Dali’s 15 Best Tours: Which To Choose?

Dali is a place where history, nature, and culture blend effortlessly, making it a prime destination for memorable sightseeing. Unlike many tourist spots, Dali offers a mix of ancient towns, scenic lakes, traditional crafts, and ethnic heritage. We particularly love the 9-day Ancient Town Tour for its deep dive into Yunnan’s diverse villages and remote sites, which provides a richer understanding of the region’s cultural fabric. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, the 7-day Yunnan Charming Old Town Tour offers smooth transportation between picturesque towns like Lijiang and Shangri-La, while the Private tour to Xizhou takes you directly into Bai culture with visits to local markets and Erhai Lake cruises. For those eager to learn a craft, the 1-Day Dali Tie Dye Experience offers an engaging hands-on approach. Each of these options highlights Dali’s charm in a different way, whether through culture or scenic exploration.

Quick Overview

Our list of the best tours in Dali includes a variety of experiences tailored to different interests and travel styles. You’ll find multi-day journeys like the 9-day Ancient Town Tour that explore villages along the Tea Horse Road, or more focused day trips such as the Erhai Lake and Three Pagodas Tour. For cultural enthusiasts, the Dali Tie Dye Experience and Hui Muslim Culture Tour provide a chance to see local crafts and traditions firsthand. Families, solo travelers, and history lovers will all find options suited to their pace and curiosity. Now, let’s dive into each tour to see what makes them special.

1. 9 days Ancient Town Tour

At number 1, the 9 days Ancient Town Tour offers a comprehensive experience that covers both the iconic sites and remote villages along the old Tea Horse Road. Starting with a private transfer into Dali Old Town, the tour then includes visits to Xizhou Town, famous for its Bai folk houses, and Donglianhua Village, a Hui minority settlement. You’ll explore Weishan Ancient City, enjoying local history. What sets this tour apart is its focus on diversity—visiting both must-see landmarks and lesser-known spots, offering a well-rounded view of Yunnan’s cultural mosaic.

The guide’s expertise, combined with the itinerary’s depth, makes this an ideal choice for travelers who want more than just a snapshot — you’ll walk away with a broader understanding of Yunnan’s ethnic complexity. For $1,820, the value hinges on the depth of experience and the chance to visit remote villages few travelers see. The only possible downside is the length — nine days — so it suits those with time and curiosity.

Bottom line: A fantastic pick for culture lovers craving an in-depth exploration of the Tea Horse Road’s history and villages.

2. 7 Days Yunnan Charming Old Town Tour

The 7-day Yunnan Charming Old Town Tour is perfect for travelers wanting a curated taste of Yunnan’s most picturesque towns. Starting from Kunming, you’ll visit Yuanyang Rice Terraces, renowned for their terraced fields and Hani minority culture, then move on to Lijiang, Shaxi, and Shangri-La. This tour excels in comfortable, all-inclusive logistics — accommodations with breakfast and private transport eliminate the hassle of planning. Visitors especially appreciate the chance to see Yuanyang’s rice terraces at Laohuzui, a UNESCO-listed site with breathtaking views.

Guided by knowledgeable drivers, you’ll access remote areas easily, avoiding the stress of navigation. The focus on scenic towns, mountains, and markets makes this tour ideal for those seeking a relaxed but comprehensive cultural experience. Priced at $1,820, it offers good value considering the logistics included. If your priority is to see multiple towns without the hassle of self-driving or booking accommodation separately, this tour wins hands down.

Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a stress-free way to explore Yunnan’s charming old towns with comfortable logistics.

3. Private tour to Xizhou old town local market Erhai lake three Pagodas from Dali

For around $184, the Private tour to Xizhou old town, local market, Erhai Lake, and the Three Pagodas offers an intimate look at Dali’s iconic scenery and Bai culture. Starting with a morning visit to Xizhou’s traditional buildings and market, you’ll experience local life firsthand. Then a scenic cruise on Erhai Lake provides panoramic views of the mountains and water, culminating with a visit to the Three Pagodas, a symbol of Dali’s rich Buddhist heritage.

This tour’s appeal lies in its personalized attention and flexibility — perfect for those who want a compact yet enriching experience. The inclusion of a cruise and significant landmarks makes it a good value for about $184, especially with a private guide. The only possible drawback is the length — about 8 hours — but it packs a lot into a day.

Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a personalized, scenic, and cultural overview of Dali’s highlights.

