Silk Road Explorer
Silk Road Explorer
Silk Road Explorer
27 Days
Visiting: Xian, Lanzhou, Xiahe, Labrang Monastery, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, Mogao Grottoes, Turpan, Kashgar, Urumqi, Ürümqi, The Great Wall, Beijing
Tour operator:
Tour code:
427
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 28
Age range:
12-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Follow in the footsteps of intrepid adventurers by journeying along one of the world's most famous trading routes, the Silk Road. Beginning in ancient Xian, venture across this vast land to reach the fascinating outpost of Kashgar.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly Overnight To Xian
Location: Xian
Meals Included: Dinner
Fly overnight to Xian, the ancient former capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 3: Terracotta Warriors
Location: Xian
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Gaze over the ranks of warriors and horses, each one unique, whilst your guide introduces you to these life-like soldiers' fascinating story. Later, enjoy a gentle cycle ride that will take you the nine miles around the ancient city wall and take a walking tour of the narrow and winding streets of the Muslim Quarter. Tonight, enjoy a traditional dumpling dinner and take an optional 'Xian by night' tour.
Day 4: Train To Lanzhou
Location: Lanzhou
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start the day with a visit to Xian Museum and the Little Wild Goose Pagoda. Later, board the bullet train to Lanzhou.
Day 5 - 6 : Days 5-6: Explore Lanzhou
Location: Lanzhou
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin today with a leisurely walk along the Yellow River and then head to the hilltop Baita Temple for a moment of tranquillity. Along the river and in Baita Park you can see locals practising Tai Chi. Later, tuck into some delicious Lanzhou-style noodles made with hand stretched dough. The next day, cross Liujiaxia Lake by speed boat and head into the green hills around Liujiaxia to explore the extraordinary Thousand Buddha Caves of Bingling Temple and their wealth of Buddhist murals, statues and sculptures. Also visit the statue of Maitreya.
Day 7: Tibetan Xiahe
Location: Xiahe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Conquer the scenic Jishi Mountain Pass to arrive at Tibetan Xiahe and spend time acclimatising to the altitude.
Day 8: Labrang Monastery
Location: Labrang Monastery
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Giving a taste of the mysteries of Tibet, Labrang Monastery is a fascinating maze of prayer wheels, chapels and chortens. Dine on traditional Tibetan food for lunch, including Tibetan dumplings, known as momos.
Day 9: Travel To Zhangye
Location: Zhangye
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Lanzhou and take the speedy bullet train to Zhangye, once an important commercial town along the Silk Road.
Day 10: Rainbow Mountains
Location: Zhangye
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rise early this morning to witness the sunrise over the kaleidoscopic mountains in Danxia National Park. Return to Zhangye and visit the Giant Buddha Temple before boarding your bullet train to Jiayuguan.
Day 11: Great Wall At Jiayuguan
Location: Jiayuguan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Seen as China's western gateway, Jiayuguan is the perfect place to get to grips with your Silk Road history. Visit the Jiayu Fortress and take a walk on the western extremes of the magnificent Great Wall for panoramic views over the starkly beautiful Gobi Desert.
Day 12: City Of Sands
Location: Dunhuang
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Dunhuang. Located on a major trade and cultural crossroads, Dunhuang, known as the 'City of the Sands', sits in a verdant oasis on the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. Visit the Shazhou Night Market where you can wander amongst the stalls.
Day 13: Mogao Grottoes
Location: Mogao Grottoes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A system of temples and sanctuaries, visit the Mogao Grottoes that exhibit wonderful examples of Buddhist paintings and statues that span thousands of years.
Day 14: Singing Sand Dunes
Location: Dunhuang
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit Crescent Moon Spring, nestled amongst rolling dunes and the famous Singing Sand Dunes, a phenomenon produced by the wind blowing through grains of sand.
Day 15: Turpan
Location: Turpan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take the bullet train to Turpan, a lush green oasis set in a barren landscape. An easy-going town famed for its grapes, its pleasant streets are lined with lush vine trellises.
Day 16 - 17 : Days 16-17: Explore Turpan
Location: Turpan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit the ruins of ancient Jiaohe and see the elegant Emin Minaret, the tallest in China. The next day, learn about the fascinating 2000-year-old Kerez irrigation canals and drive to Kurla.
