Huhhot Inner Mongolia 3 Days Xilamuren kubuqi Desert Nature Tour

Introduction

Travelers searching for a blend of nature, culture, and adventure in Inner Mongolia often find themselves drawn to tours like the Huhhot 3-Day Xilamuren Kubuqi Desert Nature Experience. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler feedback paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What stands out most? First, the chance to explore Xilamuren grassland, where endless green plains stretch beyond the horizon—a scene perfect for photos and quiet reflection. Second, the opportunity to visit Inner Mongolia’s largest Tibetan-style monastery, filled with centuries-old architecture and spiritual significance. Third, the chance to experience the vast Kubuqi Desert with fun activities like camel riding and sandsliding, making it ideal for adventure seekers.

A potential consideration? The trip involves a fair amount of driving, and group sizes can vary, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy small-group tours or private experiences. This tour appeals most to travelers eager to see a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage—especially families or small groups looking for a well-rounded, value-packed adventure in Inner Mongolia.

Good To Know

Vast Grasslands: The Xilamuren Prairie offers sweeping views of greenery and local farm animals, perfect for nature lovers.

Cultural Richness: The Wudang Zhao Monastery showcases Tibetan-Mongolian architecture and spiritual traditions.

Adventure Activities: Camel rides, sandsliding, and off-road jeep excursions in the Kubuqi Desert bring fun and adrenaline.

Authentic Experience: Staying in a yurt hotel provides a taste of nomadic life, while the local guides enrich your understanding of the region.

Value for Money: For $388 per person, you get a comprehensive three-day itinerary with most major attractions included, plus some optional extras.

Balanced Experience: The tour combines scenic landscapes, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities, making it suitable for diverse interests.

Discovering Inner Mongolia: A Complete Guide to the 3-Day Tour

Day 1: Xilamuren Grassland – The Heart of the Steppe

Starting your journey just north of Hohhot, the Xilamuren Grassland promises a landscape of sweeping green plains that seem to stretch forever. According to travelers, this is the highlight of the trip. With admission included, you’ll spend around 15 hours exploring this expansive area, sharing the space with sheep, horses, and cattle.

Expect to see herders tending their flocks and maybe even spot a traditional Mongolian yurt or two. The vastness of the grassland makes it ideal for photography, picnics, or simply soaking up the tranquility of nature. Visitors note that the scenery is particularly stunning at sunset, when the horizon turns a warm hue.

The guide typically provides insights into nomadic lifestyles, explaining how pastoral life continues amid modern change. The landscape also offers opportunities for casual walks or photo stops, making it an excellent introduction to Inner Mongolia’s natural environment.

Day 2: Cultural and Scenic Highlights in Inner Mongolia

The second day kicks off with a visit to Wudang Zhao Monastery, which is the region’s largest Tibetan-style temple. Built with intricate architecture and spiritual significance, it’s a must-see for those interested in religious traditions and historical structures. The two-hour visit allows you to admire the beautiful mountain backdrop while learning about local Buddhist practices from knowledgeable guides.

Following this, optional visits deepen the culture. Chunkun Mountain, located deep within Yinshan Mountain, offers panoramic views from its top, accessible via a mini train that makes for a fun ride. Reviewers mention the “amazing views” and the “peaceful mountain atmosphere”—perfect for a quick hike or photo session.

Another optional stop is Maanshan, where a mini train takes visitors to the top of Maan Mountain, giving a chance to snap pictures nearly touching the sky. The “mirror of the sky” view from the summit is a favorite among travelers, making it a photo-worthy moment.

For history buffs, the 2200-year-old Great Wall section provides an authentic glimpse into ancient Chinese defensive architecture, offering a scenic backdrop of mountains and forests.

Day 3: Desert Adventures and the Yellow River

The final day immerses you in the Kubuqi Gobi Desert—the seventh-largest desert in China. Known as “string on a bow” in Mongolian, the desert features golden dunes that seem to ripple endlessly. The three-hour stay includes exciting activities such as camel rides, sandsliding, and off-road jeep adventures.

