The 7-Day Western China Highlights Tour moves through four very different cities – each one worth the stop on its own.
It starts in Xi'an, one of China's ancient capitals. The Terracotta Army is as impressive in person as you'd expect, and the city's older neighbourhoods are worth slower exploration beyond the main sites. From Xi'an, the route heads west to Zhangye, where the Danxia National Geopark – better known as the Rainbow Mountains – looks less like a natural landscape and more like something painted.
Next is Jiayuguan, where the Great Wall comes to its western end. Standing here, it's easier to understand just how far this structure stretches – and why this particular spot mattered so much along the old trade routes. The tour finishes in Dunhuang, an oasis town that has been drawing travellers for centuries. The Mogao Caves are one of the great historical sites in the world, and the Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Moon Spring round off the journey in a way that's hard to forget.
For anyone looking to see a side of China that most visitors miss, the 7-Day Western China Highlights Tour is a good place to start.
Tour itinerary:
Overnight at the hotel.
Stop at a local terracotta workshop, where traditional techniques are demonstrated and handcrafted souvenirs are available. In the afternoon, drive back to Xi'an (40 km, 1 hour) and explore the Muslim Quarter, a lively and historically rich district filled with traditional food stalls, local markets, and centuries-old mosques. Here you will also visit the Great Mosque, a remarkable architectural complex that blends Chinese design with Islamic traditions, reflecting Xi'an's role as a key hub along the ancient Silk Road.
Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5–6 hours
Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to the hotel. Check-in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2–3 hours
Then drive to Dunhuang (380 km, 4,5-5 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2–3 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5–6 hours
Price includes:
- All transfers: 1-2 pax by Sedan type car, 3-7 pax on minivan/van, 8-16 pax by 20 seat bus;
- Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
- English-speaking local guide;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- High-speed train Xian-Zhangye (second class);
- 1 bottle of water per person per day;
- Government taxes and fees.
Price doesn't include:
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- China visa fees;
- Overweight on domestic flights;
- Full board (lunches and dinners);
- Personal travel insurance;
- Tips to local guides and drivers.
Note: The rate is valid from March till December 2026 except for the holidays in China (Labor Day 1-5 May 2026, National Day 1-8 October 2026)
