8 Days North Xinjiang Tours

Day1 Arrive in Urumqi

Arrive in Urumqi, the vibrant capital of Xinjiang and an important gateway along the ancient Silk Road. After airport pickup,

check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may explore the local night market, taste Xinjiang specialties

such as lamb kebabs and hand-pulled noodles, or simply rest and prepare for the upcoming journey across northern Xinjiang.

Day2 Urumqi – S21 Desert Highway – Karamay Desert Park – General Mountain Sunset Music Party – Altay

After breakfast, begin your journey north along the spectacular S21 Desert Highway, crossing vast stretches of the Gurbantünggüt Desert. Enjoy endless views of golden sand dunes and dramatic desert landscapes. Continue to Karamaily Desert Park, home to unique desert ecosystems and wildlife. In the evening, head to General Mountain for a memorable sunset gathering, where music, breathtaking scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere create a magical experience. Arrive in Altay City in the evening and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.

Day3Altay – Hemu Scenic Area – Overnight in Hemu Village (within the scenic area)

Travel through the magnificent Altay Mountains to Hemu Village, one of China's most picturesque destinations. Nestled among forests, rivers, and rolling meadows, Hemu is home to the Tuva people and offers a glimpse into a traditional way of life. Wander through wooden cabins, admire grazing horses, and capture postcard-perfect views of the surrounding landscape. As the sun sets, the village becomes even more enchanting. Spend the night inside the scenic area, surrounded by nature and tranquility.

Day4Hemu – Kanas Scenic Area – Tuva Family Visit – Overnight in Kanas (within the scenic area)

Today you will enter the breathtaking Kanas Scenic Area, often described as one of the most beautiful places in China. Kanas Lake is famous for its changing

colors, pristine forests, and mysterious legends about the “lake monster.” Depending on the season, the lake may appear emerald green, deep blue, or

silver under the sunlight.You will also visit Kanas Village, home to the Tuva ethnic community. Traditional wooden cabins, smoke rising from chimneys,

grazing animals, and peaceful mountain surroundings create a fairy-tale atmosphere. This is an excellent place to experience the unique lifestyle and

culture of northern Xinjiang.

Day5Kanas – Explore Three Bays – Transfer to Karamay City

Drive to Hemu, one of the most picturesque villages in Xinjiang. Surrounded by birch forests, rivers, and snow-covered mountains, Hemu is often called

a “hidden paradise.” Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing 3-kilometer walk along the Hemu River. The gentle river, wooden bridges, grazing horses, and peaceful

scenery make this route especially enjoyable for photography and nature lovers.The atmosphere becomes even more magical in the evening when smoke

rises from village chimneys under the soft sunset light.

Day6Karamay – Self-drive around Sayram Lake – Sailing Experience – Overnight at Sayram Lake

Spend the morning exploring Hemu Village in greater depth. You may climb up to the viewing platform for a panoramic view of the entire village, forests,

and surrounding mountains. Morning mist drifting above the wooden houses creates one of the most iconic scenes in northern Xinjiang.After enjoying

the peaceful village atmosphere, drive back to Burqin. Along the way, continue to admire the vast grasslands, forests, and open landscapes of the Altay region.

Day7Sayram Lake Second Visit – Follow Car Video Shooting – Yining Six-Star Street Photo Upgrade – Transfer to Xinyuan County

Today you will head toward Karamay and visit the famous “Ghost Town” (Urho Yardang Landform). This dramatic desert landscape was shaped by wind

erosion over millions of years, forming towering rock formations that resemble castles, animals, and ancient ruins.When strong winds blow through the

rock formations, strange whistling sounds can be heard, which is why the area is called “Ghost Town.” The scenery becomes especially spectacular at

sunset, when golden light illuminates the unique Yardang formations.

Day8Xinyuan County – Self-drive to Nalati Grassland – Overnight in Nalati Town

After breakfast, drive back to Urumqi Airport for your departure flight. As your journey comes to an end, you will leave Xinjiang with unforgettable memories of alpine lakes, forests, grasslands, ethnic villages, and the vast wilderness landscapes of northern Xinjiang.

Day 9Nalati Town – G218 Highway – Baluntai – Wu-Wei Expressway – Tianshan Victory Tunnel – Return to Urumqi City

Day 10Urumqi – Transfer to Airport/Station – Departure to home cities.