Lantau Island: Priority Cable Car, Tai O & Direct Transfer

Exploring Lantau Island: A Practical Guide to the Priority Cable Car, Tai O & More

When it comes to visiting Hong Kong, many travelers are eager to escape the city’s hustle and discover the serene beauty of nearby Lantau Island. This tour, offered by GL Tours of Hong Kong Limited, promises a day packed with iconic sights like the Big Buddha, traditional fishing villages, and breathtaking cable car rides. While it’s not without its quirks, it offers a solid way to experience some of Lantau’s most famous landmarks in a single day.

What we love about this experience is the priority boarding for the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, which can be a real timesaver during busy periods. The chance to walk through the charming Tai O Fishing Village and see its stilt houses is a highlight, providing a glimpse of traditional life. Plus, the inclusion of a vegetarian meal at Po Lin Monastery adds a peaceful, cultural touch.

However, a key consideration is that priority cable car access doesn’t always guarantee skipping long queues, as some reviews have pointed out. The bus transfers and guided tour structure are convenient, but may not satisfy travelers looking for a more flexible or personalized experience. This tour suits those who appreciate guided visits, scenic views, and cultural sites but are okay with some standardization.

If you’re after a manageable, well-organized day exploring Lantau’s top spots with a focus on comfort and iconic sights, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep in mind the possible wait times and expectations around food and guide commentary.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with deluxe coach transfers from Hong Kong’s city center.
• Priority cable car tickets aim to reduce wait times, but may not guarantee no queues.
• Cultural immersion with visits to the Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and Tai O Fishing Village.
• Scenic views from the cable car offer stunning sights of mountains, sea, and urban landmarks.
• Flexible return, with a cable car ticket included for your own schedule.
• Limited inclusions, with boat rides and some meals not covered, so consider extra expenses.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to be a seamless way to see Lantau Island’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Starting in downtown Hong Kong, you’ll board a deluxe coach, which is generally comfortable and air-conditioned, making the journey to Lantau relaxed and efficient. The drive takes you away from Hong Kong’s busy streets into the calming landscape of the island, setting a peaceful tone for the day.

The Cable Car Experience

One of the main attractions is the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, which provides sweeping views over lush hills, the South China Sea, and the iconic Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. The tour includes priority boarding, meaning you’ll skip some lines—an advantage during peak times. However, as a reviewer pointed out, priority doesn’t always mean immediate access, and queues might still occur.

Expect to spend around 20-30 minutes in the cable car, which is enough time to take in the scenery, snap photos, and marvel at the sweeping vistas. The ride itself feels like a highlight, with panoramic windows offering unobstructed views.

Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery

Next, the tour guides you to the Tian Tan Buddha, a massive statue that’s one of Hong Kong’s most recognizable symbols. The setting is tranquil, and the site offers opportunities for photos and brief exploration. Nearby, the Po Lin Monastery provides a peaceful walk and a chance to appreciate the spiritual atmosphere. The vegetarian lunch at the monastery is included in some options, offering a simple, healthy meal that some travelers find a calming break from sightseeing.

Tai O Fishing Village

The real charm of the tour lies in the visit to Tai O Fishing Village. Famous for its stilt houses and waterways, it offers a step back in time and a look at traditional fishing life. Tourists can explore on foot, walk the canals, or take an optional boat ride (not included in the package) to spot pink dolphins—an elusive highlight some reviews mention with optimism.

One reviewer, Natalia, was disappointed by the lack of a boat ride or more in-depth experience here, describing the lunch as being served in poor conditions. Others appreciated the authentic vibe, especially those who enjoy seeing everyday life in unconventional settings.

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Reflection and Return

The tour concludes with a return cable car ride, giving another chance to enjoy the scenic views as you descend back toward Tung Chung. The flexibility to use the included cable car ticket for your own schedule can be convenient but might also mean waiting for your preferred return time.

Analyzing the Value

At $74 per person, this tour offers a decent mix of transportation, key sites, and guided support. The inclusive elements like the cable car tickets and vegetarian snack contribute to the perceived value, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with public transport options.

However, the reviews highlight some caveats. The promised priority cable car access isn’t always smooth, and queues can still form—especially during busy periods. The bus transfer is straightforward but may feel somewhat rushed or generic, with one reviewer noting the bus felt more “far from luxurious.”

Most importantly, the tour’s value depends on your expectations. If you’re looking for a guided, hassle-free day with iconic sights, this will suit you well. If your priority is a more personalized experience or deeper culture, you might want to look for alternative options.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes: There will be some walking at Tai O and Ngong Ping Village.
• Bring a camera and sunscreen: The views are photogenic, and the sun can be strong.
• Arrive early: The meeting point is at the Kowloon Hotel, and punctuality helps keep to schedule.
• Consider extra expenses: Boat rides or souvenirs are not included, so budget accordingly if interested.
• Check the weather: Cloudy days might limit views from the cable car.
• Prepare for queues: While priority boarding is included, be flexible with wait times.
• Bring water: Staying hydrated is key, especially on warm days.
• No wheelchair access: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
• Cancellation policy: Bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for first-time visitors to Hong Kong who want a guided experience to see Lantau’s highlights without fussing over logistics. The scenic cable car rides and visits to the Big Buddha and Tai O Fishing Village make it an accessible way to get a snapshot of the island’s most famous attractions.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided commentary and enjoys a comfortable, organized schedule, you’ll find this tour offers good value. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a day of scenic views and cultural sights without the worry of navigating public transport or finding their way around.

That said, if you’re on a tight budget and looking for a more flexible or personalized experience, you might prefer to plan some parts independently or seek tours with smaller groups and more tailored itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include a boat ride in Tai O Village?
No, the boat ride in Tai O is not included. The tour covers the main sights, but some travelers opt for additional activities like boat trips, which are extra.

Is the cable car priority boarding guaranteed?
Priority boarding is included, but reviews indicate it doesn’t always guarantee skipping long queues, especially during peak times.

How long is the total tour?
While the duration isn’t explicitly specified, it’s a day trip that typically starts in the morning and ends in the late afternoon, including travel, sightseeing, and meals.

Are meals included?
A vegetarian snack at Po Lin Monastery is included in some options, but other meals, like the boat ride or additional food, aren’t covered.

Can I customize the return time from Ngong Ping?
Yes, you can use the included cable car ticket to return at your preferred time, giving you flexibility for your day.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
While it’s generally manageable for most, the walking involved and lack of wheelchair access might make it less suitable for some elderly travelers or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended, as there will be some walking and exposure to the sun.

What language is available for the tour?
The tour is offered in both Chinese and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this Lantau Island tour is a practical way to tick off the main sights with minimal hassle. It provides visually stunning views, authentic experiences, and the safety of guided support—all at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for visitors who want an efficient, comfortable day exploring Hong Kong’s neighboring island and are comfortable with some standard tour logistics. If you’re seeking an easy, scenic, and culturally rich day out, this experience offers good value with room for a few surprises along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: