Exploring China’s iconic landmarks has never been easier. This comprehensive tour allows visitors to experience the breathtaking Mutianyu Great Wall in the tranquility of the morning, with customized walking and hiking options to suit any fitness level. After a rejuvenating local lunch, guests can dive into the rich history of the Forbidden City through a self-guided afternoon tour. With private transportation, pre-arranged tickets, and an expert guide, this seamless experience ensures a stress-free immersion in China’s architectural marvels. What’s more, the tour’s thoughtful inclusions and accessibility considerations make it an appealing choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable day.

Good To Know

  • This comprehensive tour combines a morning visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall and an afternoon self-guided exploration of the Forbidden City.
  • Mutianyu Wall offers three itinerary options, catering to different fitness levels, with chair lift and Toboggan ride options.
  • The self-guided Forbidden City tour allows for a more leisurely experience to learn about the dynastic history and architecture.
  • Private transportation, entrance tickets, and an English-speaking guide for the morning session are included in the tour price.
  • Flexible cancellation policy and positive customer reviews highlight the overall quality and value of this Beijing sightseeing experience.

Tour Overview

Mutianyu Wall Morning Tour & Forbidden City SelfGuided Afternoon - Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive experience, combining a morning visit to the majestic Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China with a self-guided afternoon tour of the iconic Forbidden City in Beijing.

Priced from $139 per person, it’s a popular choice with a 5.0 rating from 5 reviews. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it provides flexibility.

The itinerary includes private transportation, entrance tickets, and options for cable car, lift chair, and toboggan rides at the Great Wall.

Whether you choose a shorter walk or a longer hike, this tour promises an unforgettable blend of China’s most renowned landmarks.

Itinerary Details

Departing from the hotel at 7:30 am, the tour begins with private transport to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a 90-minute drive from Beijing.

Visitors have three itinerary options:

  • Option A offers a 30-60 minute walk along the 6th-8th Watch Tower, with a chair lift up and Toboggan down.

  • Option B provides a 6 km hike from the 14th to 6th Watch Tower, with a cable car up and Toboggan down.

  • Option C features a 12 km hike from the 4th to 23rd Watch Tower, with a one-hour lunch near the Wall.

In the afternoon, guests enjoy a self-guided tour of the less crowded Forbidden City.

Morning Tour Options

Visitors to the Mutianyu Wall tour are presented with three distinct morning itinerary options to choose from.

The first option offers a 30-60 minute walk along the 6th-8th Watch Tower, with a chair lift up the wall and a thrilling Toboggan ride back down.

The second option features a more challenging 6 km hike from the 14th to 6th Watch Tower, followed by a cable car ascent and Toboggan descent.

The third and most extensive option is a 12 km hike from the 4th to 23rd Watch Tower, with a one-hour lunch break near the wall, featuring local Hala cuisine, sandwiches, or vegetarian fare.

Afternoon Tour

After the morning excursion along the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall, visitors can embark on a self-guided tour of the Forbidden City in the afternoon.

This less crowded visit allows travelers to explore the expansive palace complex at their own pace. With the pre-arranged entrance ticket, guests can wander through the imperial halls and courtyards, marveling at the stunning architecture and learning about China’s dynastic history.

The afternoon timing ensures a more relaxed experience compared to the busy mornings. Upon completion of the self-guided tour, participants can return to their hotel independently, capping off a comprehensive day of discovering Beijing’s renowned landmarks.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package includes an experienced English-speaking guide to accompany visitors during the morning excursion to the Mutianyu Great Wall.

Private air-conditioned transportation with bottled drinking water is provided for the 90-minute drive from the hotel to the Mutianyu section.

Admission tickets for both the Great Wall and Forbidden City are included.

Visitors can choose from three hiking options at the Wall, with the option to take cable cars, chair lifts, or toboggans at an additional cost of 140 RMB per person.

A Chinese lunch near the Wall can also be arranged at the visitor’s own expense.

Accessibility Considerations

According to the information provided, this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

However, it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions, as the hike on the Mutianyu Great Wall can be strenuous.

Despite these limitations, most travelers can participate in the experience.

The tour offers various options, from a short 30-60 minute walk to a 12 km hike, allowing visitors to choose the level of difficulty that best suits their abilities.

Customer Feedback

The Mutianyu Wall Tour and Forbidden City experience has received overwhelmingly positive customer feedback. Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s quality and the guide’s expertise and friendliness.

The tour has a 5.0 rating from 5 reviews, with customers highlighting the following key aspects:

  • Fantastic experience with the knowledgeable and informative guide
  • Well-organized itinerary that provided a great overview of the sites
  • Seamless transportation and logistics, making the day easy and enjoyable
  • Excellent value for the price, delivering an unforgettable Beijing adventure

These glowing reviews underscore the tour’s ability to provide a memorable and enriching experience for visitors to Beijing’s iconic landmarks.

Planning Your Visit

Planning a seamless visit to the Mutianyu Wall and Forbidden City begins with considering the available tour options.

Travelers can choose from three itinerary options at the Mutianyu Wall, ranging from a leisurely 30-60 minute walk to a challenging 12 km hike. Each option offers unique experiences, such as taking a chair lift up the Wall or riding the Toboggan down.

In the afternoon, visitors can explore the Forbidden City at their own pace with a pre-arranged entrance ticket. The tour also provides round-trip transportation and an English-speaking guide for the Wall portion, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

With these flexible choices, visitors can tailor the day to their interests and fitness levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many People Typically Attend the Tour?

The tour group size typically ranges from small private groups to larger groups, with the exact number depending on factors like popularity and customer demand. The tour can accommodate a variety of group sizes.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, and bring layers as the weather on the Great Wall can be unpredictable.

Are Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or students, but it’s worth checking with the tour operator directly. Discounts are sometimes available for certain groups, so it’s best to inquire about any special pricing.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Forbidden City After the Tour?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay at the Forbidden City after the self-guided tour. However, they’ll need to make their own way back to their hotel at the end of their additional time there.

Is There an Option to Add a Visit to the Summer Palace?

While the tour does not include a visit to the Summer Palace, you can easily visit it on your own after the Forbidden City self-guided tour. Many travelers enjoy adding this extension to their Beijing experience.

Sum Up

This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Forbidden City in a seamless and customizable way. With private transportation, an experienced guide, and pre-arranged tickets, visitors can tailor their morning hike and enjoy a self-guided afternoon exploring two of China’s most iconic landmarks. The inclusion of local cuisine enhances the immersive cultural experience, making this tour a well-rounded and efficient way to discover these remarkable sites.