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The Ancient Silk Road & Floating Peaks

2026▾

2026 2027

Days

Destinations

Flights & Trains

Fully private — just you and your party, all year round

See Pricing & Inclusions ↓

↑ Back to Top Overview Itinerary Stays Why This Journey Pricing & Inclusions Journey Details

10 Days

Small Group

from $9,200 pp

Home › Journeys › China › The Ancient Silk Road & Floating Peaks

OverviewThis is not merely a sightseeing tour. This is an immersion into the ancient trade routes and gravity-defying landscapes that shaped a civilization — a land of singing sand dunes, Buddhist grottoes carved into cliffs, and karst pillars that inspired a Hollywood blockbuster. Over ten unforgettable days, journey from the Silk Road treasures of Dunhuang to the floating peaks of Zhangjiajie, then to the cyberpunk metropolis of Chongqing. Every domestic flight, every transfer, every signature experience is wrapped into one seamless, all-inclusive price.

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Three nights at The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel with roof-suite views over the desert and distant dunes

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Private historian-led morning at the UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves, 1,500 years of Buddhist murals and sculpture

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Camel ride across the singing sands of Mingsha Mountain to the Crescent Moon Lake oasis

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Glass-fronted Bailong Elevator ascent up a 326-metre cliff face into Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

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Walk across the First Bridge Under Heaven and stand before the sandstone pillars that inspired Avatar

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Cross the world-famous, transparent Glass Bridge suspended above Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

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Watch the Liziba Monorail train pass directly through the middle of a 19-storey residential tower

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Premium terrace dining and cocktails at Southwind Cliff Bistro as Chongqing's neon skyline switches on

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Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Why Travel With Finders & Keepers Safaris

All-inclusive luxury hotels and lodges — every meal, transfer and signature activity wrapped in one transparent price

VIP airport handling and private guides throughout — fast-tracked through customs, every time

Authentic encounters shaped by China's finest local guides and cultural specialists

First Class bullet trains and domestic flights between every destination — seamless, high-speed travel

Thoughtfully paced itinerary balancing iconic landmarks with quiet, unhurried moments

All entrance fees, signature experiences and a complimentary spa session — no hidden costs

Dunhuang → Zhangjiajie → Chongqing

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Interactive Route Map

Dunhuang → Zhangjiajie → Chongqing. Interactive map to be added here with day-by-day scrollspy markers.

Itinerary

Dunhuang

Day 1 | Departure from Nairobi & Arrival in Dunhuang

Upon your arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, you will receive VIP handling as you check in for your international flight to China. You will board a flight to Dunhuang Airport (DNH). Upon arrival, you will receive VIP tarmac reception, expediting you through customs and baggage claim with ease. A private guide will transfer you to The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel (Desert View Roof Suite). You will look forward to the stunning views of the desert landscape and the distant dunes from your suite. If you arrive before 4:00 PM, you will be treated to a private guided tour of the area. You will explore the vibrant Shazhou Night Market, sampling Silk Road spices and local delicacies. The day culminates in a relaxed welcome dinner at the hotel.

The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel →

Dinner

Day 2 | Mogao Caves Treasures & Buddhist Art

Today, you will spend the morning exploring the UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves with a specialized historian guide. You will look forward to viewing ancient Buddhist wall murals and towering clay sculptures dating back over 1,500 years. Your guide will explain the history and significance of the caves, which are a treasure trove of Buddhist art. You will also visit the Mogao Digital Exhibition Center to watch immersive structural recreations of the caves. You return to The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel for a gourmet dinner.

The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel →

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 | Mingsha Dunes & Crescent Moon Oasis

Today, you will ride camels across the sweeping, singing sands of Mingsha Mountain in the morning. You will look forward to the unique experience of riding a camel across the dunes, with the wind creating a singing sound in the sand. You will walk down to the edges of Yueyaquan (Crescent Moon Lake), a natural spring oasis inside the dunes. You will look forward to the stunning sight of the oasis, with the dunes rising around it. You will watch the desert sun drop below the horizon from the ridge of a giant sand dune — a perfect sundowner moment. Your stay remains at The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel.

