Beijing: Great Wall and Ming Tomb All-inclusive Private Tour

Traveling to Beijing gives you the chance to step into China’s imperial past, but navigating its vast sites can be overwhelming. That’s where a well-organized, private tour like this one from Beijingtourcompany shines. It offers a tailored, hassle-free day exploring the iconic Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, the famous Ming Tombs, and the Sacred Way—all with expert guides and comfortable transport.

We love the way this tour balances popular sights with intimate, crowd-free visits. The guides are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making history come alive. The early start helps avoid the crowds, and the flexible options let you choose between tombs, depending on your interests. However, the long drive (about 1.5-2 hours each way) might be tiring for some travelers, especially on hot days. This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided day without the stress of planning logistics themselves.

If you’re after a deep dive into Beijing’s imperial landmarks with personalized service, this could be your ideal choice. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting to skip long lines, enjoy expert commentary, and maximize their sightseeing in a single day.

Key Points

• All-inclusive private experience offers comfort and flexibility.
• Early morning start helps beat crowds and queues at major sites.
• Expert guides enhance understanding with engaging stories and tips.
• Visit only one of the two tombs due to time constraints, but with flexible options.
• Highlights include the Mutianyu Great Wall, Ming Tombs, and Sacred Way.
• Comfortable transportation with optional hotel pickup or meeting points.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This private tour provides a practical, well-curated way to explore Beijing’s highlights without the chaos of self-guided navigation. Covering the impressive Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, the Tombs of the Ming Dynasty, and the Sacred Way, it combines culture, history, and stunning scenery into a single, smooth day.

What makes this experience stand out is the professional guidance from knowledgeable hosts who bring these sites to life with stories and insights you simply wouldn’t get from a guidebook. Plus, the early start means you can enjoy these iconic sights with fewer travelers around, making for better photos and a more relaxed mood.

While the itinerary is packed, you’re not rushing through—there’s time for walking, photo stops, and a decent lunch. The optional Sacred Way visit adds a special touch, allowing you to admire the finely carved marble statues and guardians without feeling overwhelmed. On the downside, the drive between sites is quite long, so travelers who dislike long bus rides might want to prepare accordingly.

This tour suits those who want an authentic, guided experience packed with highlights, especially if they prefer skipping queues and enjoy lively, storytelling guides. It’s a good fit for travelers who value comfort, expert input, and efficient use of time.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Morning Departure and the Great Wall at Mutianyu

The day kicks off early (around 7-8 am), with hotel pickup or a convenient meeting point. From Beijing’s city center, expect about 1.5 to 2 hours of comfortable driving to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, located roughly 76 km away. This part of the Wall is celebrated for its less crowded, well-preserved condition, and scenic surroundings.

Once you arrive, you’ll take a brief shuttle bus ride from the visitor center to the foot of the Wall, followed by a chairlift to the top near the No. 6 watchtower. This means no long hikes up the mountain—just fantastic views and a manageable climb. The 1.5-2 hours of hiking gives you plenty of time to explore, take photos, and admire the sweeping vistas. Reviewers repeatedly mention their guides’ knack for finding the best viewpoints and helping them navigate the stairs.

Lunch Break

After your Wall adventure, the tour includes a stop at a local restaurant near the site. The meals are typically traditional Chinese fare, praised for their flavor and freshness. Guests report that the lunch is satisfying and offers a nice break before heading to the next sites.

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Afternoon Visits: Ming Tombs and Sacred Way

Next, the journey continues with a drive of about an hour to the 13 Ming Dynasty Tombs. The tour allows you to visit one tomb—either Changling or Dingling—depending on your choice.

• Changling is known for its exhibition of treasures dug from the Ding Tomb, making it the more museum-like option with displays of artifacts.
• Dingling is famous for its underground palace, the only tomb excavated to reveal its layout, providing a fascinating glimpse into imperial burial practices.

If you opt to include the Sacred Way, you’ll visit this revered path lined with large marble statues of holy animals and guardians. These sculptures served to protect the tombs and are an impressive sight, especially the white marble carvings praised by travelers for their grandeur and detail.

