5 Days Private Tour from waterfall to mount Fanjing from Guiyang

Travelers looking to explore China beyond its bustling cities will find this 5-day private tour from Guiyang to be a refreshing dive into Guizhou’s less-trodden paths. From breathtaking waterfalls to traditional ethnic villages and the striking peaks of Mount Fanjing, this itinerary promises a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty with cultural richness.

What we really love about this tour are three aspects: the chance to see stunning karst landscapes, the opportunity to connect with authentic Miao culture, and the flexibility of a private guided experience. However, one thing to consider is the long travel time between some sites—sometimes up to 6 hours—which might be tiring for those seeking a more relaxed pace.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and culture. If you’re eager to explore Guizhou’s offbeat spots with expert guidance and comfort, this itinerary offers excellent value and a genuine taste of local life.

This experience made our article of 15 Top Tours & Experiences In Guiyang (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visiting the largest Miao village offers a deep dive into ethnic traditions.
• Breathtaking Landscapes: From waterfalls to mountain summits, nature lovers will find plenty to marvel at.
• Private Guided Comfort: Personal guides and transportation ensure a smooth, tailored experience.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mix of scenic, cultural, and leisurely activities keeps the trip engaging.
• Value for Money: All tickets, shuttles, accommodations, and some meals included justify the price.
• Ideal for Explorers: Best suited for those interested in natural beauty and ethnic minority culture.

A Closer Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome

Your journey begins at Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport, where a driver from Guizhou Shanshui Travel Agency will pick you up. This first leg sets a friendly tone, easing you into Guizhou’s vibe and giving you a taste of local hospitality. With about six hours of travel planned for the day, you’ll arrive at your hotel ready for the adventures ahead. Expect comfortable accommodations and a bit of rest before hitting the road.

Day 2: Waterfalls and Miao Culture

The highlight of the day is the visit to Xiaoqikong (Seven Small Arches Scenic Area). This area in a narrow, lush valley packs a punch with its diversity of caves, lakes, waterfalls, and verdant forests. The reviewer describes it as a place where “water in the forest and forest in the water” creates a surreal landscape—perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike. Expect about three and a half hours of driving to reach this spot, with the rest of the day spent exploring and soaking in the scenery.

Post-lunch, you’ll head to Xijiang Miao Village, the largest Miao settlement in China, affectionately called the “Thousand Household Miao Village.” This is where you’ll see traditional architecture, vibrant markets, and witness Miao dancing performances at night. One visitor noted, “You get a detailed and patient introduction about each scene,” which hints at the meticulous guidance you can expect. Spending a night here immerses you in authentic local life—an experience that lingers long after.

Day 3: Ancient Towns and Historic Charm

The morning starts with a walk through Zhenyuan Old Town, a quiet town with riverside charm, old residential buildings, and charming alleys. You’ll experience the tranquil pace of traditional life and enjoy the scenic “crooked ways” that tell stories of centuries past. After a relaxed lunch, the tour continues to Zhenyuan Ancient Town, an important hub connecting the south and southwest via waterways. The town has a Venice-like feel, with docks, walls, and peaceful waterways. Visitors mention the “tranquility of the old city,” emphasizing its peaceful, almost nostalgic ambiance.

Day 4: The Majestic Mount Fanjing

The star of the day is Mount Fanjing, a UNESCO geopark with iconic rock formations and lush forests. The two-and-a-half-hour drive from Guiyang brings you to the mountain’s east gate, where the real adventure begins. Climbing Fanjing offers breathtaking vistas, plus the chance to see cliff carvings, the Linggong Terrace, Cihang Bridge, and Guanyin Grottoes. The review highlights the mountain’s fresh air and scenic beauty, describing it as “a huge natural oxygen bar”—perfect for those craving some outdoor tranquility.

Expect a full day of walking and exploring, with opportunities to cross bridges, admire stone carvings, and reach the Golden Summit. The return trip takes about three hours, giving you time to reflect on the incredible views and experiences.

Day 5: Farewell in Guiyang

Your tour concludes back in Guiyang, where you’ll be dropped off at the airport for your onward journey. This gives travelers a chance to rest and pack after days filled with exploration, with the option to reflect on the stunning landscapes and cultural encounters.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour combines scenic beauty with culture, ensuring that you see Guizhou’s landscapes and meet its people. The inclusion of all tickets and shuttle buses means less hassle, and the private guide ensures your experience is tailored and flexible.

Transport is comfortable, with private cars and drivers taking you between places—crucial for covering long distances efficiently. The tours are well-paced, with most days around 12 hours of activity, balancing sightseeing with enough downtime.

The tour’s price of $1,889 per person might seem high at first glance, but it includes hotels, breakfasts, dinners, all tickets, and transport, making it good value for a comprehensive experience. It also offers group discounts—a bonus if traveling with friends or family.

From the reviews, we note that visitors appreciated the well-organized itinerary and detailed explanations from guides, which made complex sites accessible and enjoyable. The scenery, described as “beautiful and spectacular,” is clearly a standout, and many commented on the large, scenic spots that leave a lasting impression.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Nature lovers will relish the chance to explore waterfalls, mountains, and lush forests. Cultural explorers will value the visits to Xijiang Miao Village and Zhenyuan Old Town, gaining insight into ethnic traditions.

Travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience will find the private guide and all-inclusive tickets a big plus, making this a stress-free way to see Guizhou’s highlights. And those seeking a more offbeat, authentic experience will find the itinerary’s focus on less-commercialized sites refreshing.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour provides an excellent balance of natural beauty, cultural depth, and comfortable guided travel. The stunning landscapes of waterfalls and mountains are complemented by meaningful interactions with local minorities and historical sites. For travelers eager to explore Guizhou’s lesser-known sites at a relaxed pace, this experience offers genuine value and memorable moments.

While the long travel times may challenge those seeking a more leisurely trip, the rich sights and authentic encounters make it worthwhile. It’s best suited for explorers hungry for scenic vistas, ethnic culture, and the tranquility of nature—all wrapped in a hassle-free package.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The tour covers all tickets, shuttle buses, private guide, private car, driver, hotels with breakfasts and dinners, and some local meals—making it a hassle-free experience.

How long is the travel time between sites?
Travel can take up to 6 hours on some days, like the drive to Xiaoqikong or Mount Fanjing, so be prepared for some long scenic drives.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexible scheduling.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and dinners are included in the hotel accommodations, along with some lunches, making it easier to plan your budget.

What level of physical activity is involved?
Expect some walking and climbing, especially at Mount Fanjing, but the tour is designed to balance activity with rest.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find some mountain or town explorations challenging.

This carefully curated tour offers a genuine taste of Guizhou’s landscapes and living traditions—ideal for curious travelers ready for an immersive experience beyond China’s urban centers.