Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
Destinations

Please note this is a sample itinerary ideally performed by private jet (rate not included). Upon request, private jet options can be provided based on availability and requirements.

Follow one of the world’s most famous trade routes on this breathtaking 12-day journey along China’s ancient Silk Road. Discover major hubs, oases, and ancient cities where traders and merchants once discovered one another’s cultures and broadened their minds through travel, just as you will do. The difference? You’ll be making the journey aboard your luxury private jet, hopping from destination to destination in complete style and comfort. Fly from Xian to Zhangye Danxia, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, and Turpan, taking in not only fascinating history and culture, but also majestic panoramas that will doubt remain in your memory for a lifetime.

Why fly by private jet?

Travel China’s Silk Road in total comfort. A private jet brings with it a whole new dimension of travel, where lines, transfers, wait times, flight delays, and cancellations are a thing of the past. A private jet is a safe, comfortable, and exclusive mode of transportation that will elevate your journey to the next level. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Jet-setting: Make the most of your time while traveling in style. Jet over two thousand miles across China's vast northwest, visiting six destinations in a span of just twelve days.
  • End of the Wall: Known as the 'mouth of China', Jiayuguan is the first frontier fortress at the west end of the Great Wall and guarded the western boundary of Ming Dynasty China.
  • The Best Sunday Market in the World: Kashgar's Sunday Market holds this decorated title for its size - the biggest in Central Asia - and for its comprehensive offerings. The exotic and exhilarating environment has been enticing locals, merchants, and travelers along the Silk Road and Central Asia for centuries.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Xian

Arrive in historic Xian, one of the oldest cities in China, and once the most populated city in the world.  Check in to your luxury hotel and freshen up. Explore some of Xian’s most famous sites today, starting with the Han Mausoleum. Your next stop will be the world-famous Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site holding an entire army of thousands of life-sized intricately-carved clay soldier statues and more. Round off your day with a trip to Muslim Street, the hub of the city’s thriving Muslim population.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

History: Xi’an once served as one of China’s ancient capitals and is the former home to 13 imperial Chinese dynasties. Guests of The Ritz-Carlton Xi’an can experience some of this history visiting the Terracotta Warriors, Great Wild Goose Pagoda, and the old City Walls.

Attention to Detail: Guests should expect to want for nothing during a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Xi’an, as befitting the prestigious brand.

Dining Experiences: The hotel's quintet of dining venues offers International cuisine, fine dining Cantonese fusion, Japanese teppan grills, signature afternoon tea, and creative cocktails paired amazing views from their rooftop bar.

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Ritz-Carlton Xi'an Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located within the Xian City Walls on the former Imperial Palace grounds, the hotel is close to all the main famous historical sites on offer. History: This heritage building opened its doors in 1953 as the legendary Xian People's Hotel and in 2014 was completely refurbished into an ultra luxury hotel.

Service: Five-star service and experiences including the signature Sofitel MyBed as well as extra luxurious touches including pillow menu, silk robes and Hermes amenities.

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Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xian Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Zhangye Danxia

Enjoy an early breakfast this morning at your hotel before heading back out into Xian to check out the fascinating Archeological Institute. Visit the city wall, a majestic testament to Xian’s one-time unrivaled power. Next, you’ll be escorted by car to the airport, where you will board your private jet for a flight to Jiayuguan in the northwestern Gansu Province. You will then be driven to Zhangye where you will check in and spend the night. 

Hotel Options
About

Enjoy this modern hotel and its pleasant, helpful staff at the heart of Zhangye, China. Hua Chen International Hotel is wonderfully-situated for exploring the cultural and geographic offerings of the surrounding area.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Zhangye Danxia
Zhangye Danxia

Day 3

Zhangye Danxia

Zhangye Danxia holds geological wonders that have to be seen to believe. The rock formations and cliffs here are vibrantly-colored, with hues of blues and reds that look as though they were painted on. Spend today hiking Zhangye’s incredible mountains and cliffs, and countryside. Look for shallow caves hidden in the mountains, and keep an eye out for the rarely-seen Bingguo rock formation. Rest your tired feet back at your hotel this evening, and dine on tasty local cuisine.

Day 4

Jiayuguan

Before you leave stunning Zhangye, visit the Matisi Cave temple and Giant Buddha Temple, home to China’s largest reclining Buddha. You’ll be escorted by car to Jiayuguan, where you’ll check in to your hotel for the evening. 

