Taking in the backroads to Yangshou

Aerial view of Karst Peaks, Yangshou

Spectacular scenery around Yangshou

Traditional farmers and buffalo in rural province of china

Wandering the streets of Yangshuo | Alana Johnstone

Updated

Cycle Backroads to Yangshuo

Cycle through southern China’s rural landscapes from Guangzhou to Yangshuo

China

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2 reviews

8 Days from

$1790 USD

Trip Code: CGB

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

E-Bike Upgrade

$230 USD

Backroads to Yangshuo Single Supplement

$290 USD

Duration

8 Days

Activities

6 day cycle

Accommodation

7 nights hotel

Meals

7 Dinners
6 Lunches
7 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

5 / 10

Moderate

Carbon Footprint

67kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(599kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Cycle along the West River from Guangzhou toward Mt Dinghu
Experience limestone karst scenery in Fengkai “Little Guilin”
Cycle quiet country roads through Guangdong and Guangxi Provinces
Ride through Yao minority regions around Gongcheng
Explore Yangshuo’s iconic karst landscapes by bike
Visit Moon Hill and surrounding countryside

Overview

This cycling journey explores the rural landscapes of southern China, travelling from Guangzhou through Guangdong and Guangxi Provinces to the karst region of Yangshuo. The route follows quieter country roads, passing rice paddies, small villages and river valleys, offering a close-up view of everyday life in the countryside.

Riding alongside waterways such as the West River and through regions like Fengkai, known for its limestone formations, the itinerary showcases the varied scenery of southern China. As the journey progresses, the landscape becomes increasingly defined by dramatic karst peaks and agricultural plains.

The trip concludes in Yangshuo, one of China’s most recognised scenic regions, where cycling continues through rural backroads, complemented by a Li River boat journey. Supported by a vehicle throughout, the itinerary balances active riding with flexibility and comfort.

Itinerary

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On arrival in Guangzhou, make your own way to the group hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the city at your own pace before meeting in the hotel lounge at approximately 6:30pm for a trip briefing with the group leader. Overnight: Hotel Landmark Canton or similar

Meals: D

Leave the busy streets of Guangzhou behind with a morning transfer before starting the ride along a scenic trail beside the West River toward Mt Dinghu. On arrival, explore this UNESCO-listed nature reserve on foot, known for its ancient forest, waterfalls and diverse birdlife, as well as a 300-year-old Buddhist temple. Later in the afternoon, transfer by road to Zhaoqing. A support vehicle accompanies the group throughout the journey, providing assistance or the option to rest when needed. Accommodation: White Swan Guest Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Transfing out of Zhaoqing before beginning today’s ride along quiet rural roads toward Fengkai. The route passes through villages and rice paddies, offering regular opportunities to observe daily life and interact with local communities. As the day progresses, the terrain becomes more undulating with sections through forested hills. The region’s limestone karst formations give rise to its nickname, “Little Guilin.” Accommodation: Fengkai Lingnan Oriental Hotel

Meals: B,L,D

Setting out on the ride to Huaiji the route passes through rural scenery dotted with limestone formations, small settlements and carp farms. With mostly flat terrain, today’s ride is more relaxed, allowing time to take in the surrounding landscapes. Accommodation: Huaicheng Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After a transfer to Zhongshan, we begin cycling through quiet countryside toward Gongcheng. The route includes a few gentle climbs and follows peaceful roads through karst landscapes and river valleys. Gongcheng is known for its strong cultural identity, including the traditions of the Yao minority, as well as preserved Ming Dynasty architecture and productive persimmon orchards. Accommodation: Ji Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Ride through rural countryside toward Yangshuo, passing rice paddies, rivers and small villages along the way. Reflections of limestone karst hills in the waterways are a constant feature of the landscape. The region remains predominantly agricultural, offering insight into everyday rural life and farming practices across southern China. Accommodation: New West Street Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cycle through the Yangshuo countryside to Moon Hill and the village of Jinbao, passing through rice paddies and rural settlements framed by karst peaks. Moon Hill is a distinctive natural limestone arch that appears to change shape from different viewpoints, making it one of the region’s most photographed landmarks. In the afternoon, we take a bamboo raft journey along the Li River, travelling between steep limestone formations and farmland before returning to Yangshuo. Accommodation: New West Street Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast our trip concludes. Transfers can be organised to the nearest airport in Guilin (for an additional charge).

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

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What's included?

Included

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
Twin-share accommodation in hotels
27 speed touring bikes
Private transport and support vehicle
Sightseeing and entry fees as per itinerary
Expert bilingual guides throughout. Expert bilingual guides throughout. For smaller groups of 2 - 5 passengers we employ expert local guides only in each location.
Medical kit

Not included

International airfares and departure taxes
Visa costs
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Personal expenses (e.g. drinks, laundry, phone)
Optional activities and those not listed in the itinerary
Tips and gratitudes
Bike Helmet (compulsory)
Airport transfers (day 1 & day 8)
E-Bike upgrade