Zhangjiajie 3 Days and Night Group Tour with 72 Odd Tower

Exploring Zhangjiajie in just a few days sounds ambitious, but this 3-day group tour packs a lot of the most famous sights and hidden gems into one manageable trip. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but after reviewing its itinerary, reviews, and details, it looks like an excellent way to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

What immediately catches the eye are three big features: the breathtaking daytime landscapes, the vibrant 72 Odd Towers illuminated at night, and the chance to visit the famous Avatar Mountains. Plus, the inclusion of private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and comfortable accommodations make it appealing for those wanting a well-rounded, culturally immersive experience.

One possible consideration is the tight schedule — three days is packed, so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed. However, for those with limited time in Zhangjiajie or who want a curated experience, this tour promises a good blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and unique adventures.

This tour is well-suited for travelers eager to see Zhangjiajie’s most iconic views, enjoy guided ease, and experience the city’s vibrant night scene. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a value-packed, organized trip with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Good To Know

• All-in-one package that covers major sights including Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain.
• Guided experience with an English-speaking guide, ensuring you don’t miss key details.
• Includes transportation and some tickets, simplifying logistics but note some extras are optional.
• Nighttime visit to 72 Odd Towers offers a unique cultural spectacle not available on self-guided tours.
• Culinary and photo opportunities enhance the overall experience.
• Limited group size of 12 promises more personalized attention.

The Details: What to Expect on a 3-Day Zhangjiajie Tour

Day 1: Setting the Stage with Tianmen Mountain and the 72 Odd Towers

Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup at the Hilton Garden Inn in Zhangjiajie, setting a comfortable tone for the trip. Once on board, the first big highlight is Tianmen Mountain, known for its jaw-dropping views and daring experiences. The world’s longest alpine cable car ride offers an exhilarating ascent, giving you a panoramic view that’s worth every second of the ride. Expect to spend about four hours exploring, including time on the cable car and visiting the mountain’s famous spots.

Notable in reviews is the spectacular scenery from the cable car, often described as “breathtaking,” and the stairs and glass skywalk add a dash of adrenaline. The skywalk, which is glass-bottomed, might give you a fleeting nerve-wracking moment but offers another perspective of the mountain’s grandeur.

Evening reveals the 72 Odd Towers, a Guinness-recognized architectural marvel. This is a highlight for many travelers, especially at night when the towers light up with colorful illuminations and light shows. One review mentions the towers turning into a “vibrant cultural hub,” with local performances and bustling atmosphere, making it a fun and lively end to your first day.

Day 2: Taking in Zhangjiajie’s Natural Wonders

Day 2 is packed with scenic excursions designed to deepen your appreciation of Zhangjiajie’s geological marvels. Starting with Yellow Stone Village (Huangshi Village), you might prefer the cable car for a swift ascent or a hike for a more engaging experience. The views from the top are described as “360-degree panoramas of quartz-sandstone pillars,” perfect for photography and awe.

Next, a peaceful walk along Golden Whip Stream offers a chance to relax amidst lush greenery. The crystal-clear waters and playful wild macaques make for memorable photos and tranquil moments. The 2-3 hour walk is suited for most fitness levels, and many reviews mention how this stretch provides a calming contrast to the previous mountain adventures.

In the afternoon, Yangjiajie offers a slightly wilder side of the park, with narrow, towering peaks and precipitous cliffs. For travelers craving more adventure or dramatic scenery, this area does not disappoint. The rugged terrain and dramatic vistas are often described as “more raw and untouched,” providing a different flavor of Zhangjiajie’s landscape.

The day ends with a visit to Tianzi Mountain, famous for its “Seas of Clouds” and “Forests of Peaks” views. Many guests describe this as a “quintessential Zhangjiajie vista”, where the scenery looks almost surreal, with mist swirling around jagged peaks.

Day 3: Avatar Mountains and the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Day 3 kicks off with a visit to Yuanjiajie, often dubbed the “real-world Avatar Mountains.” This area features the famous Southern Sky Column (Avatar Hallelujah Mountain) — the iconic inspiration for the movie’s floating peaks. Many reviewers point out how walking among these towering, mist-shrouded pillars feels like stepping into a fantasy world.

Next, the Ten-mile Gallery provides a more relaxed, scenic walk or train ride through a natural art gallery of rock formations like The Poet Greeting Guests. The leisurely pace here is appreciated, especially after two days of active exploration.

The grand finale is the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge — the world’s longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge. Walking across nearly 300 meters above the canyon floor, you’ll get breathtaking views and a rush of adrenaline. Reviewers describe it as “a must-do for thrill-seekers,” and some mention the safety measures and the incredible feeling of walking on glass with the canyon stretching beneath.

Transportation, Guides, and Extra Costs

All transportation is air-conditioned, making long days more comfortable. The guide, who speaks English, is a key part of the experience, helping you navigate ticket reservations and explaining the sites’ significance. The tour includes tickets to major attractions like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, Bailong Elevator, and Yangjiajie Cableway but notes optional extras such as the Yellow Stone Village cable car or the glass bridge experience, which are paid separately.

This flexibility allows travelers to customize their experience slightly but also means some costs are not covered in the upfront price of $299. Most reviews highlight the value of guided assistance in avoiding long lines and logistical headaches.

Accommodations and Logistics

Guests stay in comfortable hotels or authentic local homestays, depending on availability. The tour begins and ends at the Hilton Garden Inn, central and convenient for travelers arriving by air.

The small group size of 12 ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and tailored advice. The tour provider emphasizes early booking due to strict ticket reservation policies, so planning ahead is advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, comprehensive introduction to Zhangjiajie’s most famous sights. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the natural beauty and iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning every detail. The inclusion of both daytime activities and the vibrant nighttime light show at the 72 Odd Towers makes it especially appealing for those who love a mix of scenery and culture.

If you enjoy guided tours, scenic walks, and photo opportunities, this experience delivers well. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore at your own speed, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

Final Thoughts on the Zhangjiajie 3-Day Tour

This guided tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural sights. The highlights like the Avatar Mountains and the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge are unique and memorable, especially with the guidance of local experts who can enrich your understanding.

The experience provides good value considering the included transportation, tickets, and small group size. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a curated, hassle-free way to explore Zhangjiajie’s top attractions, especially if you’re eager for photo-worthy vistas and some thrill-seeking moments.

While the packed schedule might not suit those preferring a slow, unstructured trip, it’s perfect if your goal is to see as much as possible in a limited time. Early booking is recommended to secure tickets, especially for popular sites like the glass bridge.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive, engaging, and well-organized way to enjoy Zhangjiajie’s stunning landscapes and iconic sights. Expect plenty of awe-inspiring views, cultural highlights, and a few adrenaline rushes along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most activities are accessible, including cable car rides and gentle walks, but some areas like Yangjiajie involve rugged terrain. Reviewers mention good overall accessibility, but be prepared for some uphill walks.

Are meals included in this tour?
Meal details aren’t specified in the description, so it’s best to bring snacks or inquire if meals are included or available nearby.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 12 travelers, offering a more personalized experience compared to larger group tours.

Can I customize or skip certain attractions?
Since this is a set itinerary, customization might be limited. However, optional tickets like the Yellow Stone Village cable car or the glass bridge experience are paid separately, giving some flexibility.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Be prepared for outdoor activities and variable weather conditions.

How early should I book?
Early booking is strongly recommended due to strict ticket reservation policies, especially for popular sites like the glass bridge.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. The tour provider offers free cancellation, which is helpful if plans change unexpectedly.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if the Zhangjiajie 3-Day Tour aligns with your travel style and expectations. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, cultural insights, or a bit of adventure, it promises an immersive experience filled with memorable sights.