Hotel Options
About

Located in Jiayuguan, Nuojin Hotel is a newer accommodation option after opening in 2019. Spacious modern rooms feature either lake or mountain views.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Jiayuguan
Jiayuguan

Day 5

Dunhuang

Start your morning off with a visit to Jiayuguan Fortress, one of the main passes of the Great Wall of China, and learn about its interesting history. Now it’s time to board your private jet once again and fly to Dunhuang, once a major stop along the ancient Silk Road, and home to famous caves. 

Hotel Options
About

Set against the picturesque Mingsha Sand Dunes, the Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel is modeled after Tang Dynasty structures, with large rooftops, long corridors, replica furniture, and the mud walls typical of the buildings of the region. The Silk Road Dunhuang comprises 266 rooms, some set around courtyards, and all featuring air-conditioning, mini-bars, high-speed Internet access, and air conditioning.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 6

Dunhuang

Explore Dunhuang today - head first to Crescent Moon Lake, an oasis not far from the city. For the full effect, hop on the back of a camel and peruse the area like the travelling traders once did. Mogao Caves are your next stop. Marvel at one of Asia’s greatest archaeological treasures. Explore the small area that is downtown Dunhuang as evening sets in before heading back to your hotel.

Dunhuang
Dunhuang

Day 7

Turpan

This morning, check out of your hotel, and board your private jet once again, this time for Turpan. The city is a fertile oasis and important trade center. After you've settled in, go for a tour of Turpan. See the Jiaohe Ruins and then take a trip to the Karez water system to observe the unique method locals have devised for obtaining their water.

Hotel Options
About

Mercure Turpan Downtown is located in Turpan, a major town on the ancient Silk Road. The hotel has 155 spacious (322 - 699 sqft), bright and comfortable rooms.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

Turpan

Discover more of Turpan today. Emin Minaret, the tallest minaret in China, is your first stop. Continue onwards to the Flaming Mountains, red sandstone hills near the northern rim of the Taklamakan Desert. The nearby Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves are the final stop, where you can admire the ancient Buddhist murals that decorate the cave walls. Return to your hotel to relax this evening.

Turpan
Turpan

Day 9

Kashgar

Take in some final must-see sights in Turpan today: the Astana Tombs and Turpan Museum, both of which will provide you with further insight into the Silk Road’s lengthy and fascinating. Following this, board your private jet once again, this time for Kashgar, yet another oasis along the Silk Road. 

Hotel Options
About

The Radisson Blue Hotel Kashgar is one of the finest hotels in Kashgar, located at the foot of the grand Pamir mountains. 261 smartly-dressed rooms offer panoramic views of the city and mountains along with modern conveniences such as complimentary WiFi, coffee and tea making amenities, work desk, and minibar.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 10

Kashgar

Start your first full day in Kashgar with a visit to what has been called the best Sunday market in the world. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of everything from food to clothing to live animals. Take in some of Kashgar‘s religious culture at Ab Koja Tomb and a local mosque before retiring to your hotel for the evening.

Kashgar
Kashgar

Day 11

Kashgar

Take a day trip to the beautiful Karakul Lake, located high up in the Pamir Plateau. The scenery up here is absolutely breathtaking, from the surrounding majestic mountains to the deep colors of the highly-reflective lake, which range from dark green to azure.

Day 12

Departure

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. You’ll step aboard your private jet one final time and be transferred to the airport in time for your onward travels, either home or to your next exciting destination.

Suggested Hotels For Day 1

Ritz-Carlton Xi'an
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Xi'an

Set within the city’s central business district, The Ritz-Carlton, Xi’an is the ideal base for experiencing this vibrant, ancient capital. Merging traditional elements with modern luxury, the hotel's 283 guest rooms and suites offer great views spanning across Xi’an. Home to 13 imperial Chinese dynasties, Xi’an today is a blend of history and modernity from a mix of eras and influences, where the UNESCO World Heritage-protected Terracotta Army lives among a thriving tech culture. Dining options include three restaurant venues offering International menus, fine dining Cantonese, Japanese teppan cuisine, as well as a Lobby Lounge with signature Afternoon Tea service, and a rooftop bar offering impressive sundowner views. Facilities include a well-equipped gym, indoor swimming pool, and spa offering a menu of wellness treatments.
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Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xian
Preferred Hotel

Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xian

A stunning hotel with harmonious architecture blending French and Sino-Russian touches, a true heritage feel exudes from the detailed exterior. Step inside and the lofty ceilings, ornate mouldings and coving, art deco influences along with state of the art technology make this an incredible hotel befitting of the name Legend. The overtone of luxury is hard to miss. Everything from the service, the detailed inlaid floors, chandeliered ceilings and air of elegance places this hotel in a league of its own. Set in ornate gardens with flowing waterfalls and incredible gazebos, entering the hotel is like entering another world, a world of pure opulence and indulgence. With 37 suites, each designed with attention to the smallest of details, the minimalist design oozes luxury and comfort, striking an almost impossible balance. The signature Italian restaurant whisks guests away to the heart of Italy, or dine in comfort and privacy with food delivered to the suites.

