea making with local people.Free at leisure in the morning for you to explore Dali before departure. Then check out from hotel at noon time and take train (about 2 hours) from Dali to Lijiang. Our local guide will help you to check in at the station. Upon arriving at Lijiang, the local tour guide will pick you up and help you with hotel check-in. You can choose to walk around in Lijiang Ancient Town , walking down the cobblestone streets over 700 years and see the Naxi way of life which chaned little over time.

Day 13: Lijiang

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yufeng Temple, Baisha MuralMeals: Breakfast, LunchIn the morning drive about half an hour to visit Jade Dragon Sown Mountain (cable car and green vans available in the scenic area). After lunch, visit Yufeng Temple, displaying a harmonious mix of architectural styles of Han Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism and local Naxi Dongba Religion. And then visit Baisha Mural in the ancient capital of Naxi Kingdom in Baisha village.

Day 14: Lijiang - Shangri-La

Drive to Shangri-La (4 hours), The 1st Bend of Yangtze River, Tiger Leaping GorgeMeals: Breakfast, LunchIn the morning, take another 4hours driving, the famous lost paradise Shangri-la is waiting for you, a place with stunning scenery, the azure sky and the hospitality of unsophisticated people. Enroute, we will have stop at Tiger Leap Gorge, which the upstream of Yangtze River. Besides, we will also view the 1st Bend of Yangtze River.

Day 15: Shangri-La

Songzanlin Lamasery, Potatso National Park, Ancient Town with Tang-ga paintingMeals: Breakfast, LunchToday, begin your exciting tour with a visit to Songzanlin Lamasery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, then visit Potatso National Park (green vans available in scenic area) after lunch. As China's first national park, it mainly consists of two lakes- Shudu and Bita, the distance between takes about half an hour's driving by green van. When we back to the ancient town, we will visit a local artist and learn how to make Tang-ga painting, which ia an unique Tibetan cultural art.

Day 16: Shangri-La - Shanghai

Fly to ShanghaiMeals: Breakfast, LunchEnjoy your own free time then you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Arrive in Shanghai and be transferred to the hotel to catch up on some rest.

Day 17: Shanghai

Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV TowerMeals: Breakfast, LunchA full day of sightseeing starts with Yuyuan Garden, a Chinese classic garden in city downtown. Then visit Chenghuangmiao Old Street and the Bund, Shanghai’s famed waterfront promenade. After a local food lunch, Continue the trip to Jade Buddha Temple and Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower, which is the most famous landmark of Shanghai. In the evening, the breathtaking Acrobatics Show is available for your optional night entertainment.

Day 18: Departure Shanghai

Transfer service to airportMeals: BreakfastThe vacation is over all too soon as you're transferred to the airport to board the homebound flight, bidding a fond farewell to China, and we know you'll be back.Service Ends

FAQS

1. What types of tours does Golden Trail Travel offer?

Answer: Golden Trail Travel specializes in offering a wide range of travel packages to Vietnam and other Indochina countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Malaysia. We offer themed tours including Classic Highlights, Cycling, Trekking, Beach Holidays, Luxury Honeymoon, Short Trips, Family, Off The Beaten Track, Multi-Country, Motorbiking, Veteran, Food, Students, Luxury, Golf, Photography, Cooking Class, Bird Watching, Indochina Cruises, Kayaking, Muslim-friendly tours, Offroad 4x4WD, Indochina MICE Travel, Cave Expedition, and Helicopter tours.

2. How can I book a tour with Golden Trail Travel?

Answer: You can book a tour by contacting us directly via phone, email, or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team of travel experts will advise and assist you in designing a suitable itinerary.

3. Can tours be customized?

Answer: Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. Golden Trail Travel is happy to customize tour packages to fit your specific needs, interests, and budget.

4. Does Golden Trail Travel provide visa support services?

Answer: Depending on your nationality and the destination, we may provide guidance or assistance with the necessary visa procedures. Please contact us for more detailed information.

