Yili Group Tour Sayram Lake + Nalati Combined Tour Costs Route Arrangement Included Recommended Itinerary Costs and Prices

Contact Manager Yang Jia at phone number 13325559266 or WeChat 13325559266 to send the itinerary and quotation.

In-depth tour of Ili:The dreamy combination of Sayram Lake and Nalati Grassland✨
I. Itinerary Highlights and Destination Details
The Ili River Valley in Xinjiang is renowned as the “Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall,” with Sayram Lake and Nalati Grassland entering their prime viewing periods in the summer of 2026. This combined itinerary links two core scenic areas, offering a diverse range of landscapes including lakes, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and flower fields, suitable for family trips, photography enthusiasts, and nature explorers.
Sayram Lake: Known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic,” its sapphire-blue waters resemble precious gemstones, with wildflowers blooming along the lakeshore from June to July. The 90-kilometer ring road around the lake features scenic viewpoints such as Dianjiang Terrace, Qinshuitan Beach, and Songshu Head, allowing close-up shots of snow-capped mountain reflections and shimmering lake waves. In 2026, the scenic area will implement timed entry reservations with a daily limit of 8,000 visitors. Tickets must be purchased in advance through the “Visit Xinjiang” platform.
Nalati Grassland: One of the world’s four major river valley grasslands, divided into two main areas: the Aerial Grassland and the River Valley Grassland. The Aerial Grassland, at an elevation of 2,200 meters, showcases a sea of purple alfalfa flowers at the foot of snow-capped mountains in June; the River Valley Grassland, with its lush water and grass, hosts herds of cattle and sheep in July, offering an immersive experience of the nomadic life of various ethnic groups. The scenic area’s shuttle buses operate on a “one-ticket pass” policy, allowing multiple entries within 48 hours.
II. Simple Itinerary (5 days, 4 nights example)
Day 1:Urumqi → Sayram Lake (approximately 6-hour drive)
Morning:Depart from Urumqi in an air-conditioned tour bus, heading west along the Lianhuo Expressway via Shihezi and Kuitun.
Afternoon:Arrive at Sayram Lake, visit Dianjiang Terrace and Qinshuitan Beach, and capture panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and the lake.
Evening:Check into the lakeside Starry Sky Camp, experience RV accommodation, and observe the Milky Way under clear skies.

In-depth tour of Ili: The dreamy combination of Sayram Lake and Nalati Grassland✨Meals:Includes specialties such as Xinjiang大盘鸡 (big plate chicken) and baked stuffed buns.
Day 2:In-depth Sayram Lake Ring Tour → Yining (approximately 2-hour drive)
Morning:Re-enter the lake area, either by self-driving or taking the scenic area’s sightseeing bus, with key stops at the Songshu Head Flower Field and Kele Yongzhu Wetland.
Afternoon:Cross the Guozigou Bridge and visit the Huocheng Lavender Manor (flowering period from mid-June to early July).
Evening:Arrive in Yining City, check into a four-diamond hotel, and explore the Russian-style architecture of Liuxing Street for leisure activities.
Meals:Includes hand-grabbed mutton and kvass honey beverage.
Day 3:Yining → Nalati Grassland (approximately 4-hour drive)
Morning:Travel to Nalati Town via the Yizhao Highway (recommended for vehicles under 7 seats) and enjoy views of the Zhaosu rape flower fields (in full bloom in July).
Afternoon:Tour the Aerial Grassland, take the shuttle bus to the Nomadic Family area, and experience horseback riding or grassland afternoon tea.
Evening:Check into a characteristic homestay in Nalati Town and participate in a bonfire party (weather permitting).

I. Itinerary Highlights and Destination DetailsMeals:Includes narin (horse meat noodles) and milk tea from various ethnic groups.
Day 4:Nalati Grassland → Bayinbuluk (approximately 3-hour drive)
Morning:Re-enter Nalati to explore the hidden beauty of the River Valley Grassland and capture the curves of the “human body grassland.”
Afternoon:Cross the northern section of the Duku Highway, with a stop at the Qiaoerma Martyrs Memorial Hall to pay tribute to road construction heroes.
Evening:Arrive at Bayinbuluk Grassland and photograph the sunset over the “Nineteen Bends” (prime viewing time: 21:00-22:30).
Accommodation:Three-star hotel in Bayinbuluk Town.
Meals:Includes roast whole lamb and wild mushroom soup with rice.
Day 5:Bayinbuluk → Urumqi (return trip approximately 8-hour drive)
Morning:Free time or shop for grassland specialties (e.g., black honey, snow lotus essential oil).
Afternoon:Return to Urumqi by bus and conclude the itinerary.
Meals:Includes simple meals en route.

