Ili Classic Highlights Tour

Classic Panoramic Journey of Ili

Grasslands, lakes, river valleys, and folk customs—experience the essence of Ili in one trip

3 Days 2 NightsIli900 – 1,260 USD
3Days
2Nights
1Destinations
900From
ClassicFirst-TimerNatural SceneryCultural Experience
Overview

Trip Overview

Ili is the green heart of Xinjiang, where grasslands, lakes and river valleys weave together into a living landscape. This classic loop takes you from Yining to Nalati, Sayram Lake and Guozigou Valley, with snow-capped peaks mirrored in the water, hoofbeats echoing across the pastures, and comfortable local hotels along the way — the most authentic way to meet Ili.

Highlights

Trip Highlights

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Stroll along the shores of Sayram Lake, a world-class alpine lake, and admire the snow-capped mountain reflections on the blue water

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Go deep into the heart of Nalati Grassland and experience Kazakh pastoral life

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Pass through the Guozigou Valley and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Tianshan Mountains

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Taste local Ili specialties such as hand-grabbed rice, baked buns, and milk curd

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Visit the Kazanqi Folk Area in Yining city and experience its colorful houses and diverse culture

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Stay in comfortable hotels throughout, with a well-paced itinerary suitable for first-time visitors

Day-by-day

Day-by-day Itinerary

1DAYIli
Day 1 Yining City and Kazanqi Folk Area
BreakfastNot included · Please arrange on your own
MorningArrive in Yining, transfer to the hotel after airport pickup, check in, and take a short rest.
LunchIncluded · Local restaurant in Yining · Included
AfternoonVisit the Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area, ride a horse-drawn carriage through the colorful houses, and taste handmade ice cream and kvass.
DinnerIncluded · Yining specialty restaurant · Included
EveningEnjoy a welcome dinner in Yining city, taste Ili-style hand-grabbed rice and baked buns, then return to the hotel to rest.
TransportTour bus/business vehicleStay4-star hotel in Yining city
2DAYIli
Day 2 In-depth Experience at Nalati Grassland
BreakfastIncluded · In the hotel · Included
MorningAfter breakfast, drive to Nalati Grassland (about 3.5 hours), enjoying the scenery of the Kunges River Valley along the way.
LunchIncluded · Restaurant in Nalati Town · Included
AfternoonAfter arrival, transfer to a shuttle bus to enter the grassland, visit the Air Grassland and River Valley Grassland, experience horseback riding or hiking, and visit a Kazakh herder family.
DinnerIncluded · Restaurant in Nalati Town · Included
EveningReturn to Nalati Town, check into the hotel, and enjoy a grassland specialty dinner such as roast whole lamb or hand-grabbed meat.
TransportTour bus/shuttle busStay4-star hotel in Nalati Town
3DAYIli
Day 3 Sayram Lake and Guozigou, Return Trip
BreakfastIncluded · In the hotel · Included
MorningAfter breakfast, head to Sayram Lake (about 4 hours by car), passing the Guozigou Bridge along the way and enjoying the valley scenery.
LunchIncluded · Restaurant in Sayram Lake Scenic Area · Included
AfternoonArrive at Sayram Lake and tour around the lake to see attractions such as the Genghis Khan Reviewing Stand and Swan Lake, with free time for photos.
DinnerNot included · Please arrange on your own
EveningAfter the tour, transfer to Yining Airport or Railway Station, ending the pleasant journey.
TransportTour bus/business vehicleStayNone
Hotels

Hotel Reference

DestinationHotelRatingRoom typeNights
Ili4-star hotel in Yining city4-starStandard Twin Room1 night
Ili4-star hotel in Nalati Town4-starStandard Twin Room1 night
Activities

Recommended Activities

Nalati Grassland
Nalati Grassland

One of the world's four great grasslands, with lush green grass and herds of cattle and sheep in summer.

Sayram Lake
Sayram Lake

An alpine cold-water lake with deep blue water, known as "the last tear of the Atlantic."

Guozigou Valley
Guozigou Valley

A Tianshan canyon famous for its abundant wild fruit and magnificent scenery.

Add-ons

Add-on Services

ItemDestinationDetailsCurrencyFeeRemark
Horseback riding experience at Nalati GrasslandIli1-hour horseback ride across the grasslandCNYPrice upon requestAdvance reservation required
Kazanqi folk home visit in YiningIliVisit a local Uyghur family and taste tea and snacksCNYPrice upon request
Cycling around Sayram LakeIli2-hour bicycle rentalCNYPrice upon requestOpen depending on weather
Included / Not included

Pricing

Included

  • Air-conditioned tour bus throughout the trip
  • Hotel accommodation as listed in the itinerary (including breakfast)
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary (3 main meals)
  • Chinese-speaking guide service
  • First admission tickets to attractions (Nalati, Sayram Lake)
  • Travel agency liability insurance

Not Included

  • Round-trip transportation to and from Ili
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses and tips
  • Optional paid activities such as horseback riding and cycling
  • Additional expenses caused by force majeure
  • Travel accident insurance
Notes

Good to Know

  • This tour is either a group tour or a private tour; please consult customer service for details.
  • Security checks in Xinjiang are strict; please carry your ID with you at all times.
  • The itinerary order may be adjusted due to weather or road conditions, but the attractions will not be reduced.
  • Please consult customer service for child pricing.

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