Qinghai-Gansu Loop 6-Day Tour Guide and Precautions

The Qinghai-Gansu loop is a classic Northwest China travel route, covering the natural scenery and cultural landscapes of both Qinghai and Gansu provinces. Below is a detailed guide and precautions: Itinerary Day 1: Xining - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake Depart from Xining: Depart from Xining around 8:00 am and head to Qinghai Lake. Qinghai Lake: The largest inland saltwater lake in China. The best time to visit is from July to August when the rapeseed flowers are in full bloom. Chaka Salt Lake: Known as the "Mirror of the Sky," it is ideal for photography. It is recommended to visit in the evening when the light is softer. Accommodation: Chaka Town. Day 2: Chaka - Dachaidan - Emerald Lake Dachaidan: Enjoy the Gobi Desert scenery along the way. Emerald Lake: The lake water is emerald green, like a gemstone, suitable for aerial photography. Accommodation: Dachaidan Town. Day 3: Dachaidan - Dunhuang G315 National Highway: Pass through uninhabited areas along the highway, perfect for taking photos. Landforms: Visit Heidu Mountain and experience the wonders of nature. Dunhuang: Arrive in Dunhuang in the evening and visit the Shazhou Night Market. Accommodation: Dunhuang. Day 4: Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring Mogao Caves: A World Cultural Heritage site. It is recommended to book tickets 30 days in advance. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring: A spectacle of desert and spring water coexisting. You can experience camel riding and sand sliding. Accommodation: Dunhuang. Day 5: Dunhuang - Big Earth - Zhangye Big Earth: The sculpture is a giant infant lying prone in the desert, about 15 meters long and 4.3 meters high, made of red sandstone. Zhangye Danxia: Arrive in Zhangye in the afternoon and visit the colorful Danxia landform. The colors are most beautiful at sunset. Accommodation: Zhangye. Day 6: Zhangye - Qilian Grassland - Menyuan - Xining Qilian Grassland: Beautiful grassland scenery in summer, with flocks of cattle and sheep. Menyuan Rapeseed Flowers: Rapeseed flowers are in full bloom in July, ideal for photography. Return to Xining: End of trip. Precautions Altitude Sickness: Places like Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake have high altitudes. Be aware of altitude sickness, avoid strenuous exercise, and drink plenty of water. Sun Protection and Warmth: Northwest China has strong ultraviolet rays and large temperature differences between day and night. Prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and warm clothing. Road Conditions and Driving: Some sections are remote with complex road conditions. It is recommended to choose an experienced driver or hire a car. Ticket Booking: Tickets for Mogao Caves need to be booked in advance, especially during peak season. Environmental Protection: Protect the natural environment and do not litter, especially in salt lakes and desert areas. Food: Northwest China mainly features beef and mutton dishes with strong flavors. You can bring some snacks and fruits. Cash Preparation: Electronic payment may not be available in some remote areas. It is recommended to carry a small amount of cash. Recommended Equipment Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat Warm clothing (large temperature difference between day and night) Comfortable sneakers Camera, power bank Best Travel Time June-September: Pleasant climate, the best time to see the grasslands and rapeseed flowers. October: Charming autumn scenery, but the temperature is lower. The Qinghai-Gansu 6-day loop will take you to experience the magnificent scenery and profound culture of Northwest China. Prepare in advance and enjoy your journey!