7-Day Xi’an, Rainbow Mountains & Badain Jaran Desert

Day 1 Arrive Xi’an

Destination: Xi’an
Meals Included: Dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodations: Mercure Xi ‘an Downtown or similar

Upon arrival at the airport/train station, your friendly Muslim expert guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 2 Xi’an City Highlights

Destination: Xi’an
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Xian Great Mosque
Accommodations: Mercure Xi ‘an Downtown or similar

Unwind the morning at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a 1300-year-old Tang Dynasty marvel showcasing China’s traditional brick pagodas. Next, delve into Xi’an’s history at the Xi’an Museum, brimming with nearly 130,000 relics. After lunch, join the Salat prayer at the Great Mosque before exploring the vibrant Muslim Quarter. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine alleys overflowing with street food, restaurants, and the lively spirit of Xi’an’s 60,000-strong Muslim community.

Day 3 Bullet Train to Zhangye

Destination: Zhangye
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, packed lunch, dinner at halal restaurant
Accommodations: Holiday Inn Express Zhangye or similar

Catch a bullet train from Xi’an to Zhangye, a scenic 6-hour ride. Strategically positioned along the Silk Road, Zhangye is home to the world-renowned Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, where vibrant, multicolored rock formations create a surreal landscape. Often referred to as the “Rainbow Mountains,” this natural wonder has captivated photographers and filmmakers alike, including Disney’s “Mulan.” It is believed that the Rainbow Mountains are one of the creations of Allah as mentioned in the holy Quran. Here is the verse of the Quran: “Do you not see that Allah sends down rain from the sky, and We produce thereby fruits of varying colors? And in the mountains are tracts, white and red of varying shades and [some] extremely black.”

Day 4 Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains, Transfer to Badain Jaran Desert

Destination: Zhangye, Badain Jaran
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Zhangye Mosque
Accommodations: Mongolian Yurt or similar

Begin the day with a visit to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountains. These iconic mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for their otherworldly hues resembling a rainbow-painted canvas across rolling hills. The ever-changing colors, a result of mineral deposits and shifting sunlight, create a mesmerizing spectacle. After lunch and prayer at the Zhangye Mosque, embark on a three-hour drive to the Badain Jaran Desert. Upon arrival at Badain Jaran Town, trade the pavement for sand on a thrilling desert adventure in a comfortable 4×4 Toyota Landcruiser Prada. Witness the desert’s captivating beauty as the sun paints the sky with vibrant colors over the dunes and lakes before settling into a cozy Mongolian yurt for the night.

Day 5 Badain Jaran Desert Safari, Transfer to Zhangye

Destination: Badain Jaran, Zhangye
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: Holiday Inn Express Zhangye or similar

Meaning “mysterious lakes” in Mongolian, Badain Jaran is China’s third-largest desert. This enchanting landscape is adorned with over 144 glistening lakes cradled among the towering sand dunes. Rise early to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise illuminating the vast dunes. Discover the serenity of Badain Jaran Temple, a spiritual oasis nestled amidst the dunes, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich Mongolian heritage. Embark on a thrilling 4×4 adventure to the peaks of the sand dunes, revealing a scattered panorama of colorful lakes. Take on the challenge of the world’s tallest stationary dune, Bilutu Peak, which majestically rises 500 meters from the desert floor. Transfer back to Zhangye in the afternoon.

Day 6 Xi’an City Highlights

Destination: Xi’an
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: Mercure Xi ‘an Downtown or similar

Take a bullet train back to Xi’an (approximately 6 hours). Upon arrival, marvel at the towering Big Wild Goose Pagoda (outside view), a 1300-year-old wonder. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, a mesmerizing re-creation of ancient Xi’an, boasting bustling markets, enthralling performances, and stunning Tang-style architecture.

Day 7 Xi’an City Highlights, Depart Xi’an

Destination: Xi’an
Salat Prayer: Daxuexi Alley Mosque
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants

Start your day with a wonder of the world – the Terracotta Army! Discovered by accident in 1974, this 2,000-year-old army of over 8,000 life-sized warriors stands guard over the tomb of Qin Shihuang, China’s first emperor. See some replicas being made nearby and learn the secrets of these ancient figures. Next, admire the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, a massive burial mound built over 38 years. Back to the city in the afternoon, take a stroll along Xi’an’s ancient City Wall, one of China’s most impressive fortifications. 

A private transfer to the airport or train station will be provided for your departure. If you would like to extend your stay, please let us know and we would be delighted to assist you in customizing your itinerary. Have a wonderful trip!