China3 days
Guilin & Yangshuo: Karst Peaks, River Cruises & Ancient Towns — 3 Days
Li River cruise and limestone geology from Guilin to Yangshuo, with cave exploration and countryside villages
Guilin sits at the heart of China's karst landscape — a geography of limestone peaks that rise abruptly from flat valleys, rice paddies, and water buffalo herds. This three-day route moves through three of the region's signature sites: the Reed Flute Cave, a cavern system shaped by underground water flows; the Li River itself, where a cruise carries you past the jagged formations; and Yangshuo, the town downstream that has served as a base for travelers to this area. Days are structured around private transfers and an English-speaking guide, with time for walking Yangshuo's old town and the surrounding countryside.
Highlights
- Reed Flute Cave — an underground cavern system with natural formations lit by colored lights
- Water Moon Cave at the confluence of the Li and Peach Blossom rivers, where water creates reflections resembling moonlight
- Elephant Trunk Hill — a distinct limestone formation resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River
- Li River cruise — four-hour boat journey through karst peaks, bamboo groves, and rice paddies between Guilin and Yangshuo
- Yangshuo Old Town — 1,400-year-old settlement with narrow streets, local markets, and views of surrounding limestone peaks
Day by day
1Arrival in Guilin & Cave ExplorationGuilin · Reed Flute Cave · Water Moon Cave · Elephant Trunk Hill
Arrive in Guilin by flight or train and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, visit the Reed Flute Cave, known locally as the Palace of Natural Arts. The cave system was formed by water flowing through limestone; its chambers contain natural formations lit by colored light. Continue to the Water Moon Cave, positioned at the confluence of the Li and Peach Blossom rivers, where water flows through the interior creating a reflection that resembles moonlight on water. Finish the day at Elephant Trunk Hill, a distinctive limestone outcrop on the Li River's banks that resembles an elephant in profile drinking from the water.
2Li River Cruise to YangshuoLi River · Yangshuo
A boat cruise down the Li River delivers you through karst limestone peaks, bamboo groves, and rice paddies to Yangshuo. This remote town, long known to intrepid travelers, sits set in the river valley. Spend the afternoon exploring its narrow streets and local markets, taking in the countryside that surrounds the settlement.
3Departure from GuilinGuilin airport or train station
Depart at your convenience and transfer to Guilin airport or train station for onward travel.
Where you go
- 1Li River
- 2Yangshuo
Included
- Included:
- 2 nights hotel accommodation based on twin share
- National English speaking guide throughout
- Private transfers as specified
- Sightseeing tours with entrance fee as specified
- 2 breakfasts & 2 lunches
Not included
- Do Not Include:
- International airfare
- Visa fee