Discover Northern Xinjiang: Urumqi – Yining

After breakfast, you’ll set off on an unforgettable road trip along the S21 Desert Highway, covering nearly 700 km over approximately 7 hours. As you journey through this surreal and ever-changing landscape, sweeping sand dunes unfold on both sides—some gently rolling like waves, others rising sharply like golden mountains against the endless sky.

To your left, catch glimpses of Ulungu Lake, its shimmering waters contrasting beautifully with the desert surroundings. To your right, the mysterious Yadan landforms appear—wind-carved rock formations resembling a silent, ancient city, their dramatic shapes whispering stories of time and erosion.

In the evening, arrive in Burqin, a peaceful town near the Altay Mountains. Head to the Burqin Night Market, where colorful lights, sizzling street food, and local culture await. Try regional snacks like grilled lamb skewers and Burqin river fish, and soak in the warmth of Xinjiang hospitality.

After breakfast in Burqin, set off on a scenic 150 km journey to Kanas National Geopark, a gem of northern Xinjiang known for its pristine natural beauty. Along the drive, the landscape gradually shifts—vast grasslands give way to dense forests, winding rivers, and rolling hills, setting the stage for one of China’s most beautiful destinations.
Arrive at Kanas Lake, often called the “Pure Land of Humanity,” where the turquoise waters shimmer beneath towering mountains and alpine meadows. Stroll along the tranquil lake shores, with mirrored reflections of larch forests and distant snow-capped peaks—it’s a serene escape from the modern world.

Next, visit a nearby Tuva village, home to the Mongolian-speaking Tuva people. These semi-nomadic herders have preserved their unique traditions, wooden homes, and deep connection to the land for centuries. It’s a rare opportunity to glimpse a way of life shaped by harmony with nature.

In the afternoon, take a shuttle up to Guanyu Pavilion, the park’s best viewpoint. From here, you’ll enjoy a sweeping panorama of Kanas Lake and its surrounding wilderness—an unforgettable sight. Finally, continue to Jiadengyu for an overnight stay, where you can relax and reflect on a day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and culture.

After a hearty breakfast in Jiadengyu, begin your journey to Hemu Village, one of China’s most picturesque alpine villages. A short scenic bus ride takes you to this peaceful Tuva settlement, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, golden birch forests, and the gently flowing Hemu River. The village’s wooden cabins and natural charm make it feel like a storybook escape, where the traditions of the Tuva people live on in harmony with the land.

In the afternoon, travel to Five-Colored Beach, a surreal stretch of Yadan landforms along the Irtysh River. Here, vivid layers of red, yellow, green, and purple rocks create a dazzling contrast against the blue sky and water—perfect for photography and quiet admiration. This otherworldly landscape is especially breathtaking near sunset.

After this full day of nature and culture, return to Burqin for the night. Relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries beneath the starry Xinjiang sky.

After breakfast in Burqin, set out on an epic 480-kilometre journey to Urho Devil City, a hauntingly beautiful Yadan landform shaped by centuries of fierce desert winds. As you approach this remote wonder, surreal stone pillars, mesas, and ridges rise from the barren earth, forming a scene that resembles the ruins of an ancient, ghostly city. Known in folklore as “Dragon City,” its jagged silhouettes and eerie wind howls give it a truly mystical presence.

In the afternoon, continue your journey through Xinjiang’s remote desert landscapes en route to Kuitun. Though the road is long, the dramatic vistas—rolling dunes, rocky outcrops, and endless skies—make it a meditative experience.

By evening, arrive in Kuitun and check into your hotel. Enjoy a well-earned rest, reflecting on a day filled with natural marvels and the stark beauty of China’s wild northwest.

Today, embark on a scenic 550-kilometre (about 6-hour) drive to the breathtaking Sayram Lake, nestled in the western Tianshan Mountains. Often called the “last tear of the Atlantic Ocean,” this alpine lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, vast meadows, and crisp mountain air. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of grasslands dotted with grazing herds and wildflowers in bloom during the warmer months.

In the afternoon, continue on to Guozigou Bridge, a modern engineering marvel set amid a valley steeped in history. The bridge offers panoramic views of lush valleys and snow-dusted peaks—an unforgettable highlight of the Tianshan region.

As evening approaches, arrive in Yining, a culturally rich city near the Kazakh border. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening, reflecting on a day filled with natural beauty and peaceful discovery.

After breakfast, we set off on a picturesque 260-kilometre drive (about 3.5 hours) to the Nalati Sky Grassland, one of China’s most stunning alpine meadows. Nestled in the Tianshan Mountains, this lush expanse is often called “a paradise on the clouds.”
As we arrive, you’ll be welcomed by sweeping views of rolling green hills, snow-capped peaks, and endless sky. A scenic shuttle bus ride will take us deeper into the grassland, where herds of sheep and cattle roam freely, their white figures dotting the landscape like scattered cotton.
With the open sky above and soft prairie breeze all around, Nalati offers a unique sense of tranquility and freedom. Whether you choose to walk a while, simply sit and take in the scenery, or enjoy a horse ride (optional), this is a place to truly connect with nature.
After a soul-soothing day, we return to Yining in the evening, carrying with us the calm and beauty of the highland meadows.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic 500-kilometre drive (about 6.5 hours) to the Dushanzi Grand Canyon, one of Xinjiang’s most dramatic and lesser-known natural wonders. Formed over more than 100 million years, this incredible canyon was sculpted by the elements—wind, snowmelt, and rain—eroding layers of sediment into spectacular ridges and gorges. Take time to walk along the rim or venture to viewing platforms for panoramic vistas of this geological marvel, where the raw power of nature is beautifully on display.

In the afternoon, we begin our return journey to Kuitun, arriving in the evening. Enjoy a well-deserved rest at the hotel, reminiscing about the canyon’s awe-inspiring beauty and the silent story of millions of years etched into stone.

After breakfast, we begin our scenic 250 km (3–4 hour) drive back to Urumqi, taking in the ever-changing landscapes of Xinjiang one last time. Upon arrival, we’ll start at Red Hill Park, the highest point in the city. Enjoy panoramic views of Urumqi’s skyline set against a backdrop of distant mountains—a peaceful place for reflection and photos.

Following a local lunch, we’ll dive into the vibrant energy of the International Grand Bazaar, where sights, sounds, and spices fill the air. Browse handcrafted Uyghur goods, musical instruments, dried fruits, and colorful textiles—ideal for finding unique souvenirs.

In the afternoon, visit the Xinjiang Ecological Park, a harmonious blend of nature conservation and cultural learning. Stroll its scenic paths while gaining insight into the region’s environmental efforts and diverse ecosystem.

After a full and enriching day, return to your hotel in Urumqi for a restful evening. Tomorrow brings the end of your journey, but the memories will last a lifetime.

After an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures of Northern Xinjiang, enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport.
We hope this journey has left you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this remarkable region.