The best routes for self-guided tours in Xinjiang vary depending on personal preferences and travel time, but the following classic routes are highly recommended and can be selected according to your own circumstances:?
Kanas Loop: This route usually takes 5-7 days and covers the essential attractions of Northern Xinjiang, including Kanas, Hemu, Koktokay, and the Devil’s City. Kanas Lake is as green as jade, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests, with every scene being as beautiful as a wallpaper; Hemu Village resembles a fairy tale world, with morning sunlight and curling smoke, allowing visitors to experience primitive wooden house life.?
Yili Loop: This route takes 6-10 days and mainly covers the stunning scenery at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, such as Sayram Lake, Nalati Grasslands, and Xiata. Dominated by natural scenery, this route is suitable for tourists who love nature and photography.?
In addition, you can visit Kazanqi Folk Village to experience its unique folk culture.?
Kayes-Yili Loop: This is a combined route of Kanas and Yili, two popular destinations for online influencers, which usually takes 11-13 days. This route brings together the most essential natural scenery of Northern Xinjiang, featuring both the lakes and mountains of Kanas and the grasslands and flower seas of Yili. It is the first choice for tourists pursuing ultimate natural beauty.?
Great Northern Xinjiang Loop: If you have ample time, you can choose this route that covers all the essential attractions of Northern Xinjiang, which usually takes 13-17 days. Starting from Urumqi, a self-drive tour around Northern Xinjiang will allow you to appreciate various landscapes such as deserts, gobies, snow-capped mountains, and grasslands. This route is suitable for tourists who enjoy in-depth tours and self-drive travels.?
Great Southern Xinjiang Loop: Unlike the magnificent scenery of Northern Xinjiang, Southern Xinjiang attracts tourists with its unique cultural ambiance and natural landscapes. This route usually takes 13-17 days and allows visitors to explore famous attractions such as the Pamir Plateau, Kunlun Mountains, and the Taklamakan Desert. Moreover, you can visit ancient cities, Thousand Buddha Caves, and other historical relics to experience the charm of Silk Road culture.?
When choosing a route, it is recommended to arrange your itinerary based on your interests and time, and to understand the local weather, transportation, and accommodation in advance. Additionally, due to Xinjiang’s vast territory and scattered attractions, it is advisable to plan your itinerary and book related services in advance to ensure a smooth trip.?