Tour to the Altais Heavenly Land:Switzerland of the East

The Altai Mountains, often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East," offer a breathtaking natural haven waiting to be explored. This 7-day tour promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing travelers in the region’s stunning landscapes, from the serene Ulungur Lake to the mesmerizing Kanas Lake. With private transportation and comfortable accommodations, the journey blends the beauty of nature with authentic cultural experiences in ancient Tuva villages. What secrets and wonders await those who embark on this captivating expedition?

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Key Points

Set out on a 7-day journey through the stunning Altai Mountains, exploring natural wonders like Ulungur Lake and Kanas Lake.
Immerse in the rich cultural heritage of Tuva villages and discover the unique geological formations of Devils City.
Experience the serene beauty of pristine natural havens, including Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay.
Witness the striking sandstone formations of Devils City and the ancient Populus euphratica Forest.
Enjoy private transportation and 3-4 star accommodations throughout the tour, ensuring a comfortable and guided exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Altais Heavenly Land Tour

Situated in the captivating Altai Mountains, the Altais Heavenly Land tour offers travelers a chance to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty.

This 7-day journey takes guests through the "Switzerland of the East," showcasing breathtaking landscapes like Ulungur Lake, Five-Colored Beach, and the renowned Kanas Lake.

The itinerary balances natural wonders with culture, allowing visitors to discover ancient Tuva villages and the enigmatic Devils City.

This journey offers a captivating balance of natural landscapes and culture, including ancient Tuva villages and the enigmatic Devils City.

With private transportation, 3-4 star accommodations, and meals included, this tour provides a seamless and enriching experience for adventurous travelers seeking to uncover the serene beauty of China’s Altai region.

Looking for more options in Urumqi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring the S21 Desert Highway and Ulungur Lake

What better way to kickstart the Altais Heavenly Land tour than by driving along the captivating S21 Desert Highway? This scenic route winds through the captivating landscapes of northwestern China, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural wonders.

Along the way, travelers will visit the stunning Ulungur Lake and the breathtaking Five-Colored Beach, known for its vibrant hues. The itinerary also includes:

Stopping at the serene Ulungur Lake, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts
Marveling at the diverse colors of the Five-Colored Beach, a true feast for the eyes
Spending the night in the charming town of Burqin
Experiencing the vast, rugged beauty of the desert surroundings
Preparing for the next leg of the journey to the enchanting Kanas Lake.

Discovering the Wonders of Kanas Lake and Baihaba

From Burqin, the tour journeys onward to the captivating Kanas Lake and Baihaba.

Kanas Lake, a glacial lake nestled in the Altai Mountains, enchants visitors with its serene waters and majestic landscapes.

Nearby, Baihaba offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage, with its well-preserved Tuva villages.

The tour explores these scenic wonders, allowing guests to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty and gain insights into the local traditions.

Throughout the journey, the guide provides informative commentary, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for the travelers.

Taking in the Beauty of Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay

How does one immerse in the captivating beauty of Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay? The tour visits these stunning natural wonders nestled within the Kanas region.

Guests can:

Witness the mirror-like waters of Fairy Bay, reflecting the surrounding mountains and forests.
Explore the crescent-shaped Moon Bay, with its unique lunar-inspired landscape.
Hike along the trails of Wolong Bay, surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.
Capture breathtaking photos of the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in these picturesque bays.
Immerse themselves in the serene, untouched beauty of these pristine natural havens.

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Experiencing the Hemu Ancient Village

After exploring the stunning natural wonders of Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay, the tour takes visitors to the Hemu Ancient Village.

This well-preserved Tuva village offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Altai region. Visitors can wander through the village, admiring the wooden houses, stone pathways, and centuries-old trees.

The highlight is the ancient wooden bell tower, a symbol of the community’s heritage. Guests can enjoy the local culture by observing daily activities and interacting with the friendly residents.

The visit to Hemu Village is a valuable cultural experience on this comprehensive tour.

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Venturing to the Devils City and Populus Euphratica Forest

On the penultimate day of the tour, visitors venture to the otherworldly Devils City and the enchanting Populus euphratica Forest.

This natural wonder features:

Striking red, orange, and white sandstone formations sculpted by erosion
Ancient, twisted trees with intricate bark, thriving in the arid landscape
Captivating lunar-like scenery, offering a sense of otherworldly exploration
Opportunities to hike through the unique geological formations
Chances to spot rare wildlife, including the elusive Goitered Gazelle

After seeing this surreal environment, the group returns to Urumqi, concluding their Altais Heavenly Land adventure.

Accommodations and Included Services

Throughout the 7-day tour, travelers will enjoy a range of accommodations and included services.

Travelers will enjoy a range of accommodations and included services throughout the 7-day tour.

They’ll stay at 3-star or 4-star hotels, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. An English-speaking guide will accompany the group, along with private transportation with air conditioning.

Entrance fees to all the sites listed in the itinerary are covered. To ensure a comfortable experience, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 or people over 70.

Travelers should bring essentials like comfortable shoes and a camera. Live tour guides are available in English, Spanish, and German.

Participation Guidelines and Additional Information

The tour isn’t suitable for certain age groups. Children under 8 years old and people over 70 years old aren’t recommended to participate.

Travelers should prepare their passport in advance before the trip. Plus, the following are recommended:

Wear comfortable shoes
Bring a change of clothes
Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery
Avoid bringing alcohol and drugs

The tour offers live guides in English, Spanish, and German. Airport or hotel pickup is included, and the itinerary features special visits to three ancient Tuva villages.

Travelers can also try to capture the Kanas Lake Monster with a drone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended, and the itinerary customized based on the traveler’s preferences. Customers can contact the tour operator to discuss modifications and tailor the experience to their needs.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings or Early Bird Reservations?

Yes, there are group and early booking discounts available. Groups of 4 or more can save up to 10% per person. Booking at least 6 months in advance also qualifies for an additional 5% early bird discount.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Vaccinations for This Tour?

No special permits are required, but travelers should check vaccination requirements for the destination. Recommended vaccines may include hepatitis A and typhoid. It’s best to consult a travel health professional before the trip.

Can I Bring My Own Drone or Photography Equipment?

Travelers can bring their own photography equipment, including drones, on this tour. However, the use of drones is limited to certain areas to capture the Kanas Lake Monster. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed during the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Travel Dates?

The free cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you need to change your travel dates, you can do so without penalty as long as you give 24 hours’ notice.

The Sum Up

The Altais Heavenly Land tour offers an unparalleled adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Altai Mountains. Travelers will be captivated by the serene beauty of Ulungur Lake, the mesmerizing Kanas Lake, and the geological wonders of Devils City. Cultural immersion in ancient Tuva villages and the Hemu Ancient Village adds depth to this enriching experience. With comfortable accommodations and private transportation, this tour promises an unforgettable blend of nature and culture.