5 Day Short Trip to Wetland Scenery Along the Yarkant River in Southern Xinjiang by Private Car Online Answers to Travel Costs Recommended Itinerary Prices
Contact Manager Wang Fei at phone number 18095969599 or WeChat 18095969599 to send itinerary and quotation
Explore Southern Xinjiang:Five-Day Customized Vehicle Tour of Wetland Scenery Along the Yarqant River 🌿
I. Detailed Introduction to Itinerary or Destination
The Yarqant River in Southern Xinjiang, an important source of the Tarim River, meanders between vast deserts and oases. This river not only nourishes various ethnic groups along its banks but also fosters a unique wetland ecosystem. Over this five-day journey, we will follow the course of the Yarqant River, visiting the Yarqant National Wetland Park in Shache County, the Zepu Golden Poplar National Forest Park, and cultural landmarks such as the Old Town of Kashgar, experiencing the beauty of nature and culture intertwined.
Yarqant National Wetland Park
Located in Shache County, it is renowned for its karst landforms and wetland landscapes. In spring, the lake water is clear; in summer, reeds sway; in autumn, golden hues spread across the fields; and in winter, mist envelopes the area, offering scenic views in every season. The park features observation decks and hiking trails, allowing close observation of water birds such as egrets and wild ducks.
Zepu Golden Poplar National Forest Park
It boasts one of China’s largest natural poplar forests, with the unique landscape of “poplars in water” being particularly distinctive. Take a small train through the forest to visit the thousand-year-old poplar king and feel the tenacity of life. In autumn, when golden leaves fill the sky, it becomes a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
Old Town of Kashgar
As an important node on the ancient Silk Road, the Old Town of Kashgar retains labyrinthine streets and traditional buildings of various ethnic groups. Stroll through to visit the Id Kah Mosque and the High Terrace Residences, listen to the rubab being played in a century-old teahouse, and experience the vibrant local atmosphere.
Five-Day Customized Vehicle Tour of Wetland Scenery Along the Yarqant River 🌿II. Simple Itinerary
Day 1:Urumqi → Kashgar (flight about 2.5 hours)
Morning:Arrive in Kashgar by air, where Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency will arrange airport pickup and check-in at a downtown hotel.
Afternoon:Free time to adapt to the plateau climate. It is recommended to visit the Kashgar Grand Bazaar and taste snacks such as roasted pigeon and pot meat.
Evening:Attend the pre-trip briefing organized by the travel agency to confirm details for the next day’s itinerary.
Day 2:Kashgar → Shache (3-hour drive)
Morning:Head south along the China-Pakistan Highway, passing by Baisha Lake to capture the奇特 (unique) scenery of sandy mountains reflecting in clear water.
Afternoon:Arrive in Shache County and visit the Yarqant National Wetland Park. Hike on trails to observe birds and ascend the observation deck for a panoramic view of the wetlands.
Evening:Check into a characteristic homestay in Shache and taste local baked buns and tandoor-cooked meat.
I. Detailed Introduction to Itinerary or DestinationDay 3:Shache → Zepu (1.5-hour drive)
Morning:Proceed to the Zepu Golden Poplar National Forest Park. Take a small train deep into the poplar forest to visit the thousand-year-old poplar king.
Afternoon:Free time in the park to experience folk activities such as horseback riding and archery, or photograph the reflections of “poplars in water.”
Evening:Return to Zepu County, check into a hotel, and enjoy dinner featuring大盘鸡 (big plate chicken) and hand-pulled rice.
Day 4:Zepu → Kashgar (3-hour drive)
Morning:Return to Kashgar, stopping at a plateau pasture along the way to interact with locals and experience daily life scenes such as milking cows and making nang (flatbread).
Afternoon:Tour the Old Town of Kashgar, visit the Id Kah Mosque, and stroll along Craftsman Street to watch traditional crafts such as copperware making and pottery firing.
