5 Of The Best Tours In Chengde

Chengde may not be as famous as Beijing when it comes to China’s top tourist spots, but it offers a wealth of engaging tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re eager to walk along the historic Great Wall, explore majestic palaces, or enjoy authentic outdoor camping experiences, Chengde has a lot to offer. We’re particularly fond of the Great Wall Hiking Tour from Jiankou to Mutianyu for its mix of wild and restored sections, giving you a true sense of the Wall’s scale and history. And for those who enjoy spending a night under the stars, the Great Wall Camping Tour offers a rare chance to sleep beside the ancient stones while soaking up sunrise views.

If you’re short on time but want a quick yet enriching experience, the Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City Tour with Entry Tickets is perfect. It’s a great way to hit the highlights with a knowledgeable guide, without the crowds. Of course, Chengde also features excellent private tours, like the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour, which combine multiple sights in a single day for a more comprehensive experience. Below, we’ll go into detail on each of these options so you can decide which fits your travel plans best.

1. Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City Tour with Entry Tickets

At number 1 on our list, this 3-hour to full-day tour offers a streamlined way to see Beijing’s most iconic symbols of China’s past. It’s perfect if your time is limited but you want to get a solid overview. The tour covers Tiananmen Square, where you’ll see the Great Hall of the People and the Monument to the People’s Heroes, and then moves into the Forbidden City, the imperial palace complex with its elaborate halls and stunning courtyards. The all-inclusive price guarantees a professional English-speaking guide who can help you understand the significance of each site, making the experience much richer.

What makes this tour stand out is its efficiency. The guide’s commentary is in-depth but accessible, ensuring you learn the essentials without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for first-timers or those with a tight schedule who want to maximize their time. The tour’s value stems from its no-hidden-fees approach and the chance to skip long lines with pre-booked tickets. Bottom line: If you’re eager to see the heart of Beijing’s political and cultural history in a few hours, this tour is a solid choice.

2. Beijing: Great Wall Hiking Tour from Jiankou to Mutianyu

Number 2 offers an immersive experience for those willing to hike on China’s most scenic portions of the Great Wall. For around $254 per person, you’ll visit the Jiankou section, famous for its unrestored, wild appearance, and then hike the Mutianyu section, the longest fully-restored part open to travelers. This mix provides a contrast that’s both authentic and accessible.

The tour includes a guided hike that takes about 4 hours at Jiankou, where you’ll get close to the original, rugged Wall, followed by a 2-hour walk at Mutianyu, which is perfect for pictures and a less strenuous stroll. Your guide shares insightful stories about the Wall’s history, construction, and significance, enriching your experience. After your hikes, enjoy a local restaurant lunch to recharge. The reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the guides are, with one noting it as “very good.” The tour’s unique appeal lies in its combination of adventure and comfort, making it suitable for active travelers who want a meaningful, less touristy experience.

Bottom line: This tour offers the best of both worlds—the wild charm of Jiankou and the ease of Mutianyu—ideal for hikers and history buffs alike.

3. Great Wall Camping Tour

Ranking third, this two-day adventure is for travelers who want an overnight experience beside the Great Wall. Staying overnight at Jinshanling, a section praised by the BBC, allows you to see sunrise and sunset over the ancient stones. The tour’s highlight is camping next to the wall itself, with a chance to witness the quiet beauty of the site away from daytime crowds.

Led by knowledgeable guides like Amber, guests rave about the personalized attention and authentic experience. The tour includes walking across various parts of the Wall, enjoying local BBQ after sunset, and waking up early to catch the sunrise. The guide’s notes about waiting on the Wall until sunset and having it almost to yourself underline the experience’s intimacy and uniqueness. The tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind sleeping outdoors and want to see parts of the Wall less affected by tourism.

Bottom line: For those craving a genuine, all-encompassing night near the Wall, this tour delivers an unforgettable experience—just pack your sleeping bag.

4. Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall Private Self-guided Tour by Car

Number 4 provides a flexible, budget-friendly option for exploring the Mutianyu section at your own pace. For $92 per person, you get private transport with hotel pickup and dropoff, allowing you to skip tour groups and spend as much time as you like wandering the Wall. This self-guided experience is perfect if you prefer independence or want to tailor your visit.

The key advantage is the convenience and control, giving you the freedom to explore the Wall’s towers and walkways without a set schedule. While it lacks a guide’s commentary, the self-guided approach lets you linger at favorite spots or take photos without feeling hurried. The tour suits travelers on a tight budget or those who enjoy a more autonomous experience but still want the comfort of door-to-door service.

Bottom line: If you’re comfortable navigating on your own and want a more affordable way to visit Mutianyu, this private self-guided tour is a practical choice.

5. Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour

Finally, number 5 combines two of Beijing’s most famous sites into a full-day private tour. For $173 per person, you’ll visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the Summer Palace, both less crowded in the early morning and perfect for avoiding the crowds. The tour includes a stop at the Olympic Stadium, adding a modern touch to your sightseeing.

What makes this tour special is the combination of historic and scenic sites, with a focus on comfort and personalized service. You’ll have the chance to taste tea and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, making the day richer and more relaxing. Reviews highlight its less crowded, peaceful experience, and the early start helps beat the busiest times. It’s ideal for travelers who want an efficient, well-rounded exploration of Beijing’s highlights without rushing.

Bottom line: If you want to see multiple iconic sites in one day with personalized attention, this private tour offers great value and flexibility.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Chengde

Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. For those wanting a quick overview of Beijing’s political symbols, the Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City Tour is perfect. Adventure seekers and hikers with a sense of exploration should consider the Great Wall Hiking Tour from Jiankou to Mutianyu, while those looking for a unique overnight experience will love the Great Wall Camping Tour.

If you prefer independence, the Mutianyu Great Wall Self-guided Tour offers flexibility, whereas travelers wanting a comprehensive day out combining history, culture, and scenic views might opt for the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour.

Keep in mind your fitness level—hiking tours require a good walk, while private tours allow more leisurely pacing. Booking early, especially for popular spots like the Great Wall and Summer Palace, helps secure spots and avoid last-minute disappointment.

Final Thoughts

Chengde and Beijing truly offer a diverse range of tours—from quick city highlights to rugged outdoor adventures and luxurious private trips. For travelers seeking an active day, the Jiankou to Mutianyu hike is a standout for its authentic experience. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with culture, the Mutianyu and Summer Palace private tour hits the mark. And if you’re pressed for time or on a budget, the Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City tour will give you the essential sights efficiently.

Whatever your interests or schedule, booking early is wise—these tours fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour in Chengde that turns your visit into an unforgettable adventure.