Come to Xinjiang during the May Day holiday to experience the wonderland of Sayram Lake

Don't know where to go for May Day❓ Here is a three-day travel guide for Sayram Lake. Promise me to read it carefully and make a good plan before you go.

Day 1: Arrive at Sayram Lake
Recommended itinerary
1. Transportation: Drive or charter a car from Urumqi along the G30 Lianyungang-Khorgas Expressway to Sayram Lake (about 6.5 hours). You can enjoy the scenery of the Tianshan Mountains along the way.
2. Accommodation: Give priority to the RV camp in the scenic area (such as Qinshuitan RV Camp) or Sayram Lake Impression Hotel to avoid the peak of tourists the next morning.
3. Afternoon activities:
Moon Bay: The best spot to photograph the reflection of the lake and snow-capped mountains, especially recommended in the evening when the light is soft and easy to take pictures.
Songshutou Hiking: Climb up to overlook the lake view. In spring, the meadow is green and wildflowers are scattered.

Reminder
Traffic control: During the May Day holiday (April 30-May 1), the section from the North Gate to Moon Bay may be restricted due to the cycling race around the lake. It is recommended to check the scenic area announcement in advance to adjust the route.
Ticket reservation: The scenic area limits the number of visitors, so you need to make a ticket reservation 7 days in advance. Independent travelers must grab tickets through official channels or choose a group tour to avoid queuing.

Day 2: In-depth tour around the lake, capturing the blue tears of Sayram Lake
Recommended itinerary
1. Counterclockwise route around the lake (avoiding restricted sections): East Gate → Moon Bay → S-bend Highway → Kele Yongzhu (swan habitat) → Songshutou → South Gate.
2. Must-see spots:
S-bend Highway: A popular photo spot where the lake and the highway form a visual extension. It is recommended to shoot in the morning to avoid backlight.
Kele Yongzhu: Bring your own bread to feed the swans, which is interactive and suitable for family trips.
3. Featured experience:
Gaobai Salmon Feast: Taste the cold-water fish specialty of Sayram Lake (about CNY 150 per person), recommended pan-fried or braised in sauce.
Stargazing: If the weather is clear, you can photograph the Milky Way near the RV camp. You need to bring a tripod and warm clothes.

Reminder
Stopping point selection: Avoid the "first stopping point" (artificial pier, ordinary scenery) and go straight to the subsequent highlights.
Self-driving risk: Self-driving is prohibited in the peak season of the scenic area (only shuttle buses are allowed). If you try to enter during non-working hours, you will be fined. It is recommended to abide by the rules.

Day 3: Surrounding exploration, cultural experience
Recommended itinerary
1. Surrounding tour of Sayram Lake:
Guozigou Bridge: After leaving the scenic area from the South Gate, check in along the way and photograph the spectacular scenery of the bridge and the canyon.
Wenquan County: Drive for 1 hour to arrive, soak in the natural hot springs to relieve fatigue, and you can get free tickets for the second entry the next day.
2. Cultural experience:
Kazakh family visit: Experience the felt house culture and try mutton eaten with hands, roasted buns and other delicacies.

Reminder
Group tour traps: Beware of low-priced tours that compress the tour time (less than 6 hours), and choose a quality tour that includes sufficient free activities.
Sudden weather changes: Rain, snow and strong winds may occur during the May Day holiday. There may be hail on the G30 expressway. You need to prepare a windbreaker, offline map and motion sickness medicine.

Precautions and equipment list
1. Dress guide: The temperature difference between day and night is large. It is recommended to wear a windproof jacket + thin down inner layer. The ultraviolet rays are strong, so you need to wear sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen.
2. Photography tips: The blue tone of the lake needs a polarizing filter to enhance the effect, and a telephoto lens is recommended for swan photography.
3. Environmental protection requirements: Littering is prohibited, and violators may face high fines.

By reasonably planning the route and avoiding the peak of traffic restrictions, you can fully experience the beautiful scenery of Sayram Lake, the "last tear of the Atlantic Ocean", while avoiding potential risks during the journey. I wish you a happy May Day trip!