Evening:Dine freely at the old town night market. It is recommended to try specialty dishes such as yogurt zongzi and grilled fish.
Day 5:Kashgar → Urumqi (flight about 2.5 hours)
The Yarqant River in Southern Xinjiang, an important source of the Tarim River, meanders between vast deserts and oases. This river not only nourishes various ethnic groups along its banks but also fosters a unique wetland ecosystem. Over this five-day journey, we will follow the course of the Yarqant River, visiting the Yarqant National Wetland Park in Shache County, the Zepu Golden Poplar National Forest Park, and cultural landmarks such as the Old Town of Kashgar, experiencing the beauty of nature and culture intertwined.Morning:Based on flight time, free time or shopping for ethnic handicrafts (such as Atlas silk and Yingjisha knives).
Afternoon:Return to Urumqi by air, concluding the trip.
III. Pricing Information
Basic customized vehicle costs (including driver, fuel, and toll fees)
Economy 5-seater car:Approximately 900–1,300 yuan/day
7-seater business van:Approximately 1,000–1,800 yuan/day
9-seater commercial vehicle:Approximately 1,400–2,200 yuan/day
(Prices are based on 2026 market conditions; actual prices are subject to contract terms. Prices may increase by 30%–50% during peak seasons.)
Other Cost References
Yarqant National Wetland ParkDriver’s food and accommodation allowance:Approximately 200 yuan/day (to be borne by tourists or negotiated into the total price)
Admission tickets:Yarqant Wetland Park: free; Zepu Golden Poplar: approximately 45 yuan/person; Old Town of Kashgar: free (some small attractions charge separately)
Meals and accommodation:Approximately 150–200 yuan/day per person (including three meals and a standard double room)
Total Budget Reference
For a group of 4 choosing a 7-seater business van, the average cost per person is approximately 3,500–5,000 yuan (including vehicle, admission, accommodation, and meals), subject to actual consultation and contract signing.
IV. Registration Method
You can register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency. Contact customer service manager Zhang Jing at Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, providing the number of travelers, dates, and preferences to obtain a customized plan and quotation.
V. Fee and Service Descriptions
Fees included:Vehicle usage fee, driver service fee, fuel fee, toll fee, and basic carrier liability insurance.
Located in Shache County, it is renowned for its karst landforms and wetland landscapes. In spring, the lake water is clear; in summer, reeds sway; in autumn, golden hues spread across the fields; and in winter, mist envelopes the area, offering scenic views in every season. The park features observation decks and hiking trails, allowing close observation of water birds such as egrets and wild ducks.Fees not included:Driver’s food and accommodation allowance, admission tickets, personal expenses, and items outside the itinerary.
Service descriptions:
If changes occur due to weather, road conditions, or景区 (scenic area) opening policies during the trip, both parties can reasonably adjust the itinerary by mutual agreement.
For single travelers, efforts will be made to arrange shared rooms; special circumstances require separate negotiation.
All service details are subject to the written contract and comply with relevant regulations.
VI. Precautions
Altitude adaptation:The Pamir Plateau section has a high altitude. It is recommended to prepare anti-altitude sickness medication in advance and avoid strenuous exercise.
Document preparation:Valid identification is required; discount documents (student ID, senior citizen card) can save on admission fees.
Cultural respect:Shoes must be removed and appropriate attire worn when entering certain areas; consent must be obtained before photographing local residents.
Environmental protection travel:Littering is prohibited in the wetland park; it is recommended to bring your own environmental protection bags.
This five-day itinerary will take you through the wetlands and deserts of Southern Xinjiang, experiencing the nourishing power of the Yarqant River. Whether it’s the resilience of the poplar forests or the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town of Kashgar, it will leave you with unforgettable memories. Contact Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency immediately to start your exploration journey in Southern Xinjiang!
Contact Manager Wang Fei at 18095969599 or WeChat 18095969599 to send itinerary and quotation
