2 Day Dongchuan Red Land & Nizhu River Grand Canyon Private Tour

2 days

Moderate

Discover the beauty of the Dongchuan Red Land and Nizhu River Grand Canyon on a 2-day private tour from Kunming. Walk on the world's highest glass viewing platform and the Yunduan Glass Bridge.

Discover the beauty and charm of Dongchuan Red Land and Nizhu River Grand Canyon on a 2-day private personalized guided tour from Kunming with a private vehicle. Visit the Dongchuan Red Land Scenic Area and the Nizhu River Grand Canyon, and take in the views from the Yunduan Glass Bridge and the 520 Observation Deck.


Day 1 - Dongchuan Red Land

Depart from Kunming in a private vehicle to the Dongchuan Red Land Scenic Area which will take around 2.5 hours. Arriving at the first stop, the Luoxiagou Scenic Spot. visitors will be greeted by a magnificent view of terraced fields. The terraces, with their red soil backdrop, are like a giant work of art created by nature. The layers of the terraces, combined with the green crops growing on them, create a vivid contrast of colors. The early morning light casts a soft glow over the area, making it an ideal spot for photography.

Next, proceed to the Jinxiuyuan (Splendid Garden) Scenic Spot. This place is a veritable palette of nature. The red soil here is interspersed with patches of yellow, green, and purple, creating a mesmerizing pattern that seems to have been painted by a master artist. Surrounded by the vast red soil, the tree forms a striking visual contrast, and its unique shape makes it a great subject for photography.

After enjoying the sunset, drive to Xuanwei city for dinner before proceeding to Nizhu River Resort Hotel for an overnight stay.


Day 2 - Nizhu River Grand Canyon

Nizhu River Grand Canyon is situated near Pu Li Town in Xuanwei City, Yunnan Province. It is a tributary on the Beipan River and home of a beautiful and magical Grand Canyon in Xuanwei.


There are many things to do at the Nizhu River Grand Canyon

1) the world's longest outdoor sightseeing cliff elevator 

2) the China's highest elevated cable-stayed glass suspension footbridge 

3) the world's highest cantilever glass viewing platform 


It is also close to:

4) the world's highest bridge -- Beipanjiang (Duge) Bridge (the bridge deck is 565.4 meters above the river surface, with a total length of 1,314.4 meters)

5) the world's 3rd highest bridge -- Puli Bridge @ 485m.


Nizhu River Yunduan Glass Bridge Experience. This is the highlight of your trip - the Nizhu River Skywalk. Take the Qingqyun Ladder, followed by a cableway ride to the impressive 365-meter-long Yunduan glass footbridge that is suspended a staggering 317 meters above the canyon. As you step onto the bridge, you'll feel a thrill of excitement and a touch of nervousness. But once you start walking, you'll be completely captivated by the panoramic views of the river, the towering cliffs, and the dense forests below. The transparent walkway gives you a truly unique perspective, as if you're floating in mid-air.

Nizhu River 520 Observation Deck Experience. From the Yunduan Glass Bridge, walk to the 520 Observation Deck at 470 meters above ground, extending 68 meters beyond the cliff).

At the end of the day, drive back to Kunming with a stopover for dinner.

What's included?
    • Private Vehicle with Pickup/Dropoff
    • Customized Itinerary
    • 1 night accommodation in Nizhu River Grand Canyon 4-star hotel (twin-share)
    •  Breakfast
    • English-speaking private guide (option)
    • French/German/Italian/Spanish/Russian guide (extra fee)
    • Malay/Indonesian/Thai/Vietnamese/Khmer guide (extra fee)
    Exclusions
      • Entrance & Admission fees & Rides
      • Tips and gratuities
      • Meals and beverages
      • Personal Expenses
      Please note

        Aether Tours offers a private tour combining two of Yunnan’s most stunning landscapes: Dongchuan Red Land, with its breathtaking red soil terraces, and Nizhu River Grand Canyon, a hidden natural wonder with dramatic cliffs and deep valleys. This tour is ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.


        BEST TIME TO VISIT

        • Dogchuan Red Land
          • Mar-May(Spring) - Best time for bright green crops contrasting with red soil.
          • Sept-Nov(Autumn) - The most photogenic season, with golden wheat fields.
        • Nizhu River Grand Canyon 
          • Sept-May - Clear skies, great visibility, and comfortable temperatures.
          • Avoid Jun-Aug – Rainy season may cause landslides & slippery trails.
        • Tip: Visit during sunrise & sunset for the most dramatic lighting for photography.


