Silk Road 10-Day Adventure

Tour Overview

Trace the ancient Silk Road through China’s vast northwestern frontier on this epic 10-day adventure. From the terracotta guardians of Xian to the Buddhist cave temples of Dunhuang, journey through landscapes that witnessed centuries of cultural exchange between East and West. Experience the raw beauty of the Gobi Desert, stand at the western end of the Great Wall, and marvel at the surreal Rainbow Mountains of Zhangye.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Xian

Welcome to Xian, the ancient starting point of the Silk Road and capital of thirteen dynasties. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel near the ancient city wall. Evening orientation walk through the Muslim Quarter, sampling local delicacies like lamb skewers and roujiamo (Chinese hamburger).

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Xian

Day 2: Terracotta Warriors - Xian City Wall

Full day exploring Xian’s highlights. Morning visit the Terracotta Warriors Museum, where over 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers have guarded Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s tomb for over 2,200 years. Witness the ongoing excavation and learn about this archaeological wonder.

Afternoon return to the city for a bicycle ride or walk atop the magnificently preserved Ming Dynasty city wall, offering panoramic views of old and new Xian.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Shaanxi cuisine)

Day 3: Xian - Zhangye (Flight)

Morning flight to Zhangye in Gansu Province. Afternoon visit the Giant Buddha Temple, housing China’s largest indoor reclining Buddha at 34 meters long. Explore the old town and visit local markets.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel)

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Zhangye

Day 4: Zhangye Rainbow Mountains

Full day at the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, home to the famous Rainbow Mountains. These surreal striped rock formations display brilliant bands of red, orange, yellow, and green, created by millions of years of mineral deposits and erosion.

Visit multiple viewing platforms to witness the mountains change color as the sun moves across the sky. Sunrise and sunset offer the most spectacular photography opportunities.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (local restaurant)

Day 5: Zhangye - Jiayuguan

Drive to Jiayuguan (approximately 3 hours), passing through the Hexi Corridor, the narrow passage that funneled Silk Road caravans between mountains and desert. Afternoon visit Jiayuguan Fort, the western terminus of the Ming Great Wall, known as the “First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven.”

Explore the fortress complex including the inner city, outer city, and moat. Climb the watchtowers for views across the Gobi Desert toward the snow-capped Qilian Mountains.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (local cuisine)

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Jiayuguan

Day 6: Jiayuguan - Dunhuang

Morning visit the Overhanging Great Wall, a dramatic section climbing steeply up a mountain ridge. Then drive to Dunhuang (approximately 5 hours), an oasis town that served as a crucial Silk Road crossroads.

Evening free to explore Dunhuang’s night market, famous for its donkey meat yellow noodles and apricot products.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (en route)

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Dunhuang

Day 7: Mogao Caves

Full day at the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s greatest repositories of Buddhist art. These 492 caves contain over 2,000 painted sculptures and 45,000 square meters of murals spanning 1,000 years of artistic achievement.

Visit the Dunhuang Research Academy’s digital exhibition center before entering selected caves with your expert guide. Learn about the international efforts to preserve these irreplaceable treasures.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (local restaurant)

Day 8: Singing Sand Dunes - Crescent Moon Spring

Morning at leisure. Afternoon visit the Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes) and Crescent Moon Spring, a desert oasis that has miraculously survived for over 2,000 years. Ride a camel caravan into the dunes, experiencing the desert as ancient Silk Road travelers did.

Climb to the top of the dunes for sunset views and listen for the mysterious singing sound the sands make when the wind blows. Optional activities include sandboarding and paragliding.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel)

Day 9: Dunhuang - Xian (Flight)

Morning visit the Dunhuang Museum for deeper context on Silk Road history and the region’s multicultural heritage. See artifacts from the caves and learn about the famous Library Cave discovery.

Afternoon flight back to Xian. Evening farewell dinner featuring Tang Dynasty-style cuisine and optional Tang Dynasty music and dance show.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Dinner (Tang Dynasty banquet)

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Xian

Day 10: Depart Xian

Transfer to Xian Xianyang International Airport for your departure flight. End of an unforgettable Silk Road journey.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel)

Travel Tips

• The Silk Road region has extreme temperature variations; bring layers
• Mogao Caves limit daily visitors; advance booking essential
• High altitude at some locations (2,000-3,000m); stay hydrated
• Best photography at Rainbow Mountains during golden hour
• Camel riding is suitable for all fitness levels
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for desert excursions
• Some long driving days; bring entertainment and snacks
• Respect photography restrictions inside the Mogao Caves