4. Yunnan Dali Erhai 3 Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple One Day Tour

At just $74 per person, this day tour packs in some of Dali’s most famous sights. It includes visits to Erhai Lake, Shuanglang Ancient Town, and Xizhou Ancient Town, along with a trip to the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple — a must-see in Dali. The tour is flexible, allowing you to control your time, and is ideal if you’re short on days but want a taste of Dali’s natural beauty and historic sites.

While it’s a budget-friendly option, it offers less immersion than longer tours. The stops are brief, but you’ll get a good overview of lake scenery, ancient towns, and Buddhist architecture. If you’re looking for a straightforward, inexpensive day trip, this tour delivers.

Bottom line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a quick but comprehensive introduction.

5. 1-Day Dali Tie Dye Experience Private Tour

For $230, this private craft experience is a standout for those interested in Bai minority culture. You’ll visit Xizhou Town for a morning market, then head to Zhoucheng Village to watch Bai women create traditional tie-dye fabrics and even try your hand at the craft. The day concludes with a cruise on Lake Erhai to a fishing village, giving you a taste of local life and artistry.

This tour offers hands-on participation that’s perfect for art lovers or families wanting an interactive experience. The guide’s deep knowledge of Bai culture enriches the visit, and the private nature means you can customize the pace. The cost reflects the unique craft workshop, making it a good value if you’re eager to learn a traditional art.

Bottom line: A great choice for culturally curious travelers eager for a hands-on experience with Bai textiles and local life.

6. Dali Day Tour: Scenic Lakes, Bai Heritage & Tie-Dye Workshop

This 10-hour tour combines several highlights: Erhai Lake, the Dali Prefecture Museum, the Three Pagodas, and a tie-dye workshop in Xizhou. It’s perfect for those who want a multi-faceted day, enjoying both natural scenery and cultural learning. The tour emphasizes Bai heritage, showcasing traditional architecture and handicrafts.

The mix of scenic walks, museum visits, and craft workshops makes it suitable for travelers with limited time but varied interests. At $263 per person, it provides a rundown with a good balance of activities. The guided experience ensures you don’t miss key sights, and the art workshop adds a memorable touch.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a full day of culture, scenery, and hands-on activities.

7. Dali: Donglianhua (East Lotus) & Hui Muslim Culture Tour

At $68 per person, this 8-hour tour is a cultural deep dive into Hui Muslim heritage. Visiting Donglianhua Muslim Village, you’ll explore its mosque and traditional Hui residences, and learn about Islamic architecture and customs in Yunnan. The tour also includes a visit to Du Wenxiu Mansion to understand local historical movements.

This experience stands out for its focus on Hui Muslim culture, a less-visited aspect of Dali’s diversity. It’s perfect for travelers interested in ethnic and religious traditions, or those wanting to see a different side of Yunnan’s cultural landscape. The tour is intimate, and the guide provides insights into the Hui community’s history and customs.

Bottom line: Excellent for culturally curious travelers wanting an authentic look at Hui Muslim traditions.

8. Dali: Hidden Shibao Mountain Private Tour

For those craving a personalized adventure, the Hidden Shibao Mountain Private Tour offers a full-day exploration of Stone Bell Temple’s rock carvings and Baoxiang Temple. With a private guide, you’ll learn about Dali’s religious sites and natural surroundings. The tour is fully customizable, allowing you to focus on specific interests.

The price of $163 makes it a great deal for a fully flexible, expert-led day. Highlights include the rock carvings and peaceful temples, away from crowds. If you enjoy cultural stories and natural scenery, this tour offers a balanced and intimate experience.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a tailor-made cultural day with flexibility.

9. Dali: Weishan Ancient Town Private Tour

This full-day private tour at $134 includes visits to Xinggong and Gongchen Towers, and the Nanzhao Museum. It’s designed for those interested in ancient architecture and local history. Weishan’s charm lies in its well-preserved streets and ethnic displays.

The tour provides an authentic immersion into the Nanzhao Kingdom’s legacy and local Bai and Yi cultures. It’s a relaxed but informative trip, perfect for history and architecture buffs. The private aspect ensures you can focus on what interests you most.

Bottom line: Great for those wanting an intimate, educational glimpse into Yunnan’s ancient towns.

10. Dali Ancient City Authentic Food Tour

For $78, this 4-hour walking food tour offers a taste of Dali’s local snacks and hidden eateries. Starting at the South Gate, you’ll explore markets, sample grilled erkuai and rice noodles, and see artisans at work. If you want a culinary adventure that captures the flavors of Dali, this tour is a tasty choice.

