17 Days South and West China: Ethnic Exploration

17 days
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Immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of ethnic minorities by a 17-day journey through South and West China. Begin in Guilin, where you'll be treated to a mesmerizing folklore performance along the Li River. Continue to Guizhou to discover the vibrant minority villages of Zhaoxing and explore the ancient towns of Guiyang. Then, venture to Yunnan to witness...
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Overview

Trip type
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Enjoy Guilin's Li River folklore show amid stunning scenery.
    • Explore Guizhou's vibrant minority villages and ancient towns.
    • Discover Dali and Lijiang's unique cultures and breathtaking landscapes in Yunnan.
    • Visit Lhasa's iconic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    • Explore Shigatse's Tashilhunpo Monastery, a key Tibetan Buddhist site.

What's this trip about?

    Immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of ethnic minorities by a 17-day journey through South and West China. Begin in Guilin, where you'll be treated to a mesmerizing folklore performance along the Li River. Continue to Guizhou to discover the vibrant minority villages of Zhaoxing and explore the ancient towns of Guiyang. Then, venture to Yunnan to witness Dali and Lijiang's awe-inspiring natural beauty and distinct cultures. Your adventure will culminate with visits to the iconic Potala Palace in Lhasa and the revered Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, the traditional monastic seat of the Panchen Lama.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizePrivate - your group only
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportAll internal transport included (including local flights)
Start CityGuilin
End CityLhasa

Travel Themes

  • Culinary & Wine
  • Cultural
  • Education / Learning
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

  • Asia
  • China

Attractions

  • Dali
  • Guilin
  • Guiyang
  • Lhasa
  • Lijiang
  • Shigatse
  • Yangshuo
  • Zhaoxing

Activities

  • Cooking
  • Culture
  • Educational/ learning
  • Historic sightseeing
  • History
  • Nature
  • River cruise
  • Ruins & Archaeology

Trip includes

    • Entrance fees for the scenic spots as listed in the itinerary
    • All in-destination transport as listed in the itinerary
    • 4-star accommodation
    • English-speaking guides for sightseeing as listed in the itinerary
    • Meals: 16 breakfasts and 12 lunches
    • One bottle of drinking water per person per day

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Guilin 

Begin your exotic journey in Guilin, the picturesque gateway to Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China. Meet your guide at the Guilin airport or railway station, and enjoy a comfortable private transfer to your hotel for relaxation. 

Overnight: Guilin 

Day 2: Guilin - Yangshuo, Li River Cruise & Night Show 

Embark on a four-hour cruise down the Li River to witness its otherworldly beauty, surrounded by lush hills and lively villages with distinct charm. Arrive in Yangshuo in the early afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through West Street, and then enjoy free time at you...

Day 3: Idyllic Countryside Experience 

Kick off your morning with a leisurely bike ride through the idyllic countryside of Yangshuo, immersing yourself in green hills, fragrant orchards, and picturesque rice paddies. Alternatively, cool your feet in the crystal-clear waters at a tranquil dock. 

In t...

Day 4: Zhaoxing, The Village of Drum Towers 

Take a high-speed train from Guilin to Congjiang with your guide. Upon arrival, travel by private vehicle to Zhaoxing Dong Village, the largest Dong minority village in southeast Guizhou. Known as "the village of drum towers," it showcases five magnificent drum towers...

Day 5: Miao and Dong Villages 

Explore the unique culture and way of life of local ethnic groups. Begin at Basha Miao Village, the last Chinese tribe where men legally carry guns. Next, visit Zhanli Dong Village, known for its mysterious practices related to gender balance for newborns. Then, explo...

Day 6: Terrace Field Hiking, Zhaoxing to Guiyang 

In the mountainous region, the industrious farmers make the most of arable land, creating cascading terrace fields in various shapes and sizes, forming a distinct landscape. 

Spend two to three hours in the morning hiking from Tang'an Village, enjoying the pict...

