Traveling to the Great Wall of China isn’t just about ticking off a famous landmark — it’s about truly experiencing the history, architecture, and rugged beauty that make this monument such a marvel. This 2-day small group tour takes you away from the crowds and into the less-visited sections of Gubeikou and Jinshanling, offering a more authentic and immersive perspective of one of the world’s most iconic structures.

What we love about this tour is its combination of expert local guides, the chance to hike on both restored and untouched portions of the Wall, and the authentic stay in a farmer’s guesthouse. Plus, the opportunity to get there early in the morning, before the daytime crowds, really enhances the experience. The only real consideration might be the physical aspect — this is a walking-heavy tour, so you’ll want a decent level of fitness.

This trip appeals most to those who want more than just a quick photo opportunity, seeking a deeper connection with the Wall’s history and scenery. Adventure lovers, history buffs, and anyone craving a genuine escape from city traffic will find this tour worthwhile.

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Key Points

Authentic Hiking Experience: Walk sections of the Great Wall that are often less crowded and more untouched.
Local Guide Insight: Led mainly by local farmers, offering a practical, on-the-ground perspective.
Stunning Views & Photo Ops: Panoramic vistas from guard towers and along the wall.
Overnight in a Village Guesthouse: Experience authentic local life and enjoy home-cooked meals.
All-Inclusive Value: Transportation, guiding, accommodation, and entrance fees are included.
Moderate Fitness Needed: Expect several hours of walking and some steep climbs.

Day 1: Jinshanling – The Restored & Unrestored Wall

The adventure kicks off at Jinshanling, famous for its combination of restored and unrestored sections. From the start, you’ll ascend about 40 minutes on stairs to reach the East-Five-Eye watchtower at Jinshanling East. This initial climb is a good warm-up, and as the reviews mention, the views here are breathtaking—a series of crumbling walls, watch towers, and beacon towers stretch across the mountains. You’ll be able to snap some fantastic photos early on, before the crowds arrive.

The guide will lead you westward along the wall, passing through a combination of well-preserved brickwork and more rugged, untouched sections. Many reviewers emphasize that walking along the less-restored parts feels like stepping back in time — the walls are wild, the stonework uneven, and the towers often offer a chance to meet local farmers who are still living nearby. As one reviewer noted, “You get to meet local farmer friends and even try some homemade food,” which adds a warm, personal touch to the journey.

The walk concludes at Shalingkou, with an optional extra 30-minute walk to Zhuanduokou if you’re feeling energetic. This flexibility allows for a more tailored experience based on your stamina and interests. The group size, limited to 10 travelers, ensures a more intimate experience, and the local guide keeps the pace manageable.

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Day 2: Gubeikou – Wild, Original, Less-Visited

Starting at Gubeikou, you’re treated to a very different side of the Great Wall—wild, unspoiled, and seldom crowded. After breakfast, the 5-hour hike begins from Coaling Dragon Hill, heading toward Jimshanling. The trail is 9 kilometers long, but it’s not just about the distance; it’s about the scenery and the feeling of being in a less commercialized part of the Wall.

Gubeikou has historical significance, having been a strategic military pass guarding Beijing from Mongolian invasions and other invasions over centuries. As mentioned in reviews, the views are impressive, and the “wall to yourself” feeling is legendary. The route includes both restored and unrestored sections, giving you an authentic sense of what the Wall looked like centuries ago.

The terrain is rugged, with some steep sections, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The guide mainly assists with navigation rather than detailed history, which suits those looking for a straightforward, physically rewarding hike. The day concludes with a traditional dinner back in the village, providing insight into local cuisine and hospitality.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying overnight in a local farmer’s guesthouse is a highlight of this tour. It offers a glimpse into rural life, with simple, cozy twin-sharing rooms. Reviewers consistently mention that the home-cooked dinners and breakfasts are warm and hearty, making the experience feel welcoming and authentic.

Meals are included — two lunches, one dinner, and breakfast — emphasizing local flavors. Bottled water is provided for each hike, and trekking poles are available if needed.

Transportation & Practicalities

Transport is via air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver, making the long drives comfortable. Pickup starts at 8:00 am from Beijing, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point, so logistics are straightforward. This comfort, combined with the small group size, makes the experience smooth and personal.

The tour is well-suited for those with moderate fitness levels since there are several hours of walking each day and some steep climbs. It’s worth noting that there are no toilets along the wall, just at the entrances, so bring your own toilet paper and prepare accordingly. The tour keeps the environmental footprint small—”leave nothing but footprints” is a guiding principle.

At $268 per person, this tour packs a lot of value. It includes transportation, guiding, accommodation, all entrance fees, and meals, making it a convenient package that avoids the hassle of arranging each component solo. Many reviewers praised the experienced local guides—mainly farmers—who add a layer of authenticity and local insight that big buses and crowded sites often lack.

The focus on less-visited sections means fewer crowds, more authentic views, and the chance to appreciate the Wall’s rugged beauty without distraction. Plus, staying overnight in a village immerses you in local life, something most day-trippers miss.

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers who don’t mind a bit of physical exertion and want to see a different side of the Great Wall. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic experiences over touristy spots, and for travelers interested in local culture and scenic vistas.

History enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to walk through both restored and unrestored sections, while landscape lovers will adore the panoramic views. If you’re seeking a manageable yet meaningful way to explore the Great Wall over two days, this tour hits the mark.

Do I need to be very fit to join this tour?
While a moderate fitness level is recommended, especially for the hiking portions, the tour is designed to be manageable with breaks. Expect several hours of walking on uneven terrain and some steep climbs.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, two lunches, and one dinner. The food is home-cooked and served in the village, giving you a taste of local flavors.

What should I bring for the hikes?
Comfortable shoes or boots are essential. Sunscreen, sun-glasses, a cap, and a small day pack for water and snacks are advised. Toilet paper and a small first aid kit are also recommended, as there are no toilets on the Wall.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver will transport you from and back to Beijing. Pickup is at 8:00 am, and the journey is part of the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. If you need to reschedule or cancel, just let them know in time.

What makes this tour different from other Great Wall trips?
The focus on less crowded, authentic sections like Gubeikou and Jinshanling, combined with staying overnight in a village guesthouse, offers a genuinely more local and adventurous take on the Wall.

This 2-day Great Wall tour provides an authentic, scenic, and physically rewarding experience that appeals to travelers looking to step off the beaten path. The combination of expert local guides, stunning vistas, and local hospitality makes it a standout choice for those wanting more than just a quick snapshot.

While it requires a bit of stamina and a sense of adventure, the lasting memories of panoramic towers, rugged stonework, and a night in a rural village make every step worth it. If you’re eager to see a side of the Great Wall that few travelers encounter and to connect with local life, this tour offers incredible value and genuine authenticity.

In summary, this tour is best suited for adventurous, active travelers who value authentic experiences and scenic views. It’s perfect for those wanting to avoid crowds and truly walk through history — all while seeing the stunning landscapes surrounding Beijing.