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Suggested Hotel For Days 2–3

Hua Chen International Hotel

Hua Chen International Hotel


Enjoy this modern hotel and its pleasant, helpful staff at the heart of Zhangye, China. Hua Chen International Hotel is wonderfully-situated for exploring the cultural and geographic offerings of the surrounding area. The largest and most luxurious hotel in the area, guestrooms come equipped with writing desks, kettles, air conditioning, domestic and international direct dial phones, and more. Hotel facilities include internet access, a banquet hall, a business center, and restaurants serving up authentic Chinese cuisine from many different regions. Guests may also enjoy gift shops, beauty salons, spa services, an indoor swimming pool, a nightclub, karaoke, and much more. The hotel boasts, spacious, clean rooms with views of the snow-capped Qinghai mountain range.


Suggested Hotel For Day 4

Nuojin Hotel

Nuojin Hotel

Located in Jiayuguan, Nuojin Hotel is a newer accommodation option after opening in 2019. Spacious modern rooms feature either lake or mountain views. In comparison to other Jiayuguan hotels, it is highly regarded for its excellent facilities which include an on-site restaurant, well-equipped gym, swimming pool, and tabletop tennis. It is also conveniently located next to a major shopping center for shopping excursions.

Suggested Hotel For Days 5–6

Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel

Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel

Set against the picturesque Mingsha Sand Dunes, the Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel is modeled after Tang Dynasty structures, with large rooftops, long corridors, replica furniture, and the mud walls typical of the buildings of the region. The Silk Road Dunhuang comprises 266 rooms, some set around courtyards, and all featuring air-conditioning, mini-bars, high-speed Internet access, and air conditioning. Culinary selections at the Silk Road Dunhuang include the Deli Chamber, which serves spicy Sichuan and fresh Cantonese fare; the Delights Chamber, which serves Asian and international dishes; and the Starry and Lobby Lounges, two cocktail and sitting lounges set outside and in the lobby, respectively. The Silk Road Dunhuang possesses a business center, sauna and steam baths, meeting rooms, and access to a variety of activities, from camel riding to karaoke lounges. The hotel is located twenty minutes from the airport, and about a half-hour away from the historic Mogao Grottoes.

Suggested Hotel For Days 7–8

Mercure Turpan Downtown

Mercure Turpan Downtown

Mercure Turpan Downtown is located in Turpan, a major town on the ancient Silk Road. The hotel has 155 spacious (322 - 699 sqft), bright and comfortable rooms. Located on the first floor of the hotel, the all-day dining restaurant offers delicious and healthy Chinese and Western breakfast, as well as a variety of delicious Xinjiang cuisine ordering services for lunch and dinner, and the nearby lobby offers a bar for drinks. Traveling families will appreciate the hotel’s children's area, gym, and the well-equipped gym is good for those seeking to maintain their fitness. The hotel is located a convenient 5-min walk from the Turpan Museum and close to many attractions such as Su Gong Tower, Flame Mountain, Grape Valley, and the Jiaohe Old City.

Suggested Hotel For Days 9–12

Radisson Blu

Radisson Blu

The Radisson Blue Hotel Kashgar is one of the finest hotels in Kashgar, located at the foot of the grand Pamir mountains. 261 smartly-dressed rooms offer panoramic views of the city and mountains along with modern conveniences such as complimentary WiFi, coffee and tea making amenities, work desk, and minibar. Spacious marble bathrooms come with upscale toiletries and bathrobes. Upgraded suites extend access to the Business Class Lounge for complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments, and evening cocktails. Other facilities include a fitness center and health club with swimming pool and beauty salon, ATM and currency exchange service, bar, and several dining options. Popular sites such as Xiangfei Family’s Tomb and the Eitgal Mosque are within 10 minutes away, while Kashgar airport is approximately a 30-minute drive.

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One of the most memorable experiences was visiting the pandas in Chengdu. Getting a private tour ... proved to be everything we wanted and more.

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We especially enjoyed the opportunities we had to go off the beaten path ... and look forward to sharing even more authentic experiences.

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