End of the Day and Return to Beijing

After exploring the tomb and optional Sacred Way, the group will head back to Beijing, with the return trip lasting approximately 1.5-2 hours. Most travelers return to their hotels feeling satisfied but not exhausted, having seen a good mix of must-see sites in a manageable timeframe.

Comfort, Guides, and Flexibility

The tour is praised for its professional transportation, with drivers ensuring smooth and safe rides. Guides are well-versed and engaging, often going beyond the basics to share stories that make history accessible and interesting. Some reviewers mention guides like Alice, Joe Lin, Suzann, and Linda, who go the extra mile—helping with photos, navigating apps, and customizing the experience.

The private or small-group format offers flexibility—whether you prefer a private car or a small group setting—making the day feel more personalized. Pickup options are available, with guides happy to meet guests at convenient subway stations if their hotel is outside the main area.

Value for Money

At $159 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusion of transport, entry tickets, and guided commentary. Guests frequently mention the convenience of having all logistics arranged beforehand, avoiding long lines, and the benefit of insider tips from guides.

The fact that the tour is all-inclusive means fewer surprises, and many reviewers comment on how well-organized the day is, with a good balance of activity, rest, and commentary. The early start and the well-chosen sites ensure travelers get a meaningful glimpse of Beijing’s imperial past without feeling rushed.

Reviews and Real Experiences

From detailed accounts, it’s clear that guides like Suzann, Jack, and Linda are appreciated not just for their knowledge but also for their warmth and flexibility. For instance, one traveler from France noted Suzann’s interesting explanations and tasty lunch, while a UK guest praised the seamless experience and the guide’s knowledge. Multiple reviewers mention the comfortable vehicles and timely pickups, which enhance the overall experience.

Travelers also highlighted that visiting the Great Wall early in the day helped avoid the crowds, making it easier to enjoy the scenery and take photos. The optional Sacred Way was a highlight for many, with its towering marble guardian statues providing fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of the grandeur of ancient Chinese burial sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing with minimal hassle. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer guided visits with knowledgeable hosts, and who want to avoid long lines and navigation challenges. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a balanced mix of active exploration and cultural storytelling.

It works well for first-time visitors wanting to see the best of Beijing’s imperial sites efficiently, or for those with limited time but a desire to see a lot in one day. The private option makes it an attractive choice for couples, families, or small groups seeking a more tailored experience.

The Sum Up

This Beijing tour offers a smart, well-organized way to explore some of the city’s most iconic sites in one day. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and flexible options, it provides great value for travelers who want an authentic, insightful experience without the stress of planning every detail.

If you’re after stunning views at the Great Wall, a close-up look at Ming Tombs, and the chance to stroll the sacred marble path, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling, comfort, and efficiency on their sightseeing adventures.

While the long drives might not suit those seeking a more leisurely pace, most travelers find that the expert guidance and carefully curated stops make up for it. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of a single day in Beijing, especially if you’re eager to see the highlights with a knowledgeable host by your side.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pickups are available around 7:00, 7:30, or 8:00 am, with earlier times helping to beat crowds at the Great Wall.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the manageable pace and family-friendly sites suggest it can be enjoyed by children, especially with attentive guides.

Can I choose which tomb to visit?
The tour visits only one tomb—either Changling or Dingling—due to time constraints, but you can select your preferred option.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a local restaurant stop, where guests praise the tasty, traditional Chinese meal.

What if I want to skip the Sacred Way?
The Sacred Way is offered as an optional visit; you can choose whether to include it based on your interest and time.

How long is the drive from Beijing city center?
About 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on traffic.

What’s the guide’s role during the tour?
Guides provide engaging explanations, help with photos, and assist in navigating the sites and logistics.

Is it a private tour?
Yes, options for private or small groups are available, offering personalized attention.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour provides an excellent blend of history, scenery, and comfort, perfect for travelers eager to explore Beijing’s imperial treasures with ease and insight.

You can check availability for your dates here: