8-day tour of Xining, Qinghai Lake, and Dunhuang with detailed itinerary

Depart from Xining, enjoy the beauty of Qinghai Lake, and explore the mysteries of Dunhuang. This 8-day tour will take you to experience the grandeur and mystery of Northwest China! -------------------- 🚩 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Lanzhou Arrive in Lanzhou and enjoy a free day to explore the city. Day 2: Zhangye Seven-Color Danxia Scenic Area In Zhangye, experience the grandeur of the Seven-Color Danxia. The palette of nature unfolds here. Day 3: Jiayu Pass Guancheng—Son of the Earth—Sculpture Without Borders Visit Jiayu Pass Guancheng, where history is palpable. Then visit Son of the Earth and Sculpture Without Borders, where art and nature blend seamlessly. Day 4: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring—Mogao Caves Ride a camel across Mingsha Mountain and visit the Crescent Moon Spring. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the murals of the Mogao Caves and experience the legacy of a thousand years. Day 5: Dangjinshan—Nanbaxian Devil City—Ulan Buh Desert Scenic Area Cross Dangjinshan and arrive at the Nanbaxian Devil City. Finally, arrive at the Ulan Buh Desert Scenic Area and experience the magical beauty of nature. Day 6: Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area—Chaka Salt Lake In Dachaidan Emerald Lake, experience the tranquility of the lake and mountains. Then head to Chaka Salt Lake, walk on the sky mirror, and feel like you're in a fairyland. Day 7: Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area—Qinghai Lake—Sun and Moon Mountain Visit Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area and experience the vastness of the plateau lake. Walk around the lake and experience the vastness and beauty of Qinghai Lake. Finally, climb Sun and Moon Mountain and overlook the entire Qinghai Lake. Day 8: Farewell to Lanzhou End your pleasant Northwest tour, depart from Lanzhou, and return home with full memories and rewards. 🌟 -------------------- Must-see attractions: 🌟 Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring 🌟🌟 - Address: Mingshan Road, Dunhuang City, Jiuquan City - Opening hours: Nov 10, 2024 - Mar 9, 2025, 07:30-18:00 - Duration: 3-5 hours - An oasis in the desert, the crescent-shaped spring contrasts with the surrounding sand dunes, making it a paradise for photographers! 🌈 Zhangye Seven-Color Danxia Scenic Area 🌟🌟 - Address: Nijiaying Village, Nantaizi Town, Linze County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province - Opening hours: Nov 1, 2024 - Feb 28, 2025, 07:30-17:00 - Duration: 3-5 hours - The Danxia landform is like a seven-color scroll, and each layer of color tells the story of nature's ingenuity. 🌊 Chaka Salt Lake 🌟🌟 - Address: No. 9 Yanhulu Road, Chaka Town, Ulan County, Haixi Prefecture - Opening hours: Oct 30, 2024 - Apr 30, 2025, 08:15-19:30 - Duration: 2-4 hours - Walking on the salt lake is like entering a fairyland, with the sky and the earth in one line, and the beauty is breathtaking. 🏯 Mogao Caves 🌟🌟 - Address: 25 km southeast of Dunhuang City, Jiuquan City - Opening hours: Dec 1, 2024 - Mar 31, 2025, 09:00-17:30 - Duration: 3-4 hours - A treasure trove of Buddhist art that has been passed down through the ages, each cave is a testament to history and a cultural treasure. -------------------- **Travel preparation**： 👕 **Clothing** * Windbreaker or down jacket, essential for warmth * Hat, scarf, and gloves, wind and cold protection * Jeans or sweatpants, comfortable activities * Sunscreen, protection from ultraviolet rays 🎒 **Accessories** * Sunglasses, protect your eyes from strong light * U-shaped pillow, good helper for long-distance travel * Waterproof shoe cover, in case of sudden rain * Crossbody bag or backpack, carry your belongings 📄 **Documents** * ID card, essential for travel * Student ID or other preferential documents, money-saving tips * Driver's license and vehicle-related documents, essential for self-driving 🔋 **Electronic devices** * Mobile phone, power bank, charger, stay connected and powered * Camera, record beautiful moments * Headphones, enjoy music or quiet time 💊 **Daily necessities** * Sunscreen, lip balm, essential for skin care * Tissues, wet wipes, clean and hygienic * Common medicines, such as cold medicine and stomach medicine, just in case * Thermos cup, drink hot water at any time -------------------- The charm of Xining, the grandeur of Qinghai Lake, and the mystery of Dunhuang. All the way, the scenery is endless. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on your Northwest tour!