Guilin’s top guided experiences cut right to the chase with three standout choices. The 4-hour Li River cruise delivers the classic limestone peaks and water views you came for. We love the 5-hour kayaking trip for its refreshing, up-close perspective of the scenery. The 7-hour city highlights tour efficiently connects the must-see spots. For serious photographers, the day trip to Longji Rice Terraces is worth every minute – the landscapes are stunning, especially at sunrise. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the flexible guide service, which lets you customize your day while keeping costs reasonable. Each tour includes solid English guides, good transportation, and authentic local food stops. Let’s explore these top tours in detail.
Key Points
- The 4-hour Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers scenic views, a Chinese buffet lunch, and positive reviews from 96% of 82 travelers.
- The Kayaking Adventure in Guilin provides a 5-hour tour with a local guide, safety briefings, and unique views of the picturesque surroundings.
- The Full-Day Guilin Highlights Tour covers top attractions like Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill, with a Chinese lunch and an experienced English-speaking guide.
- The Longsheng Rice Terrace Tour is a private 1-day tour showcasing the natural and cultural wonders of the Longji Rice Terraces with an English-speaking guide.
- The Guilin Tour Guide Service offers a private guide for up to 15 people, with transfer costs, attraction tickets, and lunch fees included, and a perfect 5-star rating.
1 Day Li River Cruise From Guilin to Yangshuo With Private Guide & Driver
One of the most popular guided tours in Guilin is the day-long Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. This 4-hour sightseeing cruise offers scenic views of the Li River and a guided tour of Yangshuo and the surrounding countryside.
The tour includes a private English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, a Chinese buffet lunch on board, and transportation in an air-conditioned car.
Travelers highly recommend this tour, with 96% of 82 reviews praising the beautiful scenery and knowledgeable guides. The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most visitors, including families with infants.
While some reviewers noted the boats can be crowded and guides provide limited information, the overall experience is rated 4.9 out of 5.
Prices start from £179.28 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: 1 Day Li River Cruise From Guilin to Yangshuo With Private Guide & Driver Review
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Guilin: Kayaking Adventure With Local Guide
While the Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers sweeping panoramic views, adventurous travelers can experience Guilin’s stunning landscapes from a different vantage point – by kayak.
The 5-hour “Guilin: Kayaking Adventure with Local Guide” takes participants on a 2-hour paddling journey through the serene Li River.
Priced at $5,025 per person, the tour starts at the Wanda Plaza and includes transportation to the undeveloped kayaking spot. Experienced guides provide safety briefings and basic paddling instructions before leading the group through calm and rough waters.
Travelers can expect to see the river’s picturesque surroundings from a unique perspective while enjoying a delicious lunch after the adventure.
With a cancellation policy allowing free refunds up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour offers flexibility.
Reviews praise the guides’ professionalism and attention to detail, making it a memorable experience for adventurous visitors to Guilin.
Read our full review: Guilin: Kayaking Adventure With Local Guide Review
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Full-Day Guilin Highlights Guided Tour by English-Speaking Driver
The Full-Day Guilin Highlights Guided Tour by English-Speaking Driver offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions. This 7-hour tour includes a Chinese lunch, air-conditioned transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all entrance fees, except for a few specific attractions.
Highlights include the Reed Flute Cave, known for its illuminated stalactites and stalagmites, and the Elephant Trunk Hill, a limestone formation resembling an elephant drinking from the River Li. Guests will also visit Fubo Hill, featuring ancient Buddha carvings and panoramic views, and the expansive Seven Star Park with its wooded hills and waterways.
Throughout the tour, an English-speaking guide provides insightful commentary. With positive reviews and a 4.9/5 rating, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Guilin’s natural wonders and cultural sites.
The tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience, and operates in all weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for travelers.
Read our full review: Full-Day Guilin Highlights Guided Tour by English-Speaking Driver Review
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1-Day Longsheng Rice Terrace Tour From Guilin With Private Guide & Driver
Exploring the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces from Guilin is a must-do for visitors seeking an immersive cultural experience. This private 1-day tour showcases the stunning scenery and indigenous cultures of this remarkable region.
Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you’ll ascend the mountain to the Longji Rice Terraces, where you can capture fantastic photos of the scenic landscape. As you walk around the terraces, you’ll admire the intricate system of rice farming that has been practiced by the Zhuang people for centuries.
The tour also includes a visit to a local village, where you’ll learn about the traditions and way of life of this indigenous community.
With private transportation, hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, and all entrance fees covered, this tour offers a seamless and personalized experience.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, this Longsheng Rice Terrace tour is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Guilin at their own pace.
Read our full review: 1-Day Longsheng Rice Terrace Tour From Guilin With Private Guide & Driver Review
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Guilin Tour Guide Service
Guilin Tour Guide Service offers a private guide service in the Guilin region of China. Operated by 桂林传美旅游服务有限公司, the service is priced at $80.00 per group of up to 15 people.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, this tour guide service is highly rated. Pickup is available in Guilin city and Yangshuo County, and the guide can meet clients in their hotel lobby within the downtown area.
The start time is confirmed with the local provider in advance. The service includes transfer costs, attraction tickets, and lunch fees.
It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, and located near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps.
Operating hours are from 12/22/2023 to 12/11/2025, Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 8 PM. Availability should be checked before booking.
Read our full review: Guilin Tour Guide Service Review
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The Sum Up
Guilin offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty. From cruising down the Li River to hiking through the Longsheng Rice Terraces, these tours provide knowledgeable guides and convenient transportation, making it easy for travelers to make the most of their time in Guilin. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or sightseeing, there’s a guided tour to suit your interests.