Covering 17 days from Xi'an to Kashgar, this guided Silk Road tour stitches together imperial relics, Tibetan highlands, rainbow-colored Danxia cliffs and desert grottoes. Expect long transfers, layered climates and rich cultural encounters.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The group disembarks in Xi'an as dusk pools over the city wall and the scent of cumin drifts from nearby street vendors. Across 17 days the route repeatedly changes its voice: Tang-dynasty brickwork and terracotta ranks give way to highland prayer wheels, multicolored Danxia ridges, and desert dunes that sing when the wind moves.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
17 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average fitness — able to manage several hours of walking, boarding trains and short hikes at elevation.
Wildlife
History
This route follows stretches of the ancient Silk Road connecting imperial capitals, Buddhist grottoes and caravan towns that facilitated trade and cultural exchange for millennia.
Conservation
Many sites (Mogao Caves, Danxia formations) are environmentally and culturally fragile — follow marked paths, minimize waste, and avoid touching murals or excavated surfaces.
Reserve your spot on the 17-Day Guided Tour in Silk Road China today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Carry original passport and copies
Many sites and internal flights require original travel documents; keep photocopies and a digital backup.
Plan for long transfers
Several bullet-train and private-vehicle legs can last 3–5 hours; pack snacks and entertainment for comfort.
Protect fragile murals
At grotto sites like Mogao and Bingling, avoid flash photography and keep a respectful distance from painted surfaces.
Manage altitude and hydration
Some stops (Xiahe, Tianshan) rise above 2,500 m — ascend slowly, drink extra water and avoid heavy exertion on arrival days.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes handle uneven alleys, archaeological sites and light hikes.
Layered clothing and light insulated jacket
Temperature swings between day and night require breathable layers and a warm midlayer.
fall
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
High desert sun and reflective surfaces make strong UV protection essential.
summer
Travel document organizer
Securely holds passport, train tickets and permits often checked during transfers.