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Tour guides in china

Can you travel on your own and can u get English speaking guide and car for private travels. How expensive are they for 10 day to 13 days tour from Beijing, xian , Guilin, yangshao to shanghai for family of 4 to 6 people. Or are there any private tours that can be catered for a group of 4 to 6 people

Yes, it is entirely possible to travel in China independently and also hire English-speaking guides with private transportation for a family or small group. Many visitors prefer this approach as it allows flexibility while still having professional guidance for historical sites, cultural experiences, and local logistics.

For a 10–13 day tour covering Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin, Yangshuo, and Shanghai, you have several options for arranging private tours:

  • Hire a local travel agency that specializes in private tours. These agencies can arrange an English-speaking guide and private car with driver for your entire itinerary.
  • Book private guides and drivers separately through platforms like Trip.com, Viator, or local tour operator websites. Some hotels can also assist in arranging these services.
  • Use ride-sharing or car-hire apps for part of the journey, but note that not all drivers speak English, so hiring a guide who also drives or coordinates travel is recommended for convenience.

Costs will vary depending on vehicle type, guide experience, season, and length of travel. Approximate cost ranges for a family of 4–6 people are:

  • Private guide and car per day: USD 200–350 (mid-range sedan or SUV) including fuel and driver, sometimes excluding entrance fees.
  • English-speaking guide alone (if car is arranged separately): USD 100–200 per day.
  • Combined packages from agencies for 10–13 days including hotels, guides, and transport: USD 2,500–5,000 per person depending on level of comfort and inclusions.

Advantages of private tours:

  • Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests.
  • Ability to travel at your own pace without being tied to group schedules.
  • Direct communication with local experts for insights and logistics.

Some recommended approaches:

  • Contact a few reputable local agencies in advance to compare services, guides’ English proficiency, and car options.
  • Confirm if entrance fees, tolls, parking, and driver gratuities are included in quotes to avoid surprises.
  • Consider blending DIY travel for some cities with private guides for complex destinations like Xi’an Terracotta Warriors or Guilin/Yangshuo scenic areas.

Overall, private tours for a family of 4–6 in China are feasible, comfortable, and provide the best balance between independence and professional support, especially for a multi-city itinerary of 10–13 days.

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