11-Day Northern Xinjiang Tour: Lakes, Deserts, Grasslands & Idyllic Villages

Day 1 Arrive Urumqi

Destination: Urumqi
Meals Included: Dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodations: 4-star Holiday Inn Express Urumqi Station or similar

Welcome to Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in northwestern China. Historically, this city was a crucial hub on the ancient Silk Road, where diverse cultures intersected. Today, it boasts significant populations of Uyghurs, Han Chinese, and various other ethnic groups. Upon arrival at the airport or train station, your friendly expert local guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 2 Urumqi – Fuyun

Destination: Urumqi, Furun
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Fuyun Vienna Hotel or similar

Start your exploration of Urumqi with a visit to the breathtaking Heavenly Lake. Nestled in the majestic Tianshan Mountains, this alpine lake is a true natural wonder. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Take a leisurely walk along the lake’s shore, breathe in the fresh mountain air, enjoy a boat ride on the lake and observe local Kazakh nomads herding their sheep. Journey through the vast Junggar Basin, one of Northwest China’s largest sedimentary basins, on a captivating 5-hour drive to Fuyun County. Enclosed by the Tarbagatai to the northwest, Altai to the northeast, and Tianshan mountain ranges to the south, this Dzungarian expanse offers a dramatic landscape, stretching from northern Xinjiang towards Kazakhstan and Mongolia.

Day 3 Fuyun – Burqin

Destination: Burqin
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Burqin Shangshi Hotelor similar

Today’s adventure takes you deep into Xinjiang’s stunning landscapes. A comfortable one-hour drive from Fuyun will transport you to the Keketuohai UNESCO Global Geopark. Admire the Altay granitic geomorphologic landscape, which is the reason why the area is referred to as China’s Yosemite. The world-renowned No. 3 granite pegmatite rare-metal ore deposit of Keketuohai are considered world class. Visit the largest mining pit in China, once a closely guarded secret and known as the ‘Jerusalem’ for geologists. Uncover the raw materials from which essential minerals are extracted. Later, settle in for a scenic 4.5-hour drive, culminating in our arrival at the picturesque Burqin County, a gateway to Kanas National Geopark.

Day 4 Burqin – Jiadengyu

Destination: Jiadengyu
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurant
Accommodations: 4-star Jiadengyu Hongfu Eco Hotel or similar

After a delightful two-hour drive, arrive at the renowned Kanas National Geopark. The very soul of this breathtaking landscape is Kanas Lake itself, a crescent of turquoise water often hailed as China’s most beautiful lake. Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise of Kanas Lake, allowing the lake’s serene beauty to envelop you. On clear days, the surrounding snow-capped peaks mirror flawlessly in the glassy surface, creating a scene of sublime tranquility. Then, hike for 1.5-hours to reach the Fish Pavilion, perched high upon the western bank, offering a panoramic masterpiece of the lake and its surrounding wilderness. Finally, immerse yourselves in the vibrant culture of the region, enjoying a captivating Mongolian Tuva Tribe music show within the charming village, a fitting end to a day of natural and cultural wonders.

Day 5 Jiadengyu – Burqin

Destination: Burqin
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurant
Accommodations: 4-star Burqin Shangshi Hotel or similar

As dawn paints the mountains, journey eastward, following a scenic route for 30 kilometers to the secluded Hemu village. This enchanting hamlet, a tapestry of Kazak and Tuva culture, is whispered to be “the most beautiful village” in China. Hemu is a dreamscape, especially in autumn, when the surrounding landscape transforms into a breathtaking fairyland of vibrant hues. Meander through this rustic village, absorbing its unique atmosphere. For those seeking a wider perspective, a gentle climb to the crest of the surrounding hills reveals a panoramic vista of the village nestled within its natural embrace. After immersing yourselves in this tranquil haven, embark on a four-hour drive to Burqin.

Day 6 Burqin – Kuitun

Destination: Kuitun
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurant
Accommodations: 4-star Kuitun Jinhui International Hotel or similar

Embark on a captivating journey to Kuitun, a drive of approximately 5.5 hours. The endless desert stretches before you, a canvas of shifting sands and dramatic vistas, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of Xinjiang. Along the way, visit the extraordinary Urho Ghost City, a landscape masterfully sculpted by wind and time. This remarkable site, a classic example of Yadan landforms, has earned its place as one of China’s most breathtaking Yadan landscapes, as celebrated by Chinese National Geography magazine. Also known as the Urho Wind City, its hills have been transformed into fantastical shapes, resembling ancient ruins and imposing castles, creating the illusion of a sprawling medieval European fortress from afar.

Day 7 Kuntui – Yining

Destination: Yining
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Yining Meijing Hotel or similar

A scenic 3.5-hour drive leads to the pristine waters of Sayram Lake, a tranquil jewel shimmering at 2,071 meters within the majestic Tianshan Mountains. Imagine the crystal-clear surface reflecting the surrounding panorama of lush alpine meadows, alive with summer wildflowers, and the imposing presence of snow-capped peaks. As Xinjiang’s largest and highest alpine lake, Sayram offers a visual symphony that shifts throughout the year: the vibrant turquoise of spring, the colorful tapestry of summer grasslands dotted with nomadic life, the warm embrace of autumn colors, and the quiet stillness of a winter ice-scape. From this captivating location, a 2-hour drive will take you to Yining.

Day 8 Yining – Nalati Grassland

Destination: Naraty Grassland
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Nalati Vansen Resort or similar

Embark on a 3-hour (252 km) drive to the renowned Nalati Grassland. Celebrated by China National Geographic as one of the most beautiful places on Earth, this area, once a challenging stretch of the ancient Silk Road, is now famed for its stunning pastoral scenery and rich Kazakh culture. Upon arrival, explore the Sky Prairie Scenic Area via sightseeing bus. Discover Tianmutai, a vast grazing area showcasing local herding traditions; Nomad’s Choice, where a memorable horseback ride across the grassland awaits; and Heavenly Terrace, offering breathtaking sunset vistas over the plains and mountains.

Day 9 Nalati – Jinghe

Destination: Yining, Jinghe
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Jinghe Hotel or similar

Experience the scenic wonders of Xinjiang on a journey that begins in the expansive green embrace of Nalati Grassland, framed by distant, snow-capped mountains. Your route then takes you through the vibrant city of Yining, a cultural hub with bustling markets that invites a delightful pause. The drive continues through tranquil landscapes, a visual symphony of meandering rivers and wildflower-strewn fields. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and listen to the gentle rustle of nature as you traverse this beautiful region. Your day culminates with arrival in Jinghe County, poised amidst stunning natural beauty. This memorable 475 km drive takes approximately seven hours.

Day 10 Jinghe – Urumqi

Destination: Urumqi
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Holiday Inn Express Urumqi Station or similar

Start the day with a 3-hour journey to the breathtaking Dushanzi Grand Canyon, a timeless testament to the earth’s raw power. Here, in the heart of Xinjiang, the Kuitun River’s patient hand has sculpted a masterpiece, revealing a vibrant tapestry of layered rock formations, a landscape of unmatched beauty. Stepping onto the suspended Glass Bridge, a thrilling vantage point high above the canyon’s depths, you are met with a mesmerizing panorama. The canyon walls, resembling colossal, frozen waves, bear witness to the relentless forces of wind and water, their artistry etched over countless millennia. Continue your journey with a 4-hour drive to Urumqi.

Day 11 Depart Urumqi

Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel

A private transfer to the airport or train station of Urumqi will be provided for your departure. If you would like to extend your stay, please let us know and we would be delighted to assist you in customizing your itinerary. Have a wonderful trip!