Tour to the Altai’s Heavenly Land:Switzerland of the East

Travelers seeking a journey into one of China’s most remote and breathtaking regions will find this 7-day tour to the Altai’s Heavenly Land an intriguing option. Marketed as the “Switzerland of the East,” this trip promises dramatic mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and a chance to connect with ancient cultures. While the itinerary is packed and travel days are long, the value lies in experiencing a virtually untouched corner of China that feels worlds away from bustling cities.

What draws us in? First, the opportunity to capture the legendary Kanas Lake Monster with a drone is a fun and modern twist on folklore. Second, the visit to three ancient Tuva villages offers an authentic glimpse into a culture rarely seen by outsiders. The possible drawback? The itinerary involves long drives—up to 8 hours on some days—which could be tiring, especially for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. Still, if you’re eager to see a part of China that feels more like Siberia than the Silk Road, this tour could be just right. Ideal for adventurous spirits with a taste for scenic landscapes and cultural encounters, this trip is best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and some travel fatigue.

Key Points

• Unique Landscapes: Experience the rugged beauty of the Altai Mountains, Kanas Lake, and the Hemu sunrise.
• Cultural Encounters: Visit three ancient Tuva villages to learn about this rare and fascinating culture.
• Scenic Highlights: Explore Ulungur Lake, Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay—all spots that will leave you with a camera full of memories.
• Adventure and Comfort: Enjoy private transportation, 4-star accommodations, and guided commentary, balancing comfort with adventure.
• Long Travel Days: Be prepared for long drives, especially on days 2, 5, and 6, which can stretch up to 8 hours.
• Authentic Experiences: From local village visits to natural splendors, this tour offers genuine insights into this remote part of China.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Adventure: A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi

The journey begins with a warm welcome in Urumqi, where you’ll be picked up at the airport and transferred to a comfortable 4-star hotel. This gives travelers a moment to settle in, exchange initial impressions, and prepare for the adventures ahead. The city itself is a gateway, blending modernity with a touch of Central Asian influence, but most will be eager to hit the sack early, given the upcoming long drives.

Day 2: Urumqi to Burqin via S21 Desert Highway

Starting bright in the morning, you’ll hit the S21 Desert Highway, a route that slices through the rugged Junggar Basin. This drive alone offers a landscape of stark beauty—vast sandy plains dotted with hardy shrubs, interrupted by occasional mountain views. Along the way, you’ll visit Ulungur Lake, known for its shimmering waters and peaceful atmosphere. Next, the Five-Colored Beach presents a vibrant palette of mineral deposits, giving it a truly surreal appearance.

The day culminates with an 8-hour drive to Burqin, a small town that serves as a launching point for exploring the Altai region. You’ll stay in a 4-star hotel, a welcome retreat after a long day on the road. Travelers often remark on the scenic variety—”The drive was long but filled with spectacular views, and the hotel was a comfortable oasis.”

Day 3: From Burqin to Kanas Lake and Baihaba

This morning’s drive takes you through Altai Grasslands, where expansive pastures and grazing livestock set a tranquil tone. The highlight is Kanas Lake, renowned for its clear waters, lush surroundings, and the folklore of the lake monster. We loved the way the guide described the area as “a slice of Siberia in China”—a vast, wild space where nature seems untouched.

Baihaba offers a charming village atmosphere, and staying here allows for a more immersive experience. You’ll find that the scenery here is simply breathtaking, with mountain peaks reflected in the lake’s mirror-like surface.

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Day 4: Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay, and Hemu Village

This day is dedicated to exploring small bay areas that look like scenes from a painting—Fairy Bay, in particular, impresses with its serene waters and surrounding cliffs. Continuing on, you’ll head to Hemu Village, a tiny settlement that feels frozen in time.

In Hemu, you’ll have the chance to see the sunrise, an experience praised by many travelers for its quiet majesty. We particularly appreciated the opportunity to capture the “Kanas Lake Monster” with a drone, adding a modern twist to the folklore. The scenery here is worth every minute of travel; the mountains and lakes seem to merge into one spectacular view.

Day 5: Hemu to Urho

After a stroll through Hemu Ancient Village—a snapshot of traditional life—you’ll embark on a lengthy drive to Urho, a city that offers both comfort and a chance to recover from the previous day’s adventures. The 7-hour drive is a reminder of how remote this region is, and many travelers find it a fascinating opportunity to see the landscape change from lush lakeside to more arid plains.

