7-Day Xi’an & Zhangye Tour: from Terracotta Army to Rainbow Mountains & Desert Safari

Day 1 Arrive Xi’an

Welcome to Xi’an, China’s ancient capital and a vibrant modern metropolis in northwestern Shaanxi Province. As the eastern terminus of the legendary Silk Road and one of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals, Xi’an seamlessly bridges thousands of years of imperial heritage with dynamic contemporary life. Upon arrival at the airport, your friendly tour guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel.

Meals Included: Dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodation: 4-star Novotel Xi’an The Bell Tower or similar

Day 2 Xi’an | Terracotta Army, Xi’an City Highlights

Start your day with a wonder of the world – the Terracotta Army! Discovered by accident in 1974, this 2,000-year-old army of over 8,000 life-sized warriors stands guard over the tomb of Qin Shihuang, China’s first emperor. See some replicas being made nearby and learn the secrets of these ancient figures. Back to the city, stroll along the ancient City Wall of Xi’an, the oldest and best-preserved city wall in China. Walk atop the wall to enjoy panoramic views of the Xi’an skyline. Next, view the magnificent Big Wild Goose Pagoda from the outside, a 1,300-year-old architectural masterpiece. Conclude your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, a captivating recreation of ancient Xi’an, featuring bustling markets, captivating performances, and stunning Tang-style architecture.

Salat Prayer: Lintong Mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: 4-star Novotel Xi’an The Bell Tower or similar

Day 3 Xi’an | Small Wild Goose Pagoda & Xi’an City Highlights

Step back in time at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a 1,300-year-old Tang Dynasty masterpiece that exemplifies traditional Chinese brick pagoda architecture. Next, delve into Xi’an’s rich history at the Xi’an Museum, home to nearly 130,000 artifacts. Marvel at relics from ancient dynasties, including pottery, sculptures, and jade artifacts, that narrate the tale of China’s historical grandeur. Visit Bell and Drum Tower Square, where two iconic towers once signaled the time in ancient Xi’an. A short walk leads to the Great Mosque, one of China’s oldest and most famous mosques, renowned for its beautiful synthesis of Chinese and Islamic architectural styles. Next, explore the bustling Muslim Quarter, a maze of lively alleys packed with legendary street food stalls and rich local culture. 

Salat Prayer: The Great Mosque of Xi’an
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: 4-star Novotel Xi’an The Bell Tower or similar

Day 4 Xi’an – Zhangye | High-Speed Train to Zhangye

Board a bullet train to Zhangye (approx. 6.5 hours), a historic city situated along the ancient Silk Road. Historically established during the Han Dynasty (121 BCE) as a crucial garrison town in the Hexi Corridor, Zhangye served as a thriving hub for trans-Eurasian trade, cultural exchange, and diverse communities. Beyond its historic significance, the region is celebrated for its extraordinary natural scenery, dominated by the world-famous Danxia Geopark (Rainbow Mountains). Formed over millions of years through tectonic shifts and mineral deposition, the landscape features dramatic, rainbow-striped sandstone ridges, sharp rock pillars, and sweeping valleys that glow vividly in the sunlight. Together with the nearby snow-capped Qilian Mountains and lush river valleys, Zhangye offers an unforgettable mix of rich Silk Road history and unparalleled geological wonder. Upon arrival, rest at hotel for the rest of the day.

Salat Prayer: Zhangye Mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodation: Local 4-star Jinglong International Hotel or similar

Travel Tip: The train ride takes approximately 6.5 hours, and no lunch service is available on board. Please prepare your own snacks and beverages prior to boarding.

Day 5 Zhangye – Badain Jaran | Badain Jaran Desert Safari

Depart on a three-hour journey to the Badain Jaran Desert, a surreal realm whose Mongolian name translates to “mysterious lakes.” As China’s third-largest desert, it hides over 144 shimmering oases within an ocean of massive sand dunes. Upon arrival, step into an off-road 4×4 for a thrilling ride across high-dune peaks, taking in sweeping views of the vibrant lakes below. Stand in awe of Bilutu Peak — the world’s tallest stationary dune, soaring 500 meters high — and witness the desert transform at sunset under brilliant evening skies before unwinding for the night in a traditional Mongolian yurt.

Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, self-heating halal lunch & dinner packs
Accommodation: Mongolian Yurt with En-Suite & AC

As there are no halal-certified dining options within the Badain Jaran Desert, we have arranged pre-packed halal self-heating rice meals for your convenience during the desert excursion. These will be served alongside fresh fruit and mineral water.

Please Note: The 4×4 dune-riding experience in the Badain Jaran Desert involves steep climbs and sharp turns, which may induce car sickness; guests sensitive to motion are encouraged to bring car sickness medication. For your safety, please keep your seatbelt securely fastened at all times during the entire 4×4 desert safari.

Day 6 Badain Jaran – Zhangye | Rainbow Mountains

Rise early to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise illuminating the vast dunes. Discover the serenity of Badain Jaran Temple, a spiritual oasis nestled amidst the dunes, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich Mongolian heritage. Return to Zhangye and head to the spectacular Rainbow Mountains. This natural wonder, a feast for the eyes, has captivated photographers and filmmakers worldwide, including the creators of Disney’s ‘Mulan.’ It is believed that the Rainbow Mountains are one of the creations of Allah as mentioned in the holy Quran. Here is the verse of the Quran: “Do you not see that Allah sends down rain from the sky, and We produce thereby fruits of varying colors? And in the mountains are tracts, white and red of varying shades and [some] extremely black.”

Salat Prayer: Zhangye Mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Jinglong International Hotel or similar

Day 7 Depart Zhangye

A private transfer to the airport or train station 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!

Meals Included: Hotel breakfast