Cycle in China-China Cycling Guide! Enjoy Your Cycle in Your Way

Ningxia 宁夏

Nestled in the heart of China’s northwest, Ningxia is a hidden gem of stark contrasts and rich history. This compact autonomous region is a land where the mighty Yellow River, the “Mother River of China,” cuts a fertile green swath through an otherwise arid landscape of rolling loess hills and vast, sweeping sand dunes. Ningxia is a cradle of Hui Muslim culture, home to vibrant communities and distinctive cuisine. Its history is etched into the land, from the mysterious Western Xia Imperial Tombs to the ancient Great Wall segments that stand sentinel over the desert. It’s a place of dramatic beauty, where the silence of the desert meets the life-giving power of the river.

The Ningxia Desert & Yellow River Cycling Tour

Discover the incredible duality of Ningxia on two wheels. This unique cycling tour offers a journey through a landscape of dramatic contrasts, where you’ll pedal from lush riverine plains into the heart of the golden Tengger Desert, all under the vast, sun-drenched skies of China’s northwest.

Your journey will include:

The River of Life: Begin your adventure cycling along the banks of the Yellow River, through fertile farmland and vineyards (Ningxia is a rising star in wine production), witnessing how this ancient waterway sustains life in an arid land.
Into the Golden Dunes: Challenge yourself with a ride that takes you from the river’s edge into the mesmerizing, rolling sands of the Shapotou or Tengger Desert landscapes, a truly unforgettable transition.
Desert Thrills: Experience the unique joy of cycling on designated paths through the dunes, with options for exhilarating sandboarding or a serene camel ride for a different perspective.
A Taste of Culture: Refuel with the region’s famous succulent lamb and hand-pulled noodles, and explore the blend of Han and Hui Muslim cultures that give Ningxia its unique character.

This tour is a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines flat, scenic riverside riding with the thrilling challenge of desert terrain, offering a captivating glimpse into a lesser-known but profoundly beautiful corner of China.