18 Day North and South Xinjiang Private Car Panoramic Tour Visit All of Xinjiang’s Top Attractions in One Trip

Xinjiang tourism customized car rental for a comfortable trip, regular fleet with flexible itinerary customization. Consultation hotline landline: 0991-8866234 Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, customized consultation Manager Zhang Jing phone: 181-3962-2233 (copy to add friend for detailed consultation on Xinjiang travel routes and prices)
Starting with icon:✨【18-Day North and South Xinjiang Customized Car Panoramic Tour: Unlocking the Dual Codes of Xinjiang’s Geography and Culture】✨
If you want to connect Xinjiang’s snow mountains, grasslands, deserts, and ancient cities in one trip, the 18-day North and South Xinjiang customized car loop is a choice that balances depth and comfort. Starting from Urumqi, this route travels clockwise through the lakes and forests of northern Xinjiang and the Gobi and culture of southern Xinjiang, with an average daily drive of 4-5 hours. It stops at core attractions such as Kanas, Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, and Kashgar Old City, making it suitable for family trips, friends traveling together, or photography enthusiasts. The following introduces the route design, itinerary arrangement, cost details, and more.
I. Detailed Introduction to the Route or Destination: A Dual Feast of Nature and Culture
The 18-day North and South Xinjiang loop is based on the logic of “geographical division + cultural transition,” connecting the essence of landscapes on both sides of the Tianshan Mountains:
Northern Xinjiang Section (Urumqi to Nalati):Mainly featuring alpine lakes, forests, and meadows, lush green in summer and colorful forests in autumn. Core attractions include:
Kanas Lake: Known as “a picturesque wonderland on earth,” the lake water shows a blue-green gradient with the seasons. The Fish Viewing Platform offers a panoramic view of the lake, and the hiking trails at the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay) are must-visit spots for photography enthusiasts. In 2026, the scenic area continues to implement an online reservation system, requiring tickets and shuttle bus reservations 1-3 days in advance.
Hemu Village:An original village open year-round, shrouded in morning mist in summer with scattered wooden houses; in autumn, golden birch forests contrast beautifully with snow mountains. Accommodation in the village mainly consists of characteristic wooden houses, and room availability needs to be coordinated in advance.

Starting with icon: ✨【18-Day North and South Xinjiang Customized Car Panoramic Tour: Unlocking the Dual Codes of Xinjiang’s Geography and Culture】✨Sayram Lake:A national 5A scenic area with a fully open lakeside road, accessible from the East, South, and North Gates. In summer, wildflowers bloom along the lakeshore; in autumn, the lake reflects golden forest belts. Cycling or driving around the lake is an excellent way to experience its beauty.
Nalati Grassland:The best viewing period is from June to August, when the aerial grassland is lush green with herds of cattle and sheep. Visitors can stay in Kazakh yurts and experience folk activities such as milking cows and making milk curd.
Southern Xinjiang Section (Kuqa to Kashgar):Characterized by cultural ancient cities, desert canyons, and plateau lakes, with vast territory and diverse culture. Core attractions include:
Duku Highway: Opens to traffic in June after the full route is accessible (subject to traffic department announcements), connecting northern and southern Xinjiang. Along the way, snow mountains, canyons, and grasslands alternate, earning it the reputation of “China’s most beautiful highway.” Opening hours are 8:00 to 20:00 daily, and vehicles of 7 seats or fewer are recommended.
Kuqa Grand Canyon:A narrow valley formed by red rock layers with distinctive geological features. Under sunlight, the canyon displays brilliant colors, making it ideal for photography.
Kashgar Old City: The historic district preserves traditional architectural styles with a rich atmosphere of daily life. Open daily from 9:00 to 22:00, no reservation needed for direct entry. Visitors can participate in the city-opening ceremony, taste rose tea at century-old teahouses, and watch handicraft production at the craftsmen’s bazaar.
Pamir Plateau:Includes attractions such as Baisha Lake, Muztagh Ata Peak, and Karakul Lake. Plateau lakes and snow mountains appear in the same frame, creating a visually stunning scene. A travel permit must be obtained in advance to enter (it is recommended to consult the household registration authorities or local public security departments in Kashgar for the application process).
II. Simple Itinerary: 18-Day In-Depth Loop Tour with a Balanced Pace