Day 18-20: The Silk Road
Location: Kashgar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Over the next three days travel along the original Silk Road through the Xinjiang Region, viewing ruins and sights largely unvisited by tourists. Start with a visit to see the ruins of Subashi, before arriving in Kuqa to see the Kyzil Thousand Buddha Caves. Continue travelling to Aksu, and on to the fabled city of Kashgar.
Day 21: Explore Kashgar
Location: Kashgar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Its skyline punctured by minarets, Kashgar feels a million miles from China – in fact, it feels a million miles from anywhere! Although now a modern city, the sights and sounds of Kashgar's bazaar have remained unchanged for millennia. Sightseeing today includes a visit to Abakh Hoja Tomb, Id Kah Mosque and a stroll through the narrow atmospheric alleyways around Id Kah Square.
Day 22: Kashgar Sunday Bazzar
Location: Kashgar
Dive headlong into Central Asia's largest bazaar. Within this riot of textures, vivid colours and traditional dress, you can browse hundreds of stalls selling anything from spices and carpets to boots and blenders. Later, fly to Urumqi.
Day 23 - 24 : Days 23-24: Heavenly Lake To Urumqi
Location: Urumqi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Escape to the tranquillity of Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), formed in a crater. Pay a visit to a Kazakh minority family in their yurt and spend some time with them, learning their way of life. Tonight, enjoy local Uyghur lamb skewers for dinner. The following day, make a short visit to the Xinjiang Museum before flying to Beijing, China’s historic capital.
Day 25: The Great Wall
Location: The Great Wall
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight – the Great Wall. In the afternoon, enjoy the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace as you wander through traditional Chinese gardens and see the exquisite architecture.
Day 26: Imperial Beijing
Location: Beijing
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square and into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City where you will find a complex full of imperial treasures. Soak up the ambience of the Temple of Heaven before visiting Yandaixiejie, where you will have some free time to wander the hutongs. This evening, dine on Peking duck and enjoy a Chinese acrobatic show.
Day 27: Fly Beijing To Uk
Location: Beijing
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.
What's Included
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Accommodation
3* plus - 4* accommodation -
Meals
25 Breakfasts, 24 Lunches & 25 Dinners -
4* accommodation
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Domestic transportation
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Touring with guides and entrance fees
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Most meals
What's Not Included
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Travel seamlessly with all domestic transportation included, featuring internal flights and bullet train journeys for a smooth and efficient travel experience.
Accommodation
Dajing Castle Hotel
Formerly known as Grand Park, the Dajing Castle hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Xi'an's Beilin district. Blending traditional and contemporary elements, the guestrooms boast comfortable interiors that exude style and elegance. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a minibar, and a safety deposit box. The ensuite bathroom is well-appointed with bathrobes and slippers for added convenience. The hotel features Wi-Fi, a fitness center, sauna, massage service, buffet breakfast and atrium bar.
Changxin International Hotel
Located in the centre of Huzhou City, Changxing International Hotel Lanzhou offers cosy rooms with air conditioning, safety deposit box, minibar and satellite television. It features an indoor swimming pool, along with a spa and gym, as well as two restaurants offering Chinese and Western cuisine.
Xiahe Labuleng Civil Aviation Hotel
Centrally located opposite the main square, the 3-star Labuleng Civil Aviation Hotel offers traditional and comfortable accommodation. Each room features complimentary Wi-Fi along with air-conditioning, a TV and private bathroom. The hotel’s restaurant offers guests a Chinese style buffet breakfast to enjoy.
Diamond International Hotel
Positioned 5km from the Zhangye West Railway Station, the Diamond International Hotel offers 4-star modern accommodation with great transport links. It is conveniently situated for exploring the city and natural beauty of the surrounding areas as well as uncovering the history of the Silk Road. Hotel amenities include a gym, restaurant and room service, with each room being well-equipped with a TV and Wi-Fi.
ChenFeng Grand Hotel
Perfectly located just a short drive from the Jiayuguan Pass, the 4-star ChenFeng Grand Hotel is an ideal option providing guests with comfortable accommodation. Opening in 2020, each of the 130 bright and airy rooms offer a fresh and contemporary feel, and feature a flat-screen TV, while the hotel restaurant provides a great buffet breakfast serving Western and Chinese options.
Dunhuang Shazhou Jinghua Hotel
Having recently opened in 2023, the 4-star Dunhuang Shazhou Jinghua Hotel offers a comfortable stay, located within easy reach of the key attractions. The rooms are tastefully appointed, boasting an elegant and modern décor with Wi-Fi, a TV and tea and coffee making facilities. The spacious private bathroom features a walk-in shower and comes well-equipped with a toothbrush and toiletries for your convenience.
