8-Day Northern Xinjiang Scenic Escape: Kanas, Hemu & Altai Mountains Private Tour

Welcome to Xinjiang!

Upon arrival at Urumqi Airport, your private driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. For guests arriving on late-night flights, we provide airport pickup service and a comfortable transfer directly to the hotel.

After check-in, you may relax or take a short walk around the hotel area to get your first impression of Urumqi.

Note: Flight arrival time should be no earlier than 20:00.

Accommodation: Urumqi

Leave the city behind and begin your journey into the wild landscapes of Northern Xinjiang.

Today's route is a spectacular transition from urban scenery to vast desert wilderness. Drive along the S21 Desert Highway, one of Xinjiang's most scenic modern routes, crossing the endless landscapes of the Gurbantünggüt Desert. Along the way, you will see the unique beauty of the desert ecosystem at Kalamaili Nature Reserve, a protected area known for its open grasslands, rugged terrain, and wildlife habitat.

Continue toward Ulungur Lake, a peaceful inland lake surrounded by wide-open landscapes. The changing scenery along today's drive — from desert horizons to lakeside views — offers a fascinating introduction to the diversity of Northern Xinjiang.

Arrive in Burqin in the evening and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the River Embankment Night Market, where you can stroll along the riverside and try local specialties such as Xinjiang barbecue and cold-water fish.

Distance: Approx. 520 km
Driving Time: Around 6 hours

Accommodation: Burqin

Today, enter one of China's most breathtaking mountain regions — the legendary Kanas Scenic Area.

After arriving at the visitor center, take the scenic shuttle bus through the mountains into the protected area. The journey itself is part of the experience, with winding roads passing through dense forests, alpine valleys, and dramatic mountain scenery.

Explore the highlights of Kanas, including the mysterious Kanas Lake and the famous Three Bays — Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, and Fairy Bay. Each viewpoint offers a different perspective of the emerald-colored river, surrounding forests, and snow-capped peaks.

As daylight changes, the colors of Kanas become even more beautiful, making it one of the most rewarding destinations for nature lovers and photographers.

Return by scenic shuttle bus and stay overnight near the entrance of Kanas.

Distance: Approx. 130 km
Driving Time: Around 2.5 hours

Accommodation: Jiadenyu

Return to Kanas today for a deeper exploration of this alpine paradise.

Take the shuttle bus to Fish Viewing Pavilion, the highest viewpoint in the Kanas area. From the viewing area, enjoy an impressive panorama of Kanas Lake surrounded by mountains and forests. For travelers who enjoy hiking, climbing the 1,086 steps to the top offers an unforgettable bird's-eye view of the entire valley.

Continue to Kanas Old Village and visit a traditional Tuva family. Through local songs, dances, and everyday stories, discover the unique culture of one of Xinjiang's oldest mountain communities.

In the afternoon, continue to Hemu Village, often described as a fairy-tale village hidden among forests and mountains. After arriving, enjoy free time to explore the peaceful village atmosphere, wooden houses, and nearby landscapes.

Distance: Approx. 70 km
Driving Time: Around 2 hours

Accommodation: Hemu Village

Wake up in the quiet surroundings of Hemu Village, where wooden houses, birch forests, and mountain rivers create one of the most beautiful rural landscapes in Xinjiang.

Spend the morning exploring the village at a relaxed pace. Walk across Hemu Bridge, follow the river through the valley, admire traditional wooden houses, or take the shuttle bus to the birch forest area. Travelers who enjoy panoramic views can hike to Hemu Viewing Platform to overlook the entire village surrounded by mountains.

In the afternoon, leave the mountains behind and travel toward the desert landscape of Rainbow Beach. Here, colorful rock formations shaped by wind and erosion create a striking contrast with the blue river and open sky. Sunset is the best moment to appreciate the changing colors of this unique landscape.

Return to Burqin for the night.

Distance: Approx. 150 km
Driving Time: Around 3 hours

Accommodation: Burqin

Leave the Altai Mountains behind today and continue south through the changing landscapes of Northern Xinjiang.

The highlight of today is World Devil City (Urho Ghost Town), a spectacular geological wonder shaped by millions of years of wind erosion. Take the sightseeing mini-train into the scenic area and explore the dramatic Yadan landforms, where towering rock formations, desert valleys, and unusual natural sculptures create a mysterious atmosphere. Under different lighting conditions, the landscape reveals different colors and textures, making it a fascinating destination for photography.

Continue the journey toward Kuytun in the afternoon. Along the way, pass through the vast Hundred-Mile Oilfield, one of Xinjiang's most impressive industrial landscapes, where rows of oil pumps stretch across the desert horizon.

Arrive in Kuytun in the evening and enjoy a taste of authentic Xinjiang cuisine, including the famous Xinjiang Big Plate Chicken, a local specialty known for its rich flavors and hearty portions.

Distance: Approx. 460 km
Driving Time: Around 6 hours

Accommodation: Kuytun

Today, experience one of the most dramatic landscapes near the Tianshan Mountains before returning to Urumqi.

Drive to Dushanzi Grand Canyon, a stunning natural wonder carved by rivers and erosion over thousands of years. The canyon features steep cliffs, deep valleys, layered rock formations, and a vast open landscape that showcases the powerful forces of nature.

Walk along the viewing areas to admire the canyon from different angles and enjoy the contrast between the rugged cliffs and the wide Xinjiang sky. The unique terrain and impressive scale make it a perfect final nature stop before returning to the city.

After sightseeing, drive back to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. In the evening, visit the famous Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, where you can admire its distinctive Central Asian-style architecture, browse local handicrafts, and experience Xinjiang's rich culinary culture.

Enjoy your final evening exploring the city atmosphere and tasting local specialties.

Distance: Approx. 290 km
Driving Time: Around 3.5 hours

Accommodation: Urumqi

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Urumqi depending on your flight schedule.

At the arranged time, your private driver will transfer you to Urumqi Airport for your departure flight. For early morning departures, airport transfer service will be arranged separately to ensure you arrive comfortably and on time.

As your journey comes to an end, take with you memories of Northern Xinjiang's incredible landscapes — from the endless desert highways and colorful geological formations to the alpine lakes, forests, and traditional villages of the Altai Mountains.

Thank you for traveling with us, and we hope this unforgettable Xinjiang road trip becomes one of your most cherished travel experiences.

Note: Flight departure time should be no later than 10:00.