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The Taklamakan Desert is located in the center of the Tarim Basin in southern Xinjiang. It is the largest desert in China, the tenth largest desert in the world, and the second largest mobile desert in the world.
Located in the heart of Eurasia and surrounded by high mountains, the Taklamakan Desert is imbued with wonder and mystery. Sand dunes typically range from 100 to 200 meters high, with the highest reaching around 300 meters. The dunes are complex and diverse, with complex dunes and ridges resembling giant dragons resting on the earth. Tower-shaped dunes, with shapes ranging from honeycombs to feathers and fish scales, create an unpredictable landscape.
The golden season for crossing the Taklamakan Desert is about 20 days from late October to mid-November every year. At this time, there are fewer dry sandstorms, fewer mosquitoes, and the dry riverbed becomes a highway.
Loulan Ancient City
Located on the southeastern shore of China's largest desert, the Taklamakan Desert, and the northwest shore of Lop Nur, Loulan is a must-stop on the ancient Silk Road. The ancient kingdom of Loulan was founded in 176 BC but mysteriously disappeared in 630 AD, spanning over 800 years. Legend has it that Loulan was wiped out by a mysterious force, and is now a desolate desert.
Luntai Tarim Populus euphratica Forest
The Luntai Populus euphratica forest in Xinjiang is one of China's ten most beautiful forests. Its vast expanse blends seamlessly with rivers, deserts, Gobi deserts, oases, sand lakes, ancient roads, and desert grasslands. At the Luntai Tarim Populus euphratica Forest Park, visitors can not only admire the tenacity and resilience of the golden poplars but also experience the breathtaking grandeur of the vastness of the Great Wall. They can also take a ride on a retro sightseeing train, traversing the boundless golden ocean and gazing at the poplar forests, red willow groves, reed marshes, the Qiayang River, and the forest lake, all while savoring the enchanting, almost dreamlike, scenery.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
All day
The Taklamakan Desert is one of the largest sandy deserts in the world, historically part of the Silk Road trade route. It has been significant for trade, cultural exchange, and archaeological discoveries of ancient oasis civilizations. Its extreme environment has shaped both human history and the local ecosystem.
Entrance is usually included in desert tour packages. Individual access may require 50–150 CNY for permits or site fees, typically bought offline via local operators.
Advance booking is recommended 1–2 weeks prior, especially for guided tours, off-road adventures, or desert camping.
A full day to multiple days for extended desert tours or camping experiences, depending on how deep into the desert you go.
Guided tours are available in Chinese; English-speaking guides are available with advance booking through tour operators.
Night visits are possible through desert camping and stargazing tours. There are no light shows.
The Taklamakan Desert is extremely remote and rarely crowded. Weekdays outside peak travel season are quietest.
Facilities are minimal in the desert. Bring food, water, and supplies; basic rest areas are provided by tour operators in oasis towns or camps.
Rough terrain limits accessibility for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can participate with supervision, especially in guided tours.
Cash is essential; card payments are rarely accepted in remote desert areas.
Restaurants and cafes are mostly in nearby oasis towns; plan meals before entering deep desert areas.
Halal food is generally available in oasis towns; vegetarian options are limited.
Accommodations are in nearby towns such as Korla, Hotan, or oasis settlements. Desert camps provide temporary overnight stays.
Souvenir shops are mostly in nearby towns, selling local handicrafts, dried fruits, and postcards.
