Beijing:Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour 7/8/9/10/13/13:30/15:30

When it comes to iconic sights in China, the Great Wall of China tops the list for most travelers. The Mutianyu section is often highlighted as the best choice for international visitors due to its well-preserved walls, fewer crowds, and stunning scenery. This review dives into a popular tour operated by BusDa that promises a relaxed, authentic, and scam-free experience, all for a very reasonable price.

What draws us to this tour is its focus on quality over quantity. It offers a solid 5 hours of exploration, which is longer than many other options, plus features like skip-the-line tickets and inside shuttle buses. Plus, it’s designed to avoid the typical tourist traps—no shopping stops or unnecessary detours. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is quite structured, meaning those who prefer a more spontaneous adventure might find it a little rigid.

This type of tour is perfect for travelers who want to truly enjoy the Great Wall without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether you’re a history buff, an avid hiker, or simply seeking breathtaking views, this itinerary offers a balanced experience. Just remember, if you’re looking for a full-day, all-included extravaganza, some add-ons like cable cars and toboggans come at extra cost.

Key Points

• Fewer crowds: Mutianyu is less congested than Badaling, allowing for a more peaceful visit.
• Generous exploration time: 5 hours of free time lets you climb, relax, or take photos at your own pace.
• No shopping or scams: The tour guarantees a straightforward sightseeing experience.
• Trusted operator: Operated by BusDa, with over 100,000 international visitors served annually.
• Flexible options: Multiple packages including transportation, tickets, meals, and private guides.
• Authentic experience: Focused solely on the Great Wall, avoiding unnecessary stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Convenient Transportation and Meeting Points

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the round-trip transfer via air-conditioned bus (if you opt for it). Travelers raved about how smooth and punctual the pickup and drop-off processes are, with reviews mentioning friendly guides like Linda and Betty who keep the process hassle-free. Meeting points vary depending on the selected package, but the focus remains on timely and comfortable transport—a huge plus after navigating Beijing’s busy streets.

The Journey to Mutianyu

The drive from Beijing to Mutianyu takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The bus is clean and comfortable, with many reviewers highlighting how easy it is to settle in. Some tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you don’t have to worry about reaching a designated spot early in the morning.

Arriving at the Great Wall

Once at Mutianyu, you’ll benefit from skip-the-ticket-line access, saving precious time. As one reviewer pointed out, “everything went smoothly and efficiently,” thanks to the well-organized entry process. Inside, a free shuttle bus helps you move around the scenic spot, making exploration effortless. You can choose to hike up the stairs, take a cable car (additional cost), or enjoy the panoramic views from the watchtowers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lengthy, Unrushed Exploration

This tour provides around 5 hours on-site, which is notably longer than many other tours offering only 2-3 hours. Reviewers shared that this gave them ample time to walk along the walls, explore different towers, and take countless photos. One guest remarked, “We had plenty of time to visit both the east and west parts of Mutianyu,” which is true for this package, allowing a more comprehensive experience.

Optional Add-Ons: Cable Car and Toboggan

For those looking to add some fun, the optional cable car and toboggan rides are available at extra cost (around 140 RMB each). Several reviews mention how these rides elevate the experience—one even described their trip as “very fun” after taking the cable car and sled down. Keep in mind, these are not included in the base price but are worth considering for the extra thrill.

Food and Meal Options

Some packages include a buffet lunch, which is appreciated by travelers who want a quick, convenient meal before heading back. The reviews indicate that the lunch is well-organized, and given the price of around $10 per person, the value for money is impressive.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Authentic and Focused Experience

Unlike some tours that combine multiple sights and shopping stops, this one is dedicated solely to the Great Wall. Several reviewers emphasized the absence of scams and detours, which can be common in other Beijing tours. “It’s just pure sightseeing,” one guest noted, and that’s exactly what makes it appealing.

Knowledgeable Guides and Friendly Service

The guides, such as Betty, Cristina, and Linda, are praised for their engagement and helpfulness. One guest mentioned, “Betty was outstanding, showing us the beauty of the Wall and taking care of everyone,” while another appreciated how Cristina explained the history and facts well. Most reviews highlight guides’ language skills and their effort to ensure travelers feel safe and informed.

Excellent Value for Money

At only $10 per person (plus optional extras), this tour offers incredible value considering the length of time on-site, the transportation, and the quality of the experience. Many guests expressed satisfaction with how much they got for the price, especially when compared with more expensive, crowded tours.

Flexibility and Customization

The variety of options—from simple transfers to private guided tours—means you can tailor your experience. If you prefer a self-guided adventure, just select the basic option, or go for private guides and meals if you want a more personalized touch.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While most feedback is positive, some travelers might find the structured nature of the tour a bit limiting. For example, if you’re someone who loves spontaneous exploration or wants to stay longer in certain spots, you might feel a little rushed. Also, the extra costs for cable cars and sled rides could add up if you opt for both, so budget accordingly.

Another thing to consider is that since the tour emphasizes no shopping stops, those hoping to buy souvenirs along the way might be disappointed. However, this is actually a benefit for many seeking a straightforward experience.

In Summary: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Mutianyu Great Wall tour is best suited for travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and efficiency. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed, well-organized, and scam-free experience that allows plenty of time at one of China’s most breathtaking sites. If you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone looking to avoid the crowds, this tour delivers on all counts.

For those on a budget, the $10 price tag is remarkable—especially given the quality of the experience and the positive reviews about guides and scenery. It’s also perfect for visitors with limited time but who still want a comprehensive and immersive day at the Great Wall.

If you prefer flexibility and personalized service, options like private guides or meals make this package adaptable. This tour offers fantastic value, reliable logistics, and the chance to truly enjoy one of the world’s most remarkable monuments.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
You’ll spend approximately 5 hours exploring the Mutianyu section, giving you plenty of time to hike, take photos, or relax without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, most options include round-trip transfer via air-conditioned bus, which is praised for being punctual and comfortable.

Can I skip the ticket lines?
Absolutely. The tour includes skip-the-line tickets, saving you time and frustration, especially during busy seasons.

Are there options for meals?
Some packages include a buffet lunch, which is convenient and adds value, especially on a long day of sightseeing.

Are there optional rides available?
Yes, cable cars and toboggans are available at extra costs (around 140 RMB each), and many guests have enjoyed these for the added fun.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, and check the weather forecast to dress appropriately.

Can I go at night or during different times of the day?
Yes, there are options for night tours and different departure times, including afternoon options.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Definitely. The flexible options and friendly guides make it suitable for various groups, and the relaxed pace is family-friendly.

What if I want a private guide or customized experience?
Multiple packages are available, including private guides and cars, making it easy to customize your day.

To sum it up, this tour offers an excellent balance of value, comfort, and focus. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the Great Wall without the chaos or hassle, and the glowing reviews about guides, views, and organization speak volumes. Whether you’re a first-timer or revisiting, it simplifies the process and guarantees a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: