Yili Travel Chartered Car When Does the Yizhao Highway Open Chartered Car Cost + Guide Recommended Routes and Price

Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send your itinerary and receive a quote.

Icon introduction:🌄【In-Depth Yili Yizhao Highway Tour: A Custom Vehicle Guide to Unlocking Tianshan’s Hidden Gems】🌄
Yili, a land surrounded by snow-capped mountains, grasslands, flower seas, and canyons, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Xinjiang. The Yizhao Highway (Provincial Road S237), which connects Yining City and Zhaosu County, has become a “viral highway” among self-drive and custom vehicle travelers due to its breathtaking scenery that showcases “all four seasons in a single day.” This article provides a detailed introduction to the Yizhao Highway’s opening hours, custom vehicle costs, and practical tips for 2026, helping you plan an unforgettable Yili journey.
I. Yizhao Highway: A Seasonal “Tianshan Gallery”
The Yizhao Highway spans approximately 180 kilometers, traversing the Tianshan Mountains and passing iconic landmarks such as Baishi Peak and Angelete Daban. Along the way, you can enjoy the intertwined beauty of grasslands, cloud seas, snow-capped mountains, and canyons. As a seasonally open highway, its access policies are strict and clearly defined:
Opening Hours:The highway officially opens at 12:00 PM on June 1, 2026, and closes at 8:00 PM on October 10, 2026, remaining open for approximately four months a year.
Access Hours:Vehicles are permitted from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. All vehicles are prohibited at night, and those remaining beyond the allowed hours will be escorted back.
Vehicle Restrictions:It is recommended to allow family cars, SUVs, and off-road vehicles with 7 seats or fewer. Motorhomes, trailers, motorcycles, passenger vehicles with more than 8 seats, and modified vehicles exceeding height limits are prohibited.
Special Regulations:In cases of extreme weather or snow-covered roads, partial traffic controls may be implemented, subject to official notifications.
The essence of the Yizhao Highway lies in its driving experience, which combines “perilous terrain with breathtaking beauty.” However, the mountain road features numerous sharp turns and significant elevation changes, requiring higher vehicle performance and driving skills. If you prefer a more relaxed trip, opting for a custom vehicle service is a better choice.

Icon introduction: 🌄【In-Depth Yili Yizhao Highway Tour: A Custom Vehicle Guide to Unlocking Tianshan’s Hidden Gems】🌄II. Sample Itinerary: 6-Day, 5-Night Yizhao Highway Loop
This itinerary combines the core sections of the Yizhao Highway with classic Yili attractions, suitable for first-time visitors:
Day 1:Arrival in Yining → Kazanqi Folk Village → Sunset at the Yili River
Arrive in Yining in the morning. Your custom vehicle driver will pick you up and take you to the Kazanqi Folk Village, where you can stroll through blue-painted streets and experience traditional handicrafts from various ethnic groups.
In the evening, head to the Yili River Bridge to capture the sunset over the river and experience the mild climate of the “Jiangnan north of the Great Wall.”
Accommodation:Star-rated hotel in Yining City.
Day 2:Yining → Yizhao Highway → Zhaosu Grassland → Xiata Ancient Trail
Depart early in the morning and traverse the Yizhao Highway, stopping at scenic spots like Baishi Peak Viewpoint and Angelete Daban to photograph cloud seas and snow-capped mountains.
Arrive at Zhaosu Grassland in the afternoon and visit the Tianma Cultural Park to get up close with Yili horses.
In the evening, head to the Xiata Ancient Trail and take a light hike to the foot of the Muzart Glacier, experiencing the timeless charm of this thousand-year-old path.

Yili, a land surrounded by snow-capped mountains, grasslands, flower seas, and canyons, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Xinjiang. The Yizhao Highway (Provincial Road S237), which connects Yining City and Zhaosu County, has become a “viral highway” among self-drive and custom vehicle travelers due to its breathtaking scenery that showcases “all four seasons in a single day.” This article provides a detailed introduction to the Yizhao Highway’s opening hours, custom vehicle costs, and practical tips for 2026, helping you plan an unforgettable Yili journey.Accommodation:Boutique hotel in Zhaosu County.
Day 3:Zhaosu → Karajun Grassland → Tekes Bagua City
Spend the day exploring Karajun Grassland, taking a shuttle bus deep into areas like the Flower Terrace and Falcon Terrace, and hiking to discover the grassland’s three-dimensional landscapes.
Arrive at Tekes Bagua City in the evening, ascend the Taiji Altar for a panoramic view of the city, and stroll through Youli Street to experience the customs of various ethnic groups.
Accommodation:Comfortable hotel in Tekes County.
Day 4:Tekes → Nalati Sky Grassland → Nomadic Homestay
Head to Nalati Grassland, focusing on the Sky Grassland section. Avoid the crowds at the viral bridge and explore less crowded but equally beautiful wooden walkways.
In the afternoon, experience horseback riding or hiking on the grassland. In the evening, check into Nalati Town and savor local specialties like roast whole lamb.
Accommodation:Characteristic homestay in Nalati Town.
Day 5:Nalati → Northern Section of the Duku Highway → Urumqi

