Live Your Best Lives
Explore the vast red desert landscape, take scenic drives through the desert dunes, and enjoy photography of the unique red sand formations. You can also go for a camel ride or take a 4x4 adventure across the desert terrain to fully experience its beauty.
The Red Desert Scenic Area, located in southeastern Keping County, covers dozens of square kilometers. The red sandstone of the "red layer" weathers into sand, which accumulates into a red desert, a Danxia landform.
The Hongsha River Wetland is closely connected to the Red Desert. The Hongsha River, which runs through it, provides abundant water resources. The desert is dotted with sparse, short-skinned vegetation, including Haloxylon ammodendron. Adjacent to the Red Desert is the Keping Danxia Valley. The red sand, rich in minerals, offers a wonderful setting for sand therapy. Visitors can also organize their own activities and outdoor sports, such as beach volleyball, desert hiking, and off-roading. The Hongsha River Valley is known as the "green bond of the people of Keping." As the sun rises in the east, the reflection of the morning glow on the water creates a shimmering effect, making the already red valley even redder.
Tickets start from ￥29
Open all year round, 09:00-19:00
The Keping Red Desert is famous for its stunning red-hued sands, shaped by centuries of wind erosion. It has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists looking to experience the unique desert landscapes of Xinjiang.
The Keping Red Desert is located in the Keping County of Aksu, Xinjiang. It is best reached by car or taxi from Aksu, about 90 kilometers away. Public transportation is limited, so private car rentals or guided tours are recommended.
The desert is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months, from April to October. Summer can be extremely hot, so mornings and late afternoons are the most comfortable times to explore.
The entrance fee is generally around ¥20-¥30, which can be paid on-site at the entrance. There is no online booking system, so tickets are typically purchased when you arrive.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as the site does not usually get overly crowded. However, booking a guided tour or vehicle in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
A full visit typically takes 1-2 hours for a short exploration of the desert. If you plan on taking part in camel rides or 4x4 tours, you may want to allocate 2-3 hours for the experience.
The primary highlight is the striking red sand dunes. Other notable features include the vast, untouched landscapes and the opportunity to view unique desert flora and fauna.
Guided tours are available, with guides speaking Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available with prior arrangement, but it’s advisable to check in advance.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the largest dunes, where you can capture sweeping views of the desert. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography, with the soft light highlighting the red sands.
Start with a scenic drive or walk through the dunes to get a sense of the landscape, followed by a camel ride or 4x4 tour to explore further. Finish your visit with a break at a viewing spot to enjoy the panoramic views.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, stargazing is a popular activity due to the clear desert skies, especially in the late evening.
The desert is not usually very crowded. The least crowded times are during weekdays and in the cooler months (April to October), avoiding the summer peak travel season.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and water stations. However, food options are limited within the desert area, so it’s recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks. Rest areas and small shops may be available near the entrance.
The desert terrain can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to its sandy, uneven surfaces. However, children and families can enjoy the experience with proper supervision.
Cash is commonly used, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it's advisable to carry cash.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the desert. However, you can find local restaurants in Aksu or the nearby town, offering Xinjiang-style dishes such as lamb skewers and pilaf.
Halal food is commonly available in the nearby towns and cities, including lamb dishes and other traditional Xinjiang meals. Vegetarian options are available, though less common in remote areas.
Accommodation options are limited in the immediate vicinity of the desert. The nearest hotels are in Aksu, where you can find a range of options, from budget to mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Aksu Grand Canyon, as well as scenic spots in Aksu itself, such as the ancient city of Keping and various natural reserves.
There are small souvenir shops in Aksu selling local handicrafts, including carpets, textiles, and traditional jewelry. These can be great mementos of your trip.
After visiting the Keping Red Desert, you can return to Aksu by taxi or private car. From Aksu, you can continue your journey by train or flight to other major cities in Xinjiang or beyond.