The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel →

Breakfast

Zhangjiajie

Day 4 | Fly to Zhangjiajie & Cloud-Piercing Architecture

After breakfast, you will take a morning domestic flight from Dunhuang to Zhangjiajie Airport (DYG). You will look forward to the spectacular aerial views of the changing landscapes, from the desert to the karst mountains. Upon arrival, you will check into Nabalie Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan (Mountain View Executive Villa), a luxury mountain resort located right outside the national park gates. You will look forward to the stunning views of the karst peaks from your villa. You will enjoy a relaxed evening walking along the streams of Wulingyuan town. You enjoy a gourmet dinner at the resort.

Nabalie Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan →

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 | Avatar Hallelujah Mountains & Bailong Elevator

Today, you will enter Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and ride the glass-fronted Bailong Elevator up a 326-meter cliff face. You will look forward to the spectacular views from the elevator, with the karst peaks rising around you. You will explore Yuanjiajie to stand opposite the towering pillars that inspired the movie Avatar. You will look forward to the stunning sight of the sandstone pillars, with their flat tops and vertical sides. You will walk across the First Bridge Under Heaven, a natural rock arch connecting two massive stone spires. You will look forward to the breathtaking views from the bridge. Your stay remains at Nabalie Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan.

Nabalie Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan →

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 | Tianzi Mountain & Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Today, you will take a scenic cable car over the needle-like karst peaks of Tianzi Mountain. You will look forward to the panoramic views of the peaks, with the mist and the clouds creating a dramatic landscape. In the afternoon, you will transfer to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon area and walk across the world-famous, transparent Glass Bridge suspended high above the canyon floor. You will look forward to the thrilling experience of walking on the glass, with the canyon stretching below you. Your stay remains at Nabalie Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan.

Nabalie Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan →

Breakfast, Dinner

Chongqing

Day 7 | Fast Train to Chongqing & Hongyadong Lights

After breakfast, you will board a morning high-speed train from Zhangjiajie to the mountain metropolis of Chongqing (approx. 5 hours). You will look forward to the comfortable journey through the mountainous landscape. Upon arrival, you will check into The Regent Chongqing (River View Deluxe King Room). You will look forward to the stunning views of the Jialing River and the city skyline from your suite. You will walk through Hongyadong, a multi-level complex of traditional stilt houses hanging over the river. You will look forward to the spectacular views of the buildings illuminated at night. You enjoy a gourmet dinner at the hotel.

The Regent Chongqing →

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 | Cyberpunk Trains & Southwind Cliff Bistro Sunset

Today, you will watch the famous Liziba Monorail train pass directly through the middle of a 19-story residential high-rise. You will look forward to the unique sight of the train passing through the building, a symbol of Chongqing's futuristic urban planning. You will explore the narrow, old stone alleys of Ciqikou Ancient Town to try local spicy snacks. You will look forward to the vibrant atmosphere of the old town, with its traditional architecture and bustling markets. In the evening, you will enjoy an outdoor terrace table at the Southwind Cliff Bistro at 7:00 PM for premium dining and cocktails as the city's neon skyscrapers turn on. Your stay remains at The Regent Chongqing.

The Regent Chongqing →

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 | Wulong Karst Three Natural Bridges Day Trip

Today, you will take a private day trip out to the spectacular geological formations of Wulong Karst National Park. You will look forward to walking down into the massive sinkholes to view the Three Natural Bridges towering overhead. You will explore the traditional courtyard house featured in classic cinema hidden deep inside the gorge. Your guide will explain the geology and history of the area. You return to The Regent Chongqing for a relaxing evening.

The Regent Chongqing →

Breakfast

Chongqing

Day 10 | Chongqing Departure & Complementary Spa Day

On your final morning, enjoy a relaxed luxury breakfast overlooking the river. You will then check out and be transferred to your city hotel, where you have been booked for a complimentary spa session to relax and rejuvenate after your incredible journey. If you were not taken for a city tour upon arrival on Day 1, this is when you will be offered a private guided tour of Chongqing, exploring the historic landmarks, the vibrant markets, and the unique urban landscape. You will enjoy this time at your leisure as you unwind from the expedition. The following day, you will be transferred back to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport for your connecting international flight back to Nairobi.

