The Ultimate Yili Itinerary! Must-Visit from April to June! Foolproof Guide for Laid-Back Travelers!

The Ultimate Yili Itinerary! Must-Visit from April to June! Foolproof Guide for Laid-Back Travelers! Xinjiang has always been a popular tourist destination, attracting countless visitors. Many people, limited by their vacation time, flock to Xinjiang in July and August. However, during this peak season, the scenic spots are overcrowded, prices skyrocket, and some grasslands begin to turn yellow, diminishing the scenery. In my opinion, Xinjiang from April to June is the absolute best time to visit, offering unique and unparalleled beauty. This itinerary is the GOAT. Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi Activities: Explore the International Grand Bazaar for souvenirs → Enjoy authentic barbecue at Loulan Secret Grill Day 2: Sunset at Sayram Lake 5-hour drive through the Tianshan Mountains, arriving at 4pm Photo Spots: General's Platform (overlooking the ice-push spectacle), West Sea Prairie (encountering swans) Day 3: Sayram Lake Loop + Apricot Valley Afternoon Tea Surprise: Enjoy a picnic by the lake amidst the Chinese Zhusun Apricot Blossoms Photography Tips: ① Wear light-colored clothing and shoot from a high vantage point ② Use a telephoto lens to compress the layers of flowers ③ The light is softest after 4pm Day 4: Qasi + Turgen Apricot Valley Qasi Ancient Road: Search for wild tulips along the stream Apricot Valley Photo Spots: Capture the sea of flowers with snow-capped peaks in the frame from the eastern hillside, and use a drone to film running shots Day 5: Nalati Aerial Grassland Horseback Riding Tip: Choose the "Tianjie Platform - Nomadic Family" route Top Ice Flower Photography: Shoot the translucent petals in the morning backlight, using a wide-angle lens at a low angle to showcase the scale of the flower field Day 6: Desert + Delicacies at Jimute Tower Desert Activities: ① Ride a camel to the highest dune for sunset ② Experience the thrill of desert dune buggying! Shawan Big Plate Chicken: Crispy chicken skin, belt noodles dipped in flavorful sauce – simply divine! Day 7: Must-Dos Before Departure Buy dried goods at Hualing Market: Dried apricots, milk lumps (choose sweet and sour flavor) Outfit Guide: Layer up: Light down jacket/windbreaker (0-5°C in the morning and evening) + sweater + long skirt (15-25°C during the day) -Photogenic Essentials: White long skirt (apricot blossoms/grassland), ethnic shawl (Kazanqi), denim outfit (desert) Essential Items: Sunglasses, windproof face mask, waterproof hiking boots (muddy snowmelt areas)