5. What makes Golden Trail Travel different from other travel agencies?

Answer: We are committed to delivering authentic and unique travel experiences in Vietnam and Indochina. With a team of knowledgeable local experts, meticulously designed tour packages, and dedicated customer care, we ensure every trip is a memorable journey.

6. What should I prepare before the trip?

Answer: We will provide you with a detailed checklist of what to prepare, including information on luggage, appropriate clothing for the weather and local culture, essential personal items, and health advice.

7. What is Golden Trail Travel's cancellation policy?

Answer: Our cancellation policy will be clearly stated in the terms and conditions when you book a tour. Please refer to this information or contact us for specific details.

8. Where can I find information about travel safety and health?

Answer: We prioritize the safety and health of our travelers. Before your trip, we will provide information and advice regarding health, travel insurance, and safety measures at the destination.

9. Can I request a tour guide who speaks Vietnamese or a specific language?

Answer: Yes, we can arrange tour guides who speak Vietnamese or other common languages (such as English, French, German, Spanish, etc.) upon your request and subject to availability. Please inform us of your language preference when booking your tour.

10. Does Golden Trail Travel offer travel insurance?

Answer: We highly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure. While we do not directly provide insurance, we can advise on suitable insurance types and the importance of having coverage during your trip

11. How can I pay for my tour?

Answer: We accept various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), and some online payment options. Detailed information on payment options and payment schedules will be provided upon confirmation of your tour booking.

12. Does Golden Trail Travel offer tours for solo travelers?

Answer: Yes, we have tour options suitable for solo travelers, including group joining tours or specially designed private tours. Please contact us so we can advise on the best package for you.

13. Are the tours child-friendly or suitable for seniors?

Answer: We offer many family-friendly tour packages and can adjust itineraries to suit travelers of all ages, including children and seniors. We will advise on the difficulty level, travel time, and activities appropriate for each member of your family.

14. Where can I read reviews from previous customers?

Answer: You can find customer reviews and testimonials on our website (if a review section is available), social media pages, or reputable travel platforms like TripAdvisor.

15. What are Golden Trail Travel's sustainability or responsible tourism policies?

Answer: We are committed to practicing responsible and sustainable tourism. We constantly strive to minimize our environmental impact, respect local cultures, and contribute positively to the communities where we operate.

16. What happens if there's an emergency during the trip?

Answer: Your safety is our top priority. Golden Trail Travel has a 24/7 emergency support team. We will provide emergency contact numbers and detailed instructions before your trip. Our guides and local partners are trained to handle emergency situations professionally.

17. Are my payment methods secure?

Answer: Absolutely secure. We use highly encrypted online payment gateways and comply with international standards for data security. Your personal and financial information will be strictly protected.

18. What support will I receive during the trip?

Answer: Yes. Throughout your trip, you will always have the support of your local guide, driver, and Golden Trail Travel's operation team. We will provide a 24/7 support hotline so you can contact us anytime if you have any issues or need assistance.

19. What is included and not included in the tour price?

Answer: Each tour package has clear details on included services (e.g., accommodation, transportation, meals as per itinerary, entrance fees to attractions, tour guide) and exclusions (e.g., international flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks, tips, personal expenses). You will receive a detailed itinerary and an inclusion/exclusion list before confirming your tour booking.

20. What is the typical group size for Golden Trail Travel tours?

Answer: Our tour group sizes can vary depending on the type of tour. For join-in tours, we try to keep the numbers small to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. We also offer private tours for families or groups of friends upon request.

21. Whom can I contact if I have questions or need assistance before departure?

Answer: Before departure, you can contact our team of consultants via phone, email, or online chat. We are always ready to answer any questions and help you prepare best for your trip.

22. How is Golden Trail Travel committed to sustainable and responsible tourism?

Answer: We are strongly committed to sustainable tourism. This is reflected in our collaboration with responsible local partners, supporting local communities, encouraging travelers to respect culture and environment, and minimizing negative impacts on destinations. Our goal is to benefit both travelers and local people.

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