Avila Travel Guilin, China

Adventure holidays in China

Round trip China

China is a fascinating destination for adventurous travellers, where ancient culture and unspoilt nature come together. Walk along remote sections of the Great Wall, trek through the impressive karst landscapes of Guilin or explore the colourful rice terraces of Longji by bike. Cruise down the wild rivers of Sichuan, traverse the vast deserts of Xinjiang, or go hiking in the rugged mountainous regions of Yunnan and Tibet. China offers endless possibilities for those seeking adventure off the beaten track, full of contrasts, challenges and unforgettable experiences.

View our sample adventure itineraries in China

Discover the lesser-known regions of China

Leave the beaten track behind and discover the rugged and impressive Chinese hinterland. Hike amongst the towering sandstone peaks of Zhangjiajie, the inspiration for the film *Avatar*, or climb the winding paths of the Hua Shan Mountains for panoramic views and a good dose of adrenaline. Explore the green rice terraces of Longji by bike, or go trekking through the remote villages of Yunnan province, where mountain tribes still live according to centuries-old traditions. Go rafting on the wild rivers of Sichuan, or wander through the vast desert plains of Gansu along the ancient Silk Road. Discover the mystique of the Tibetan Plateau, where you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into another world, or seek tranquillity in the forests and lakes of Jiuzhaigou, where every season brings its own splendour of colour. China is a land of contrasts, vast, unspoilt and ready to be discovered by adventurers with an open mind.

Sample itineraries for China
Adventure

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Choose a different travel style

If you prefer to travel in a different way, choose from our other travel styles. Of course, it is also possible to combine different travel styles. We will be happy to tailor-make your dream trip!

How would you like to travel?

Well-organised travel through China

Your China trip will be taken care of to perfection by us. Travelling through China with Avila means staying in special accommodations, a relaxed travel pace, experiencing the highlights just a little differently and hidden gems away from the crowds! Travel the country in comfort on the modern high-speed train.

Country information on China
Best travel time China
Sightseeing in China
Frequently asked questions China

Land of a thousand faces
China is a vast country with a rich history and impressive cultural diversity. From the mighty Great Wall stretching for miles, to the ancient imperial palaces in Beijing and Xi'an, where history comes alive.

Nature and culture in harmony
The landscapes range from the dramatic karst mountains around Guilin to the mysterious rock formations of Zhangjiajie. The Yangtze River winds through impressive valleys and cities, while ancient villages and temples invite exploration. Chinese cuisine, world-renowned for its diversity, reflects regional culture and traditions.

Modern cities and ancient traditions
In cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen, you will experience a futuristic skyline and vibrant city life, while the countryside and traditional markets showcase authentic China. Perfectly accessible with an excellent network of trains, flights and roads, China offers an unforgettable combination of adventure, culture and nature for every traveller.

Travelling through China
Thanks to the extensive network of high-speed trains, domestic flights and well-maintained roads, travelling across China is comfortable and efficient. Whether you choose an impressive train journey along spectacular landscapes or a flight between cultural hotspots, China offers countless opportunities to discover this fascinating country at your own pace.

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China's best travel time depends heavily on the region and your interests, as the country is vast and has diverse climates. Here is an overview by season:

Spring (March - May): One of the best periods to visit China. Temperatures are mild, flowers are in full bloom, and the landscape is green and fresh. Ideal for visiting historical cities like Beijing and Xi'an, or for trekking through natural areas like Jiuzhaigou.

Summer (June - August): During this period, temperatures can be quite high in many parts of China, especially in the interior. This is also the rainy season in southern areas, making for hot, humid days. Despite the weather, it is a lively time with many festivals and events throughout the country.

Autumn (September - November): This season is often considered the most beautiful travel time in China. Skies are clear, temperatures pleasant and autumn colours make natural parks extra spectacular. Perfect for exploring cities and enjoying walks by the Yangtze River or in Zhangjiajie.

Winter (December - February): Temperatures drop sharply, especially in northern China, where it can often be cold and sometimes bitterly cold. However, this season also offers unique opportunities, such as the famous ice festival in Harbin. South China tends to remain milder, making it a good destination for winter travel.

Note: Heavy rain often falls during the summer months, especially in southern China. To ensure a pleasant travel experience, it is wise to avoid busy periods such as Chinese New Year and Golden Week in October.

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China is a land of impressive diversity, where ancient traditions, breathtaking nature and vibrant cities seamlessly blend. From historic temples to vast landscapes and modern metropolises, each region tells its own story.

Discover the highlights of China:

  • Beijing: The historic capital with iconic sights such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the Celestial Palace.
  • Xi'an: Famous for the Terracotta Army, one of the world's most extraordinary archaeological finds, surrounded by ancient city walls.
  • Guilin: A paradise of karst mountains, meandering rivers and enchanting landscapes to explore by boat or on foot.
  • Shanghai: A bustling metropolis where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside classical temples and traditional neighbourhoods.
  • Lijiang: A charming ancient city with cobbled streets, surrounded by impressive mountains and authentic Naxi culture.
  • Zhangjiajie: World-famous for its bizarre sandstone pillars that served as inspiration for the film Avatar.
  • Chengdu: The gateway to the pandas, with a relaxed atmosphere, delicious Sichuan cuisine and historic temples.

Whether you love culture, nature or modern cities, China offers an unforgettable travel experience full of contrasts and discoveries.

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Avila Travel China temple

1. Do I need a visa for China?
No visa is required for tourist travellers with a Dutch nationality if the duration of stay is up to 30 days (this is valid for travel until 31-12-2025). Always check the latest visa and entry requirements for your nationality, as rules may change.

2. What is the best length of travel for China?
An average tour of China lasts between 10 and 21 days. This gives enough time to explore major cities, cultural highlights as well as natural areas in a relaxed manner.

3. What is the best way to travel around China?
Travelling by domestic flight and high-speed train is the most efficient way to cover long distances. For local travel, taxis, subways and private transfers are good options.

4. Is China easy to combine with another travel destination?
Yes, China is easy to combine with neighbouring countries such as Vietnam, Tibet, Mongolia or Japan. Thanks to good flight connections, it is possible to put together a comprehensive trip through Asia.

5. Will English be OK in China?
English is often spoken in major cities and tourist areas, especially by younger generations and in hotels and restaurants. Outside the cities, communication can be more difficult; a few basic words of Mandarin can then be very useful.

Our travel specialists are happy to help you with all your questions about a trip to China.

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Your travel specialist

Philip van den Hurk

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Avila travellers about travel to China

"We had an amazing trip through China. What a special destination! Thank you very much for the organisation Avila." - Family de Jong

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