2-Day Private Guilin Highlight Tour Including Li River and Longji Rice Terraces

Guilin’s natural wonders have long captivated travelers from near and far. This 2-day private tour promises to immerse guests in the region’s iconic landscapes, from the serene Li River to the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can expect an authentic experience exploring quaint villages, hiking picturesque trails, and savoring local cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or seeking a leisurely escape, this Guilin highlight tour offers a chance to discover the beauty that has inspired generations. What unfolds next is sure to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best 2 Day Tours In Guilin.

Good To Know

• This 2-day private tour showcases Guilin’s iconic attractions, including the Li River, Yangshuo Town, Xianggong Mountain, and Longji Rice Terraces.
• Guests can choose between hiking or driving up to explore the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces and visit the traditional Pingan Village.
• The tour includes a scenic 4-hour boat ride along the Li River, known for its limestone formations and lush greenery.
• Visitors can hike up Xianggong Mountain for panoramic views of Guilin’s stunning karst landscape.
• The tour provides an immersive cultural experience, with local cuisine, handcrafted goods, and insight into the Zhuang and Yao minority traditions.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 2-day private Guilin Highlight Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the region’s most iconic attractions for first-time visitors, especially those who don’t speak Chinese.

The tour includes visits to the stunning Li River, the charming Yangshuo Town, the striking Xianggong Mountain, and the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces.

With a private driver and knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore these highlights at their own pace, enjoying included entrance fees, lunch, and recommended gratuities.

The tour’s 5-star rating from previous guests reflects its excellent organization and the guide’s deep local knowledge, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors to Guilin.

Longji Rice Terraces and Pingan Village

After a morning pickup at 9:00 AM from the hotel in Guilin, the tour heads out on a 2.5-hour drive to the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the "Dragon’s Backbone."

Guests have the option to either hike up the terraces for approximately 1.5 hours or take a leisurely drive up and hike back down, allowing them to explore the stunning landscape at their own pace.

Upon arrival, visitors are captivated by the sight of the terraced rice fields, resembling tiered ribbons cascading down the hillsides.

The tour then continues to Pingan Village, where guests can stroll through the traditional bamboo and wooden houses, seeing the local culture before returning to Guilin around 5:00 PM.

Hiking Options at Longji Rice Terraces

Guests have two options for exploring the Longji Rice Terraces.

They can either hike approximately 1.5 hours or drive up and hike down. The hike offers a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the grandeur of the tiered rice paddies that resemble ribbons cascading down the hillsides.

The drive-up option caters to those who prefer a less strenuous approach, providing the opportunity to take in the stunning vistas with minimal physical exertion.

Whichever option chosen, the Longji Rice Terraces promise a breathtaking encounter with the region’s renowned natural beauty.

1. Hike approximately 1.5 hours for a more immersive experience.
2. Drive up and hike down for a less strenuous approach.
3. Witness the grandeur of the tiered rice paddies from both perspectives.

Exploring Pingan Village

Pingan Village, nestled amidst the Longji Rice Terraces, offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this picturesque region.

After exploring the stunning rice terraces, guests can stroll through the village, observing the quaint bamboo and wooden houses that have stood the test of time.

The tour includes a chance to savor a local lunch, allowing visitors to enjoy the cultural heritage of the Zhuang and Yao minorities.

This peaceful interlude provides a welcomed contrast to the dramatic landscapes, offering a more intimate understanding of the region’s enduring ways of life.

Li River Scenic Ride

The Li River scenic ride is the highlight of the second day of the Guilin tour. Guests embark on a 4-hour journey along the picturesque waterway, taking in the stunning limestone formations and lush greenery that line the banks.

Some key aspects of this experience include:

1. Breathtaking Views: The Li River’s winding course offers visitors a chance to witness the region’s renowned natural beauty, with towering peaks and tranquil waters creating a serene and awe-inspiring landscape.

2. Photo Opportunities: The tour provides ample opportunities for guests to capture the perfect shot, whether it’s the iconic "Twelve Peaks" or the charming fishing villages that dot the riverbanks.

3. Immersion in Local Culture: The Li River cruise allows travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions and way of life of the local Guangxi people, who’ve long relied on the river for their livelihoods.

Hike up Xianggong Mountain

After the serene Li River cruise, travelers embark on a 20-minute hike up Xianggong Mountain, which rewards them with breathtaking vistas of the Li River and its limestone formations.

Standing at a height of 60 meters (196 feet), Xianggong Mountain offers a panoramic perspective of the winding river and the surrounding karst landscape.

The hike, though relatively short, provides a sense of accomplishment and a chance to witness the stunning natural beauty of the region.

With its strategic location and elevation, Xianggong Mountain has become a popular spot for photographers and sightseers, capturing the essence of Guilin’s picturesque scenery.

Lunch in Yangshuo Town

Following their hike up Xianggong Mountain, the tour group descends into Yangshuo Town for a well-deserved lunch. The town offers a variety of local eateries, where the group can enjoy the unique cuisine and atmosphere.

Some highlights of the Yangshuo lunch experience include:

1. Savoring authentic Guilin cuisine, such as Guilin-style rice noodles and steamed river fish.
2. Browsing the lively local markets and shops, showcasing handcrafted silk products, bamboo goods, and other regional specialties.
3. Enjoying the scenic views of the Li River, with its dramatic karst landscapes providing a picturesque backdrop to the dining experience.

After refueling, the tour continues with the transfer back to Guilin or the airport.

Inclusions and Additional Information

An excellent English-speaking tour guide and an experienced driver are included in this Guilin Highlight Tour. The entrance fees and recommended gratuities are also covered. However, this tour is not wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Inclusions	Additional Information
– English-speaking tour guide	– Not wheelchair accessible
– Experienced driver	– Children must be accompanied by an adult
– Entrance fees	– Not recommended for travelers with back problems,
– Recommended gratuities	pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions

The price for this 2-day Guilin Highlight Tour starts from $488, varying by group size.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy for this tour is not explicitly stated in the provided information. Cancellation terms and fees would need to be confirmed directly with the tour operator or booking platform.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t seem to offer specific discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s mentioned that children must be accompanied by an adult, so the pricing may be inclusive for family groups.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

According to the tour overview, the tour can be customized to include additional activities. The tour operator offers flexibility to accommodate special requests from travelers, such as additional stops or customized itineraries.

What Is the Dress Code Recommended for the Tour?

For this tour, comfortable and lightweight clothing is recommended, as visitors will be doing some walking and hiking. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are advised for navigating the uneven terrain at the Longji Rice Terraces.

Is There an Option to Book the Tour for a Single Traveler?

The tour can be booked for a single traveler. The price may vary based on the group size, but the comprehensive package with a private driver and guide is available for solo travelers as well.

Sum Up

The 2-Day Private Guilin Highlight Tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s stunning landscapes. Guests can explore the iconic Li River, marvel at the Longji Rice Terraces, and discover the traditional Pingan Village. With a private driver and guide, the tour ensures a comprehensive and memorable journey through this picturesque destination. Opportunities for photography and local cuisine enhance the overall experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking to explore the natural beauty of Guilin.