The Challenge

Stretching over 5,500 miles the Great Wall of China is a remarkable feat of construction and architecture with a history spanning more than 2000 years. The wall, the longest human-made structure on the planet, is located in the North of China and crosses vast deserts, barren plains and snow-capped mountains. The Wall was built as a fortification against invasions from the north, and was of great strategic importance. Our trek takes the Gubeikou to Simatai route, which features some of the most stunning views of the wall and the surrounding rolling hills. There are so few other people around you feel as if you are stepping back in time. You will also trek through remote villages and towns and meet local people along the way. This trek gives you the opportunity to hike on and next to one of the most iconic structures in the world. Finish your adventure with a visit to the famous Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City.

Itinerary

Day 1: London - Beijing
Fly London to Beijing overnight

Day 2: Beijing
Arrive in Beijing and transfer a central hotel in time for dinner and a briefing on the week ahead. (Meals included: Dinner)

Day 3: Beijing – Gubeikou
After breakfast we transfer for approximately 3 hours by bus to Gubeikou. After lunch we start the trek at a leisurely pace for around 3-4 hours before reaching our first campsite. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 4: Gubeikou
Departing the campsite this morning, we ascend to explore a spectacular section of the wall, framed by distant mountains. The wall here dates from the Ming Dynasty and this little-visited section will surely be one of the highlights of your trek. We return to the Gubeikou camp tonight after approximately 7 hours trekking. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 5: Gubeikou - Jinshanling
We set off early today to trek through cornfields and farmland for a taste of true rural China before exploring this classic section of the wall, well off the beaten track, known locally as the ‘dragon standing on the beautiful golden mountain’. It is easy to see how the wall resembles a dragon’s back as it weaves its way across the landscape. The views are stunning and you will have hundreds of great photographic opportunities. Camping tonight. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 6: Jinshanling - Simatai
Today’s hike is 7-8 hours long and takes us along a restored section of the wall, built in the 15th century and of great military significance. We descend on a winding trail into the Miyun county of Beijing, and camp near the village of Daweihao. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 7: Simatai - Beijing
After breakfast we head off for an exhilarating half-day climb below the summit of Mt Simatai, taking in two villages with stunning views of the hinterland. Unlike other sections of the wall, this area has seen little restoration and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch we transfer back to Beijing, stopping to see the stadium at dusk en route. (approx 4-5 hours walking) (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 8: Beijing
Today we have a full day in Beijing to explore some of the most majestic and historically significant sites of this immense city. We start with Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City so called as it was off limits to the general public for over 500 years. Its ancient buildings served as the imperial palace for two dynasties of emperors- the Ming and Qing. We take a full tour of this marvellous enclave, inspecting the massive courtyards. Later this afternoon, transfer to the train station for the overnight train to Xi’an.(Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 9: Xi'an
After arriving early this morning, enjoy a day of sightseeing in the ancient city of Xian, including visits to the Great Mosque, Wild Goose Pagoda, History Museum and City Wall. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 10: Xi'an – Beijing
Spend a full-day visiting the magnificent Terracotta Warriors, dating from 200BC. Late this evening we transfer to the station for the overnight train back to Beijing.(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 11: Arrive in London
After arriving at the station, transfer for breakfast and day rooms at a central hotel (depending on flight times), before transferring to the airport for the flight home.(Meals included: Breakfast)

N.B. This itinerary may change due to unusual weather patterns, wildlife movements, the ability of the group and so on. We will do our best to keep to the set itinerary however we cannot be held responsible for changes that might occur outside of our control. In all such circumstances your guide and tour leader will have the final say in the interest of the health and safety of the group.

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