Overview

Journey along the legendary Silk Road, an epic network of trade routes that shaped the course of human history. This meticulously crafted expedition takes you from the ancient capital of Xi'an, through the Hexi Corridor's fortress cities, to the otherworldly desert landscapes of Dunhuang and the vibrant oasis cultures of Turpan and Kashgar. It's a profound immersion into the heart of Asia, where the legacy of merchants, monks, and empires lives on.

Tour Highlights

• Walk on the Great Wall of Jiayuguan, where the mighty Ming Dynasty fortress marked the symbolic end of China proper and the beginning of the vast Western Regions.
• Witness the artistic zenith of Buddhist art at the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting a millennium of exquisite murals and sculptures, preserved by the dry desert air.
• Experience the life of an oasis trader in Turpan, exploring ancient ruins like the Jiaohe Old City and tasting the sweetest grapes in China from shaded vineyards.
• Feel the pulsating energy of the Kashgar Sunday Bazaar, one of Asia's largest and most vibrant markets, a crossroads of cultures for over two millennia.
• Journey through dramatic landscapes, from the rainbow-colored Danxia landforms in Zhangye to the sweeping dunes of the Taklamakan Desert, with the majestic Tianshan Mountains as a constant backdrop.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrive in Xi'an, China

As the eastern terminus of the Silk Road, Xi'an (formerly Chang'an) was one of the world's greatest cities in its heyday. Begin your journey by walking along the magnificent City Wall and sampling the diverse flavors of the Muslim Quarter, a testament to the city's long history of cultural exchange.

Day 2 | Xi'an

Gain exclusive early access to the Terracotta Warriors, an awe-inspiring army built to guard China's First Emperor in the afterlife. Later, delve into the city's rich history at the Shaanxi History Museum, where Silk Road artifacts tell stories of camels, caravans, and commerce.

Day 3 | Xi'an / Lanzhou / Zhangye

Fly to Lanzhou, a key crossing point on the Yellow River, before traveling by road to Zhangye. Here, prepare for one of nature's most stunning displays.

Day 4 | Zhangye

Explore the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, a breathtaking landscape of rainbow-colored mountains, sculpted by millions of years of mineral deposition and erosion. The vibrant stripes of red, yellow, and blue create a photographer's paradise.

Day 5 | Zhangye / Jiayuguan

Continue west to Jiayuguan, home to the impressive fortress known as the "First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven." Stand at the western end of the Great Wall and contemplate the journeys of those who passed beyond it into the unknown.

Day 6 | Jiayuguan / Dunhuang

Journey to the oasis city of Dunhuang, a once-vital hub for Buddhist pilgrims and traders. In the late afternoon, experience the magical sight of Crescent Lake, a serene pool nestled amidst the towering sand dunes of the Singing Sands Mountains.

Day 7 | Dunhuang

A day dedicated to the Mogao Caves. With a dedicated expert guide, explore a selection of these sacred grottoes, admiring the stunning Buddhist art that flourished here thanks to Silk Road patronage. This is an unparalleled encounter with a living spiritual history.

Day 8 | Dunhuang / Turpan

Travel by high-speed train to Turpan, one of the lowest and hottest places in China. Despite the harsh climate, it's a fertile oasis known for its grapes and ancient irrigation systems, the Karez canals.

Day 9 | Turpan

Discover the region's rich history. Visit the Jiaohe Old City, an ancient ruins built on a lofty plateau, and the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves. Enjoy a traditional Uyghur lunch in a grapevine-shaded courtyard.

Day 10 | Turpan / Urumqi / Kashgar

Fly to Kashgar, via Urumqi. This ancient city is the quintessential Central Asian oasis, where the cultures of China, Central Asia, and the Islamic world converge.

Day 11 | Kashgar

Immerse yourself in the Kashgar Sunday Bazaar, a sensory overload of colors, sounds, and smells. Witness the trade of everything from livestock to spices and handmade crafts. Later, visit the iconic Id Kah Mosque and explore the old city.

Day 12 | Depart Kashgar

Transfer to the airport for your departure, carrying with you the profound memories of an epic journey across time and terrain.

What's Included

• Hotels are included in the itinerary.
• China's domestic flights/trains are specified in the itinerary.
• Entrance fees.
• Meals are detailed in the itinerary.
• Private transfers.
• Private English-speaking guide and driver.
• Service charges and taxes.

Notes

• The itinerary outlined above can be customized to align with your personal interests and preferences. Please feel free to share your thoughts with us, and we will gladly make the necessary adjustments.
• Pricing is subject to change based on the itinerary, activities, travel season, number of participants, and hotel selection. We provide accommodations across all levels for our tours, including renowned 5-star hotel chains and well-located 4-star hotels at various destinations.