Two standout self-guided tours in Guilin deliver authentic experiences without the typical tourist crowds.
The Longji Rice Terraces tour includes private transport to these magnificent mountainside fields, where you can wander ancient footpaths at your own pace.
At Xianggong Hill in Yangshuo, early risers are treated to a spectacular sunrise view followed by a peaceful bamboo raft journey.
We especially love these tours for their flexibility – you’re not tied to a guide’s schedule, yet you still get essential transportation and route planning handled for you.
The Longji terraces showcase rural Chinese ingenuity at its finest, while Xianggong Hill offers the region’s most photographed vistas.
Both tours come with cancellation options and competitive pricing.
Now for a closer look at our favorite Guilin self-guided adventures…
Key Points
- The Longji Rice Terraces tour offers a stunning natural experience with private transportation and flexibility in lunch options.
- The Half Day Yangshuo Tour features captivating sunrise views from Xianggong Hill and a serene bamboo boat ride on Yulong River.
- Both tours provide opportunities for scenic photography and culture, with accessibility concerns noted for certain travelers.
- The tours feature a lowest price guarantee, flexible booking options, and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
- Safety and comfort are prioritized, with caution advised for travelers with health conditions or accessibility needs.
Longji Rice Terraces and Ping’an Private Self-Guided Tour – Guilin
Experience the stunning Longji Rice Terraces, a must-see natural wonder in Guilin, on this private self-guided tour.
You’ll explore the iconic “Dragon’s Backbone” with an English-speaking driver, allowing you to independently explore the area at your own pace without group constraints.
Your tour includes private transportation with air-conditioning and the entrance ticket to the Longji Rice Terraces, which costs 80 CNY per person.
You’ll also have the flexibility to choose your own lunch location, following a pay-as-you-go model.
Capture stunning photos, hike the scenic trails, and interact with the local villagers in Ping’an.
However, please note that this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for individuals with back problems, heart issues, or pregnant travelers.
Priced at $78.54 per person, with a lowest price guarantee, this private self-guided tour offers a hassle-free way to experience the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces.
Book now and pay later for added flexibility.
Read our full review: Longji Rice Terraces and Ping’an Private Self-Guided Tour – Guilin Review
Book now: Check availability
Half Day Self-Guided Yangshuo Xianggong Hill Sunrise and Yulong Bamboo Boat Tour
Your half-day self-guided tour takes you to the stunning Xianggong Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view, followed by a serene Yulong Bamboo Boat ride along the picturesque Yulong River in Yangshuo.
You’ll have a private car and English-speaking driver to transport you to the starting points.
At Xianggong Hill, you’ll climb 400 steps over 10-15 minutes to reach the top, offering panoramic views of the iconic karst landscape. The ticket costs 60 CNY per person.
Then, you’ll board a Yulong Bamboo Boat, which seats two people and costs 255 CNY per boat, to cruise along the tranquil river.
This tour isn’t recommended for those with health issues or accessibility concerns. Children under 5, adults over 70, and pregnant travelers are also prohibited from the bamboo boat ride.
Confirm your pickup location during booking, and enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Half Day Self-Guided Yangshuo Xianggong Hill Sunrise and Yulong Bamboo Boat Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Guilin offers a variety of self-guided tours that allow you to explore its natural wonders at your own pace. The Longji Rice Terraces and Ping’an Private Self-Guided Tour, as well as the Half Day Self-Guided Yangshuo Xianggong Hill Sunrise and Yulong Bamboo Boat Tour, are two excellent options for discovering the region’s stunning landscapes and cultural attractions. These tours provide the freedom to create your own itinerary and experience Guilin’s beauty on your own terms.