China8 days
Guangdong by Bike: Hong Kong to Yangshuo — 8 Days
A cycle route through rural Guangdong and Guangxi provinces, ending in the Yangshuo region.
This eight-day cycling journey traces a path inland from Hong Kong through the agricultural and river valleys of southern China. The route begins with a ferry crossing to Gaoming, then progresses north and west across rural terrain toward the karst landscape near Yangshuo. Days two through five build distance progressively—80, 72, 60, and 65 kilometers respectively—through towns and farmland where few international cyclists appear. The final three days center on Yangshuo, a town known for its distinctive peaked hills and the Li River's cormorant fishing tradition. A support vehicle accompanies the group throughout, carrying luggage and offering rest stops. The itinerary assumes a moderate fitness level and provides structured rest days to wander by local transport or on foot.
Highlights
- 45-kilometer inaugural ride from Gaoming ferry terminal through rural Guangdong to Zhaoqing
- Star Lake Park in Zhaoqing, a morning cycling destination adjacent to accommodation
- 80-kilometer route along the West River toward Guangxi Province, passing through Wuzhou
- Mengshan, a small Guangxi town infrequently visited by international cyclists
- Two-day stay in Yangshuo with 40- and 60-kilometer cycling options through karst valleys and Moon Gate Hill
- One-hour Li River boat ride to observe traditional cormorant fishing at dusk
- 27-speed mountain bike provided with helmet and daily water supplies
Day by day
1Hong Kong Ferry to Zhaoqing — 45 KilometersHong Kong Ferry Terminal · Gaoming · Song Tao Hotel · Gaoming to Zhaoqing
The tour begins at Hong Kong Ferry Terminal with a first-class catamaran crossing to Gaoming on the Chinese mainland. Upon arrival, a tour leader and support team distribute helmets and 27-speed mountain bikes fitted with racks and bar extenders. A group briefing covers route safety before the first ride commences: 45 kilometers through rural countryside to Zhaoqing. The pace is deliberate, with water stops provided by the support vehicle. Accommodation is the Song Tao Hotel, a three-star property overlooking Zhaoqing Lake. A welcome dinner concludes the day.
2Zhaoqing to Deqing — 80 KilometersZhaoqing to Deqing · Star Lake Park · Argos Hotel
The day opens with a morning visit to Star Lake Park, located adjacent to the hotel and accessible by bicycle. After returning, the main ride of 80 kilometers follows through rural Guangdong toward Deqing to the northwest. The support vehicle travels alongside, resupplying water and offering rest. Arrival in Deqing concludes the longest single day of the tour. The Argos Hotel, a four-star property in the town center, provides accommodation for the night.
3Deqing to Wuzhou Along the West River — 72 KilometersWuzhou · West River · Wufeng Hotel
Today's 72-kilometer route follows the West River westward, crossing from Guangdong Province into Guangxi Province. The terrain remains predominantly rural and agricultural. Wuzhou, the day's destination, sits at the river's confluence and is historically known for its snake trade. The Wufeng Hotel, a four-star central property, provides overnight accommodation.
4Wuzhou to Mengshan — 60 KilometersWuzhou to Mengshan · Mengshan
A 60-kilometer ride carries the group further inland to Mengshan, a small town in the Guangxi outback where foreign visitors are uncommon. The route passes through quieter rural areas, offering a less-traveled alternative to typical tourist corridors. Accommodation is in a locally oriented hotel. The day remains focused on cycling distance with support vehicle backup.
5Mengshan to Yangshuo — 65 KilometersMengshan to Yangshuo · Yangshuo New West Street Hotel
The 65-kilometer ride to Yangshuo marks a transition into the limestone karst region characteristic of this region. Yangshuo's distinctive peaked hills begin to dominate the landscape. The Yangshuo New West Street Hotel, a four-star central property, provides accommodation. This is the final transfer day; the last three days center on Yangshuo itself.
6Yangshuo: River Boat and Local CyclingLi River · Yangshuo's valleys and lower hills · Moon Gate Hill
Today splits between motorized and pedaled exploration. An hour-long boat ride on the Li River provides views of the karst hills and the opportunity to observe cormorant fishermen at work in the evening light—a traditional practice still maintained for tourists and local practice. The afternoon offers time to cycle 40 kilometers on quieter roads around Yangshuo's valleys and lower hills. Moon Gate Hill, a distinctive rock formation accessible by foot or bike, features dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. Return to the hotel for dinner.
7Yangshuo Valley Cycling — 60 Kilometers to JinbaoYangshuo Valley
A morning ride of 60 kilometers heads toward Jinbao, a smaller settlement in the surrounding valley system. The afternoon remains unscheduled, allowing independent exploration by bicycle or on foot through the distinctive terrain. Many cyclists use this time to revisit favorite sections or venture onto quieter side routes not covered on earlier days.
8Yangshuo DepartureYangshuo · Shenzhen
The tour concludes after breakfast. Participants may opt to join other short cycling trips offered by the operator or arrange onward travel. For those returning to Hong Kong to catch international flights, a high-speed train connection to Shenzhen is available for border crossing.
Where you go
- 1Li River
- 2Yangshuo
Included
- Services
- Accommodation: Hotels（7 nights）
- Transport: Catamaran ferry boat Hong Kong/Gaoming and private van
- Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 1 Dinner
- Guide: Tour leader throughout
- Included activities:
- Zhaoqing: Star Lake Park
- Yangshuo: boat ride and Moon Hill Park
- Bike ride Day 2 – Day 7
- Included gear:
- 27 speed mountain bike and bike helmet.
- E-bike is available for an extra charge of @US$150.00
- Support vehicle for passengers and luggage
- Drinking water in 19 liter jar is provided daily
Not included
- Excluded:
- International flight
- Expenses of personal nature
- Gratuity
- Things not expressly mentioned inclusive above