If you want to connect Xinjiang’s snow mountains, grasslands, deserts, and ancient cities in one trip, the 18-day North and South Xinjiang customized car loop is a choice that balances depth and comfort. Starting from Urumqi, this route travels clockwise through the lakes and forests of northern Xinjiang and the Gobi and culture of southern Xinjiang, with an average daily drive of 4-5 hours. It stops at core attractions such as Kanas, Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, and Kashgar Old City, making it suitable for family trips, friends traveling together, or photography enthusiasts. The following introduces the route design, itinerary arrangement, cost details, and more.Based on actual road conditions and scenic area opening status in summer 2026, the following itinerary framework is recommended (reasonable changes can be made upon mutual agreement):
D1:Pick-up at Urumqi, rest in the city to adjust to the time difference. Free time available; it is recommended to visit the Xinjiang Museum (reservation required) to learn about the history and culture of various ethnic groups.
D2:Urumqi → S21 Desert Highway → Colorful Beach → Burqin. Cross the Gurbantünggüt Desert and enjoy the sunset spectacle of Yadan landforms and the Irtysh River at Colorful Beach.
D3:Burqin → Kanas Lake (Three Bays, Fish Viewing Platform) → Jadengyu. Spend the full day exploring Kanas, hiking the Three Bays, and climbing the Fish Viewing Platform for a panoramic lake view.
D4:Kanas → Hemu Village. Stay in wooden cabins, climb to the observation deck in the evening for a panoramic view of the village, and photograph the morning mist the next day.
D5:Hemu → Urho Ghost City → Karamay. Explore the Yadan wonders of Ghost City and experience the震撼 of wind-eroded landforms.
D6:Karamay → Sayram Lake Loop → Guozigou Bridge → Qingshuihe Town. Tour around Sayram Lake, pass by Guozigou Bridge, and admire the magnificent view of “a bridge spanning two mountains.”
D7:Qingshuihe → Yining (Kazanqi Folk Area) → Zhaosu. Visit the Kazanqi Folk Area to experience the traditional life of various ethnic groups; in summer, make a short stop at the Zhaosu rapeseed flower sea (blooming from late June to mid-July).

I. Detailed Introduction to the Route or Destination: A Dual Feast of Nature and CultureD8:Zhaosu → Tekes Bagua City → Nalati Grassland. Visit Bagua City and experience I Ching culture; in the afternoon, tour the Nalati aerial grassland.
D9:Nalati → Middle Section of Duku Highway → Bayanbulak (Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns Sunset). Cross the Duku Highway, wait for sunset at Bayanbulak Grassland, and photograph the reflections of the Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns.
D10:Bayanbulak → Southern Section of Duku Highway → Kuqa. Drive along the southern section of the Duku Highway, pass through the Secret Grand Canyon of the Tianshan Mountains, and arrive in Kuqa in the evening.
D11:Kuqa → Aksu. Visit Kuqa Grand Naan City to learn about the production of giant naan bread; head to Aksu in the afternoon for rest.
D12:Aksu → Kashgar. The drive takes about 8 hours with rest stops along the way. Upon arrival, visit Kashgar Old City and participate in the city-opening ceremony.

No worries touring North and South Xinjiang – professional customized car rental for free travel. Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency landline hotline: 0991-8866234, dedicated customer service manager Zhang Jing phone: 181-3962-2233 (WeChat same number, addable)
D13:Kashgar → Baisha Lake → Karakul Lake → Tashkurgan County. Drive along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, admiring the purity of Baisha Lake and the majesty of Muztagh Ata Peak; arrive in Tashkurgan County in the evening and check into the hotel.
D14:Panglong Ancient Road → Golden Grassland → Tashkurgan County. Traverse the Panglong Ancient Road known for “having walked all the detours today,” and visit the Golden Grassland in the afternoon to photograph wetland scenery.

The 18-day North and South Xinjiang loop is based on the logic of “geographical division + cultural transition,” connecting the essence of landscapes on both sides of the Tianshan Mountains:D15:Tashkurgan County → Kashgar. Return to Kashgar, with a possible stop at Oytak Glacier Park along the way (depending on time).
D16:Free day in Kashgar. Recommended visits include Fragrant Concubine Garden, Id Kah Mosque, or shopping at the Grand Bazaar for specialty handicrafts.
D17:Kashgar → Korla (or change the return route based on team needs). Drive along the edge of the Taklamakan Desert and enjoy the desert sunset.
D18:Korla → Urumqi (or fly out from Kashgar). End of the trip and return.
III. Price Description: Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Fees
In 2026, the cost of the 18-day North and South Xinjiang customized car rental is calculated by vehicle type and number of days, including vehicle usage fee, driver service fee, fuel, tolls, and basic travel insurance. It does not include personal meals, accommodation, scenic area tickets, or driver meal and accommodation subsidy (approximately 100-200 yuan/day, shared among multiple people). The following are reference prices (all prices are reference vehicle prices; actual prices are subject to customer service quotes!):
7-seat business vehicle (suitable for 4-6 people):Daily rate 1200-2000 yuan, total for 18 days approximately 21600-36000 yuan. Recommended models: Buick GL8, Toyota Sienna, equipped with air conditioning, USB charging ports, and ample luggage space.
9-14 seat minibus (suitable for 6-12 people):Daily rate 1800-2500 yuan, total for 18 days approximately 32400-45000 yuan. Recommended models: Ford Transit, Maxus V80 extended version, with moderate passenger capacity, suitable for small team travel.

