5-day Great Wall Trekking with Culture Discovery

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(Lunch & Dinner | Hiking ~1.5 hours)

Meet your guide at your Beijing hotel between 7:30–8:00 a.m. and depart for the East Qing Tombs, one of China’s finest and best-preserved imperial burial complexes. Set along the southern slopes of Changrui Mountain, the tombs are arranged according to traditional feng shui principles, with the most senior figures placed at the center. Highlights include Xiaoling, the grand focal tomb of the complex, and Dingdongling, the exquisitely decorated tomb of Empress Dowager Cixi, renowned for its elaborate carvings and lavish use of gold.

After lunch, continue to Huangyaguan Great Wall, a dramatic section built along a steep mountain ridge and often described as a “miniature” representation of the entire Great Wall. Begin an afternoon hike through scenic mountain terrain, reaching a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the valley and the restored Huangyaguan Fortress below. From above, observe the distinctive Baguan defensive maze, designed to confuse invading forces, before descending for an interior visit of the fortress. Overnight in a traditional courtyard hotel built on the historic fortress grounds.

 (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | 10 km / 4–5 hours)

After breakfast, transfer to Panlongshan and West Simatai to begin one of the most classic Great Wall hikes. Hiking this popular route in reverse allows for a quieter and more immersive experience. The trail features challenging but manageable climbs, impressive watchtowers, and outstanding defensive architecture, all set against expansive mountain scenery.

Arrive at Jinshanling, one of the most visually striking sections of the Great Wall, where restored brickwork blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Transfer to a comfortable hotel at the foot of the wall for dinner and overnight stay.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | 10 km / 4–5 hours)

Continue hiking westward from Jinshanling toward Gubeikou, gradually transitioning from restored sections to rugged, unrestored “Wild Wall.” The terrain becomes more demanding, rewarding hikers with dramatic watchtowers and sweeping countryside views. Enjoy lunch on the wall, surrounded by the quiet beauty of rural northern China.

In the evening, enjoy a memorable countryside dinner at our camping center cafeteria, known for home-cooked dishes made with fresh, organic vegetables grown on-site. After dinner, ascend to a watchtower to spend the night camping on the Great Wall itself. Sleeping bags and equipment are provided. Guests preferring indoor lodging may stay in a local guesthouse at no extra charge. (Note: temperatures on the wall are typically cooler than in the valleys below.)

 (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | 6–8 km / ~4 hours)

After breakfast, depart for Huanghuacheng Great Wall, one of the most unique and scenic sections of the Great Wall. This area features a compelling blend of restored and unrestored wall segments, offering both variety and adventure. As you hike along mountain ridges and lakeside paths, enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, which in season is dotted with fields of wildflowers.

A highlight of today’s trek is the rare opportunity to see sections of the Great Wall submerged beneath the reservoir, creating the extraordinary sight of ancient stone walls disappearing into the water—a phenomenon found in only a few places along the entire Great Wall. The contrast between tranquil water, rugged masonry, and forested hills makes Huanghuacheng a favorite among experienced hikers and photographers.

After completing the hike, transfer to a nearby village for an overnight stay with a local family. Enjoy a hearty, home-style provincial dinner and a relaxed evening in the countryside, allowing you to rest and prepare for the final day of hiking.

(Breakfast & Lunch | 10 km / 4–5 hours)

Conclude the journey with a spectacular hike on Jiankou, widely regarded as the most dramatic and photogenic section of the Great Wall. After a 60-minute uphill approach, reach the wall and traverse steep ridgelines, crumbling watchtowers, and breathtaking viewpoints. Jiankou’s wild beauty, solitude, and iconic scenery make it a favorite among experienced hikers and photographers.

 After traversing the dramatic, wild terrain of Jiankou, the route transitions onto the beautifully restored Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the most renowned and well-preserved sections of the Great Wall. This striking contrast—from rugged, unrestored stonework to carefully refurbished ramparts—highlights the evolution of the Wall across different eras. Mutianyu is also notable for its historical significance in modern diplomacy, having been visited by numerous world leaders and international dignitaries during official visits to China. Wide walkways, elegant watchtowers, and sweeping valley views provide a memorable and fitting finale to the Great Wall trek. 

We'll treat you with farm-to-table meals and special breakfast watchtower delivery on the camping day. We offer a dining experience that reflects the unique ingredients and creativity of every part of the Great Wall we travel. After an active day on the Wall, it's time to see what other great choices are on the menu.    Have a food allergy or a restricted diet? Just let us know, and we'll make sure there are meal options available to you.