7 days 6 nights
Daily Tour
1 person
Chinese, English
Your Ili Story: 7 Days of Blue Lakes, Flower Fields & Endless Roads
Get ready for a 7-day adventure that takes you right into the heart of Xinjiang’s Ili region—a place of endless blue lakes, vibrant flower fields, and roads that stretch into the horizon. Starting from the quiet city of Bole, you’ll pedal alongside the shimmering blues of Sayram Lake, ride through the fairy‑tale meadows of Saike Cloud Pasture, and hike below the grand glaciers of Xiata. Along the way, you’ll wander the storybook village of Qiongkushitai, breathe in the wide‑open Kalajun Grassland, and end your journey in the historic, geometric lanes of Bagua City in Tekes. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a chance to live your own Ili story—written with every turn of the wheel, every step on the trail, and every moment under the vast Xinjiang sky.
We’ve designed this journey to be as smooth as it is exciting. Your days are fully supported by a comfy 7‑seat business van that doubles as a mobile café—yes, fresh coffee is just a request away! You’ll stay in 6 nights of cozy twin rooms, enjoy 11 lunches and dinners plus 6 breakfasts, and travel with guides who know these roads like the back of their hand. A photographer will tag along to capture your best moments—drone shots included. We also provide snacks, drinks, basic first‑aid, and comprehensive insurance. Transportation to/from the starting point, park tickets, bike rental, and single‑room supplements are not included, so you can plan accordingly and focus on soaking in every view.
From the reflective waters of Sayram Lake to the flower‑carpeted hills of Saike, the icy presence of Xiata Glacier, and the dreamy charm of Qiongkushitai, each day brings a new highlight. You’ll ride, hike, and wander through landscapes that shift from lush grassland to rugged mountain passes, with plenty of time to share stories over meals and relax under star‑filled skies. Whether it’s that first sip of coffee on the road, the thrill of reaching a high pass, or the quiet awe of standing in a field of wildflowers, this trip is about more than just sightseeing—it’s about feeling truly alive in one of China’s most breathtaking corners. Come write your own Ili story with us.
Xiata, known as "Shatu Aman" in Mongolian, brings together forests, meadows, canyons, rivers, ancient trails, and glaciers—all woven into one breathtaking natural scene. In Xiata National Forest Park, the sound of the wind blends with flowing water, surrounded by endless mountains. It’s the kind of place where you can just sit, breathe, and truly feel at peace.
The beauty of Qiongku has been nurtured for centuries, with emerald greenery that stretches all the way to the brilliant blue sky. The mountains welcome travelers warmly, offering not just breathtaking scenery but genuine local hospitality. The secrets of the mountain spirits seem to hide in the meadows and streams here—it feels like stepping straight into a Hayao Miyazaki anime world.
The Kalajun Grassland rolls with endless green hills under a vast, high sky where clouds hang low. When the sunset glow touches those green slopes, the light and shadow dance together. It feels like the king of all grasslands—a peaceful paradise, a hidden corner of the world untouched by time.
Tekes, also known as the "Bagua City," is the only ancient town in China named after the Eight Trigrams ("Bagua"). Built around the Eight Trigrams concept, it's a historic and cultural treasure full of stories and depth. The streets here are all connected in a way that feels both surprising and awe-inspiring. This is where we wrap up our Ili journey—a place that truly feels like a little piece of heaven. You’ve gotta see it for yourself.
Not at all! This tour is designed for cycling enthusiasts of average fitness. The daily distances range from 85km to 120km, with a support vehicle following closely. You can take breaks anytime, and if you’re tired, just hop in the van! The key is to enjoy the ride and the views.
We include 11 lunches & dinners + 6 breakfasts. You’ll enjoy hearty local meals—think fluffy flatbreads, savory stews, noodle dishes, and of course, fragrant milk tea. We also accommodate dietary needs if you let us know in advance!
Essentials: comfortable cycling gear, hiking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and layers for changing weather (mornings/evenings can be cool). Don’t forget your camera—the scenery is unreal!
Yes, but it costs extra. The standard package is based on twin-sharing. If you want your own room, there’s a single supplement of ¥2,000 for the whole trip. Please request this when booking.
You’ll need to cover: 1) Your flights/trains to Bole and from Yining. 2) Entrance tickets to scenic spots (discounts may apply if you have a student/ senior card). 3) Bike rental if you don’t bring your own. 4. Personal spends like souvenirs or extra drinks.
No, you don't have to bring one! Bike rental is an extra service. If you need to rent a well-maintained mountain bike, just let your guide know in advance, and we'll get it sorted for you.
No worries at all! Our support van follows the group the whole time. If you get tired, you can just hop in and take a break. The ride is about enjoying yourself, not pushing to the absolute limit.
We keep the van stocked with essentials: fresh fruits, energy bars, cookies, bottled water, and sports drinks. Oh, and of course, coffee and tea! The mini-fridge keeps drinks cool. Just help yourself when you need a boost.
Yes, we can! Please tell us about your dietary needs (vegetarian, allergies, etc.) when you book. We'll make sure to arrange suitable meals for you during the included lunches and dinners.
Please try to keep it to one medium-sized suitcase or a large backpack per person, plus a small daypack. The support van has limited space, and traveling light makes it easier for everyone.
Definitely! While we have a set itinerary, we build in some free time, especially in the afternoons or evenings in towns. Your guide will also point out the best spots to wander and explore on your own.
Signal is usually good in cities and towns, but it can be weak or nonexistent in remote natural areas like Cloud Pasture or deep in the grasslands. It's a great chance to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the scenery!
Even in summer, mornings and evenings in the mountains and grasslands can be quite cool, especially in early June or late August. We recommend dressing in layers—a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece or down jacket, and a windproof/rainproof outer shell. Don't forget gloves and a warm hat for the early rides!
Usually, the hike is a big highlight, but we understand that 18km isn't for everyone. Talk to your guide. In most cases, you can choose to explore the area at a slower pace, or spend more time relaxing in Qiongkushitai or Kalajun before meeting the group later.
Our photographer will be snapping away throughout the trip! We usually share a link to a cloud folder (like Google Drive or Baidu Wangpan) with all the high-quality photos within a week or two after the tour ends. You're free to download and share your favorite moments.
Member Since 2025
