I feel numb when asked this question! A nanny-level guide to traveling through the Five Lakes and Shapotou.

My dears, the Five Lakes Crossing and Shapotou are so much fun! I have compiled a super detailed guide, save it quickly so you won’t get lost when you go to the desert! Itinerary Day1: Arrive in Yinchuan, rest in the city, and taste local food Day2: Depart from Yinchuan → Cross the Five Lakes in the Tengger Desert (Heroes Association Sculpture Square-Swan Lake-Ulan Lake-Camel Lake-Yuanguanhailiuqi Lake-Gitar Lake-Desert Highway), experience exciting off-road Day3: Play in Shapotou, check in the beautiful scenery of the desert and the Yellow River, North Changtan Highway 66, one of the must-check places in Zhongwei Day4: Free activities in Yinchuan, return Crossing the Five Lakes Crossing the off-road vehicle: Take a professional off-road vehicle, shuttle between the sand dunes, and feel the thrill of speeding. The driver will take you deep into the desert, passing various lakes, and find the best photo spots. Wulan Lake: A must-visit! The lake water is a dreamy rose color, like a gem in the desert. Standing on a high place and looking down, it is breathtakingly beautiful. Photography tips: Wear solid-colored clothes, such as white and red, to create a strong contrast with the desert and lake. Take advantage of the slope of the sand dunes to capture long legs. Shapotou Desert area: sand sliding, camel riding, desert motorcycles, many activities. Ride a camel slowly on the sand dunes to feel the desert style; ride a desert motorcycle to experience speed and passion. Yellow River Area: Go rafting on a sheepskin raft and feel the majesty of the Yellow River; take a zipline across the Yellow River and overlook the magnificent scenery. Check in at the scenic spots: Desert Escalator, Yellow River 3D Glass Bridge, and take more photos than you can imagine. Accommodation suggestions You can choose to camp in the desert when traveling through the five lakes, looking up at the bright starry sky and experiencing a different kind of romance. There are many hotels and B&Bs near Shapotou. You can choose according to your budget. Some of them offer views of the desert or the Yellow River.