Travelers appreciate the fun and adrenaline rush of sandsliding, with some describing it as a highlight of the trip. The desert environment offers a stark yet beautiful landscape that captures the essence of the Chinese Gobi. The admission ticket covers these activities, ensuring an adventurous experience.

Next, the tour visits the Jiuqu Yellow River—the second-longest river in China. The sight of the sandbanks and floodwaters provides a striking natural spectacle, worth capturing with your camera. This stop is short but adds a significant geographical element, connecting you with China’s iconic waterways.

Practicalities and Value

The tour is priced at $388 per person, which, when considering most entrance fees, activities, and accommodations, provides good value. Accommodations include a night in a yurt—an authentic touch that allows you to experience nomadic living firsthand—plus a night in a city hotel for comfort.

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, with a professional licensed local English-speaking guide, which is essential for understanding the rich cultural context. The tour is private, so your small group gets personalized attention, making it more engaging than large bus tours.

Meal costs are not included but are estimated at around USD 12 per day, giving you the flexibility to choose local cuisine. Optional activities like roasted lamb or horse riding are available but not included, allowing you to customize your experience.

The tour’s itinerary is carefully timed, with most stops between 2-3 hours, balancing sightseeing with travel time. Group sizes under 3 may be rejected, but larger groups are accommodated comfortably, so check availability in advance.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the cultural and natural understanding of each site.
• Stunning vistas of grasslands, mountains, and desert dunes.
• A mix of cultural sites, outdoor activities, and scenic landscapes.
• Authentic experience including staying in a yurt.

Cons:

• The tour involves multiple long drives, which might be tiring for some.
• Some optional stops are only available if you opt in, which may extend the day.
• Group size restrictions mean booking early is recommended.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Inner Mongolia’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Families and small groups will appreciate the flexibility and variety of activities.

Adventure enthusiasts will love the desert sandsliding and camel rides, while culture lovers can explore Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and ancient architecture. Those with limited time but a desire for authentic experiences will find this tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the region.

While it’s suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues might find some of the optional hikes or activities challenging. The tour’s value comes from its combination of scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and fun outdoor adventures—all bundled into three days for a reasonable price.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Inner Mongolia tour offers a fantastic balance between nature, culture, and adventure. The chance to see the vast grasslands and majestic Tibetan monasteries alongside the thrill of sandsliding in the Kubuqi Desert makes it an unforgettable experience.

The inclusion of a yurt stay really adds an authentic touch, providing insight into traditional nomadic life, while the expert guides help make sense of the region’s complex landscape and history. For travelers seeking a deeper connection with Inner Mongolia’s unique environment and cultural heritage, this tour delivers a well-paced, value-for-money itinerary.

The combination of stunning views, engaging activities, and cultural insights makes it a strong choice for those eager to explore beyond typical tourist routes. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to embrace the vast beauty of Inner Mongolia, this tour hits many marks.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Most entrance tickets, professional English-speaking guides, air-conditioned vehicle transport, one night in a yurt hotel, one night in a city hotel, and select activities like sandsliding and camel riding are included.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included but are approximately USD 12 per day. You can enjoy local cuisine or bring snacks for the journey.

Can I customize the optional stops?
Optional sites like Chunkun Mountain, Maanshan, or the Great Wall can be selected based on your interests, but check with the tour provider about availability.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, sun protection, sunglasses, camera, and some cash for extra purchases or tips.

How long are the travel days?
Each day involves several hours of sightseeing and driving, with most stops lasting 2-3 hours. Expect a full but rewarding schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally yes, especially for families who enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural sites. However, check with the provider if your children have mobility concerns.

What is the group size?
Group sizes under 3 may be rejected, but larger groups are accommodated, making it ideal for families or small groups.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but if canceled due to adverse weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

In summary, the Huhhot 3-Day Xilamuren Kubuqi Desert Nature Tour offers an excellent mix of scenery, culture, and fun activities, making it a memorable and authentic Inner Mongolia experience. With knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and cultural visits, it’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive introduction to this unique region.