Customized Private Day Tour of DunHuang Mogao Grottoes
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Build your own itinerary in Dunhuang, on this flexible private tour with your own translator/guide and driver. Start at the city’s star attraction, the Mogao Grottoes, then pick two other signature sights. Choose from Mingsha Shan - Echoing-Sand Mountain & Crescent Moon Pool, the Dunhuang Museum, and the Shazhou Nightly Market. Admission is at your own expense.
Available options
Customized Private Day Tour of DunHuang Mogao Grottoes
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private guide
Private air-conditioned comfortable car
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide and driver in your hotel lobby and transfer you to Visitors' Center of Mogao Grottoes, an UNESCO listed World Heritage Site, start your exciting sightseeing tour from to Mogao Caves and Digital Film Center, Located in the Gobi desert, the Caves of the Thousand Buddhas feature beautiful wall fresco paintings and more than 3,000 sculptures dating from the forth to the fourteenth century.Then, a professional cave guide will lead you to explore about 7 to 9 caves closely. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing two more attractions to visit in the afternoon. Drop you off at your hotel.
2
Enjoy the flexibility of choosing two more attractions to visit in the afternoon. After tour end drop you off at your hotel.
3
Enjoy the flexibility of choosing two more attractions to visit in the afternoon. After tour end drop you off at your hotel.
4
Enjoy the flexibility of choosing two more attractions to visit in the afternoon. After tour end drop you off at your hotel.
5
Enjoy the flexibility of choosing two more attractions to visit in the afternoon. After tour end drop you off at your hotel.
What's not included
Lunch
Entry/Admission - Mogao Caves
Entry/Admission - Mingsha Shan - Echoing-Sand Mountain
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Dunhuang
Dunhuang is a historic oasis city located at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road. Known for its stunning desert landscapes, ancient Buddhist caves, and rich cultural heritage, Dunhuang offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It is a gateway to the vast Gobi Desert and the famous Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top Attractions
Mogao Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mogao Caves are a system of 492 ancient Buddhist temples and cave sanctuaries. They house some of the finest examples of Buddhist art and murals spanning a thousand years.
Historical/Religious
Half day to full day
¥170 (including entrance fee and guided tour)
Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes)
A massive sand dune complex near the Mogao Caves, known for the unique sound it makes when the sand slides down. It offers stunning desert landscapes and adventure activities.
Nature/Adventure
Half day
¥10 (entrance fee) + activity costs
Yadan National Geopark
A unique geological landscape featuring eroded rock formations, canyons, and desert scenery. It offers hiking and exploration opportunities in a stunning natural setting.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
¥60 (entrance fee)
Dunhuang Museum
A museum showcasing the history and culture of Dunhuang and the Silk Road. It features artifacts, exhibits, and information about the region's rich heritage.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamb Skewers (Yangrou Chuan)
Grilled lamb skewers marinated in a blend of spices and soy sauce
Snack
Contains meat
Hand-Pulled Noodles (Lamian)
Freshly made noodles served with a variety of sauces and toppings
Main dish
Vegetarian options available
Sweet Melon (Gua)
A local sweet melon known for its juicy and refreshing taste
Dessert
Vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking in the desert
Camel riding
Sandboarding
Tea house visits
Desert meditation
Local spa treatments
Visiting the Mogao Caves
Exploring the Dunhuang Museum
Best Time to Visit
April to October
This period offers the most pleasant weather for sightseeing, with warm days and cool nights. It's the best time to explore the desert and historical sites.
15°C to 35°C
59°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mandarin Chinese
- Widely spoken: Mandarin Chinese
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Dunhuang is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and scams, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
Getting there
By air
- Dunhuang Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Dunhuang Railway Station
By bus
Dunhuang Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses are frequent and cover most major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Shazhou Night Market
Dunhuang Old Town
Day trips
Eagle's Beak (Yingpan)
120 km from Dunhuang • Full day
A unique geological formation featuring a narrow canyon and stunning desert landscapes. It offers hiking and exploration opportunities.
Sanggan Temple
30 km from Dunhuang • Half day
An ancient Buddhist temple with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It offers a peaceful retreat and cultural insights.
Festivals
Dunhuang International Silk Road Week • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Mogao Caves early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
- Carry plenty of water and wear a hat when exploring the desert.
- Try local street food at the Shazhou Night Market for an authentic experience.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
- Use a local SIM card or eSIM for convenient internet access.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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