Maolan!! The stunning hiking paradise next to Libo!
by Liam Draper52
Oct 23, 2025
National Geographic didn’t lie! Located in Libo, Guizhou, the Maolan Karst Forest, listed as a World Natural Heritage site, reveals another side of itself in autumn—as the "green gem on the Earth's belt," a feast of green and gold intertwined. This is a true natural secret realm, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers.
"Itinerary Plan: 3 Days 2 Nights Primitive Forest Adventure"  
This is an in-depth experience route, perfect for those who love hiking and nature.  
Day 1: Arrive at Maolan Nature Reserve, enjoy a relaxed afternoon tour along the "Qinglong Pool - Qinglong Waterfall - Qinglong Stream" line, experiencing the wonders of the water forest.  
Day 2: Full-day hike through the "Funnel Forest" (guide required), delving deep into the forest interior to observe abundant flora and fauna.  
Day 3: Morning visit to limestone caves such as Jinshi Cave, afternoon pack up and return with a heart full of memories.
"Highlights Recommendation: Star Rating Style"  
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Funnel Forest Hiking: Follow a guide through the pristine karst forest, experiencing biodiversity—this is the most hardcore and rewarding part of the trip.  
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Qinglong Pool Line: Flowing water, trees growing from the water, a serene environment perfect for a leisurely stroll and stunning photos.  
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Cave Exploration: Limestone caves like Jinshi Cave remain undeveloped, preserving their original appearance; headlamps are needed for exploration, offering a thrilling adventure.
"Check-in Guide: Hidden Play Style"  
✅ Forage for Wild Mushrooms: Autumn is mushroom season; under the guide’s instruction, you can learn about various interesting fungi (do not pick or eat on your own!).  
✅ Night Insect Watching: At night, organized by the homestay and led by a guide, you’ll discover an active insect world unseen during the day.  
✅ Farmhouse Experience: Stay at local villagers’ homestays, enjoy farmhouse meals, and listen to their stories about the forest.
"In-depth Experience: The Silence in the Funnel Forest"  
While hiking the Funnel Forest, there is a stretch of path that is exceptionally quiet, where you can only hear your heartbeat and breathing. Towering trees block out the sky, and thick fallen leaves cover the ground. The guide signals us to stop and listen quietly. At that moment, time seems to stand still, and an unprecedented sense of tranquility envelops you. You can clearly feel the breath and pulse of this primeval forest—a world apart experience that you will never forget.
"Practical Information: ⚠️ Pitfall Avoidance Guide"  
⚠️ Hiking in the core area requires a local guide—safety first, and you’ll learn a lot.  
⚠️ The forest terrain is complex; wear long pants and high-top, non-slip hiking shoes to prevent scratches and insect bites.  
⚠️ Some areas have no cell signal; inform your family in advance and stay close to the group.  
⚠️ Protect the environment by carrying out all your trash.
"Food and Accommodation: Ultimate Primitive Experience"  
Accommodations are mostly farmhouses or homestays within the reserve, simple but clean, offering the most authentic rural life experience. The food mainly consists of homegrown vegetables and free-range chicken and ducks, with pure, authentic flavors. This secret realm highly recommended by National Geographic awaits the brave to explore.
Post by AadaKuusisto | Oct 17, 2025













