Unforgettable Yangshuo Family & Private Tour: Balloon Ride, Bamboo Rafting, and Rural Ride

Tour Itinerary

At the break of dawn, you will meet your local guide in the hotel lobby, ready for an unforgettable adventure. Together, you will drive through the quiet countryside roads of Yangshuo, where early morning mist lingers gently between the rice paddies and the silhouettes of limestone peaks rise like ancient sentinels in the distance. Upon arriving at the Hot Air Balloon launch site near the Yulong River, the crew will greet you and prepare the balloon as the sky begins to glow with the soft colors of sunrise. With the guidance of your pilot and under the care of your tour guide, you will board the basket and gently lift off. Slowly, the ground will shrink beneath you as the balloon ascends into the sky, granting you a bird’s-eye view of one of China’s most iconic landscapes—a one-hour flight route that will take you from the meandering waters of the Yulong River all the way toward the majestic Xianggong Mountain.

As the hot air balloon floats higher, you will find yourself suspended in silence, broken only by the occasional roar of the burner. Below, the karst peaks will unfold like a scroll painting—lush, jagged hills scattered across fertile valleys. You will drift above small villages with whitewashed homes and neatly arranged farmlands. Your guide will point out notable landmarks from the air, including the winding path of the Yulong River, the terraces carved into the hillsides, and even the outline of Xianggong Mountain coming into view ahead. If the morning mist remains, you will witness an ethereal transformation—peaks rising above a sea of clouds, the sun casting golden light across their tops. The experience will be dreamlike, a slow-motion journey through a living masterpiece of southern China’s rural beauty. As the balloon descends gradually, your guide will assist you with the landing and ensure a smooth transition to the next stage of your day.

Once your hot air balloon gently lands and you’ve had a moment to catch your breath, your guide will escort you to the next stage of your journey—a serene Bamboo Rafting Experience on the Yulong River. You will travel a short distance to the pier, where traditional bamboo rafts await, steered by experienced boatmen using long poles to guide you along the crystal-clear waters. As you drift downstream, you’ll be surrounded by emerald rice paddies, water buffalos grazing at the riverbanks, and karst peaks towering on either side like silent guardians. The tranquility of the ride will contrast beautifully with the grandeur of your earlier flight, offering a slower, more intimate view of Yangshuo’s rural beauty. Your guide will help interpret the scenes unfolding along the river, pointing out small farming villages, stone bridges, and even telling you a few local legends tied to the landscape. This leisurely float will immerse you in the natural rhythm of the countryside.

After the bamboo rafting adventure, your guide will accompany you to a cozy rural restaurant tucked away among the scenic karst hills of Yangshuo. This spot is popular among locals for its homestyle cooking and tranquil atmosphere. You will be treated to a hearty lunch featuring classic Yangshuo dishes, such as the famous beer-braised fish—prepared with river fish, chili peppers, and local brew—as well as wok-fried seasonal greens, tofu with mushrooms, and rice steamed inside bamboo tubes. Everything is freshly made, highlighting the earthy flavors of the region. As you enjoy your meal, your guide will explain the cultural background of the cuisine and perhaps share a few stories about how these dishes reflect the lifestyle of Yangshuo’s villages. It’s not just a lunch—it’s an authentic taste of the countryside.

In the afternoon, you’ll hop on a bicycle for a peaceful Countryside Ride that weaves through the iconic Ten-Mile Gallery, one of Yangshuo’s most scenic stretches. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll pedal past narrow village lanes, swaying bamboo groves, and fields of seasonal crops, all set against a dramatic backdrop of jagged limestone hills. Along the way, you will stop to explore the legendary Big Banyan Tree, a sprawling 1,400-year-old sentinel wrapped in thick roots and stories passed down for generations. The cycling route continues past artistic rock formations and quiet corners where locals go about their daily routines, offering a glimpse into the authentic life of the region. As the afternoon light softens, you’ll ride back toward Yangshuo town, ending your journey at the lively West Street. Here, your guide can suggest a cozy spot for dinner or local snacks—wrapping up a day filled with nature, history, and unforgettable views.

As your explorations wind down, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel in Yangshuo, ensuring that you are comfortable and well taken care of. The return journey will be just as scenic, passing again through the quiet countryside lanes and past farmers tending to their fields. Whether you’re reminiscing about the surreal views from the hot air balloon, the peaceful moments under the ancient banyan tree, or the thrill of drifting down the river on a bamboo raft, you will carry with you the unique memory of seeing Yangshuo from both the sky and the land. Your guide will be happy to offer suggestions for dinner or help with any arrangements for the following day. As you arrive back at your hotel, you’ll feel deeply connected to the landscape you’ve just experienced—both its grandeur from above and its tranquil rhythm from within.

Price Per Person in US Dollars