Shanghai

Your journey starts in the heart of Shanghai, a city that blends the old with the new. Upon arrival, check into one of Shanghai’s top hotels, where luxury and comfort awaits. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Bund. Located in the city centre, this waterfront area is famous for its historic buildings in various architectural styles and serves as a central hub for exploring Shanghai’s culture. Walk along the promenade, take in the views of the Huangpu River and the city skyline. The area’s bars and restaurants are the perfect setting to introduce you to Shanghai’s culture and lifestyle.

Xian

Fly to Xian, a city that marks the eastern end of the Silk Road and has over 3,100 years of history. Here you’ll find the Terracotta Warriors, an army of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried to protect China’s first emperor in the afterlife. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is a deep dive into ancient Chinese art and military formation. Later, explore Xian’s ancient city walls, one of the best-preserved in China, stretching 7.4 miles. Whether you choose to bike or walk, the walls offer a unique view of the city. Afterward, visit the Muslim Quarter and discover the Great Mosque, a historical landmark founded during the Tang Dynasty, renowned for its unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture and its enduring cultural significance. End your day in a luxury Xian hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Xian

Xian

Start your day in Xi'an, China's ancient capital, at the Shaanxi Museum of History, a stunning building inspired by Tang Dynasty architecture. The museum’s vast collection of ceramics, paintings and fossils of Lantian Man gives you a glimpse into China’s history. Continue your historical journey at the Han Mausoleum where over 60,000 artifacts reveal the social hierarchy of the Han dynasty. In the afternoon, climb the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist site with panoramic views of Xian from the top. End your day back at your Xian hotel, reflecting on the day’s discoveries in this historically significant ancient capital.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dunhuang

Fly to Dunhuang, a historic oasis city on the Silk Road, surrounded by the mystical Gobi desert. Visit the Mogao Grottoes, a treasure trove of Buddhist art over a thousand years old in 735 caves. Your expert guide will show you around. Afterwards, experience the thrill of the Mingsha Dunes. Whether you choose to sand-toboggan, paraglide or camel ride, the dunes are an unforgettable adventure at the edge of the Gobi desert. You will stay at the Silk Road Hotel, conveniently located near Dunhuang's main attractions.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dunhuang

Continue your exploration of Dunhuang with a visit to the Huyang Forest, where golden poplar trees have stood the test of time. This natural wonder is a contrast to the desert landscape. Next, pay homage at the White Horse Pagoda, built in the 4th century in memory of a monk's loyal horse that played a crucial role in the transmission of Buddhism to China. The pagoda's bells, when rung, are said to mimic the horse's noble call. End your day back at your hotel, immersed in the history and natural beauty of Dunhuang.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dunhuang

Urumqi

Fly to Urumqi, a city that combines cultures and history. Start your day at the Urumqi History Museum where a curator-led private tour will show you the city’s Silk Road legacy, 3,000-year-old mummies and precious artifacts that tell the story of the region’s past. Visit Heavenly Lake, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Tianshan Mountains, where snow-capped peaks frame the stunning landscape. As the sun sets, experience the vibrant night market of Urumqi. Here, the air is filled with the smells of street food, Chinese Muslim cuisine and hand-pulled noodles. Walk through the Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest, covering over 44,000 square feet. This bustling market with an open mosque, viewing tower and thousands of stalls is a kaleidoscope of Urumqi’s cultures.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Urumqi

Today you’ll visit Heavenly Lake, 6,600 feet above sea level. Surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains, the lake’s turquoise water is a stunning contrast to Mount Bogda, a breathtaking natural scenery. After taking in the serene landscapes, head to the outskirts of Urumqi to visit a Kazak campsite. Here you’ll learn about the nomadic Kazak people’s way of life, traditions and agricultural practices. This will give you a deeper understanding of the region’s diverse cultures and Urumqi’s historical connections as a crossroads between China and Central Asia. Back to your Urumqi hotel to rest and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kashgar

Fly to Kashgar, an ancient city that is a testament to China’s multicultural history. Upon arrival, take a walking tour to experience Kashgar’s charm where centuries-old traditions blend with daily life. Your tour includes a visit to the Yeksjemba Bazaar, a market with over 100,000 stalls selling goods from around the world, livestock and souvenirs to silk. The diversity and vibrancy of Kashgar’s bazaar is the essence of this historic trade hub and a fascinating glimpse into the city’s enduring legacy as a cultural crossroads. Be sure to visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Xinjiang. This iconic landmark is not only an architectural marvel but also serves as a central place for Muslim worship and community activities, reflecting the spiritual heart of Kashgar.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kashgar

Kashgar

Go deeper into Kashgar’s cultural heritage with a guided tour of its mosques led by a local history scholar. This journey through Kashgar’s spiritual landmarks will give you insight into the role of Muslim minorities in the city’s history. As you travel along the ancient Silk Road, remember that Jiayuguan Pass, a historic gateway and key fortress at the western end of the Great Wall, once served as a crucial link connecting east and west on this legendary route. For a truly immersive experience, spend the night in a traditional Tajik yurt. These warm and comfortable tent dwellings set against the Xinjiang’s desert plains will give you a chance to live among the nomadic Tajik people, their customs and experience the stark beauty of China’s desert wilderness up close.

Meals Included: Breakfast

SHANGHAI - DEPARTURE

Your Silk Road journey ends today as you fly back to Shanghai with a full heart and many memories. This trip has not only shown you the history and cultures of the places you've been but also connected you to the land and people. As you travel on, the stories and experiences will stay with you, the essence of the spirit of adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast