Image Effect
0(0 reviews)
Gansu
All photos
1/6
1/6
BookingOverviewHighlightsIncludes/ExcludesCancellationFaqsServicesReviews
Loading available options...

Overview

  • Duration:4 days 3 nights
  • Travelers:8 - 14 guests
  • Meeting Point:Dunhuang
  • Dissolution Location:Dunhuang
Escape to the desert after the National Day crowds, when Dunhuang transforms into a glowing oasis of golden leaves and serene history. This 4-day immersive journey skips the standard tourist trail to pair private access to world-class "Special Grottoes" with a meditative trek through the secret Poplar Canyons.

From the Curator (Tommy’s Note): "I designed this autumn escape to capture the brief, magical window when the desert poplars turn into pillars of gold. By combining scholarly lectures at the Dunhuang Academy with the raw, untamed beauty of the Duobagou canyons, we offer a balance of intellectual depth and quiet, breathtaking nature."
Read more

Highlights

  • Dunhuang Academy Exclusive Private expert-led tours of Mogao & Yulin "Special Grottoes."
  • Golden Poplar Trek A 5km meditative hike through the secret Duobagou Poplar Canyons.
  • Masterpiece Frescoes Witness the legendary "Water-Moon Guanyin" at Yulin Grottoes.
  • Silk Road Nightlife Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the ancient Dunhuang Night Market.
  • Desert Sunrise Golden sunrise over the Gobi wilderness on the way to Yulin.

Includes/Excludes

  • Expert scholar guided tours.
  • All listed grotto entrance fees.
  • 3-night boutique hotel stay.
  • All daily scheduled meals.
  • Private transport and insurance.
  • Flights and train tickets.
  • Personal spending and alcohol.
  • Government taxes and invoices.

Itinerary

Expand all

Day 1: Gathering in Dunhuang

Arrive in Dunhuang City and check into your hotel before a group dinner.

Early arrivals are highly recommended to self-explore nearby sights like Mingsha Mountain, Crescent Moon Spring, or Yumen Pass.

In the evening, visit the famous Dunhuang Night Market to experience the ancient city's vibrant buzz.

Day 2: Dunhuang City — Mogao Grottoes

Watch immersive documentaries at the Digital Media Center before an exclusive meeting and lecture with Dunhuang Academy Experts.

In the afternoon, enjoy an extraordinary, expert-led tour through the Mogao Grottoes, featuring a privileged visit to one Special Cave.

Day 3: Dunhuang City — Duobagou Poplar Canyon

Drive 2 hours to Duobagou Poplar Canyon, a scenic geological wilderness bordered by the Kumtag Desert.

Enjoy a quiet 5km trek surrounded by brilliant golden autumn poplar forests, complemented by a specially curated "Go Wild" (Ye Yixia) afternoon tea session.

Day 4: Dunhuang City — Yulin Caves — Airport

Catch a spectacular Gobi sunrise during your 2-hour drive east to the tranquil Yulin Caves.

Tour the magnificent Western Xia sanctuaries, including one exclusive Special Cave to admire the legendary Water-Moon Guanyin fresco, before transferring to the airport for departures after 15:30.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book my flights in advance?

Yes, Dunhuang is popular in autumn. Please wait for our "Tour Confirmed" notification, then book your tickets to arrive before Day 1 evening and depart after 15:30 on Day 4.

What makes the "Special Grottoes" different?

"Special Grottoes" are restricted-access caves featuring the best-preserved, most exquisite original frescoes, accessible only via advanced reservations and expert accompaniment.

Is the poplar forest hike difficult?

The 5km hike in Duobagou Canyon is very gentle and paced for relaxation and photography, suitable for all fitness levels.

What is the weather like in Dunhuang in autumn?

October offers crisp, pleasant weather with bright sunshine, but desert temperatures drop quickly at night—bring a windproof jacket.
from$648.90 /person
Date
1
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
Guest

You can select between 1 to 14 travelers in total.

AdultAge 13+
-+
ChildrenAge 3 - 12
-+

Please select guests

Apply
Make enquiry

You might also like...

Login to use

Huizhou Mid-Autumn Heritage & Mountain Expedition

Huizhou Mid-Autumn Heritage & Mountain Expedition

Location

Anhui

Duration

3 days 2 nights

From "Bright Summit" Treks to Riverside Mid-Autumn Banquets

0(0)
from$279.00
Check availability