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting to taste the local cuisine and capture photos of vibrant street life. The small-group setting makes it intimate, and the guide shares stories behind each dish. Since it’s a shorter tour, it’s best suited for those with limited time but a big appetite.

Bottom line: Perfect for food lovers eager to explore Dali through its culinary traditions.

11. Dali XIzhou Ancient Town Private Tour

This private half-day or full-day tour at $88.81 highlights Xizhou Ancient Town and Bai culture. You’ll visit the Yan Family’s Courtyard, walk through rice terraces, and try Xizhou Baba. The tour offers flexible timing to suit your schedule, and in spring or autumn, the landscape is especially picturesque.

Ideal for travelers wanting a focused cultural experience, this tour emphasizes Bai architecture and local food. The inclusion of rice field views makes it especially scenic. It’s a relaxed, intimate trip that’s a great value.

Bottom line: Excellent for those seeking a cultural and scenic half-day adventure in Bai culture.

12. Dali Yunnan Local Market Pottery Making Eco Tour

At $197, this sustainable eco tour combines a local market visit with a traditional pottery workshop. It emphasizes plastic-free practices and offers a chance to learn pottery-making with local artisans. Visitors can see Yunnan’s diverse ethnic markets and participate in clay throwing techniques.

The tour appeals to eco-conscious travelers and craft lovers alike, offering a meaningful connection to local artisans and their environment-friendly approach. The flexible length and focus on sustainable tourism make it stand out.

Bottom line: A thoughtful choice for environmentally minded travelers interested in local crafts.

13. Private Day Tour of Dali Explore the Ancient City

For $273.60, this full-day private tour covers Erhai Lake, Chongsheng Three Pagodas, and Dali Ancient City. It’s designed for travelers who want an all-encompassing day with personalized attention. You’ll cruise the lake, explore temples, and walk through the ancient city’s streets, all with a guide tailoring the experience to your interests.

The flexibility and private guide make this a premium experience, ideal for those wanting to maximize their time and see everything on their list. It’s particularly suitable for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a comprehensive and flexible day exploring Dali’s main sights.

14. Dali: Ancient City, Three Pagodas, and Longkan (ErHai) Tour

This 8-hour tour combines visits to the ancient city, Three Pagodas, and Longkan Pier with a relaxing lunch. It’s an efficient way to see Dali’s core attractions without a multi-day commitment. The stunning views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake make this a postcard-perfect experience.

The tour balances culture, scenery, and relaxation, making it suitable for travelers with limited time. The inclusion of a lakeside walk at Longkan offers a peaceful end to a busy day.

Bottom line: Ideal for anyone wanting a compact, scenic overview of Dali’s highlights.

15. Dali: Chongsheng Temple, Xizhou, & Erhai Lake 1 Day Tour

This day trip combines Chongsheng Temple, Xizhou town, and a cruise on Erhai Lake. You’ll learn about local Bai architecture, enjoy traditional food, and visit Nanzhao-style islands. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a concise but culturally rich experience.

The tour provides a solid overview of Dali’s heritage and scenic beauty in about 8 hours. It’s a flexible option for those with a tight schedule but still craving depth.

Bottom line: Well-rounded, easily fitting into a day, and great for visitors who want a taste of everything.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Dali

When selecting your ideal tour, start by considering your interests and pace. If you want an in-depth journey with remote villages and detailed cultural insights, the 9-day Ancient Town Tour is hard to beat. For a relaxed, scenic focus, the 7-day Old Town Tour offers comfort and a curated experience. Cultural enthusiasts should look toward craft workshops like the Tie Dye Experience or Hui Muslim Culture Tour, which provide authentic hands-on experiences.

Think about your budget and time. Budget travelers will appreciate the $74 day trip to the Three Pagodas, while those wanting a premium, private experience might opt for the full-day private Dali tour. Finally, if you’re eco-minded or eager to learn traditional crafts, the Yunnan Local Market Pottery Making Eco Tour is a fantastic pick.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the 7-day Old Town Tour or the 9-day Ancient Town Tour. Whichever you choose, Dali’s mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and authentic experiences guarantees a memorable trip.

To sum it up, Dali offers a diverse suite of tours to fit every curiosity and schedule. For an immersive experience into Yunnan’s villages and history, the 9-day Ancient Town Tour is top-notch. If you prefer ease and comfort, the 7-day Old Town Tour takes the hassle out of travel. And for those eager to participate actively in local traditions, the Tie Dye Experience or Hui Culture Tour deliver unique insights you won’t find elsewhere. Whatever your style, booking your preferred tour early ensures you won’t miss out on the many treasures Dali has to offer.