Spend a private day moving from Ming-era ramparts to imperial gardens: hike or ride at Mutianyu Great Wall, then stroll the painted Long Corridor of the Summer Palace. This full-day tour blends scenic viewpoints with cultural highlights and practical transport.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cool morning air meets the stone underfoot as a private limo pulls out of Beijing and headlamps of the city give way to tree-lined highways. Within 90 minutes the Wall appears, a dragon of stone climbing ridgelines, its watchtowers punctuating the skyline. At Mutianyu, travelers can choose to walk the restored 2.5 km section with roughly two hours for exploration, or ride a cable car up and a toboggan down for a brisk finish.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness; requires climbing uneven stone steps and standing for photo stops.
Wildlife
History
Mutianyu’s stone line was fortified in the Ming dynasty as part of a defensive network; the Summer Palace reflects Qing-era imperial landscaping and later 19th-century restoration under Empress Dowager Cixi.
Conservation
High visitor volume stresses both sites—stay on marked paths, avoid litter, and support guides who follow conservation rules to protect historic fabric and local ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Explore Summer Palace Mutianyu Great Wall Private Beijing Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early to beat the crowds
Early departures reduce time in queues at the cable car and give clearer air for photos on the ridgeline.
Wear grippy shoes
Stone steps at Mutianyu are uneven and can be steep—sturdy hiking shoes improve comfort and safety.
Hydrate and pace on the climb
Bring at least 1–2 liters of water and take breaks between watchtowers; cable car options are available if you prefer less ascent.
Respect cultural sites
Keep to paths in the Summer Palace, avoid climbing on historic structures, and follow guide instructions in sacred or restored areas.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provide traction and ankle support on uneven stone steps and pitches.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects from strong sun exposure on ridgelines and open lakewalks.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the climb and can be refilled at stops.
Light waterproof layer
Useful for sudden showers or wind on exposed sections of the Wall.
spring