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 (Sat): London - Beijing
Depart London on an overnight flight to Beijing.

Day 2 (Sun): Beijing
Arrive in Beijing and check into a central hotel in time for dinner and a briefing on the week ahead. (Dinner)

Day 3 (Mon): Beijing – Gubeikou
After breakfast, we transfer by bus to Gubeikou (approx 3 hours). After lunch we start the trek at a leisurely pace before reaching our first campsite.(approx 3-4 hours walking) (BLD)

Day 4 (Tue): Gubeikou
Departing the campsite this morning, we ascend to explore a spectacular section of the wall, framed by distant mountains. The wall dates from the Ming Dynasty here, and this little-visited section will be one of the highlights of your trek. We return to the Gubeikou camp tonight.(approx 7 hours walking) (BLD)

Day 5 (Wed): 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'. With broad sweeping views, it's easy to see hot the wall resembles a dragon's back weaving its way across the land. The views are stunning and you will have hundreds of great photographic opportunities. This evening we camp in the Hebei Province. (approx 7 hours walking) (BLD)

Day 6 (Thu): Jin Shan Ling - Si Ma Tai
Today's hike 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. (approx 7-8 hours walking) (BLD)

Day 7 (Fri): Si Ma Tai - 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. (approx 4-5 hours walking) (BLD)

Day 8 (Sat): Beijing
A day to explore Beijing, with a morning visit to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Farewell dinner tonight. (BLD)

Day 9 (Sun): Beijing - London
Arrive into London

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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