2 Day Guilin Highlights Li River Cruise and Longji Terraces Tour

Experience the Beauty of Guilin in Two Days

Looking for a way to see the highlights of Guilin without the hassle? This private 2-day tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, culture, and comfort. We’ve reviewed it thoroughly, and here’s why it might be just what you need for a memorable trip.

What we love about this tour is how flexible and personalized it feels — thanks to private transport, a knowledgeable guide, and the freedom to set your own pace. The options to explore the iconic Longji Rice Terraces and enjoy a relaxing Li River cruise are definite highlights. Plus, the reviews reveal top-notch guide service and stunning views that stay with you long after your trip.

The only thing to keep in mind is that entry fees for the Rice Terraces aren’t included in the base price, which adds a small extra step. If you’re after a seamless, customizable experience that offers a real taste of Guilin’s natural and cultural treasures, this tour is suited for you — especially if you prefer traveling at your own pace with expert guidance.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Private, flexible schedule tailored to your preferences.
• Expert guides who know Guilin’s hidden gems and are highly praised.
• Stunning scenic highlights like Longji Rice Terraces and Li River views.
• Cost-effective for what’s included, with the freedom to choose your own accommodation.
• Includes transportation in a private vehicle for comfort and convenience.
• Wide appeal suitable for most travelers, including families with children.

Discover Guilin’s Natural Wonders in Style

This two-day private tour strikes a great balance between scenic exploration and cultural insight, all while offering the comfort of private transportation and a personalized schedule. It’s perfect if you value flexibility but still want a rundown of Guilin’s most famous sights.

Why Choose a Private Tour?

Traveling with a private guide means you decide the pace — linger longer at the best spots and skip anything that doesn’t catch your interest. The private vehicle makes transportation seamless, so you won’t have to worry about navigating public transport or bus schedules in a foreign country. Plus, the driver/guide is fluent in English, ensuring smooth communication and insightful commentary.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: The Longji Rice Terraces

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Guilin at 9:00 am or your preferred time. The drive to the Longji Rice Terraces takes around two hours, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the scenery along the way.

When you arrive, you’ll purchase entry tickets (not included in the base price, roughly 80 Yuan per person). The Longji Pingan Rice Terraces are the star attraction — the terraced fields are carved into mountainsides, creating a mesmerizing landscape that looks like nature’s own embroidery. Despite being a popular site, many reviewers describe the views as “nothing else on Earth,” and it’s easy to see why.

One traveler, Sebastian, noted that their guide “showed us the Guilin area (Longji rice terraces, tea factory and Li River cruise),” emphasizing how knowledgeable and caring their guide was. The guide’s attentiveness, and their ability to tell stories about the local minority cultures, enhances the experience beyond just sightseeing.

After about three hours exploring, you’ll be transferred back to Guilin, arriving around 6 pm. This flexible schedule allows time for photos, casual wandering, or just relaxing after a day of scenic discovery.

Day 2: The Li River Experience and Yangshuo Charm

Day two starts with a hotel pickup at 8:00 am, followed by a scenic transfer to the river dock. Setting out on a 4-hour Li River cruise, you’ll glide through some of China’s most iconic karst mountain formations. The views are often described as “like nothing else on Earth,” with towering limestone peaks rising from the water in a display of natural artistry.

Many reviews mention the tranquility of the river and the impressive scenery that unfolds during the cruise. You can expect peaceful moments, perfect for photos or simply soaking in the landscape.

After disembarkation, you have about an hour to explore West Street in Yangshuo — the town’s oldest thoroughfare, known for its mix of history, local crafts, and cafés. Reviewers like rion_c appreciated the chance to wander freely, even in rainy weather, describing the views as “still an amazing experience” despite the weather conditions.

You’ll then be driven back to Guilin, with the option to be dropped off at your hotel or in Yangshuo itself, providing flexibility based on your plans.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value, especially considering all the logistics are handled for you. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, and an English-speaking driver/guide, which makes your experience smooth and stress-free.

Extras, like entry fees for the Longji Rice Terraces (around 80 Yuan per person) and optional boat upgrades, are paid separately. Meals are not included—so you can explore local restaurants and enjoy Guilin’s culinary scene at your own pace.

Why Travelers Rate This Tour a Perfect 5

Many reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness — like Leo, who “made all the difference” with his thoughtful service and fruit offerings. Others praise the stunning scenery that exceeded expectations, describing the views as “like nothing else on Earth,” even in rainy weather.

Some travelers, including Sebastian, appreciated guides who showed them not just the sights, but also shared stories about the local cultures, making the experience more meaningful. The flexibility to customize timing and the absence of large-group crowds also appeal to those seeking a more intimate encounter with Guilin’s landscapes.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Bring your own snacks or water: While a lunch box upgrade is available for the boat, you might want to carry your own refreshments, especially if you have dietary preferences.
• Weather considerations: Guilin’s weather can be unpredictable. Rain gear or an umbrella might come in handy, especially for the Longji Rice Terraces and outdoor sightseeing.
• Entry fees: Budget around 80 Yuan per person for the rice terraces. If you want to upgrade your boat, expect to pay extra.
• Pace yourself: The schedule is flexible, so take your time at each stop to truly soak in the views and culture.
• Photography: Both days offer postcard-worthy vistas — so bring your camera or smartphone with plenty of space.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Guilin Highlights tour offers a fantastic balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and personalized service. The private setup means you can explore at your own pace and dive deeper into what interests you most. The guides are clearly well-trained and passionate, adding a layer of richness often missing from larger group tours.

For travelers who want a thoughtfully arranged experience that combines natural wonders with authentic local culture, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited to those who value comfort and flexibility but still wish to see the best of Guilin without rushing.

Whether it’s your first time in China or a repeat visit, this tour provides a well-rounded, memorable glimpse into some of the country’s most iconic landscapes and traditions.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Guilin or other designated locations.

Are meal options included? No, meals are not included, giving you the freedom to explore local restaurants on your own.

Can I customize the schedule? The tour is private, so you can set the timing to suit your preferences, within the general itinerary.

What is the cost of entry for the Longji Rice Terraces? Entry tickets cost about 80 Yuan per person, payable on-site.

What type of transportation is used? A private vehicle with an English-speaking driver guide is provided for both days.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate gear, snacks, and a camera are recommended to maximize your experience.

To sum it up, this tour offers excellent value, especially for those who appreciate scenic beauty combined with cultural authenticity. The flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and stunning vistas make it a top choice for travelers eager to see the very best of Guilin comfortably and authentically.