Cover - China's Heartland.JPG Logo China (1)
Back to Listing

Guilin

Sitting at the top of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in the far south of China, Guilin is a city surrounded by natural wonders created by millions of years of erosion. Limestone karsts dot the green landscape in dramatic fashion, creating a magical scene that looks straight from a film-set.

Guilin city is today a medium-sized Chinese city, with a population of around 5 million. But it started life as just a small settlement on the Li River, increasing in size and importance over the years. Today, tourism in a major contributor to the economy, as it attracts people from all over to see the awesome scenery.

Originating in the Mao’er Mountains, the Li River runs down through rural Guangxi Province and flows through the city, as it makes its way to Yangshuo in the south, and then onto Pingle where it merges with the Lipu River. As it meanders through Guilin, it is undeniably scenic: traditional boats ply the river with the backdrop of the giant limestone karsts rising high.

We would recommend spending at least two days in the city which will allow you opportunity to take in various places around the city as well as exploring the surrounding limestone karst landscape. Within the city itself, there are various museums documenting the unique art and culture of the region, as well as the many ethnic minorities living in Guangxi Province. Any visitor will likely spend the majority of their time exploring the surrounding countryside, whether by boat, bicycle, or on foot. Not only is it possible to experience the truly breaktaking limestone karst scenery, but there are also numerous incredible caves to explore.

A visit to Guilin can be easily combined with a wider tailormade tour of southern China, exploring Yunnan and other parts of Guangxi Province. Also in Guangxi, Yangshuo and Longsheng are wonderful rural towns. Yangshuo is similar to Guilin, but on a much smaller scale, whilst Longsheng is famous for beautiful rice terraces. Winter can be cold and foggy, so best avoided. April, May and September are the best months to visit when the region usually has warm and clear weather.

Features in the following itineraries

Guilin, Guangxi, China (6).jpg Guilin, Guangxi, China (6).jpg
Guilin, Guangxi, China (3).jpg Guilin, Guangxi, China (3).jpg
Guilin, Guangxi, China (5).jpg Guilin, Guangxi, China (5).jpg
Guilin, Guangxi, China (4).jpg Guilin, Guangxi, China (4).jpg
Guilin, Guangxi, China (2).jpg Guilin, Guangxi, China (2).jpg
Guilin, Guangxi, China (1).jpg Guilin, Guangxi, China (1).jpg
Guilin Fisherman Guilin Fisherman
Travel is the only thing that you buy that makes you richer.
Proverb

Client Testimonials

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences