Live Your Best Lives
Explore the Mars Camp, where visitors can experience simulated Mars-like conditions. Participate in various activities such as space training, simulated missions, and learn about space exploration and future Martian settlements. Ideal for space enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Lenghu Mars Camp, China's first Mars simulation base, is located in Lenghu, Mangya City, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province. The desolate and rugged scenery surrounding the camp evokes the illusion of being on Mars. In the past two years, the "Lenghu Mars Town" has captured the attention of countless people, frequently appearing in newspapers, magazines, and major new media platforms. Mainstream media outlets such as People's Daily and China Daily have even visited Lenghu to explore this mysterious "planet." Various spacesuits can be rented for environmental portraiture, and power supplies and Wi-Fi are also available, making it a convenient "Mars" resupply point.
Best time to travel: All seasons, August is the best
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April to November every year
The Mars Camp is designed to provide a simulated experience of living and working on Mars. It serves as an educational and immersive environment for those interested in space exploration, aiming to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
The Mars Camp is located in Ulan, Qinghai Province, China. You can reach the camp by taxi or private car. Public transportation options may be limited, so arranging private transport in advance is recommended.
The Mars Camp is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities.
The entrance fee varies depending on the activities and duration of the experience, ranging from 100 CNY to 500 CNY. Tickets can be purchased online through the camp’s official website or offline at the ticket counter.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for group bookings or special events. Booking at least 1-2 days in advance is ideal.
It typically takes 2-3 hours to explore the camp, depending on the activities you participate in. A full experience, including interactive exhibits and training sessions, can take up to 4 hours.
The must-see highlights include the Mars simulation zone, where you can experience life in a Martian habitat, and the space training facilities that replicate space missions. The interactive displays on space technology and exploration are also popular.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides are not typically provided, but an English-speaking guide can be requested in advance for foreign visitors.
The best photography spots are near the Mars habitat, the space training zones, and the surrounding desert landscape that mirrors Martian terrain.
Start with an introduction to the Mars mission, followed by a tour of the Mars simulation habitat. Then, engage in training activities such as spacewalk simulations and Mars rover operations before concluding at the exhibition area showcasing space technology.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available. Special tours or events may be organized occasionally, so it’s worth checking the official schedule in advance.
The Mars Camp is not typically crowded, but weekends and holidays can see more visitors. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially early mornings.
The camp has basic facilities such as toilets and water stations. There are no large shops or restaurants on-site, so it is advisable to bring your own food and supplies if needed.
The Mars Camp is accessible for elderly and children, although some of the simulated training activities may require a certain level of mobility. It’s best to check accessibility for disabled visitors with the camp in advance.
Cash is not commonly used, and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. Credit cards are typically not accepted.
There are no restaurants inside the camp, but there are several local eateries and restaurants in Ulan city, offering Qinghai cuisine and international options.
In nearby Ulan, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available, particularly around local markets and the city’s restaurants.
There are several hotels in Ulan city, including mid-range and budget options. Some well-known options are the Qinghai Hotel and Ulan City Hotel.
Nearby attractions include the Qilian Mountains, the Sun and Moon Mountain, and the Tibetan Plateau, all of which can be visited on a day trip from Mars Camp.
There are no souvenir shops inside the camp, but local markets in Ulan offer typical souvenirs like Tibetan handicrafts, woolen textiles, and local jewelry.
After visiting Mars Camp, taxis or private cars are the most convenient options to continue your trip. Buses and trains are also available in Ulan for further travel.