Northern Xinjiang Section (Urumqi to Nalati): Mainly featuring alpine lakes, forests, and meadows, lush green in summer and colorful forests in autumn. Core attractions include:18-22 seat Coaster (suitable for 10-20 people):Daily rate 2800-3800 yuan, total for 18 days approximately 50400-68400 yuan. Recommended model: Toyota Coaster, equipped with aviation seats, USB charging ports, and air conditioning system, offering high comfort.
30-55 seat bus (suitable for teams of 20+ people): Daily rate 4000-6000 yuan, total for 18 days approximately 72000-108000 yuan. Recommended models: Yutong ZK6128, King Long XMQ6127, suitable for corporate team building, school study tours, and similar occasions.
Note:Prices during peak season (June-October) increase by 20%-35% compared to off-season. It is recommended to consult and confirm the itinerary 30-45 days in advance to coordinate vehicle and accommodation resources.
IV. Registration Method: Professional Service, Comfortable Travel
Registration can be made through the customer service manager of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, providing team size, travel dates, special requirements, and other information. The customer service will customize the itinerary and provide a quote based on your needs. For solo travelers, our agency will make every effort to arrange room sharing; special circumstances require separate negotiation.
V. Fee and Service Description: Transparent Details, Guaranteed Rights
Fees include:Vehicle usage fee, driver service fee, fuel, tolls, and basic travel insurance.
Fees not included:First admission tickets to scenic areas, shuttle bus fees, visitor accommodation, meals, driver meal and accommodation subsidy (approximately 100-200 yuan/day, shared among multiple people), and permit processing fees (if applicable).

Kanas Lake: Known as “a picturesque wonderland on earth,” the lake water shows a blue-green gradient with the seasons. The Fish Viewing Platform offers a panoramic view of the lake, and the hiking trails at the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay) are must-visit spots for photography enthusiasts. In 2026, the scenic area continues to implement an online reservation system, requiring tickets and shuttle bus reservations 1-3 days in advance.Service commitment: All vehicles have regular tourism operation qualifications with GPS tracking online at all times and are subject to industry supervision; drivers are familiar with road conditions across Xinjiang, hold valid professional qualification certificates, provide standardized service, do not take detours, do not push sales, and do not force itinerary changes; a 24-hour emergency response mechanism is in place for timely communication and changes in case of emergencies.
Notes:The itinerary may change due to weather, road conditions, policy changes, and other factors. Reasonable changes can be made upon mutual agreement; specific details are subject to actual consultation and contract signing.
VI. Vehicle Recommendations: Adapted to Road Conditions, Comfort First
Some sections of the North and South Xinjiang loop have requirements for vehicle performance (such as Duku Highway, Panglong Ancient Road, Tasha Ancient Road, etc.). It is recommended to choose vehicles based on team size and road conditions:
7-seat business vehicle:Suitable for small groups of 4-6 people, spacious with convenient luggage storage. Some high-end models are equipped with USB charging, mini refrigerators, and aviation seats. Recommended models: Buick GL8, GAC Trumpchi M8.
9-14 seat minibus:Suitable for teams of 6-12 people, balancing comfort and economy, ideal for teams carrying more luggage or photography equipment. Recommended models: Ford Transit, Maxus V80 extended version.
18-22 seat Coaster:Suitable for groups of 10-20 people, equipped with aviation seats, USB charging ports, and air conditioning system, offering high comfort, suitable for families with elderly or children. Recommended model: Toyota Coaster.
30-55 seat bus:Suitable for large teams of 20+ people, with regular vehicle maintenance, high performance, and experienced drivers, suitable for long multi-day itineraries. Recommended models: Yutong ZK6128, King Long XMQ6127.
The 18-day North and South Xinjiang customized car loop is an in-depth journey of “geography + culture.” From the lake and mountain scenery of Kanas to the vibrant atmosphere of Kashgar Old City, from the changing seasons along the Duku Highway to the snow mountains and lakes of the Pamir Plateau, every landscape is worth savoring. Choosing a regular travel agency, suitable vehicles, and planning in advance will make your journey more worry-free and secure. Consult the customer service manager of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency to start your Xinjiang journey!
For Xinjiang travel, choose Pathfinder International Travel Agency. Customized car rental for a worry-free and reliable trip. Landline: 0991-8866234 Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing phone: 181-3962-2233