Wild Horse Ecological Park

What are the most recommended things to do in Wild Horse Ecological Park?

  • Explore the beautiful natural landscapes, including grassy plains and wild horse herds.
  • Visit the park's animal sanctuary to learn about wild horses and local wildlife conservation efforts.
  • Take a guided tour to understand the ecological balance and unique flora and fauna of the park.
  • Enjoy a relaxing walk or picnic in the park's scenic areas, especially around the water bodies.
  • Observe birdwatching opportunities and take in the vastness of Xinjiang’s natural beauty.

Introducing Wild Horse Ecological Park

The Xinjiang Wild Horse Ancient Ecological Park is located in the Liyushan Park in Urumqi City. It is a park within a park. The park collects and protects a large number of precious ancient ecological resources such as petrified wood, black iron meteorites, Przewalski's horses, and Aerghelvark horses, making it a unique cultural tourism theme park in the country.

This place pioneered the mass importation of the Ferghana horse into China and is currently the country's largest Ferghana horse base. The Ferghana horse, with its plump and graceful body, fine fur like satin, and its high, curved neck, creates a perfect curve. It is one of the oldest horse breeds in the world.

  Another wonder of the park is its vast collection of petrified wood. Hundreds of petrified trees form a spectacular forest, the longest of which reaches 43 meters, three meters longer than the petrified wood submitted for Guinness World Records at Yellowstone National Park in the United States. Also prominent within the park are 3,800 ancient poplar trees, known for their ability to "live for a thousand years, stand for a thousand years after death, and remain undying for a thousand years after falling," proudly standing tall within the park, creating a striking landscape along the New Silk Road.

After ten years of construction, the Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park has become a business card showcasing the culture of the Silk Road. Currently, the park has been named a "Cultural Industry Demonstration Base" by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, becoming an important cultural business card in the new journey of the Silk Road.



Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate, suitable for travel year-round

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

2 days

Tickets

130 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

October 16th - April 30th of the following year: 10:00-19:30, last admission after 19:00.

May 1st - October 15th, 8:00-22:00, last admission at 20:00.

The equestrian show starts at 17:30 (except Mondays). Starting from November 1, the time will be adjusted to 17:00. In case of force majeure due to weather conditions, it will be changed or cancelled.



Most Popular FAQs for Wild Horse Ecological Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Wild Horse Ecological Park is a nature reserve dedicated to preserving the wild horse population and local ecosystems. The park is significant for its efforts to protect endangered species and its role in promoting biodiversity conservation in Xinjiang.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The park is located in Urumqi, Xinjiang, and can be reached by taxi or bus from the city center. There is no metro line directly to the park, so taxis are the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is typically around 50-80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it’s recommended to check online or call ahead for any special events or price changes.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is not usually required, but for weekends or holiday periods, it's a good idea to check availability online or call the park ahead of time.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the park, especially if you plan to visit the animal sanctuary and enjoy some scenic walks.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The wild horse observation areas where you can see the horses in their natural habitat.
  • The animal sanctuary and conservation centers that offer insight into wildlife protection efforts.
  • The park's scenic viewpoints, perfect for nature photography and relaxation.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they provide a deeper understanding of the park’s wildlife and ecosystem. Audio guides may be available upon request for foreign visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The elevated hills surrounding the park offer sweeping views of the entire landscape and wild horse herds.
  • The lake areas where birds gather, offering fantastic opportunities for nature photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the animal sanctuary, then walk along the trails leading to the wild horse observation areas. End your visit by relaxing near one of the park’s lakes or picnic spots.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not available at this park. The best time to visit is during daylight hours when the wildlife is most active.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The park is usually less crowded on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and public holidays tend to see more visitors.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The park has basic facilities including restrooms, drinking water stations, and rest areas. There is a small café, but for more food options, it’s best to bring your own picnic or visit nearby restaurants.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The park is relatively accessible for elderly and children, but some areas may require walking on uneven terrain. It’s advisable to check with the park staff for any specific accessibility requirements.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but cards and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are also widely accepted for entry and at the café.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • A small café is available inside the park offering basic snacks and beverages.
  • Nearby, you can find several Xinjiang-style restaurants in Urumqi city offering local specialties.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food options are widely available in Urumqi, and you can find vegetarian and vegan options in nearby restaurants as well.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Urumqi Grand Hotel
  • Hilton Urumqi
  • Xinjiang International Hotel

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Heavenly Lake
  • The Grand Bazaar in Urumqi
  • The Xinjiang Regional Museum

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the park, but you can find a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs in Urumqi, such as traditional Xinjiang carpets, Uyghur-style jewelry, and dried fruits.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can continue your trip by taxi, bus, or private car rental to nearby attractions like Heavenly Lake or downtown Urumqi. Taxis are the most convenient for short trips.