Mercure Hotel Turpan Downton
Set in the heart of Turpan, the 4-star Mercure Hotel Turpan Downtown offers a stylish place to stay. The rooms are elegant and spacious, and come well-appointed with Wi-Fi, a refrigerator and flat-screen TV, as well as a sleek and contemporary en-suite. There is a buffet restaurant offering a Chinese and Western breakfast, along with the expansive yet inviting lobby bar with its welcoming atmosphere.
Pear City Garden Hotel
Situated on the Peacock river front, and just a short drive from the airport, the 4-star Pear City Garden Hotel is well located for uncovering the delights of Bayingol. The hotels modern architecture blends seamlessly with the warm interiors that also draw on some classical local influences. There is a Western and Chinese buffet breakfast on offer, and the hotels café and teahouse make for a relaxing spot to unwind. Enjoy the in-room facilities on offer including Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and flat-screen TV.
Ku Che Hotel
The 4-star clean and modern Ku Che Hotel is located close by to the local sights, including the Old City of Kuche. Each room is well-appointed with free Wi-Fi and air- conditioning, while the large windows ensure the rooms feel bright and airy. Other hotel facilities include a fitness rooms and restaurant serving Chinese cuisine.
Minghua Hotel
A short distance from the main sights and landscapes of Aksu, the 4-star Minghua Hotel offers guests a comfortable stay with a wide inclusion of amenities. Each room is bright and airy with large and windows and is equipped with Wi-Fi, cable TV, air-conditioning and black out curtains for your convenience. The well-appointed en-suite provides slippers and bathrobes for added comfort.
Qinibagh Hotel
Positioned a short walk from the Kashgar Old City, the 3-star Qinibagh Hotel offers guests a clean stay. Although the interior isn't grand, each room is decorated in traditional Chinese style with a TV, twin beds and bathroom.
Oasis Grand Hotel
The 4-star clean and comfortable Oasis Grand Hotel is located in the city centre and offers views of the Red Mountain. The hotel features a sauna, fitness facilities and tea room, with the rooms offering a minibar, refrigerator and Wi-Fi for your convenience.
Mercure Beijing Downtown
The 4-star Mercure Beijing Downtown is very well connected across the city, with easy access to the city centre and multiple transport links. The elegant and spacious guest rooms offer free internet access and satellite TV. Along with room service, other in room amenities such as a refrigerator and tea and coffee making facilities are provided.
Experiences
Tibetan Lunch
Sample Tibetan foods and flavours with a traditional Tibetan lunch, featuring 'momos', the tasty steamed and stuffed dumpling whose popularity has spread from the Tibetan Plateau throughout Asia.
Visit a Traditional Nomadic Yurt
Visit a traditional, nomadic home of a family of the Kazakh minority community, and spend some time with them, learning about their culture, and get a glimpse of life living in a yurt.
Shazhou Night Market
Wander amongst the packed stalls of the atmospheric Shazhou Night Market in the Silk Road frontier city of Dunhuang, browsing delicious foods, fascinating local wares and a wealth of souvenirs.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of meals are included in the Silk Road Explorer tour?
The tour includes full board meals with 24 breakfasts, 23 lunches, and 24 dinners.
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Are international flights included in the Silk Road Explorer tour package?
Yes, international flights and current taxes are included in the tour package.
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Is the Silk Road Explorer tour fully guided?
Yes, the tour is fully guided, including touring with guides and entrance fees.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the Silk Road Explorer tour?
The tour provides accommodation for 25 nights in 4-star hotels.
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Are airport transfers included in the Silk Road Explorer tour?
Yes, airport transfers at the destination are included in the tour.
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Does the Silk Road Explorer tour include any domestic transportation?
Yes, all domestic transportation, including internal flights, is included in the tour.
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Are country entry visas included in the Silk Road Explorer tour package?
Yes, country entry visas are included in the tour package.
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What is the starting and ending point of the Silk Road Explorer tour?
The tour starts and ends in the UK.
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What are some of the key highlights of the Silk Road Explorer tour?
Key highlights include visiting the Terracotta Warriors, the Singing Sand Dunes, the Mogao Grottoes, the Flaming Mountains, and exploring Kashgar's history.
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Is tipping and gratuities included in the Silk Road Explorer tour?
No, tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.
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Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?
Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.
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What is 'Happy to Share'?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.
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Do you allow children on your tours?
We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.
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Low Deposit
Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.