Day 7: Anshun's Special and Ancient Towns 

Anshun, just about 1.5 hours from Guiyang, is home to a branch of Han people who have preserved their traditional dress and customs for over 600 years—a rare find in contemporary China. Explore the Tianlong Tunbao ancient town, your main destination today. Later, visi...

Day 8: Guiyang to Dali, Old Town Exploration 

Hop on a high-speed train to Dali, an enchanting Bai autonomous prefecture known for its picturesque landscapes. Upon arrival, meet your guide for a transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the old town, with its city gate, bustling streets, ancient temples, and vibrant shops and bars. 

Meal: Breakfast 

Overnight: Dali 

Day 9: Bai Village & Erhai Lake Cruise 

Embark on a morning visit to a Bai village in Xizhou. Stroll through its vibrant morning market, witness intermingling ethnic trade, and visit an esteemed family's historic residence. Later, a scenic horse

carriage ride will lead you to Haishe Wetland Park for a tranquil cruise on Erhai Lake, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Overnight: Dali 

Day 10: Dali to Lijiang via Shaxi Old Town 

Journey towards Lijiang, making a stop at Shaxi Old Town, a well-preserved historical trading post along the ancient Tea Horse Road. Explore the old town and Sideng market square, listed among the 100 Most Endangered Sites by the World Monument Watch. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Overnight: Lijiang 

Day 11: Lijiang's Rich Cultural Tapestry 

Lijiang, a cultural hub of the Naxi people, offers a captivating glimpse into their unique heritage of poetry, painting, music, and dance. Explore the old town, visit the Mufu Palace, and savor panoramic views from Lion Hill. Dive deeper into Naxi culture and Dongba religion at the Museum of Naxi Dongba Culture. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Overnight: Lijiang 

Day 12: Lijiang Exploration at Your Pace 

Today is a free day to delve further into Lijiang. You might visit a Naxi family, immersing yourself in their daily life, or explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the charming Baisha Old Town. Numerous other options await – simply let us know your preference. 

Meal: Breakfast 

Overnight: Lijiang 

Day 13: Lijiang to Lhasa: Gateway to the Roof of the World 

Embark on a morning flight from Lijiang to Lhasa, landing on the awe-inspiring Tibetan Plateau, often referred to as the "Roof of the World." Your Tibetan guide will be there to welcome you at Lhasa

Gonggar Airport. Enjoy a private transfer to your hotel and take some time to acclimate to the high altitude, which stands at over 3,600 meters. 

Meal: Breakfast 

Overnight: Lhasa 

Day 14: Lhasa's Sacred Landmarks 

Embark on a journey through Lhasa's sacred sites. Begin at the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, an architectural marvel and repository of Tibetan art. Continue to the revered Jokhang Temple, where the scent of incense mingles with the devotion of pilgrims. Stroll Barkhor ...

Day 15: Shigatse Excursion - Yamdrok Lake 

Embark on a mesmerizing journey about 70 kilometers southwest of Lhasa to the sacred Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three largest holy lakes. Gaze upon its sapphire waters mirroring the snow capped mountains that surround it. After this awe-inspiring visit, continue to ...

Day 16: Shigatse Exploration - Tashilhunpo Monastery 

Begin the day by immersing yourself in local life at the bustling Free Market in Shigatse. Later, visit the grand Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional monastic seat of the Panchen Lamas, and Tibet's largest active religious institution. Explore the vast religious co...

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Dates & Availability

Price From $3,614
Price per day$213
Last Updated: 2/23/2024

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Odynovo.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Tour Operator

Odynovo

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Odynovo specialized in private and customized tours to over 70 destinations worldwide. Traveling with Odynovo means no two trips are the same, as we design our tours to perfectly match customers' special interests. Whether they have a particular passion for culture, wildlife, art, or culinary delights, or are planning a trip for a special occasion, or want to stay in unique accommodation, we make it happen, so they can experience the destination seriously stress-free, with personal service focusing on every detail.