The Ili River Valley in Xinjiang is renowned as the “Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall,” with Sayram Lake and Nalati Grassland entering their prime viewing periods in the summer of 2026. This combined itinerary links two core scenic areas, offering a diverse range of landscapes including lakes, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and flower fields, suitable for family trips, photography enthusiasts, and nature explorers.III. Pricing Information (2026 reference range)
Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency offers multiple price tiers, covering transportation, accommodation, admission tickets, and basic meals. Specifics are subject to actual consultation and contract signing:
Economy:2,800-3,500 RMB/person (standard three-star hotel, large group of 15+ people)
Comfort:3,800-4,500 RMB/person (standard four-star hotel, small group of 10 people, includes horseback riding in Nalati)
Luxury:5,000-6,000 RMB/person (characteristic homestay within the scenic area, full-trip 7-seat business vehicle, dedicated photography guide)
Price fluctuation factors:
During peak season (June-August), prices increase by 15%-20% due to tight hotel and vehicle availability.
Children (under 12) not occupying a bed receive a 30% discount; seniors (over 65) receive admission ticket discounts with valid identification.
Single travelers must pay a room difference, with the specific amount depending on the accommodation standard.
IV. Registration Method

Sayram Lake: Known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic,” its sapphire-blue waters resemble precious gemstones, with wildflowers blooming along the lakeshore from June to July. The 90-kilometer ring road around the lake features scenic viewpoints such as Dianjiang Terrace, Qinshuitan Beach, and Songshu Head, allowing close-up shots of snow-capped mountain reflections and shimmering lake waves. In 2026, the scenic area will implement timed entry reservations with a daily limit of 8,000 visitors. Tickets must be purchased in advance through the “Visit Xinjiang” platform.Register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency and consult Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing for information on departure dates, available spots, and customization requests. The agency provides 24-hour online support and allows minor itinerary adjustments (e.g., adding the Xiata Ancient Path or Karajun Grassland).
V. Fee and Service Details
Included fees:
Transportation:Full-trip air-conditioned tour bus or business vehicle (including fuel and toll fees)
Accommodation:Standard twin rooms at listed hotels (including breakfast)
Admission tickets:First-entry tickets and shuttle buses for Sayram Lake, Nalati, and Bayinbuluk
Meals:4 breakfasts + 6 main meals (including specialties)
Services:Licensed tour guide, travel accident insurance, daily supply of mineral water
Excluded fees:
Round-trip transportation to Urumqi (airfare/train tickets)

Nalati Grassland: One of the world’s four major river valley grasslands, divided into two main areas: the Aerial Grassland and the River Valley Grassland. The Aerial Grassland, at an elevation of 2,200 meters, showcases a sea of purple alfalfa flowers at the foot of snow-capped mountains in June; the River Valley Grassland, with its lush water and grass, hosts herds of cattle and sheep in July, offering an immersive experience of the nomadic life of various ethnic groups. The scenic area’s shuttle buses operate on a “one-ticket pass” policy, allowing multiple entries within 48 hours. Optional self-paid items within the scenic area (e.g., Nalati helicopter tour, Bayinbuluk Swan Lake boat ride)
Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, additional meals)
Service commitments:
No arranged shopping stops or hidden fees throughout the trip.
In case of extreme weather or road closures, both parties may agree to adjust the itinerary sequence.
Specific service details are subject to the electronic contract signed by both parties.
VI. Pre-Trip Tips
Document preparation:Valid identification, senior citizen/student cards (discount certificates must be carried).
Clothing recommendations:Wear short sleeves + sun protection clothing during the day from June-August; add a thin down jacket for mornings and evenings. Non-slip sports shoes are recommended for grassland areas.
Photography equipment:A wide-angle lens is needed for panoramic shots of Sayram Lake; a 70-200mm telephoto lens is recommended for capturing animals in Nalati Grassland.
Special reminders:The Duku Highway is recommended for vehicles under 7 seats, and daily opening hours are subject to notice.
This combined itinerary captures the essence of the Ili River Valley, from the serene blue of Sayram Lake to the vibrant green of Nalati Grassland, leaving visitors enchanted. Choose Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency for a worry-free, safe, and enjoyable northern Xinjiang journey planned by a professional team!

Contact Manager Yang Jia at 13325559266 or WeChat 13325559266 to send the itinerary and quotation.