Li River Cruise Reed Flute Cave Elephant Hill Daxu Town Day Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Guilin and want a comprehensive yet stress-free way to see its most iconic sights, this private day tour offers an appealing option. From awe-inspiring caves to ancient towns, it packs a lot into one well-organized experience — all with the convenience of door-to-door transport.

What really stands out are the friendly, knowledgeable guides, the chance to explore several attractions in a single day without the hassle of navigating public transport, and the inclusion of a traditional Chinese lunch. But, be aware that some sites involve additional entry fees, and the itinerary packs in quite a few stops—so it’s best suited for those eager to maximize sightseeing time and enjoy a relaxed, guided experience.

This tour provides excellent value for those who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and hassle-free logistics. Perfect for first-time visitors or travelers keen to see Guilin’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, Daxu Old Town, and the Li River cruise
• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Expert guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude
• Cost-effective at just $79 per person, with many sites included or optional
• Cultural and scenic highlights blend natural wonders with historic towns
• Flexible, private tour suitable for families, couples, or groups seeking a personalized experience

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day with Convenience: Hotel Pickup & Private Transport

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the door-to-door pickup, which means you don’t need to worry about navigating Guilin’s busy streets or finding a meeting point. The private driver and guide will come to your hotel, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free. This personalized service is especially valuable in a city like Guilin, where public transportation can be a bit overwhelming for visitors unfamiliar with local routes.

A consistent theme among reviews is how clean, punctual, and friendly the guides and drivers are, which sets a welcoming tone for the day. Having a dedicated guide means you can ask endless questions about the sites, local culture, or even the best spots to grab snacks during your break.

Reed Flute Cave: Nature’s “Art Palace”

Reed Flute Cave is arguably Guilin’s most famous natural attraction. Located just 7 km from downtown, it’s easy to include in your day without spending too much time traveling. The cave itself stretches 800 meters, with formations that resemble art sculptures—stalactites, stalagmites, and stone curtains—all illuminated with colorful lights that make the entire space feel like a dazzling underground gallery.

Reviewers mention that the cave feels like an outdoor art installation with its surreal shapes and shimmering mineral formations, which truly are a feast for the eyes. The nickname “Art Palace of Nature” fits well. Expect around 50 minutes of exploration, which is enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.

Note that admission to Reed Flute Cave costs about 90 Yuan per person, not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly. Many visitors find the entrance fee worthwhile given the breathtaking display of natural artistry.

Elephant Trunk Hill: Guilin’s Iconic Landmark

Next, your guide will take you to Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural monument that’s instantly recognizable as Guilin’s symbol. As the name suggests, the hill resembles an elephant drinking water from the Li River. You’ll have about 50 minutes here, which is ample time for photos, soaking in the views, and learning about local folklore—some stories claim the hill is a legendary elephant that fractured from a celestial beast.

No admission fee is required for viewing the hill from the outside, but if you wish to explore further (such as visiting the park or climbing parts of the hill), additional tickets may be needed. Many travelers appreciate the photo opportunities and the chance to see a striking natural feature that embodies Guilin’s rugged beauty.

Daxu Old Town: Step Back in Time

Daxu Old Town offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Chinese life. Built during the Ming dynasty and with a history spanning over 1000 years, it’s a treasure trove of ancient architecture, cobblestone streets, and old-style shops. The 2 km street paved with cobblestones is lined with single-eave buildings, many from the Qing and Ming dynasties, showcasing practical yet elegant design.

Travelers often comment on the charm of wandering through these narrow streets, where you can browse herb shops, art stalls, and local eateries. The town’s quiet pace contrasts beautifully with the busier tourist spots, giving you a more personal connection to Guilin’s history.

There’s no entrance fee, but exploring the town is about soaking in the atmosphere—perfect for history buffs and those seeking cultural authenticity.

Li River and Caoping Hui Ethnic Village: Scenic Serenity

The tour includes a relaxing Li River cruise along the tranquil waters of Caoping. Expect stunning views of misty mountains and traditional water villages. Perhaps one of the most photogenic parts of the day, the river reflections create picture-perfect scenes. Some reviewers describe it as “a living gallery of nature’s artistry,” highlighting how serene and beautiful this stretch of the river is.

The cruise is approximately 50 minutes, and while the river itself is free to enjoy, the optional electric boat ride costs around 120 Yuan per person. Many find the cruise a highlight, especially with the chance to see fishermen in conical hats using cormorants—an age-old practice that has changed little over centuries.

Additional Details and Considerations

While the tour is very comprehensive, it’s important to note that admission to Reed Flute Cave is not included in the $79 price. Expect to pay around 90 Yuan per person at the gate. The electric boat ride on the river is also optional and costs extra.

The total duration of 8 to 9 hours makes for a full but manageable day. The itinerary mixes scenic drives, cultural visits, and natural wonders, providing a well-rounded introduction to Guilin’s highlights. Reviewers say the guides are knowledgeable** and friendly, making it easy to ask questions about sites or local customs.

Value for Money

At just $79 per person, this tour offers significant value, especially considering the private transportation, guided commentary, and multiple attractions. The convenience of having everything organized—from hotel pickup to drop-off—means you can relax and focus on enjoying your day rather than fussing over logistics.

The guide’s attentiveness and ability to accommodate your interests are frequently praised, with reviewers noting how helpful and flexible guides like Leo are. Many guests mention that the tour exceeded their expectations for the price paid, especially given the inclusion of iconic sights and a delicious Chinese lunch.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see Guilin’s top sights without the hassle of navigating on their own, especially if time is limited. It’s suited for those who appreciate guided insights into history and nature, and for families or groups seeking a private, flexible itinerary.

While it’s a full day, the pace is considered comfortable, and the private setting ensures you can customize or skip certain stops if needed. If you’re a first-time visitor or a traveler eager for a balanced, well-organized experience, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Guilin hotel or port.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, covering multiple sights comfortably within a day.

Do I need to pay extra for Reed Flute Cave? Yes, admission to Reed Flute Cave costs around 90 Yuan per person, which is not included in the tour price.

Can I ask questions during the tour? Absolutely. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and you’re encouraged to ask anything about the sites or local culture.

Is there a vegetarian lunch option? Yes, a vegetarian option is available if you specify when booking or upon request.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children can participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult, and the tour’s pace is generally suitable for families.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, sun protection, and some cash for optional extras or tips.

Are additional attractions included? The main stops are included, but activities like the electric boat ride on the river cost extra, around 120 Yuan per person.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic way to experience Guilin’s standout sights with minimal stress. The combination of natural wonders like Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill, plus the cultural charm of Daxu Old Town, provides a well-rounded day that appeals to diverse travelers. The private, guided approach ensures personalized attention and flexibility, making it especially attractive for first-time visitors or those eager to capture memorable photos and stories.

While there are optional extras and admission fees, the overall value remains high considering the convenience and variety packed into one day. For travelers seeking an authentic, insightful, and hassle-free Guilin adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Whether you’re here for the scenery, the history, or just a hassle-free way to see the highlights, this Guilin day tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that’s tough to beat for the price.