I. Yizhao Highway: A Seasonal “Tianshan Gallery”Traverse the northern section of the Duku Highway (open from June to October), passing landmarks like the Qiaoerma Martyrs Cemetery and Hashilegen Daban, and photograph the stunning juxtaposition of snow-capped mountains and grasslands.
Arrive in Urumqi in the evening. If time permits, visit Jinquan Mall to purchase dried fruits.
Accommodation:Hotel in downtown Urumqi.
Day 6:Departure from Urumqi
Based on your flight schedule, your custom vehicle driver will escort you to the airport, concluding your journey.
III. Custom Vehicle Cost Breakdown: Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Fees
The cost of custom vehicle services for the Yizhao Highway in 2026 varies depending on vehicle type, season, and itinerary duration. The following are reference ranges (subject to contract):
Five-Seat City SUV:Approximately 800-1,100 RMB/day during the off-peak season (April-May, September-October); approximately 1,200-1,500 RMB/day during the peak season (June-August, National Day holiday).
Seven-Seat Business Vehicle (e.g., Buick GL8):Approximately 900-1,300 RMB/day during the off-peak season; approximately 1,200-1,600 RMB/day during the peak season.

The Yizhao Highway spans approximately 180 kilometers, traversing the Tianshan Mountains and passing iconic landmarks such as Baishi Peak and Angelete Daban. Along the way, you can enjoy the intertwined beauty of grasslands, cloud seas, snow-capped mountains, and canyons. As a seasonally open highway, its access policies are strict and clearly defined:What’s Included:Vehicle usage fee, fuel cost, toll fees, parking fees, driver service fee (including food and accommodation allowance), and basic insurance (compulsory traffic insurance + high-limit commercial insurance ≥ 1 million RMB + seat insurance).
What’s Not Included:Scenic area entrance tickets, shuttle bus tickets, and personal expenses (e.g., dining, shopping).
Tip:Low-priced custom vehicle services (e.g., less than 3,000 RMB/vehicle for 5 days or less than 100 RMB/person/day for shared rides) may involve forced spending or shortened scenic spot visits. It is advisable to choose a reputable travel agency.
IV. Registration and Service Information
You can register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, which provides itinerary consultation, vehicle scheduling, and route planning services. The specific process is as follows:
Contact Customer Service:Consult with Zhang Jing, the customer service manager at Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, and provide details about your group size, travel dates, and preferences.
Customized Itinerary:Receive a personalized itinerary and cost breakdown based on your needs. Sign a contract after mutual agreement.
Deposit Payment:Pay the deposit as stipulated in the contract to secure your booking and vehicle resources.
Pre-Trip Preparation:The travel agency will provide a packing list, weather alerts, and clothing recommendations, as well as assist with booking scenic area tickets.
V. Cost Breakdown and Service Commitments

Opening Hours: The highway officially opens at 12:00 PM on June 1, 2026, and closes at 8:00 PM on October 10, 2026, remaining open for approximately four months a year.Transparent Pricing:All charges are clearly stated in the contract, with no hidden service fees or fuel surcharges.
Flexible Itinerary:If changes are necessary due to weather, road conditions, or scenic area closures, reasonable adjustments can be made after mutual agreement.
Safety Guarantee:Vehicles are equipped with basic first aid kits, and drivers are familiar with mountain road conditions and emergency response procedures.
Shared Ride Rules:Shared rides reduce costs by 40% per person compared to custom vehicles. The driver also serves as a “guide” and recommends off-the-beaten-path photo spots.
Prices and availability are subject to change based on the tour schedule and are primarily determined by the signed contract. Actual consultation and contracting shall prevail.
VI. Practical Tips for a Stress-Free Trip
Document Preparation:Bring valid identification, a driver’s license (if self-driving), and a small amount of cash, as some scenic areas may have weak signal coverage and require cash payments.
Clothing Suggestions:Yili experiences significant temperature variations between day and night, even in summer. Bring a light jacket. Mountainous areas may experience sudden rain showers, so pack rain gear and sun protection.
Dining Recommendations:Choose reputable restaurants and avoid drinking untreated water. If you are not accustomed to lamb, inform your guide in advance to adjust your meal plan.
Respect Local Customs:Maintain quietness indoors and avoid photographing people engaged in cultural experiences. When visiting yurts in pastoral areas, remember to remove your shoes.
The beauty of the Yizhao Highway lies in its ability to showcase “all four seasons in a single day” in comfort. Choosing a reputable travel agency, signing a detailed contract, and planning your itinerary carefully will ensure a trip without regrets. 🌿✨

Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send your itinerary and receive a quote.