12-Day Classic Silk Road Tour in China

Today’s tour focuses on Islamic heritage in Xi’an. The Xi’an Great Mosque is the main highlight, where our guide will explain its history and help guests understand how Islam has been practiced in China for over 1,000 years.
The Muslim Quarter visit is included, but walking can be moderate to heavy depending on crowd conditions. Our guide will adjust the pace and arrange resting stops as needed.
Then, guests will visit Bell Tower and Drum Tower for historical context. Throughout the day, the guide helps with halal food selection and can recommend quieter local halal restaurants away from tourist crowds if preferred.

Today includes a private vehicle transfer to the Terracotta Warriors. Walking inside the museum area is moderate and mostly flat, but involves standing time. Our guide provides seating breaks and avoids peak congestion areas when possible.
In the afternoon, guests visit the Ancient City Wall. Optional activities include cycling on the wall (not mandatory and can be skipped). For guests who prefer less walking, our team can arrange a relaxed café break near the wall instead.

Travel by high-speed train from Xi’an to Lanzhou (6–7 hours). Our local guide helps with luggage handling at both stations, which is especially useful for international travelers.
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel by private vehicle. In the evening, you may take a short optional walk in the Nanguan Muslim district, where halal food is widely available and the local Muslim community is active. The guide will assist in choosing clean, trusted halal restaurants.

Today focuses on Lanzhou’s Islamic culture. Visits include Nanguan Grand Mosque and West Mosque. Walking inside mosque areas is light to moderate and includes shaded resting points. Our guide will explain local Islamic traditions and can help you arrange prayer time breaks if needed.
In the afternoon, visit Zhongshan Bridge and the Yellow River waterfront. Walking along the river is optional and can be shortened depending on guest preference. Private vehicle is available throughout the day for flexibility.

Take a morning high-speed train to Zhangye (about 3.5 hours). Our team assists with station transfer and baggage handling.
Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. The rest of the day is free. Zhangye is at higher altitude than previous cities, so guests are advised to rest and hydrate. Optional light walking near the hotel can be arranged, but no major sightseeing is scheduled to allow recovery.

After breakfast, you'll visit Zhangye Danxia National Park by private vehicle. Inside the park, there is moderate walking with shuttle bus transfers between viewing platforms. Our guide will minimize unnecessary walking and ensure shade and rest stops are available. For guests who prefer less walking, electric carts can be arranged where available. Optional photography-focused stops are included for sunrise or sunset depending on weather conditions.

Travel by high-speed train to Jiayuguan (1.5–2 hours). After arrival, visit Jiayuguan Fortress. Walking here is moderate, mostly flat but open to sun exposure. Our guide will provide sun protection advice and adjust timing for comfort. Optional activity: light camel-themed desert photo stop can be arranged outside peak hours for guests interested in Silk Road imagery. The rest of the day is relaxed.

Travel to Dunhuang by train or private transfer (3–4 hours). Our team helps with luggage and station coordination.
Upon arrival, check-in and rest. Dunhuang is more spread out than previous cities, so private transport is essential for comfort.
In the evening, optional short walk in Dunhuang city center can be arranged, and rest is also recommended due to travel time.

Visit the Mogao Caves (advance reservation required). Walking inside the site is moderate, with some stairs and guided group movement. Our guide ensures pacing is comfortable and provides historical explanations in a calm, structured way.
In the afternoon, visit Crescent Lake and sand dunes. Walking on sand can be physically demanding, so camel ride or electric shuttle is recommended as an optional alternative. Guests who prefer not to walk on dunes can stay in shaded viewing areas.

Today is flexible with optional activities. Choices include desert sunrise experience, local market visit, or cultural museum visit. All activities are optional and can be adjusted depending on energy level. Our local guide remains available for support, restaurant recommendations, and transport arrangements. Guests can also choose a full rest day at the hotel if preferred, especially after desert activities.