Day 6: Devil’s City and Populus euphratica Forest

The focus today is on visiting Devil’s City, a striking geological formation with jagged peaks and strange shapes that make for fantastic photos. From September 20th onward, you will also visit the Populus euphratica Forest, famous for its golden, twisting trees—an unusual sight in China and well worth the visit.

In the evening, you’ll return to Urumqi, where a comfortable hotel awaits. This day combines natural wonders and a bit of geological intrigue, making it a satisfying close to the sightseeing.

Day 7: Departure

The trip ends with a transfer to the airport, giving you the chance to reflect on a week filled with stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and memorable moments. The tour is designed to leave you with a broad understanding of this relatively untouched corner of China.

The Experience and Practicalities

Transportation & Accommodation

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy private transportation with air-conditioning, which is a must given the long drives. The hotels are rated 3-star or 4-star, striking a balance between comfort and authenticity. While some reviews note the long travel days, most appreciate the scenic drives and the chance to see something truly different.

Cultural Encounters

A special highlight is the visit to three ancient Tuva villages. These communities offer travelers the chance to witness traditional Tuvan lifestyles, learn about their customs, and perhaps even hear some folk music. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with a culture that’s seldom on the tourist radar.

Activities & Highlights

From drone footage of the Kanas Lake Monster to relaxing walks at scenic bays, the itinerary mixes natural beauty with fun, engaging activities. The sunrise at Hemu is a favorite among travelers, often described as “quiet and breathtaking”. The natural landscapes—mountains, lakes, and forests—are the main attractions and should be the focus of your camera and your imagination.

Value & Pricing

At $2,861 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive itinerary that covers transportation, accommodations, meals, and entry fees. While the price might seem high, it reflects the remote nature of the region, guided support, and the included activities. For those wanting to see the “Switzerland of the East” with ease and expert guidance, this is a fair investment.

Travel Considerations

The long drives mean this is best suited for travelers who do not mind spending hours on the road. The tour is not ideal for children under 8 or seniors over 70, given the distances and pace. Booking with the flexibility to cancel 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers craving authentic cultural experiences combined with stunning natural scenery. It’s for those who appreciate a carefully guided group, enjoy long scenic drives, and are comfortable with some physical activity at scenic spots. It suits curious minds eager to explore lesser-known parts of China—and see landscapes that resemble Siberia more than China.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Altai’s Heavenly Land tour offers a rare chance to step into a remote corner of China that feels more akin to Siberia or Central Asia. The combination of natural beauty—mountains, lakes, forests—and the opportunity to learn about the ancient Tuva culture makes this a memorable adventure for those willing to embrace the journey.

While the itinerary demands stamina—long travel days and variable pacing—the payoff is a collection of incredible landscapes and genuine cultural encounters. It’s a trip that will satisfy travelers looking for something off the beaten path, with enough comfort and guided support to make the experience accessible.

For those who cherish scenic drives, authentic village visits, and the thrill of discovering a part of China few travelers see, this tour is a solid choice. Just pack comfortable shoes, your camera, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The tour’s main highlights include exploring Kanas Lake, experiencing the Hemu sunrise, and visiting three ancient Tuva villages—offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural depth.

How long are the travel days?
Travel days vary, with some stretches up to 8 hours. The longest driving days are Days 2, 5, and 6, which are packed with scenic views but may be tiring for some.

What types of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay in 4-star hotels in Urumqi, Burqin, and Urho, and scenic area lodges in Kanas, Baihaba, and Hemu. They offer a comfortable base after long days of exploration.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, simplifying logistics and allowing you to focus on the scenery and culture.

Can I capture the Kanas Lake Monster?
Yes, the tour specifically mentions the opportunity to use a drone to film the lake monster, adding a fun and modern twist to the folklore experience.

Are the tour guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides speak English, Spanish, or German, ensuring good communication during the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 8 or for travelers over 70, mainly due to the long drives and physical requirements.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, and a camera to capture the scenic moments. Weather can vary, so a jacket and sun protection are advisable.

What’s the main attraction for cultural interest?
Visiting the three ancient Tuva villages provides a rare glimpse into a culture that remains largely traditional and untouched.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This trip offers a rare blend of natural grandeur and cultural authenticity, perfect for those eager to discover one of China’s most quiet and captivating corners.

You can check availability for your dates here: