BusDa-Ancient Great Wall &Badaling Great Wall Full-day Bus Tour

Exploring China’s Most Famous Landmark Just Got Better
This review covers the BusDa-Ancient Great Wall & Badaling Great Wall Full-day Bus Tour, an experience praised for its authentic encounters and value. While many tours stick to the polished, crowded sections, this one offers a chance to see both the well-preserved and untouched parts of the Wall in one day—an ideal choice for history buffs, adventurers, and those craving a genuine connection with this historic marvel.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, it combines two very different perspectives of the Wall: the rugged, less-traveled Ancient Great Wall of Badaling, and the popular, restored Badaling section. Secondly, it offers a well-organized, comfortable experience with private transportation and knowledgeable guides. And finally, the cost—around $23—delivers surprisingly good value, especially considering the inclusion of entrance fees and optional lunch.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s timing can be tight—around 8 hours total—so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of mobility and a desire to squeeze in a comprehensive visit without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you’re looking for a relaxed, tourist-free experience or a deep dive into remote ruins, this might not be the perfect fit. But for most travelers wanting a balance of authenticity, comfort, and affordability, this tour ticks the boxes.

Who should consider this tour?
It’s perfect for those who want to see both the iconic and more raw, natural sides of the Great Wall in one day, with plenty of expert guidance and no shopping gimmicks.

Good To Know

• Authentic and Restored: Experience both the untouched, rugged section of the Ancient Great Wall and the highly accessible, well-preserved Badaling section.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Lee and Jackie Chan (yes, that’s their actual guiding names) are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enriching the experience.
• Value for Money: At just $23, the tour includes entrance fees, private transportation, and optional lunch, making it a cost-effective way to explore the Wall.
• Limited Crowds in Certain Sections: The Ancient Great Wall offers a quieter, more primitive experience, ideal for photos and hiking, while the main Badaling area is bustling but stunning.
• Efficient Your Day: The full-day format packs in two different Wall experiences, but expect around 8 hours from pickup to drop-off.
• Well-received for Flexibility and Helpfulness: Staff and guides are noted for their helpfulness and ability to accommodate guest requests, even in tricky weather.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in Beijing, offering the convenience many travelers appreciate. From there, you’ll head to two key sites, each with its unique appeal.

Stop 1: Yanqing Badaling Incomplete Great Wall
This section is a standout for its raw, untouched qualities. Unlike the bustling, reconstructed sections, the Ancient Great Wall here remains mostly in its original stonework, surrounded by wild mountain scenery. It’s perfect for those who love a more adventurous hike or photography. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time as you walk along the rugged paths with fewer travelers around.

One review mentions, “The Wall here feels primitive and adventurous,” highlighting its appeal for hikers and history enthusiasts. This part lasts about 2.5 hours, with admission included, ensuring you don’t need to worry about extra costs or tickets. Expect dramatic views, quiet trails, and a chance to see the Wall in a more authentic state.

Stop 2: The Great Wall at Badaling
After the rugged adventure, the tour moves to the most famous, restored section of the Wall. Recognized globally and a UNESCO World Heritage site, this part of Badaling is the poster child for Chinese heritage. It features wide walkways, watchtowers, and stunning mountain scenery—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.

This stop lasts about 2 hours, with tickets included again. Here, guides often share historical insights, making it both educational and awe-inspiring. It’s the section seen in countless movies and travel brochures, so expect to see plenty of fellow travelers, especially in peak seasons.

Comfort and Transportation

The tour’s private, air-conditioned bus ensures a comfortable journey between sites, avoiding the hassle of public transit or multiple taxis. The round-trip transportation is included if you opt for the package, making this a stress-free way to explore. The tour is limited to 47 travelers, which strikes a good balance—small enough for personalized attention but large enough to feel lively.

Guides and Reviews

Guests consistently praise guides like Lee and Jackie Chan (the latter’s actual English name, shared in reviews), for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to customize the experience. One reviewer noted that Jackie knew exactly what they wanted, guiding them to “great spots” and making the visit memorable.

Another highlighted the helpfulness and flexibility of staff—an important factor when traveling with a group on a tight schedule or in unpredictable weather. Even those who encountered minor inconveniences, like the ancient wall being temporarily closed, appreciated the clear communication and overall trip management.

Food and Additional Options

Lunch isn’t included by default, but it can be added, giving you a chance to enjoy local dishes after the walk. Some reviews don’t mention the meal, but considering the overall value, the option to include lunch adds convenience and a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine.

Price and Value Analysis

At $23 per person, this tour offers excellent value—covering entrance fees, transportation, and guiding services. Compared to other options that might focus solely on the well-trodden sections or involve more expensive packages, this one strikes a nice balance. You won’t feel rushed or overcharged, and the inclusion of authentic and less touristy parts elevates the experience beyond typical day trips.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

For travelers eager to see both the iconic and the wild, unspoiled sides of the Great Wall, this tour offers a compelling package. The combination of adventure, cultural insight, and comfort makes it stand out for those wanting a genuine connection with history without breaking the bank.

If you’re someone who values expert guides, diverse scenery, and authentic experiences, you’ll appreciate how this tour balances all those elements. It’s especially suited for those staying in Beijing a few days, looking to maximize their cultural exposure without the hassle of complicated logistics.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, be mindful of the total 8-hour itinerary and the walking involved. The tour’s energetic nature is best suited for active travelers ready to explore.

FAQs

What does the tour include?
It includes private or shared transportation (depending on your choice), an English-speaking guide, entrance tickets to both Wall sections, and optional lunch.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, covering traveling time, site visits, and breaks. Expect around 2.5 hours at the Ancient Wall and 2 hours at the main Badaling section.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the walking involved—it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially if visiting the rugged, less restored section.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is fixed, guides are praised for their helpfulness and flexibility, so you can often ask for tailored advice or adjustments.

Is lunch included?
No, but it can be added for an extra fee, offering a chance to enjoy authentic Chinese dishes after the walk.

What if the ancient section is closed?
One reviewer mentioned it was closed during their trip, but the tour still offers a full experience with the main Wall at Badaling.

How crowded does it get?
The main Badaling section can be busy, especially in peak seasons, but the less-traveled ancient part offers a quieter alternative.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Though not explicitly stated, visiting in spring or autumn will likely offer the best weather and scenery, considering typical outdoor travel conditions in Beijing.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of authenticity, comfort, and value—perfect for those who want a comprehensive visit to the Great Wall in a single day. Its focus on authentic ruins alongside the iconic Badaling section makes it ideal for history buffs, adventure lovers, and travelers seeking genuine experiences without excessive cost. With knowledgeable guides and flexible options, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking to genuinely understand and enjoy this legendary monument.