        WHY VISIT NIZHU RIVER GRAND CANYON? 

        • Breathtaking Scenery - Towering cliffs, winding river views, and deep canyons.
        • Hidden Gem - Less touristy than Tiger Leaping Gorge, offering a more peaceful experience.
        • Hiking & Outdoor Adventure - Explore viewpoints, trails, and seasonal boat rides.
        • Cultural Encounters - Visit local ethnic villages and experience traditional Bai and Yi minority cultures.


        ACCESSIBILITY & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

        • Moderate Hiking Required - Some trails involve steep and uneven terrain.
        • Not wheelchair Accessible - Certain viewpoints require stairs and rugged paths.

        Altitude Consideration:

        • Lower than Dongchuan Red Land, but some areas have steep climbs.


        Dongchuan Red Land (东川红土地) is one of China’s most stunning natural landscapes, known for its vivid red soil, golden wheat fields, and contrasting green vegetation. Often compared to a painter’s palette, this destination is a dream for photographers and nature lovers.


        WHY VISIT DONGCHUAN RED LAND?

        • Breathtaking Landscapes - The rich red soil, due to its high iron content, creates an unreal contrast with green crops and blue skies.
        • Photography Paradise - Best sunrise & sunset views, with ever-changing colors throughout the seasons.
        • Authentic Local Culture - Visit remote villages and experience the farming lifestyle of local Yi and Hui minorities.


        ACCESSIBILITY & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

        • No Strenuous Hiking Required - Viewpoints are accessible by car with short walks.
        • Some Areas have Uneven Paths - Comfortable shoes recommended.

        Altitude: 1,800m–2,600m – No major altitude sickness concerns, but some may experience mild dizziness.


        WHY BOOK WITH AETHER TOURS? 

        Aether Tours specializes in curated, private travel experiences that go beyond the typical tourist routes. Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, or hidden gems, our tours are designed to provide an authentic, hassle-free, and personalized journey.

        • Every itinerary is tailored to your interests, pace, and preferences.
        • Want more photography stops? Prefer a cultural experience? We adjust accordingly!
        • Our knowledgeable, English-speaking guides bring destinations to life.
        • No crowded buses, no rigid schedules—just a relaxed and immersive experience.
        • Travel with a purpose while respecting nature and culture.
        What to bring

          Packing the right essentials can enhance your comfort, safety, and overall experience while traveling. Here’s a list of must-have items for any trip, including seasonal and destination-specific recommendations.


          ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST

          • Clothing & Accessories
            • Layered Clothing - Temperatures fluctuate from morning to night.
            • Warm Jacket (Especially for Autumn & Winter Trips) - Essential for sunrise & sunset photography.
            • Comfortable Hiking Shoes - Some trails are uneven or rocky.
            • Hat & Sunglasses - Strong sunlight, especially at higher elevations.
            • Rain Jacket or Poncho(for Summer Trips) - Unpredictable showers & mist in the canyon.
            • Gloves & Scarf(Winter Trips) - Chilly mornings and windy conditions at viewpoints.

          Tip: Avoid bright white or reflective clothing for photography—neutral or earthy tones blend better with the landscape.

          • Health & Safety Essentials
            • Sunscreen(SPF 30+ or higher) High altitude = strong UV rays.
            • Lip Balm & Moisturizer - Prevent dry skin due to wind & sun.
            • First Aid Kit - Include band-aids/plaster, antiseptic wipes, and basic medicine.
            • Altitude Sickness Pills (If Needed) - Dongchuan Red Land is 1,800m–2,600m above sea level.
            • Motion Sickness Pills(If Needed) - Winding mountain roads may cause discomfort.
            • Bug Repellent - Especially useful near rivers and farmlands.
            • Tissues & Wet Wipes - Some rural rest stops may not have toilet paper.

          Tip: If you are sensitive to altitude, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol before the trip.

          • Food & Hydration
            • Reusable Water Bottle - Stay hydrated at high altitudes.
            • Snacks & Energy Bars - Limited food stops in remote areas.
            • Local Currency(Cash) - Some villages and food stalls don’t accept cards.

          Tip: Try local Yunnan dishes at village restaurants for an authentic experience!


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