Urumqi: 8-Day Xinjiang Tour with Kanas Lake and Hemu Village

Travelers seeking a deep dive into China’s northwest frontier will find this 8-day Xinjiang tour a compelling option. It promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters, and a taste of the land’s mineral-rich history. We’ve reviewed the details, and here’s what makes this trip particularly appealing—and what to watch out for.

Two things we really like are the variety of landscapes—from the snow-capped peaks of Heavenly Lake to the mysterious Yardang formations of Ghost City—and the chance to connect with local Tuvas families in Kanas and Hemu villages. These authentic interactions give the tour a warm, genuine feel. One consideration is the moderate pace, with quite a bit of traveling and walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity. This tour suits travelers who love natural beauty, cultural exchanges, and don’t mind a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery including Heavenly Lake, Kanas Lake, and Ghost City.
• Authentic cultural experiences with Tuvas families and local performances.
• Varied landscapes from mountains and forests to deserts and Yardang landforms.
• Active days with hikes and outdoor exploration.
• Comfortable transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles with large windows.
• Small group setting for a more personalized experience.
• Value for money given the included activities, guides, and entry fees.
• Potential for weather surprises, so pack accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Xinjiang: An Overview of the Tour

This 8-day adventure covers some of the most visually stunning and culturally intriguing spots in northwest China. Starting in Urumqi, the tour quickly shifts from the city’s modern pulse to some of China’s most dramatic natural landscapes.

The most significant advantage here is the diverse itinerary that balances natural wonders—like the lake reflections shimmering against snowy peaks—with cultural insights, particularly into the Tuvas, a little-known ethnic group. The trip’s design ensures you get both the “wow” factors and meaningful local encounters, all wrapped up in a manageable, small-group format.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Urumqi Arrival

Upon arriving in Urumqi, your guide will meet you at the airport. It’s an efficient start—no fuss or complicated transfers—allowing you to settle into your hotel and prepare for the journey ahead. The first impression is of a city blending modernity with distant frontier vibes, a good base for exploring the region’s contrasts.

Day 2: Heavenly Lake in the Tianshan Mountains

The highlight of the first full day is Heavenly Lake, sitting at 1,980 meters. We loved the way the mountain range surrounds this tranquil body of water, especially when the snow-capped peaks are reflected on its surface. The boat ride adds a peaceful element, giving you a chance to appreciate the scenery from the water.

The drive afterward takes you north to Fuyun County, offering a taste of the region’s diverse terrain. The journey itself reveals the shifting landscapes of Xinjiang—mountains, grasslands, and the semi-arid.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Keketuohai and China’s Biggest Mining Pit

Keketuohai National Geopark is a real standout. The canyon with its granitic formations and colorful forests feels like walking through a giant geological artwork. But the real eye-opener is the biggest mining pit in China, once a highly secretive project and now a fascinating stop that shows how the land’s minerals power China’s development.

This stop is more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a glimpse into a top-secret past that shaped modern China’s resource industry. The inclusion of the geopark and mine in the itinerary offers a balance between natural beauty and industrial history.

Day 4: Kanas Lake and Tuvas Village

Kanas Lake is a major draw. Its serene waters and lush surroundings are perfect for photos and quiet reflection. We appreciated that the tour avoids the touristy shuttle, opting instead for an 8-km hike along the Kanas River—sure, it’s a bit of a walk, but it’s the best way to experience the three bays and the natural serenity.

Visiting a Tuvas family home in Kanas Village adds an intimate touch. You’ll learn about their daily routines, see traditional clothing, and maybe snap some authentic portraits. The warmth of this cultural exchange makes the experience memorable, and the chance to chat directly with locals is priceless.

Day 5: Hemu Village and Tuvas Culture

Hemu Village continues the theme of authentic culture and wilderness. The wooden houses and the small Tuvas museum paint a vivid picture of traditional life. The performance by a local Tuvas band is lively and engaging—an unexpected highlight that adds a musical flavor to your day.

The 3-km hike along the Hemu River exposes you to a landscape dotted with grazing cattle and children playing with sheep—simple rural life at its best. The morning in misty Hemu enhances the fairytale vibe, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Day 6: Wucaitan and Surrounding Landscapes

Early morning in Hemu reveals a mystical, fog-laden scene before heading back toward Burqin. The stop at Wucaitan (“Five-Color Shore”) showcases contrasting landscapes: lush vegetation on one bank and stark Yardang formations on the other. It’s a visual feast.

