2-Day Private Guilin Highlight Tour including Li River and Longji Rice Terraces

Discover the beauty of Guilin in just two days with this private tour that combines stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and authentic local experiences. Designed for first-time visitors and those who prefer a personalized touch, this itinerary offers a seamless way to see the best of Guilin without the hassle of planning.

What we love about this tour is the flexibility of private transportation and guide, ensuring you avoid crowds and get insider tips. The stops at the Li River, Longji Rice Terraces, and Yangshuo’s West Street are highlights that promise picture-perfect moments. Plus, the inclusive meals and entrance fees make it a great value. The one possible consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and some moderate hiking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Guilin’s most iconic sights, especially those who appreciate personalized attention and authentic local flavor. If you’re interested in scenic landscapes, culture, and hassle-free logistics, this is a tour to consider.

Key Points

• Private, Guided Experience: Enjoy personalized attention from fluent English-speaking guides and a dedicated driver.
• Stunning Scenery: Witness iconic sights like the Li River, Longji Rice Terraces, and Xianggong Mountain.
• Included Meals and Entrance Fees: No hidden costs—delicious local lunches and all entry tickets are covered.
• Flexible and Comfortable: Door-to-door pickup from Guilin hotels and moderate physical activity suited for most travelers.
• Authentic Local Flavor: Experience traditional Ping’an village and Yangshuo’s vibrant West Street.
• Value for Money: At $488 per person, it offers a well-rounded, in-depth exploration in just 2 days.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Guilin to Longji Rice Terraces and Ping’an Village

Your adventure begins with a 9:00 am pickup from your Guilin hotel, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The drive to Longji Mountain spans about 2.5 hours, during which your guide will likely share interesting facts about the region’s history and culture. The landscape from the car window hints at the incredible views to come.

Longji Mountain and the Dragon’s Back Rice Terraces are the first stops. These terraces are what make Guilin famous—spiraling ribbons carved into the hillside that seem to stretch endlessly. You’ll have the option to drive to a viewpoint and hike down approximately 1.5 hours, which most travelers find manageable and rewarding. The terraces are often compared to a giant art piece with features like the “stars & moon” and “dragons & tigers,” which are fun to explore.

One reviewer mentioned that visiting the rice terraces in peak season can be crowded, but the guide knew back routes to avoid the crowds—a huge plus for those wanting quieter moments. The terraces’ undulating contours and intricate patterns are breathtaking, especially when the sunlight hits them just right.

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a lunch at Ping’an Village around 2:00 pm. This village is a picture of rustic charm, with traditional bamboo and wooden houses, donkeys, and roosters wandering freely. This stop is a great chance to soak in local life and perhaps snap some memorable photos.

The tour wraps up around 5 pm with your return to Guilin, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. Some travelers have commented on how smoothly the day runs, thanks to the well-planned timing and knowledgeable guide.

Day 2: Li River, Yangshuo, and Xianggong Mountain

Day two starts early, with a 7:30 am meet-up and transfer to the famous Li River. The four-hour cruise offers some of the most iconic scenery in China—karst peaks, misty mornings, and tranquil waters. To make the most of it, a hearty breakfast beforehand is recommended, as the cruise itself doesn’t serve substantial food, and the tour suggests enjoying a light lunch afterward in Yangshuo Town.

Yangshuo is often described as the heart of Guilin’s scenic beauty. Post-cruise, you’ll stop at Xianggong Mountain for a 20-minute hike that rewards you with sweeping views of the Li River winding through the lush landscape. The ascent is modest but steep enough to make the vista worthwhile, with a highlight being the vertical climb of about 60 meters (196 feet).

Following this, you’ll have time to explore West Street, a lively hub filled with shops, cafes, and bars selling local crafts, silk, and souvenirs. It’s an excellent spot for some light shopping or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The tour includes a Yangshuo-style lunch, giving you a chance to taste regional flavors in a relaxed setting.

In the late afternoon, your guide will arrange a comfortable transfer back to Guilin, ending the tour with plenty of time to relax or explore further on your own.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to booking separate tickets and arranging transportation independently, this all-in-one package saves both time and money. The entrance fees, lunch, and private guide** are bundled into a single price of $488, making it easier to budget your trip. The inclusion of a private driver means no waiting around for buses or shared tours, and you’ll have the flexibility to customize your experience slightly if needed.

The guides, like Tony, are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness. One reviewer mentioned that the guide provided excellent advice on local restaurants and organized everything seamlessly, allowing for a stress-free trip. Their insights into the best times and routes to avoid crowds add a layer of authenticity that large group tours often lack.

Practical Considerations

The tour involves moderate physical activity, including hiking and walking, so comfortable shoes are essential. While most travelers will find this manageable, those with mobility issues might want to consider this. The schedule is fairly full, but the pacing allows for plenty of photo stops and breaks.

The Value of Authentic Experiences

Many reviewers appreciated how the guides added “little extra places” or back routes, elevating the experience beyond the typical tourist picture. It’s evident that a good guide makes a difference when you’re navigating popular spots like the rice terraces or Xianggong Mountain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want an all-inclusive, hassle-free experience. If you’re looking for personalized attention, authentic local food, and scenic highlights, it ticks all those boxes. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate a good mix of culture and natural beauty.

Travelers with a moderate physical fitness level will find the hiking manageable, but comfort in walking shoes is key. The tour’s flexibility and private guide make it ideal for those who prefer a more tailored, relaxed pace over large-group excursions.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private Guilin highlight tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort. With expert guides, inclusive meals, and private transportation, it minimizes hassle while maximizing the immersion into Guilin’s stunning landscapes.

Whether you’re captivated by the Li River’s tranquil waters, fascinated by the intricate Longji Rice Terraces, or eager to explore Yangshuo’s lively streets, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s especially suited to travelers who value personalized service and authentic experiences, making it a worthwhile addition to any Guilin itinerary.

If your goal is to see the most iconic sights with zero stress, this tour delivers a well-rounded, memorable adventure that balances scenery, culture, and comfort—all at a reasonable price point.

FAQ

What time does the tour start each day?
The tour begins at 9:00 am on day one, with the second day starting at 7:30 am from your hotel.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private pickup and drop-off from your Guilin hotel are included, along with a private driver for the entire tour.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the attractions on the itinerary are covered in the tour price.

Does the tour include meals?
Yes, two lunches are included—one in Ping’an Village and one in Yangshuo—and the tour provides a light lunch during the Li River cruise.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The physical activity involved is moderate, so consider the child’s comfort with walking and hiking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since some walking and hiking are involved. Weather-appropriate clothing is advised, especially if you plan to hike Xianggong Mountain.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so your guide can accommodate slight adjustments based on your interests and pace.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour provider offers a full refund or alternative date if canceled due to poor weather conditions.

How long is the Li River cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately four hours, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Moderate physical activity is involved, including walking and hiking, so some mobility considerations are necessary.

In summary, this Guilin private tour combines the region’s most stunning landscapes with thoughtful logistics and local insights. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, comfortable, and memorable experience.