The best routes for self-guided tours in Xinjiang vary depending on the duration and season of travel. Here are several classic routes recommended for you based on different durations:
Short-term tour (5-7 days)
Kanas Circle Route
5-7 days, mainly exploring the Altay region, with attractions including Kanas, Hemu, Koktokay, and the Devil’s City. The best travel time is from September to October.
Yili Circle Route
6-7 days, exploring the Yili River Valley surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains, including scenic areas such as Sayram Lake, Nalati, Xiata, and Tangbula. Suitable for travel from May to August.
Mid-term tour (8-14 days)
Northern Xinjiang Grand Circle Route
8-14 days, varying by itinerary. Self-driving around northern Xinjiang to appreciate natural beauty such as Kanas, Hemu, Koktokay, Tianshan Heavenly Lake, Sayram Lake, etc. Suitable for travel from May to November, with June to August or mid-October being the best times.
Kanas-Yili Circle Route
11-13 days, combining the two popular scenic spots of Kanas and Yili, which is the most essential natural scenery tour route in northern Xinjiang. Suitable for travel from May to October.
Long-term tour (more than 15 days)
Southern Xinjiang Grand Circle Route
13-17 days, mainly to experience the cultural customs, passing through places such as the Taklamakan Desert, Pamir Plateau, Kunlun Mountains, etc. The best travel seasons are September to November and March to May.
Grand Xinjiang Circle Route
Around 40 days, combining the essence of northern and southern Xinjiang, entering Xinjiang from Gansu, and finally exiting from Qinghai, with a total distance of about 12,000 kilometers. Suitable for travel from May to November, but attention should be paid to holidays and budgets.
Precautions:
Xinjiang has a vast territory, and the distance between scenic spots is relatively far.充分的准备 is needed for self-driving tours, including vehicle inspections, understanding road conditions, and bringing food and water.
Some scenic spots (such as the Duku Highway) have seasonal opening restrictions. Please inquire and plan your itinerary in advance.
The climate and altitude in Xinjiang vary greatly, so please prepare corresponding clothing and medications according to your physical condition.
Hope the above routes can provide a reference for your self-guided tour in Xinjiang!