ODYNOVO - EXPERT YOU CAN TRUST

Private & Tailor-Made Tour Operator Since 1999

At Odynovo, we believe that travel is one of the ultimate joys in life. An incredible journey is more than visiting a destination, it's about the authentic experiences that enrich the mind, the magical moments that connect with the locals, the stylish hotels that rest your soul, and the food that awakens your senses.

The Odynovo Difference:

  • 70+ Worldwide destinations to choose from;
  • 1:1 travel expert service from the beginning to the end;
  • Travel worry-free with a private guide and car;
  • Hand-picked hotels and restaurants;
  • All itineraries can be customized;
  • 15,000+ excellent reviews from clients on the internet;
  • 24/7 customer care service support.

Our Trip Styles

A trip with Odynovo allows you to have a tour with freedom and flexibility. You decide where to travel, when to see, what to eat and where to stay.

#1 Personalized Tour Itinerary

From the very beginning to the end, a 1:1 travel specialist will work with you to create a perfect itinerary exactly as you're imagining it, with a combination of our expertise. You can rely on your specialist as they know the destinations inside out and understand how things run and work closely with our local partners so they can always guide you based on the most accurate advice.

#2 Travel with Flexibility

A private and tailor-made trip ensures a journey with full flexibility. With a personal guide and transfer, you can easily escape the tour bus crowds and explore on your own terms: stop where and when you want, linger at a favorite sight a little longer, sample local dishes as you wish, and even change your plans in the destination.

#3 Expert Tour Guides

The best way to really delve into the destination is with your very own local expert. Being friendly, passionate, knowledgeable and knowing the place inside and out, they give you peace of mind so you can spend less time looking at time schedules and more time diving into the local cultures and lives that make the destination so special.

#4 Handpicked Accommodations

We want you to love your home away from home, so we carefully choose comfortable hotels with excellent style, desirable locations, and outstanding service to maximize your experience. From modern hotels to local boutiques, from starry camps to grand old riads, the choice is completely up to you - just let us know your preference, and we will find suitable options.

#5 Eat Like the Locals Eat

Whether you're visiting a foodie destination or not, eating like a local by sampling specialty foods and trying regional produce is one of the easiest ways to get a feel for a new place, its history, traditions, and customs. Thus, we include local restaurants for meals to all itineraries, whilst also leaving you plenty of time to get out and have culinary adventures of your own.

Traveling abroad can be a challenging, yet life-changing experience. As you send us a conversation and communicate with us for many days even months to plan a dreamy tour, we think we are more than a tour operator but your friends on the road. We cherish the time we shared together and whenever you need us, we are just a call away.

Planning unique custom trips, Arranging great guides and drivers, Connecting travelers to locals and authentic experiences

Private and customized trips perfectly match personal interests. Travel stress-free, with personal service focusing on every detail.

Compeltely Private and Customized Tour; Great Guide and Driver; Excellent and Responsive Service; Expectations Be Exceeded

  • 1:1 Travel Expert----Know Places Inside Out
  • 100% Tailor-Made----Design around Interests
  • Award-Winning Service----15,000+ Excellent Reviews
  • Travel Worry Free----Get Authentic Experiences
  • 24/7 Service Support----Always Be There to Help


Why we love this operator
They are able to handcraft custom trip plans in over 70 different destinations worldwide.
What they’re known for
Their unique approach to designing custom trips - meaning no two trips are ever the same.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • International flight
    • Visa application & visa fee
    • Gratuities to the guides and drivers
    • Travel insurance
    • Personal expenses or any other item not listed in the itinerary
    • Excess baggage charge for flight
    • Optional activities either recommended by tour guides or out of your own interests

Accommodation

,Accommodation is shared in a double/twin room. Single supplement applies.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included

Meals: 16 breakfasts and 12 lunches 

Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Additional Information
Trip ID
TS-TS-CN-262

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