2025 Xinjiang Travel Guide/8-Day Ili Loop

The Ili River Valley, located in the northwest of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, is a large intermontane basin within the Tianshan Mountains, known as the "Jiangnan Beyond the Great Wall." It boasts diverse ecosystems such as grasslands, forests, wetlands, and snow-capped mountains. Rare animals like snow leopards, Siberian ibex, and red deer inhabit the area, along with ancient tree species like wild apples and apricots. Famous nature reserves include: Nalati Grassland, Kalajun Grassland, and Kuerdening (a World Natural Heritage Site). 8-Day Ili River Valley Panorama Tour Itinerary DAY 1 Urumqi - Lukiaowan - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Kuitun DAY 2 Kuitun - Sayram Lake - Guozigou - Lavender Farm - Yining DAY 3 Yining - Liuxing Street - Yizhao Highway - Zhaosu DAY 4 Zhaosu - Xiata - Tekes DAY 5 Tekes - Qabqikhai - Kuerdening - Xinyuan DAY 6 Xinyuan - Nalati - Middle Section of Duku Highway - Bayanbulak DAY 7 Bayanbulak - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Qorma - Urumqi DAY 8 Urumqi Airport Transfer - Your Sweet Home