Tour Highlights
Cycle Through Dunhuang's Desert Landscapes: Experience the region by bicycle and discover the dramatic scenery surrounding this historic Silk Road city.
Discover the Mogao Grottoes: Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Buddhist cave art, sculptures, and centuries of cultural exchange along the Silk Road.
Explore Crescent Moon Lake and the Singing Sand Dunes: Admire the striking desert scenery and enjoy the option of a camel ride across the dunes.
Follow the Ancient Silk Road Frontier: Visit Yumen Pass and Yangguan Pass, historic gateways associated with the Han Dynasty's frontier defenses and trade routes.
Enjoy an Active Outdoor Adventure: Take on cycling routes of approximately 25 km toward the Mogao Grottoes and 50 km between the Yumen Pass area and Yangguan Pass, as described in the original itinerary.
Day 1 Dunhuang | Crescent Moon Lake & Singing Sand Dunes
Day 2 Dunhuang | Cycling Adventure to the Mogao Grottoes
In the morning, take a bicycle ride (about 25 km) to Mogao Grottoes (UNECO), the world's most important site of ancient Buddhist Culture. The treasure house contains hundreds of sandstone caves holding more than 2,000 statues and 45,000 brilliantly bright paintings of Buddha and Chinese mythological figures.
Later, return to downtown by bike and back to your hotel.
Day 3 Dunhuang | Yumen Pass, Yangguan Pass & Desert Cycling
In the morning, take a car ride (about 80 km) west across the desert to Yumen Pass, which was the west terminal of the Great Wall built in Han Dynasty 2,100 years ago.
Then, ride a bicycle to Yangguan Pass and Yangguan Pass Museum (about 50 km). Yangguan is the key pass along the southern part of the Silk Road as well as the door for the communication between western countries and China.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long is the Dunhuang Cycling Tour?
A: The itinerary lists four calendar days, including arrival and departure. The current product title says three days, so the duration should be corrected to four days before publication.
Q: How much cycling is involved in this tour?
A: The itinerary includes a bicycle ride of approximately 25 km to the Mogao Grottoes, followed by a return ride, and a separate cycling route of approximately 50 km between the Yumen Pass area and Yangguan Pass. Please confirm the exact distances, route conditions, and support arrangements before booking.
Q: Is this cycling tour suitable for beginners?
A: The itinerary involves relatively long cycling distances and desert terrain. It is better suited to travelers who are comfortable with sustained physical activity. Beginners should discuss their fitness level with CITS before booking.
Q: Can I ride a camel at the Singing Sand Dunes?
A: Yes. A camel ride is listed as an optional activity at Crescent Moon Lake and the Singing Sand Dunes, subject to availability and additional charges.
Q: What should I prepare for the cycling routes in Dunhuang?
A: Wear comfortable cycling clothing and suitable footwear, and bring sun protection and sufficient drinking water. Desert weather can change, so follow your guide's advice on clothing, hydration, and cycling safety.
Q: Are accommodation, meals, and entrance tickets included?
A: The current product page lists hotel accommodation with breakfast, lunch as specified in the itinerary, and entrance tickets to the listed attractions. Please confirm the final quotation for the exact meal arrangements, bicycle provision, support vehicle, and any equipment included.
- Private English-speaking tour guide
- Private air-conditioned van
- Land transfers between airport or railway station and hotel
- Entrance ticket as listed
- Lunch as listed
- Hotel accommodation with breakfast
- Service charge & government taxes
- Flight and train ticket
- Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, fax fee, phone bills, optional activities
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- China Visa
- Travel insurance