City Hotel, Chongqing →

Breakfast

Want to adjust the pace, swap a lodge, or extend this journey?

We are here for that. Every Finders & Keepers Safaris itinerary is a starting point, not a fixed departure — the pace, the lodges, the length, the dates and the party travelling can all be reshaped around you. Tell us what you would change and a specialist will rebuild the journey and price it honestly, before you commit to anything.

Tailor This Journey →

Private Journey

Your Accommodation

Three Extraordinary Stays

NIGHTS 1–3

Dunhuang, China

The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel

View Details

Zhangjiajie, China

NIGHTS 4–6

Zhangjiajie, China

Nabalie Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan

View Details

Chongqing, China

NIGHTS 7–9

Chongqing, China

The Regent Chongqing

View Details

Why This Journey

What sets this journey apart

From the Silk Road’s desert caves to the sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie and the lights of Chongqing: three very different Chinas.

1,500 years of murals

A private historian-led morning at the UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves, then a camel ride across the singing sands of Mingsha to Crescent Moon Lake.

The Avatar mountains

The glass-fronted Bailong Elevator up a 326-metre cliff, the First Bridge Under Heaven among the sandstone pillars that inspired Avatar, and the Glass Bridge over Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon.

A city lit up

A fast train to Chongqing for the Hongyadong lights, its train through a building, and a sunset at the Southwind Cliff Bistro.

Shoulder SeasonJan – MaySpring blossom, comfortable touring weather

Best ValueMay – SepSummer heat and holiday crowds

Peak SeasonSep – DecAutumn colour, ideal touring conditions

Best forFirst China tripsPhotographersAdventurous travellers

Plan this journey with us →

Inclusions & Offers

Deposit Offer

Hold 2027 for half the usual deposit

Confirm any 2027 departure with a 15% deposit instead of the usual 30%, booked before 31 December 2026.

Your balance is not due until 60 days before departure.
The reduced deposit holds your camps, permits and internal flights at today’s rates, so a mid-year price movement does not reach you.
Applies to new 2027 bookings only and cannot be combined with a group discount on the same booking.

Solo Travellers

30% off the single supplement

Travelling on your own? We cut the single traveller supplement by 30% across selected 2027 departures.

The supplement covers the sole-occupancy cost a camp charges when a room sleeps one rather than two.
Available on selected camps and dates — your specialist will tell you which of your nights qualify before you commit.
Nothing changes about the journey itself: same guide, same vehicle, same rooms.

Group Offer

Bring three, the fourth travels free

Book four guests on a 2027 group departure and the fourth guest’s safari cost is on us.

The waiver covers the land portion — camps, meals, guiding and game drives.
International flights, visas, gorilla and chimpanzee permits and personal spending are excluded, as those are paid to third parties per head.
All four guests must travel on the same departure date and book together.

What's Included

All accommodation, Full Board
All domestic flights & high-speed train
VIP airport meet-and-greet & private guide
Mogao Caves historian-guided tour
Camel ride, Mingsha Dunes & Crescent Lake
Bailong Elevator & Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge
Southwind Cliff Bistro premium dining
All entrance fees & signature activities
Complimentary spa session, Chongqing
Airport transfers (all)
Private guide throughout
✓Travel insurance facilitated on your behalf (adjusted in your quote if you are already covered)

What's Not Included

International flights to/from Dunhuang & Chongqing
Gratuities for guides & hotel staff
Additional spa sessions beyond the complimentary one
Items of a personal nature

Per Person Pricing

Per Person Sharing $9,400

Single Traveller Supplement $2,850

ⓘ Prices are per person based on double/twin sharing. Single travellers pay the supplement above. All optional activities and signature experiences are included. Speak to us for availability and group rates.

2027 Season Pricing

The same unforgettable journey, priced by season.

