Live Your Best Lives
The Tengger Desert Swan Lake is located in Alxa Left Banner (Bayanhot Town), Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, on the eastern edge of the Tengger Desert . It is about 1,500 meters long from north to south and about 500 meters wide from east to west, covering an area of about 3.2 square kilometers.
Lying quietly in the Tengger Desert's embrace, Swan Lake, a ribbon-shaped lake covering approximately three square kilometers, is home to wild ducks, water hens, and mandarin ducks, freely roaming and singing. The lake's edge is lined with saxaul trees, and the water is clear and pristine, stretching across a vast expanse. Near the lake lies a kilometer-long, hundred-meter-wide black mud area, while the yurt area is covered in horseweed.
Every March and September , a variety of migratory birds stop here, including white swans, wild ducks, and over a hundred other species. From late March to early April , the lake is home to a large number of swans. Normally, the lake is home to wild ducks and grey cranes. Along the shores of Swan Lake, thousands of blue amaranth flowers bloom, while beyond them lies a green barrier of nearly 2,000 angustifolia trees. In May , the flowers bloom, filling the lake with a delicate fragrance.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
35 yuan/person
8:00-18:30 ; closed in winter ( October 30 - March 10 )
Swan Lake is a natural wetland in Inner Mongolia, known for being a key stopover for migratory birds, including swans, during their seasonal migrations. It holds ecological significance as a habitat for numerous bird species, and the area is also an important cultural and natural heritage site for the region.
Swan Lake is located in the Alxa League of Inner Mongolia. The nearest city is Alxa Left Banner, and visitors typically reach the site by private car or taxi. There is no direct metro or bus service to the lake, and walking from nearby towns is not recommended due to the vast open areas.
The lake is open year-round. However, the best time to visit is from late autumn to early spring (October to April) when migratory birds, including swans, are present. The peak season for birdwatching is usually from November to March.
Entrance fees to Swan Lake vary depending on the activities you want to participate in, such as boat tours or guided birdwatching trips. The general entry fee is approximately 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site at the entrance or through local tourism offices. Online bookings may be available for special tours or events.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general visits, but it is recommended for guided tours, especially during peak migratory seasons. Booking at least a week in advance should be sufficient during busy times.
Visitors typically need around 2 to 4 hours to fully explore Swan Lake, depending on the activities you choose (such as boat tours or walking around the lake). If you want to spend time birdwatching or participating in guided tours, consider allocating more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides are typically not available, but local guides provide detailed information about the area and wildlife.
Start by taking a boat tour to explore the lake and see the swans up close. Afterward, walk around the lake or visit observation points for birdwatching. If time allows, consider visiting nearby wetland areas to further enjoy the natural surroundings.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Swan Lake. However, special birdwatching tours might be available during specific seasons, and these may require prior booking.
The lake is not overly crowded, but it can get busier during peak migratory seasons (November to March). To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-peak months of spring and autumn.
Swan Lake is accessible for elderly and children, but the terrain may be uneven in some areas, especially if walking along the shore. The boat tours provide an easier way to explore the lake for those with mobility issues.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Credit cards are not typically accepted for entry fees or purchases within the site.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly at Swan Lake, but you can find small local eateries in nearby towns such as Alxa Left Banner. It is best to plan for meals before or after visiting the lake.
Vegetarian options are available in the nearby towns, but vegan and halal food may be limited. It's a good idea to check local restaurants in advance or bring your own food if you have dietary restrictions.
There are basic hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns such as Alxa Left Banner. For more comfortable accommodations, consider staying in Hohhot, which is about a 4-hour drive from Swan Lake.
There is a small souvenir shop near the entrance selling items related to the lake, such as birdwatching books, postcards, and local handicrafts.
The best transportation options after visiting Swan Lake are private cars or taxis. Public transportation is limited, so it is advisable to arrange a car or use local taxis for continued travel.
