Caravans and Caravansaries: Gansu by Train

Journey through China’s legendary Gansu Corridor, a key artery of the ancient Silk Road. This 9-day cultural adventure follows the footsteps of camel caravans, Buddhist monks, and merchants — from Lanzhou to Dunhuang — all aboard China's modern high-speed rail system. Along the way, you'll explore ancient fortress cities, cave temples, desert landscapes, and the colorful geology that once guided Silk Road travelers across Asia.

This tour is ideal for history lovers, rail travel fans, and cultural explorers seeking a well-paced, immersive experience.

From $2,480 per person
Based on double occupancy. Single supplement: $380
Group and custom pricing available on request.

Book now

What’s Included

8 nights in 3–4 star hotels and boutique guesthouses
High-speed rail tickets (2nd class; 1st class upgrade optional)
Daily breakfast, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
English-speaking guides in each location
All entry fees for attractions listed in the itinerary
Cultural experiences (tea tasting, cave tours, calligraphy lesson)
Ground transfers between stations, hotels, and sites
24/7 support during the trip

International flights to/from China
China visa fees
Optional upgrades or additional meals
Travel insurance (required)
Tips for guides and drivers

Important Information for Tourists

Best Season: May–October
Altitude: Most stops are under 1,500 meters; no acclimatization needed
Language & Culture: Mix of Han Chinese, Hui Muslim, and Tibetan influences
Train Travel: All rail segments are fast, comfortable, and scenic
Mobility Level: Easy to moderate — includes walking on uneven historic sites

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Arrival in Lanzhou
Airport/train station pickup and transfer to hotel
Visit the Yellow River waterfront and Iron Bridge of Zhongshan
Welcome dinner featuring Lanzhou hand-pulled noodles
Overnight in Lanzhou

Day 2 – Lanzhou to Wuwei
Morning train to Wuwei, gateway to the Hexi Corridor
Visit the Leitai Han Tomb and Bronze Galloping Horse Museum
Explore the local market for herbal medicine and regional specialties
Overnight in Wuwei

Day 3 – Wuwei to Zhangye
Train to Zhangye, former garrison town of the Silk Road
Visit the Giant Buddha Temple, home to the largest indoor reclining Buddha in China
Optional evening stroll through the old town
Overnight in Zhangye

Day 4 – Zhangye Danxia Landform
Half-day trip to Rainbow Mountains (Danxia Geopark)
Explore walking paths and photo viewpoints
Free time in the afternoon for shopping or local snacks
Overnight in Zhangye

Day 5 – Zhangye to Jiayuguan
Scenic train ride to Jiayuguan, end of the Great Wall
Visit Jiayuguan Fortress, once the final gate of imperial China
Climb a remote portion of the Great Wall at Overhanging Cliff
Overnight in Jiayuguan

Day 6 – Jiayuguan to Dunhuang via Liuyuan
Train to Liuyuan, followed by private transfer to Dunhuang
Evening walk through Dunhuang night market
Optional local dinner of apricot chicken and camel milk yogurt
Overnight in Dunhuang

Day 7 – Mogao Caves & Crescent Lake
Explore the world-famous Mogao Caves with expert guide
Afternoon camel ride at Singing Sand Dunes and visit to Crescent Moon Lake
Overnight in Dunhuang

Day 8 – Dunhuang Culture & Free Time
Visit the Dunhuang Museum and ancient Shazhou night market
Optional hands-on art workshop (Buddhist painting or calligraphy)
Farewell dinner with regional dishes
Overnight in Dunhuang

Day 9 – Departure
Transfer to Dunhuang Airport or Liuyuan train station
Tour ends — or extend to Turpan, Kashgar, or Xi’an upon request

"This was the perfect mix of culture, comfort, and movement. The train rides were smooth and scenic, and every stop felt unique and full of history."

Sarah J. – New Zealand

"The Mogao Caves were a revelation. I also loved Jiayuguan — I had no idea the Great Wall ended out there in the desert!"

Liam R. – Ireland

"Gansu is so underrated! This tour gave me ancient temples, rainbow mountains, and great food — without the crowds. Loved it!"

Mei L. – Singapore

"From the Terracotta Warriors to the high-speed trains zooming across the desert, this trip was the perfect blend of ancient and modern. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable, and the logistics were seamless."

John Morgan

"Kashgar alone made this trip worth it — so much culture, color, and warmth. But the real joy was the journey in between. I can’t recommend this tour enough for curious travelers who want something beyond the typical."

Michael West

"This tour completely changed how I see China. The landscapes, the history, the people — it was a dream. Riding camels in Dunhuang and walking through the ancient alleys of Kashgar felt like stepping into a different world."

Caravans and Caravansaries: Gansu by Train

What’s Included

Tour Highlights

What’s Not Included