Don’t crowd Guilin! 3-day self-driving trip in Hechi: Sapphire skylight + Tyndall sinkhole

Family! Stop focusing only on Guilin! Guangxi Hechi hides a bunch of “fairyland secrets” — the sapphire skylight perfect for “ocean-like shots,” the Tyndall light sinkhole in karst caves, healing hot springs to soak in… This 3-day, 2-night self-driving guide packs natural wonders and Yao ethnic charm all in one. Self-driving travelers, just copy it—fewer people, beautiful scenery, and great photos! 🚗 Hechi 3-day, 2-night self-driving itinerary: new surprises every day Day 1: Depart from Nanning → “Sapphire” water play → “Fairyland” sinkhole → Rest in Du’an 1. Morning: Head straight to Jiudun Skylight (about 2.5 hours drive) This place is truly amazing! The lake water looks like filtered sapphire, so clear you can see the seaweed at the bottom. Paddleboarders and diving enthusiasts rush here directly. Even just sitting by the shore taking photos feels like a seaside vacation. Posting photos online will have everyone asking for the location! After playing, enjoy fresh local farm dishes nearby, with super fresh river seafood. 2. Afternoon: Check in at Nongxiang Sinkhole (about 50 minutes drive) Make sure to come on a sunny day! Sunlight streams through the sinkhole opening, casting Tyndall light right on the stalactites in the center. Standing by the stones, you look like a “fairy” surrounded by light. No filters needed—the original camera shot looks like a fairyland blockbuster. Wearing light-colored clothes is recommended for better photos. 3. Evening: Stay overnight in Du’an County County accommodations are cost-effective. Try the local sour soup fish and corn porridge, which are refreshing and warm the stomach, helping you recharge for the next day. Day 2: Du’an → Yao ethnic style → Cool karst caves → Healing hot springs 1. Morning: Head to Nandan County (about 2.5 hours drive) The drive is a bit long, so start early. After arriving in Nandan, have an authentic Chinese meal. Try Yao-style cured meat and pan-fried matagun; the flavors are very distinctive. 2. Afternoon: Explore “Yao’s World” This is a treasure spot combining three scenic areas! First, visit the Baiku Yao village, see Yao men wearing knee-length white pants and Yao women in embroidered clothes, and experience weaving and Yao singing to feel the most original Yao ethnic customs. Then go to Dongtian Shengjing, where the cave stays at 16°C year-round, super cool in summer. The underground river, waterfall, and canyon connect inside, making you feel like you’re exploring an “underground fairyland.” Remember to wear comfortable shoes. 3. Evening: Soak in Nandan mineral hot springs (about 45 minutes drive) Drive to the mineral hot spring resort and soak in natural mineral hot springs to relieve a whole day’s fatigue. There are many types of pools, including rose and herbal pools. Soaking in the hot springs while stargazing at night is so comfortable you won’t want to leave. Stay at the resort for convenience and relaxation. Day 3: Continue hot springs stay → Thrilling creek descent → Return to Nanning 1. Morning: Free time at the hot springs + Danlu Mountain creek descent (about 1.5 hours drive) You can soak in the hot springs again in the morning, pack up slowly, then drive to Xiantang Creek for creek descent at Danlu Mountain. Thrill-seekers don’t miss this! Slide down the creek valley with cool water splashing on you—super stress-relieving. There’s a coach guiding the whole way, so beginners can join. Remember to bring quick-dry clothes and creek shoes. The scenic area rents them too, but it’s a bit pricier. 2. Afternoon: Return to Nanning (about 4 hours drive)