8 Days Xinjiang Taklamakan Desert Biking Tour

Welcome to Urumqi! Today is your arrival day. Once you've checked into the designated hotel, take some time to adjust your bicycle and settle in. If you arrive early, feel free to explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and rest up for an amazing biking adventure ahead.

The first day begins with a hearty breakfast. After that, you'll board a comfortable vehicle for a scenic transfer to Yuli County, covering 530km. Along the way, you'll pass through stunning landscapes that offer a glimpse of the vast beauty of Xinjiang. Upon arrival, you'll visit the enchanting Lop Village, located just 35 km from Yuli. This ancient village is home to the Lop people, one of the oldest ethnic groups in Xinjiang, who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Explore the village, where you'll see traditional fishing techniques and experience the unique culture of this remote community. The surrounding area features a mix of desert, lakes, the Tarim River, and golden poplar forests, giving you a taste of the adventures ahead. After a day of exploration, return to Yuli for a relaxing evening.

Today, you'll embark on your first cycling adventure! After breakfast, you'll set off from Yuli County, cycling 50km along the G218 Highway. This route takes you through picturesque pear orchards, famous for the sweet and fragrant Korla pears. The Peacock River and Tarim River will accompany you on this journey, offering serene views as you pedal through the countryside. After lunch at the 33rd Regiment, you'll transfer to the breathtaking Gourd Island, a photographer's paradise. Here, the desert, golden poplar forests, and tranquil lakes create a magical landscape, especially in late October when the poplar leaves are at their most vibrant. Take your time to capture the beauty of this unique place before returning to the 33rd Regiment for a well-deserved rest.

Let's take you deeper into the heart of Xinjiang this day. After breakfast, you'll transfer approximately 150km before starting your cycling route through the stunning poplar forests. As you pedal through this golden landscape, you'll feel as though you've stepped into a painting. The poplar trees, with their leaves turning a brilliant yellow in October, create a breathtaking backdrop for your ride. Along the way, you'll pass by Taitema Lake, a recently restored body of water that has brought new life to the surrounding ecosystem. The lake is home to the impressive Taitema Lake Bridge, the longest railway bridge in Xinjiang, which stretches 25 km across the water. After a day of cycling and exploration, you'll arrive in Ruoqiang County, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your day with a visit to the fascinating Loulan Historical Museum, where you'll uncover the mysteries of the ancient Loulan Kingdom. Once a thriving hub on the Silk Road, Loulan was known for its towering poplar trees, beautiful women, and bustling trade routes. The museum offers a glimpse into the kingdom's rise and sudden disappearance, leaving you with a sense of wonder and curiosity. After the museum, you'll transfer to Qiemo County, cycling 70km along the scenic G315 Highway. This route serves as a warm-up for the desert road ahead, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Arrive in Qiemo County in the evening, where you can rest and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

Dare to step into the forbidden zone of life? Today, you'll face the legendary "Sea of Death" as you cycle through the shifting sands of the Taklamakan Desert. The route from Qiemo to Luntai spans 552km, and today you'll cover 110km of it. As you pedal through the endless dunes, you'll feel a sense of awe at the sheer vastness of the desert. The desert road is lined with sand-fixing grids and barriers, a testament to human ingenuity in this harsh environment. After a challenging but rewarding ride, you'll transfer to Tazhong, where you can climb the nearby sand dunes to watch the sun set over the desert. It's a moment you'll never forget.

Marvel at the resilience of life! Today's ride takes you further along the desert road, where you'll cycle 120km through a landscape that is both harsh and beautiful. Every 4 km, you'll pass a water station, and alongside the road, you'll see the impressive green life corridor—a testament to years of effort to cultivate plants that can survive in the desert. As you ride, you'll encounter scattered poplar trees, standing tall and resilient in the face of the desert's challenges. These trees are a symbol of endurance and strength, and their presence will inspire you as you pedal through this unique environment. Arrive in Tahe Bridge Town in the evening, where you can rest and reflect on the day's journey.

On your final day, you'll cycle 10km to the Tarim River Poplar Forest Park, the largest and most concentrated primitive poplar forest in Xinjiang. This park is a true natural wonder, featuring a mix of desert, poplar forests, and serene lakes. Hop on a small train that takes you on a 13km loop through the park, where you'll see lush grasslands, red willow bushes, and the beautiful Qiayang River. After exploring the park, you'll cycle to the starting point of the desert road in Lunnan, where you'll have lunch. In the afternoon, you'll transfer to Korla City for a celebratory dinner, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the heart of Xinjiang.