The 15 Most Popular Tours & Experiences In Guilin

Guilin is famous for its dramatic karst peaks, lush rice terraces, and scenic rivers, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking authentic, photo-worthy adventures. The city’s unique landscape lends itself well to a variety of tours, whether you want to cruise the Li River, explore minority villages, or hike up mountain viewpoints. We particularly love the private Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo (see details here), which offers a full day of breathtaking scenery and a relaxed pace with a private guide. For a taste of traditional culture, the Longji Rice Terraces with Minority Village Tour (more info) provides intimate insights into the Yao and Zhuang communities. Whatever your interests, Guilin’s blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes for unforgettable experiences.

Quick Overview

Our list covers river cruises, rice terraces, mountain hikes, and cultural tours. Highlights include the 1-day Li River Cruise, which captures iconic scenery, the Longji Rice Terraces for scenic hikes and culture, and multi-day private tours that blend highlights with personalized experiences. Each tour offers something different—whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, active exploration, or cultural insight—so you can pick what suits your pace and interests.

1. 1 Day Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo with Private Guide & Driver

Enjoy one of China’s most famous landscapes on this full-day private cruise. It starts with a hotel pickup around 8:30 am, followed by a scenic drive to Zhujiang Dock, where you’ll board a boat for a 4-hour cruise along the Li River. The boat features an onboard Chinese buffet lunch, and your guide offers commentary on the stunning limestone formations, pine forests, and water buffalo grazing along the riverbanks. After disembarking in Yangshuo, you’ll have time to wander West Street, famous for its lively shops and cafes. The final transfer back to Guilin takes about 1.5 hours. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized sightseeing experience with plenty of photo opportunities. The reviews are stellar—”The river cruise was fantastic,” says one guest—highlighting the scenery and attentive guide service.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a hassle-free, scenic river experience with a private guide to enhance the trip.

2. Longji Rice Terraces with Minority Village Private Day Tour

Step into a landscape of sculpted rice terraces and learn about Yao and Zhuang cultures during this private day trip. Starting at around 9:00 am, your guide will pick you up from your Guilin hotel and drive approximately two hours to Longji. Once there, you’ll visit the Ping’an Rice Terraces, renowned for their beautifully terraced landscape that looks like a giant staircase. Walk through minority villages, where you can see traditional wooden houses and hear stories about local customs. The tour emphasizes culture and scenery, making it ideal for travelers who want an in-depth cultural experience with manageable physical activity—most of the day involves strolling and light hiking. Reviewers praise the personalized service and breathtaking views, with one saying, “The rice terraces were stunning, and our guide Liu was very knowledgeable.”

Bottom Line: Excellent for culture and scenery lovers who prefer a stress-free, private experience.

3. 1-DAY Private Longji Rice Terraces and Minority Villages Tour

This full-day tour offers a personalized exploration of Longji’s iconic landscapes and minority villages. It starts with hotel pickup, then a scenic two-hour drive to the terraces. You’ll visit Huangluo Village, known for its long-haired Yao women and traditional wooden houses, then hike about three hours through the Ping’an rice terraces, taking in spectacular views like the “Nine Dragons and Five Tigers.” Your guide explains the history, culture, and agricultural practices of local minorities, making it perfect for travelers wanting depth and flexibility. Multiple reviews mention how helpful guides like Leo make the trip memorable, praising their local knowledge and friendly attitude.

Bottom Line: Ideal for culturally curious travelers who want a full day of scenery, hiking, and local traditions.

4. 1-Day Guilin Tour to Reed Flute Cave, Xianggong Hill, Bamboo Boat and Night Show

This action-packed 12-hour private tour hits many highlights: First, the Reed Flute Cave reveals stunning stalactites and stalagmites inside a natural limestone wonder. Then, a scenic transfer takes you to Xianggong Hill, offering panoramic views of the Li River’s famous curves—perfect for photos. Afterward, enjoy a boat cruise from Xingping to Nine-Horse Hill, with lunch included. In the evening, unwind with the Impression Sanjie Liu light show, a mesmerizing mix of music, light, and water. The logistics are seamless, with round-trip transfers and an English-speaking guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Reviews highlight the well-organized itinerary and the guide’s friendliness—“The scenery was spectacular, and the show was incredible,” says one traveler. This tour is great for visitors short on time but eager to see a little bit of everything.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a full day of diverse sights, natural wonders, and cultural entertainment.

5. Longji rice terraces & minority villages private day tour

For those seeking a flexible, customized experience, this private tour offers door-to-door service with all fees included. Starting at 9:00 am, your guide and driver will take you directly to Longji and local minority villages. The focus is on personal pace, allowing plenty of time for photos, walking, and cultural insights. You’ll visit Huangluo Village and explore the spectacular rice terraces from different viewpoints. The review praise the professional service and how guides like Charles tailor the trip to individual preferences. At $69 per person, this tour offers excellent value—especially if you prefer a private, unhurried experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a bespoke day trip with full control over the itinerary.

6. 3 Days Private Luxury Guilin Highlights Tour

If you want a comprehensive, luxury experience, this 3-day private tour is designed for you. It covers major attractions like Folded Brocade Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Solitary Beauty Peak, and Elephant Trunk Hill, with visits to Yangshuo and the Li River cruise. Your private guide and driver handle all logistics, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The tour includes entrance tickets, several meals, and opportunities to take iconic photos, like at Elephant Trunk Hill or Fubo Hill. Rated highly, travelers mention how well-organized and personalized the trip is, making it suitable for families or travelers seeking a luxury, all-in-one package.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, upscale exploration of Guilin’s top sights.

