Grand Tour of Northern and Southern Xinjiang by Chartered Vehicle Latest Itinerary Quotes and Cost Explanation Recommended Route Price

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

⭐【In-Depth Guide to Custom Vehicle Tours of Northern and Southern Xinjiang】2026 New Itinerary Planning and Cost Analysis⭐
Xinjiang boasts vast territories with distinct landscapes in the north and south, ranging from snow-capped mountains and grasslands to desert oases, and from ancient cities with a millennium of history to modern metropolises. A single tour allows travelers to experience diverse geological features and cultural heritage. Based on the latest data from May 2026 and the flexibility of custom vehicle travel, this article provides a practical guide for travelers.
I. Detailed Introduction to Routes or Destinations
The grand loop of Northern and Southern Xinjiang typically starts from Urumqi, connecting the natural wonders of Northern Xinjiang with the cultural heritage of Southern Xinjiang, covering a total distance of approximately 3,000 kilometers. It is recommended to allocate 10-14 days for this journey. The core attractions span three major regions:
【Northern Xinjiang Natural Landscape Zone】
Kanas Lake:Located in the Altay region, the lake thaws in May to reveal an emerald hue, surrounded by rejuvenated forests. Visitors can hike the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Crescent Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay) or ascend Guanyu Platform for a panoramic view.
Sayram Lake:Known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic,” Sayram Lake features blooming wildflowers along its shores in May. A self-drive around the lake captures varying shades of blue throughout the day, with mirror-like reflections during sunrise and sunset.
Nalati Grassland:An aerial grassland in the Ili River Valley, Nalati gradually turns green in mid-to-late May, dotted with herds of cattle and sheep. Visitors can experience local life among ethnic communities and stay in traditional yurts.

⭐【In-Depth Guide to Custom Vehicle Tours of Northern and Southern Xinjiang】2026 New Itinerary Planning and Cost Analysis⭐Duku Highway:A scenic route traversing the Tianshan Mountains, the Duku Highway is expected to open on June 1, 2026 (subject to official notification from traffic authorities). Vehicles with seven or more seats will be permitted, offering the unique experience of “four seasons in one day” along the journey.
【Eastern Xinjiang Cultural Experience Zone】
Turpan:Home to the Flaming Mountains, Grape Valley, and Karez Irrigation System, which are open year-round. May offers moderate temperatures ideal for exploring historical sites of the Western Regions and sampling seedless white grapes.
Kumutage Desert:Located in Shanshan County, the desert offers activities such as off-road driving, sandboarding, and stargazing camps. The unique scene of a desert sunset framed by the city skyline can be captured in the evening.
【Southern Xinjiang Cultural Landscape Zone】
Kashgar Old City:A free-entry historic district with labyrinthine streets offering authentic local cuisine such as baked stuffed buns and pilaf. The Id Kah Mosque and century-old teahouses provide windows into the lives of ethnic communities.
Pamir Plateau:A permit must be obtained in advance via the “Xinjiang Public Security” mini-program. Along the way, visitors can explore Baisha Lake, Muztagh Ata Peak, and Taxkorgan County (Tashkurgan), visiting ethnic villages.
Kuqa Grand Canyon:Red rock formations shaped by wind erosion create a striking landscape, ideal for photography enthusiasts to capture changing light and shadows.

Xinjiang boasts vast territories with distinct landscapes in the north and south, ranging from snow-capped mountains and grasslands to desert oases, and from ancient cities with a millennium of history to modern metropolises. A single tour allows travelers to experience diverse geological features and cultural heritage. Based on the latest data from May 2026 and the flexibility of custom vehicle travel, this article provides a practical guide for travelers.II. Sample Itinerary (12-Day Classic Loop)
The following itinerary is based on actual road conditions and scenic area openings in May 2026. Reasonable adjustments can be made upon mutual agreement:
Day 1:Arrive in Urumqi, check into a downtown hotel, and enjoy free time (recommended: International Bazaar, Xinjiang Museum).
Day 2:Urumqi → Sayram Lake (approx. 550 km, 6.5 hours’ drive). After a lake tour, check into a lakeside hotel.
Day 3:Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Yining (approx. 150 km). Stop by Huocheng Lavender Farm (peak bloom in June) and explore Liuxing Street in the evening.
Day 4:Yining → Nalati Grassland (approx. 280 km). Check into a grassland guesthouse and experience horseback riding or hiking.
Day 5:Nalati → Bayanbulak (via the northern section of Duku Highway). Watch the sunset over the meandering river and check into a town hotel.
Day 6:Bayanbulak → Kuqa (via the southern section of Duku Highway). Tour the Kuqa Grand Canyon and check into a Kuqa hotel.
Day 7:Kuqa → Aksu (approx. 300 km). Visit the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves to learn about Buddhist art of the Western Regions.

I. Detailed Introduction to Routes or DestinationsDay 8:Aksu → Kashgar (approx. 460 km, by train or custom vehicle). Explore Kashgar Old City and sample night market delicacies.
Day 9:Kashgar → Baisha Lake → Muztagh Ata Peak → Taxkorgan (approx. 300 km). Obtain permits before touring high-altitude lakes.
Day 10:Taxkorgan → Panlong Ancient Road → Kashgar (return). Visit the road sign reading, “After traversing all winding paths today, life ahead will be smooth sailing.”
Day 11:Kashgar → Turpan (approx. 900 km, by flight or overnight train). Tour Grape Valley and the Flaming Mountains.
Day 12:Turpan → Urumqi (approx. 200 km). Purchase dried fruits and handicrafts before departure.
III. Pricing Explanation (2026 Reference Range)
Custom vehicle costs vary by model, duration, and season. Below are daily reference prices for the transition from low to peak season in May (subject to contract terms):
7-Seater Business Vehicle (e.g., Buick GL8):1,200–1,600 RMB/day, ideal for small groups of 3–5 people with high flexibility.

The grand loop of Northern and Southern Xinjiang typically starts from Urumqi, connecting the natural wonders of Northern Xinjiang with the cultural heritage of Southern Xinjiang, covering a total distance of approximately 3,000 kilometers. It is recommended to allocate 10-14 days for this journey. The core attractions span three major regions:9–14-Seater Minibus (e.g., Ford Transit):1,800–2,400 RMB/day, suitable for families or friend groups of 6–12 people, equipped with air conditioning and USB ports.
18–22-Seater Medium Bus:2,600–3,200 RMB/day, ideal for small-to-medium teams with expansive views.
30+ Seater Coach:3,500–4,200 RMB/day, designed for corporate team-building or photography tours, with luggage compartments.
Included Costs:Vehicle usage, driver’s salary, basic fuel, tolls, parking fees, and basic insurance.
Excluded Costs:Accommodation, meals, scenic area entrance tickets, shuttle buses, driver’s meal allowance (typically 300 RMB/day/vehicle), permit fees, and personal expenses.
IV. Registration Method
Register through Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency. Customer service manager Zhang Jing will customize your itinerary and provide quotations based on your needs.
V. Pricing and Service Explanations

【Northern Xinjiang Natural Landscape Zone】Vehicle Selection:Recommend appropriate models based on group size and luggage. Seven-seaters can navigate mountain roads like Duku Highway, while coaches are suitable for fast travel between cities.
Driver Services:All drivers are licensed and familiar with routes and attractions in Northern and Southern Xinjiang. Daily driving does not exceed 8 hours.
Contract Signing:Itinerary details, cost breakdowns, and cancellation policies are governed by the signed travel contract to avoid verbal commitments.
Special Requests:Bilingual drivers, photography guides, or high-altitude equipment can be arranged in advance with additional fees.
Solo Travelers:The agency will strive to arrange shared rooms. Special cases require separate negotiation.
VI. Other Practical Information
Scenic Area Tickets:Kanas: 160 RMB/person (includes shuttle bus); Sayram Lake: 70 RMB/person; Nalati Aerial Grassland shuttle: 40 RMB/person; Kashgar Old City: free. Prices are subject to daily景区 (scenic area) announcements.
Seasonal Tips:Northern Xinjiang grasslands turn green in May, while Southern Xinjiang enjoys mild temperatures. However, Duku Highway may remain closed, requiring detours via G3012 Expressway.
Equipment Suggestions:Xinjiang has large temperature variations between day and night. Bring a windbreaker, sunscreen, and moisturizing skincare. Sunglasses and hats are recommended for deserts and high-altitude areas.
The grandeur of Northern and Southern Xinjiang lies not only in its landscapes but also in the journey itself. Whether it’s the morning mist at Sayram Lake, the sunset at Nalati Grassland, or the vibrant atmosphere of Kashgar Old City, a deep travel experience is worth savoring. For more details or custom itineraries, contact customer service manager Zhang Jing at Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency. Actual consultations and contracts shall prevail. Let our professional team plan an unforgettable Xinjiang journey for you!

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