Jan – May Shoulder SeasonSpring blossom, comfortable touring weather

$9,850

May – Sep Best ValueSummer heat and holiday crowds

$9,200

Sep – Dec Peak SeasonAutumn colour, ideal touring conditions

$10,350

Flexible Payment Plan

Reserve today with a low early deposit to lock in your 2027 dates and pricing.

Spread the rest across convenient instalments, at a pace that suits you.

Final balance due one month before departure — nothing more to pay once you fly.

Speak To Us

Journey Details

Travel Kit

Duffel, sun hat, rain shell and day pack

Your duffel — A soft-sided Finders & Keepers Safaris duffel, sized for domestic flights and easier than a hard case on train platforms, ferry jetties and old-town lanes.
What is inside it — A wide-brim sun hat, a lightweight packable rain shell for tropical downpours, and a foldable day pack for temple mornings and market afternoons.
Yours to keep — The bag and everything in it is a gift, not a loan.
Packing around it — Slip-on shoes save time at temples, where you remove them repeatedly, and one set of clothing covering shoulders and knees is essential for religious sites.

Note

Some regions require additional internal permits

Travel to certain border or minority regions may require additional permits arranged in advance by your guide. Air quality can vary in major cities — pack accordingly if sensitive.

Early starts — The best of this journey happens at dawn — before the heat, the crowds and the haze. Your guide will confirm what time you will be collected from your hotel.
Tailoring this journey — If you would like this package with more or fewer days, arranged for a group, a family or a solo traveller, or with add-ons, reach out and we will tailor it for you.
Route changes — Your guide or driver may alter the route in certain circumstances, but every destination set out in the itinerary will be covered.

Documents

Visa required in advance for most nationalities

Passport — Valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, with at least two blank pages for stamps.
Visa-free entry — China’s unilateral visa-free scheme covers most EU member states plus the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and around fifty countries in total, for stays of up to 30 days, and has been extended to the end of 2026. US passport holders still require a visa.
Visa-free transit — Separately, a 240-hour visa-free transit applies at many ports of entry where you hold an onward ticket to a third country.
Police registration — Every foreign visitor must be registered with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. Hotels do this for you automatically; a private home or apartment stay means registering in person.
We handle the paperwork — We complete and submit your visa, eVisa or travel-authorisation applications on your behalf. You supply the documents once; we do the filing, track the approval and hold the confirmations for you.
Where you must appear in person — A few consulates insist on biometrics or a short interview that nobody can sit on your behalf — China requires fingerprinting for some nationalities, as do European and United States visas. We still prepare the entire file; we simply book you a single appointment and brief you beforehand so one visit settles it.
Before you travel — Entry rules change frequently and without much notice. Your specialist confirms the current requirements for every passport in your party at the time of booking, and checks them again before you fly.

Guaranteed Departures

Private, tailor-made departures on your dates, or join a small group

Once confirmed, you travel — When your departure date is confirmed, it is guaranteed. We do not cancel, merge or reschedule a confirmed departure for commercial reasons, however the final numbers fall.
What confirms a departure — A departure becomes confirmed once the agreed number of travellers has been reached and paid for in line with the agreed payment schedule. Places held without payment do not count towards it.
If the minimum is not reached — Where a group departure has not reached its agreed numbers, we tell you early rather than late, and you choose: move to the next available date, continue at a revised small-group rate, or take a full refund of everything you have paid.
Solo journeys — Solo and tailor-made itineraries carry no group minimum at all. Your dates are confirmed the moment your deposit is received.

A deposit of 30% is required to confirm your booking, with the balance due 60 days before departure. All itineraries can be tailored — extend a stay, add a destination, or adjust the pace to suit you. Comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical evacuation and personal effects is required for all guests. Your dedicated specialist remains on call throughout your journey for any changes or assistance you need.

What to pack — Light layers and slip-on shoes, which you will take off repeatedly at temples, shrines and traditional inns. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter most religious sites, so pack at least one modest set you can throw on. A light rain shell handles the tropical downpours, and the highlands and northern cities run far cooler than the coast — bring a proper warm layer if your route climbs.

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