7. Private day tour: Guilin-Li River bamboo boat-Yangshuo Highlights

This day-long private tour combines scenic boat rides, mountain views, and historic towns. Starting at 9:30 am, you’ll visit the Reed Flute Cave, Daxu Ancient Town, and enjoy a bamboo raft on the Li River from Yangdi to Nine Horses Hill. The highlight is the Xianggong Hill climb, with sweeping views of the river winding through the mountains. The personalized guide helps you tailor the day, while private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility. Reviews note how efficient and friendly guides like Jeff make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a customized day of scenery, culture, and river views.

8. 3-Day Private Guilin Tour with Li River Cruise and Yangshuo

This detailed itinerary offers two days in Guilin with highlights like Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, and a Li River cruise to Yangshuo. It also includes a Yangshuo biking tour and visits to Fubo Hill and Seven Star Park. The third day allows for flexibility, with a personalized guide taking you to local spots or relaxing. The tour covers entirely private transportation and all tickets, making it perfect for families or groups who want to see Guilin’s essentials at their own pace.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, flexible multi-day adventure.

9. 1 Day Private Tour: Li River Cruise from Guilin & Yangshuo Biking

For nearly 9 hours, this tour combines a 4-hour Li River cruise with an active bike ride around Yangshuo. It starts with hotel pickup, then a deluxe boat cruise showcasing Guilin’s signature peaks and water buffalo. Upon reaching Yangshuo, you’ll explore West Street and hop on a bike to see the countryside’s rice paddies, bamboo groves, and traditional villages. The mix of scenery and activity makes this tour especially appealing for energetic travelers. One reviewer mentions how “Frank contributed a lot to make the most of the experience,” emphasizing the guide’s local knowledge.

Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want scenic views combined with outdoor exploration.

10. Guilin: Classic Private Full–Day Tour

This full-day private tour hits Guilin’s highlights like Reed Flute Cave, Xianggong Hill, and a boat cruise on the Li River. It also includes a traditional Liu Sanjie show in Yangshuo, offering both natural and cultural experiences. Your guide customizes the pace, making it suitable for families or those with limited mobility. The focus is on easy access to famous sites with a relaxed schedule, and the private transport ensures comfort from start to finish.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a relaxed, all-encompassing introduction to Guilin’s best sights.

11. Guilin Highlights Tour Li River to Yangshuo and Xianggong Hill

This tour combines a river cruise, mountain views, and cultural stops in one day. Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll cruise the Li River, enjoy a Chinese boxed lunch, then visit Xianggong Hill for panoramic photos. The private driver-guide makes the day smooth, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Many reviews praise the scenic boat ride and excellent guide service, making it a reliable choice for those who want a balanced mix of nature and culture.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive day with scenic views and local insights.

12. 1 Day Private car with English-speaking driver service

If flexibility and comfort are your priorities, this customizable private car service is a strong choice. You select your preferred spots, and your English-speaking driver handles the logistics. From Longji rice terraces to Yangshuo, the all-inclusive fee covers transport, with you paying only for admissions. Reviewers mention how professional and accommodating drivers like Audrey and Peter make the day special.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to design their own itinerary without the hassle of public transport.

13. From Guilin/Yangshuo: Longji Rice Terraces and Ethnic Minority Village Day Tour

This 8-hour trip from Guilin or Yangshuo takes you to Longji Rice Terraces and Yao minority villages. You’ll learn about rice farming, watch traditional performances, and trek the terraces—perfect for active travelers. Reviews highlight the professional guide and how the tour balances scenery, culture, and comfort. The Chinese lunch included makes it easy and convenient.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for culturally curious travelers combining scenic hikes and local traditions.

14. Private Day Tour: Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village

This private tour emphasizes personalized attention and comfortable transport. Starting from Guilin or Yangshuo, your guide will take you to Huangluo Village to see the famous Yao women with long hair, then up to Ping’an for stunning rice terraces. It’s perfect for those wanting to experience minority customs and scenic landscapes in one day. Many reviews mention the helpful guide and the well-organized logistics.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a tailored, cultural experience with a focus on local minority villages.

15. Private Day Tour of Yangshuo Xianggong Mountain and Yulong Bamboo Boat

This 7-hour private tour combines spectacular mountain views from Xianggong Mountain with a peaceful bamboo boat cruise on the Yulong River. You have entrance tickets included and personal guidance, with free time for lunch or relaxing in Yangshuo. The small group size and flexible schedule make it a great choice for those who want scenic landscapes and quiet moments.

Reviews state how friendly and knowledgeable guides like Leo make the experience special, with many appreciating the customized itinerary.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a scenic, relaxed day with personalized attention.

How to Choose the Right Tour for You

When selecting a tour in Guilin, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interests. If you prefer a relaxing, all-inclusive experience, the 3-Day Private Guilin Highlights Tour (see it here) offers a comprehensive package. For those eager to hike and explore at their own pace, the Longji Rice Terraces private tours (more details) provide flexibility and culture. Budget travelers might favor the single-day tours like the Guilin Highlights Tour (see here) which combine key sights without breaking the bank.

Booking early is essential, especially during peak travel seasons in spring and autumn. Select a tour that matches your interest level and activity preference, and don’t hesitate to ask your guide about customizing the itinerary.

Final Thoughts

Guilin offers a wide array of tours and experiences tailored to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want the iconic Li River cruise, the stunning rice terraces, or cultural visits to minority villages, you’ll find options that provide both scenic beauty and authentic insights.

Two standout choices include the 1-Day Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo for a truly scenic, relaxed day, or the Longji Rice Terraces with Minority Village for a deeper cultural experience. For those with limited time, the full-day Guilin Highlights Tour offers a bit of everything. Whatever you pick, booking early and choosing experiences aligned with your interests will ensure a memorable trip through Guilin’s extraordinary landscape.