Burqin town offers a chance to soak in the Russian-influenced architecture and local flavor, adding another layer to this diverse landscape.

Day 7: Ghost City and Karamay

The “Ghost City” Yardang landforms are a must-see for fans of unusual geology. The wind creates eerie sounds—”baby’s cry, women’s screams”—which add a spooky element. The rugged, windswept terrain is a photographer’s dream.

On the way to Karamay, the vast oil fields and pumpjacks tell stories of natural resource wealth beneath the desolate beauty. The contrast between barren landscapes and industrial activity is striking.

Day 8: Return to Urumqi

Your guide will escort you back to Urumqi Airport, completing the loop. The journey is smooth, with the chance to reflect on the myriad landscapes and cultures you’ve encountered. It’s a fitting end to an adventurous trip.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, outdoor activity, and cultural exchange. The transportation in private, air-conditioned vehicles with large windows ensures comfortable viewing even on long drives. The group size is limited to 15, which fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Activities include boat rides, hikes, and cultural visits, giving you plenty of opportunities to engage with the landscapes and local communities. Keep in mind, you’ll be walking quite a bit—wear sturdy shoes and prepare for weather changes, especially in the mountains.

The inclusion of local guides and performances enhances the authenticity, providing insights you might miss on your own. The entrance fees, boat rides, and performances are all included, making the price seem reasonable for such a diverse and immersive itinerary.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $2,380 per person, this tour packs a lot into 8 days. The price covers hotel transfers, activities, guides, and entrance fees, reducing the hassle of planning logistics. It’s a good deal for travelers who want a guided adventure that covers remote, hard-to-reach locations without sacrificing comfort.

However, the trip is quite active, with a focus on outdoor exploration and cultural visits. If you’re uncomfortable with walking, hiking, or variable weather, this might not be the best fit. Also, meals and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.

The small-group setting (up to 15 participants) offers a more personalized experience compared to larger tours. You’ll find the pace manageable, but be prepared for some long travel days—roads in Xinjiang can be bumpy, and distances between sites are substantial.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who love nature, adventure, and discovering lesser-known cultures. It’s ideal for those comfortable with outdoor activities and eager to see landscapes that are both dramatic and diverse. History buffs will appreciate the mining site, while culture enthusiasts will enjoy the Tuvas visits.

It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those seeking a leisurely, less physically demanding tour. If your goal is to experience China’s urban side, this trip might be too focused on natural and rural scenes.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day Xinjiang tour offers a rich mix of scenery, culture, and adventure, all wrapped in a small-group package that emphasizes genuine experiences. The highlight of the trip is definitely the stunning views—from Heavenly Lake’s shimmering reflections to the otherworldly Yardang landforms—each offering memorable photo opportunities.

The cultural stops, especially visiting Tuvas families and enjoying local performances, give a rare glimpse into life in this remote corner of China. The transportation, guides, and included activities make it a practical choice for travelers who want a hassle-free, rundown of Xinjiang’s most remarkable sites.

While the schedule is full and some physical activity is involved, the experiences you’ll take home—spectacular landscapes, cultural insights, and stories of a land still largely off the beaten path—are truly worth it. If you’re after a trip that balances natural beauty with meaningful cultural exchanges, this adventure is a solid pick.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle is included, ensuring comfortable travel between sites.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you should budget for meals outside of the tour activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended. Pack for variable mountain weather.

How much walking is involved?
There are several walks, including an 8-km hike at Kanas Lake and a 3-km hike along the Hemu River, so be prepared for some physical activity.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s family-friendly for active children, the physical demands and outdoor activities may not be suitable for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

Are local guides available in English?
Yes, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, and local guides provide insights during visits and performances.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for seniors?
It depends on individual mobility and health. The active nature and walking involved mean it’s better suited for those in good physical condition.

This Xinjiang tour offers a rare glimpse into China’s northwest, combining striking scenery with enriching cultural exchanges. It’s a journey for those eager to see landscapes that look almost surreal and to connect with local traditions that remain vibrant. If this sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: