Zhangjiajie: 2-Day Highlights Tour w/Glass Bridge &Cable car

Travelers looking for a well-rounded glimpse into Zhangjiajie’s breathtaking scenery will find this 2-day highlights tour from Discover China Trips offers a memorable blend of iconic sights and thrilling adventures. The tour’s mix of natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping activities, and expert guides makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we love about this tour:
First, the ride up the Bailong Elevator provides a unique perspective on the towering sandstone peaks — it’s like being in a sci-fi movie. Second, the chance to walk across the world’s longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring. Lastly, the combination of scenic cable car rides and the skywalk on Tianmen Mountain offers incredible photo opportunities and a real sense of adventure.

A possible consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of walking and heights, so it might not suit travelers with certain mobility issues or a fear of heights.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who want a mix of adrenaline and scenery, and who appreciate guided insights into the area’s natural significance. It’s an ideal option for first-timers wanting a “big picture” overview or those on a tight schedule but eager for authentic encounters.

Good To Know

• Stunning Landscapes: The tour covers the most famous spots in Zhangjiajie, including Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie, the inspiration for Avatar’s Hallelujah Mountain.
• Thrilling Experiences: From the Bailong Elevator to the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, adrenaline lovers will find plenty to excite them.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights into the geography, history, and film-worthy scenery of the region.
• Convenience: All transportation, tickets, and lunches are included, simplifying your trip.
• Authentic Nature: You’ll get a true sense of the area’s natural beauty, with plenty of photo ops and crowd-free moments.
• Flexibility: The tour is private, so you can tailor your experience slightly with your guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Zhangjiajie Experience

This tour packs a lot into just two days, making it perfect for travelers with limited time but big ambitions. The itinerary balances iconic sightseeing with some adventure, all led by a private guide who ensures smooth transitions and personalized attention.

Day 1: The Marvels of Yuanjiajie and Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or train station, setting the tone for a hassle-free experience. First stop: Yuanjiajie, a stunning area of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. This part of the park inspired the floating mountains seen in the movie Avatar, so it’s no surprise the scenery feels almost otherworldly.

The highlight here is the Bailong Elevator, which whisks visitors to the top of the mountain in just 88 seconds. We loved the way the elevator’s glass walls offer panoramic views of the sandstone peaks, making the ascent part of the sightseeing itself. One traveler quoted: “The Bailong Elevator is the highest and fastest sightseeing elevator in the world — a must-try for thrill-seekers.”

Once at the top, you explore notable spots like the Pillar of the Southern Sky and the Bridge Under Heaven. After a satisfying lunch, the group takes the Tianzi Mountain Cable Car down, offering sweeping views of rock formations and lush hills outside your glass window.

Next, your trip continues to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. Here, the brave can walk the Glass Bridge, a daring stretch that appears to hover above the canyon below. Reviewers mention that the sensation of “flying above the ground” makes it a memorable challenge, especially for those unafraid of heights. The bridge is the longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge in the world, adding a true bucket-list element to your day.

Day 2: Tianmen Mountain and the Sky’s Edge

Your second day begins with a scenic long cable car ride to Tianmen Mountain. The ride takes about 28 minutes, offering incredible views of the city, the 99 bends road, and surrounding mountains. The guide shared that this cable car is the longest in the world, providing a smooth and scenic ascent.

Once at the top, you’ll walk along the sky walkway, a 1.6-kilometer path built along the mountain’s edge. The experience is both breathtaking and a little nerve-wracking, especially at the highest points, but the views of the rugged terrain are unmatched. One reviewer called it “the soul of Zhangjiajie,” noting how the walkway is a highlight of the entire trip.

From the summit, you descend via escalator to Tianmen Cave, a naturally formed hole measuring 131.5 meters high. Walking the 999 steep steps down to the cave is a physical challenge but also a chance to appreciate the mountain’s grandeur up close. The tour ends with a cable car descent, offering one last chance to soak in the scenery before heading back to your hotel or catching your train or flight.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comprehensive coverage: In just two days, you’ll see the most famous scenery in Zhangjiajie, from natural parks to man-made marvels. The itinerary balances active exploration with moments of awe, making it suitable for travelers who want the “big” sights without feeling rushed.

Expert-guided insights: The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing interesting facts about the geology, film connections, and local culture. One reviewer mentioned Joy as a particularly kind and friendly guide, which adds a personal touch to the experience.

Safety and convenience: All tickets—including the Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Mountain cable car, and the glass bridge—are included, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs or long lines. The private group setup ensures a tailored experience.

Authentic adventure: Many visitors appreciated the chance to challenge themselves with the glass bridge and skywalk, making the trip feel more like a true adventure rather than just sightseeing.

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Analyzing the Price and Value

At $508 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value considering the inclusions. It covers transportation, tickets, lunches, and the services of a private guide, which can add up if booked separately. The convenience of having everything organized, especially in a remote and sprawling area like Zhangjiajie, is highly valued by travelers.

The tour’s reviews support its value, with guests describing the experience as “wonderful” and praising the guides for their friendliness and professionalism. You pay a premium for the ease and curated experience, but many feel it’s worth it for the time saved and memories created.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Zhangjiajie’s top sights without the stress of planning every detail. It suits those who enjoy active days with a mix of scenic beauty and adventure. Because of the heights involved, it’s best for travelers comfortable with walking and standing on glass bridges or skywalks.

It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting a reliable, well-paced introduction to the area’s most photogenic spots. However, those with mobility issues or a fear of heights should consider their comfort level before booking.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Zhangjiajie highlights tour from Discover China Trips offers a well-rounded, adventurous immersion into one of China’s most iconic landscapes. From the towering sandstone peaks and glass bridges to the skywalks and natural caves, every moment promises a memorable view or thrill. The knowledgeable guides and inclusive setup add convenience and reassurance, making it a strong choice for travelers seeking both awe and ease.

If you’re after a guided experience that combines natural beauty with adrenaline-fueled highlights, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who want an authentic adventure without the hassle — ensuring you return home with stories to tell and photos to cherish.

FAQ

How long is the transfer from my hotel to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?
The tour includes private transportation from your hotel to the park, so you won’t need to worry about navigating public transit or parking.

Are all tickets included in the tour price?
Yes, all major entry tickets—Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Mountain, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, and the Glass Bridge—are covered.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for travelers who are comfortable with walking and heights. The tour involves steep stairs and walking on glass walkways, which may not suit everyone.

What food is included?
Two lunches are included, so you’ll have the chance to enjoy local cuisine during the tour days.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private group experience, guides may accommodate slight preferences or timing adjustments, but the core itinerary remains fixed.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps a camera for all those photo-worthy moments.

Is this tour suitable for people with health concerns?
Participants with heart problems or severe mobility issues may find the walking and heights challenging. It’s best to consult with your doctor before booking.

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

This tour strikes a balance between natural wonder and adventure, providing a thoughtfully curated look at Zhangjiajie’s most famous sights. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a landscape lover, it’s a fantastic way to experience the region’s unique beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby