This private tour of the Northwest Grand Loop completely overturned my preconceived notions about group tours and was truly the most amazing travel experience of the year! Starting from Xining,

this private tour of the Northwest Grand Loop completely overturned my preconceived notions about group tours and was truly the most amazing travel experience of the year!

Starting from Xining, we traveled through Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, and Emerald Lake, then to the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring, and finally arrived at Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. The entire itinerary covered the most essential natural and cultural landscapes of the Northwest, while completely avoiding the crowds and rush of traditional group tours. The advantages of a private tour were fully demonstrated throughout the trip: a dedicated vehicle allowed us to stop whenever we wanted; when we encountered a stunning sunset by Qinghai Lake, the driver would proactively slow down to find the best photo spot; the pace of the itinerary was flexible and free, so if we wanted to take more photos of reflections at Chaka Salt Lake, the guide would patiently wait, with no need to rush; there were no hidden fees throughout the entire trip, truly offering a pure and straightforward experience, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the grandeur and romance of the Northwest—seeing the blue of Qinghai Lake stretch across the sky, hearing the wind and sand of Mingsha Mountain tell stories, and marveling at the supernatural craftsmanship of Zhangye Danxia. These scenes still make my heart flutter when I recall them. If the Northwest is an ideal world, then this private tour is the best way to experience that ideal. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to deeply experience the beauty of the Northwest; it's absolutely worth it!

Post by AUSTIN RICE | Oct 24, 2025