The Silk Road

Itinerary

Days 1-3 Beijing

Discover Old China on a guided tour of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

Days 4-6 Xi'an

The launching point for the Silk Road, Xi'an bursts with ancient sights including the Terracotta Warriors.

Days 7-8 Jiayuguan

Travel across the desert fringe to the Ming Dynasty fortress of Jiayuguan. Here the massive Great Wall completes its snaking journey and marks China's historic boundary.

Days 9-11 Dunhuang

Marvel at the cultivated fields surrounding the oasis town of Dunhuang and ride camels out into the desert to watch a sunrise from atop massive sand dunes. Visit the 4th century Mogao Caves, containing extraordinary Buddhist artwork.

Days 12-13 Turpan

Famous for its vineyards, Turpan was an important staging post on the Silk Road. Tour the many attractions around town, which include Emin Minaret and the ruined city of Jiaohe.

Days 14-15 Heavenly Lake

Savour fresh air and alpine wilderness surrounds while relaxing at Heavenly Lake. Stay at a local yurt, a traditional tent dwelling, and sample tasty Kazakh food.

Days 16-17 Taklamakan Desert

Take the Southern Silk Road route through the world's second largest sand desert, the Taklamakan. Visit the night market at Korla and stroll the tiny oasis of Minfeng to meet friendly locals.

Days 18-19 Hotan

Explore some of the local cottage industries of Hotan. Silk and carpet making workshops are hidden in narrow alleyways that snake through the countryside.

Days 20-22 Kashgar

Dusty lanes crammed full of shops and stalls fill Kashgar. Visit the famous Sunday bazaar and witness the bustle of one of the world's great trading spots. Dusty lanes crammed full of shops and stalls fill Kashgar.