All Inclusive Private Day Trip to Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town

A Closer Look at the All-Inclusive Private Day Trip to Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town

Travelers eager to experience a more authentic side of China’s historic sights might find this private day trip from Beijing to the Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town a compelling option. Although I haven’t taken this tour myself, the detailed reviews and descriptions suggest it’s an excellent way to see these iconic locations without the stress of navigating public transport or crowded group tours.

What we love about this experience is the door-to-door convenience, the flexibility of a private guide, and the stunning scenery offered at both stops. It’s a well-rounded way to combine cultural exploration with scenic beauty, all wrapped up in a hassle-free package. One possible consideration is the price point—while $251 per person might seem high at first glance, the inclusions and personalized experience offer real value, especially for those who prefer comfort and tailored experiences. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, private day trip with plenty of photo opportunities, good food, and expert guidance.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transport, tickets, guide, and lunch are included, making for a stress-free day.
• Private Experience: A dedicated guide and driver ensure flexibility and personalized attention.
• Scenic Highlights: Hike the famous Simatai section of the Great Wall and enjoy the charming Gubei Water Town.
• Authentic Food: An included restaurant lunch offers a taste of local Chinese cuisine.
• Flexibility: You can choose to walk or take the cable car at Simatai, depending on your energy and interest.
• Ideal for Those Wanting Comfort: Door-to-door pickup and drop-off are a significant plus for travelers who dislike public transit or complex arrangements.

What You Can Expect on This Tour

Starting with Gubei Water Town

Your day begins with a hotel pickup—a big plus if you want to avoid the hassle of public transit. From there, you’ll be whisked directly to Gubei Water Town, a modern recreation of classical southern water towns like Wuzhen, set amidst stunning natural scenery with the Simatai Great Wall looming in the background.

The town features six areas in soft opening, including the Old Barracks, Minguo Street, Water Street, and more. Reviewers describe it as “a replica of Wuzhen” with many interesting shops, restaurants, and hotels. You’ll have about 1-2 hours to wander, shop, and enjoy the atmosphere—feeling like stepping into a picturesque picture book with its canals, bridges, and traditional architecture.

Exploring Simatai Great Wall

After exploring Gubei Water Town, the day’s highlight is the hike along the Simatai section of the Great Wall, renowned for its steepness and dramatic views. Built during the Northern Qi dynasty and rebuilt during the Ming, this part of the wall is 5.4 km long with 35 beacon towers. Its rugged terrain offers sweeping vistas and a sense of being truly away from the crowds at more popular spots like Badaling.

The UNESCO-designated site promises breathtaking scenery that is perfect for photography. You can opt for a cable car to save energy for the climb, and reviewers mention that the views from the wall are unforgettable. Expect around 2 hours here, allowing enough time to walk and take photos, with the option to pace yourself.

The Value of Guided Hiking and Flexibility

What makes this tour stand out is the expert guidance. One reviewer mentions that guide Jerry explained the history and helped adjust to their pace, making sure even tiring climbs were manageable. With a private guide, you can ask questions and get personalized tips—especially useful when tackling such an iconic and physically demanding site.

Lunch and Additional Comforts

A highlight often noted is the authentic Chinese lunch included in Gubei Water Town, providing a welcome break and a chance to try local dishes. Bottled water is supplied throughout the day, and the transportation by private vehicle ensures you’re comfortable and on schedule.

Overall Experience and Reviews

Multiple reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides, with one describing their guide as “exceptional,” helping with photography and explaining the history of the Wall. Many appreciated the balance of scenic sightseeing and culture—especially compared to crowded, more commercialized options.

In terms of value, the all-inclusive price offers a lot: transport, guiding, tickets, and lunch. While some might see $251 as a premium, the convenience, personalized attention, and access to less crowded sites make it worthwhile.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers wanting comfort and flexibility. If you prefer not to wrestle with public transport or crowded tour groups, the door-to-door service and private guide are major perks. It’s also great for history and scenery lovers looking for a less touristy experience of the Great Wall. The inclusion of Gubei Water Town adds a charming cultural element that appeals to those wanting more than just a quick photo stop.

It’s suitable for moderate physical fitness levels since some walking and climbing are involved, but the option to take a cable car makes it accessible to a wider audience. Families with older children or teenagers who enjoy hiking and exploring scenic areas will also find this tour rewarding.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private day trip ticks many boxes for those seeking a comprehensive, comfortable, and authentic experience outside the typical tourist crowds. The personalized guidance and all-inclusive setup make it ideal for travelers who value convenience and local insights. The scenic beauty of Simatai combined with the charm of Gubei Water Town makes this a memorable way to connect with China’s cultural and natural landscape.

If you’re after a well-organized, flexible, and scenic day away from Beijing’s busy city life, this tour certainly offers excellent value. It’s suited for those willing to pay a bit more for comfort, expert guidance, and access to iconic yet less crowded sites. Overall, it promises a fulfilling and picturesque journey into some of China’s most captivating sights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, this tour offers door-to-door pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient.

How long is the total tour duration?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

Can I walk or take a cable car at Simatai?
Yes, you can choose to walk or take the cable car up the Great Wall. Most reviews highlight the option to walk, but cable car use is available to save energy.

How many people usually participate in this tour?
It’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers guide, driver, private vehicle, tickets to Gubei Water Town and the Great Wall, lunch, bottled water, and transportation costs like tolls and parking.

Is this suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

Can I customize the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, including the pace and stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, especially since there’s walking and some climbing involved.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Please advise at booking if you have specific dietary needs, and the tour provider will try to accommodate.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 11 days prior, but it’s wise to reserve early, especially during peak seasons.

In summary, this private tour offers an engaging, comfortable way to explore the Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town with expert guidance, authentic food, and seamless logistics. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a memorable, scenic, and hassle-free day outside Beijing.