Special Forces Assemble! An 8-Day, 7-Night Nanny-Level Guide to the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Circle

OMG, you guys! I thought Qinghai and Gansu only had vast Gobi deserts, but I didn't expect there would be mountains, rivers, lakes, deserts, and grasslands. Every place is breathtakingly beautiful! While we're still young, let's gather our friends and take a spontaneous trip. This journey is absolutely worth it!

🧳Pre-trip Checklist

1. Documents: ID card is a must! Students, bring your student ID. Those with a driver's license will have more freedom to self-drive. Military IDs and senior citizen cards can also be brought along for discounts at some attractions.
2. Clothing: T-shirts are enough for daytime. The temperature difference between day and night is huge, so thick coats and waterproof jackets are essential. Don't forget to bring pretty dresses for stunning photos at Chaka Salt Lake.
3. Sun protection and skincare: High SPF sunscreen, sunscreen spray (SPF50+), sunglasses, parasols, sun hats, all arranged. The northwest is super dry, so bring enough lotion, moisturizing masks, and lip balm.
4. Medicine: Cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, digestive tablets, motion sickness medicine. Those who need daily medication should prepare in advance.
5. Cash: Although mobile payment is convenient, it is still recommended to bring a small amount of cash just in case.

🗺️8-Day, 7-Night Itinerary

- Day 1: Departure point → Xining. Check in to the hotel upon arrival, have a good rest, and acclimatize to the plateau environment to recharge for the subsequent journey.
- Day 2: Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake. Encounter the azure lake and the "mirror of the sky," and experience the purity and magnificence of nature.
- Day 3: Dachaidan → Nanbaxian Devil City → Water Yadan → U-shaped Highway → Dachaidan Town. Shuttle between the mysterious Yadan and the popular highway, and experience the unique charm of the landscape.
- Day 4: Highway 315 U-shaped Highway → Water Yadan → Nanbaxian Yadan → Dachaidan. Once again, appreciate the Yadan landforms and check in at your favorite spots.
- Day 5: Dachaidan → Gobi Highway → Oil Town → Dunhuang. Drive along the highway and explore the mysterious abandoned town.
- Day 6: Dunhuang → Mogao Caves → Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring. Explore the millennium-old grotto art and watch the sunset by the desert crescent moon.
- Day 7: Dunhuang → Big Earth → Zhangye Danxia Landform. Check in at the giant sculpture and admire the colorful Danxia landform.
- Day 8: Zhangye → Qilian Grassland → Menyuan → Xining. Bid farewell to this fantastic journey in the sea of flowers on the grassland and return to your warm home.

❗Important Notes and Tips

1. The temperature difference between day and night is significant. Keep warm with a thick coat at all times, and don't let a cold ruin your trip.
2. The ultraviolet rays in the northwest are super strong, so sun protection and moisturizing must be done well, otherwise, you'll turn into a coal ball in seconds.
3. Respect local customs and traditions, and travel responsibly.
4. Mature scenic spots have complete facilities and clean restrooms. Undeveloped scenic spots may not have restrooms, so take care of business before departure.
5. Group tours are recommended, with a cost of CNY 2,000+ per person. It's worry-free and effortless, with no need to plan your own itinerary, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing trip.

This Qinghai-Gansu Grand Circle trip will fulfill all your fantasies about the northwest. Guys, hurry up and save this post for your next adventure!