8 Days Xinjiang Kanas Trekking Adventure

Welcome to Altay, a charming "mountain city" where diverse ethnic groups, cultures, and natural wonders coexist harmoniously. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to a comfortable hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this enchanting city at your own pace.

Depart from Altay at 9 a.m. and drive to Burqin County (approximately 1.5 hours). Enjoy a delicious Russian-style breakfast in Burqin before continuing your journey to Baihaba Village.  

Burqin, the only county in western China bordering Russia, exudes a clean and exotic atmosphere. Though your stay is brief, take the opportunity to soak in the unique charm of this border town during breakfast.  

Baihaba Village, located on the banks of the border river between China and Kazakhstan, is the most concentrated settlement of Tuvans in the Altay region. Known as the "Northwest First Village of China," Baihaba Village is a picturesque village surrounded by primitive forests, log cabins, and morning mist. Its unique ethnic costumes, religious beliefs, and customs make it one of the "Eight Most Beautiful Towns in China."

Wake up at 7 a.m. to capture the breathtaking sunrise and morning mist in Baihaba Village, immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere of this Tuvan village. After breakfast, you'll embark on a trek from Baihaba Village to Kanas, covering approximately 18km (about 6 hours). Your team leader will brief you on the necessary preparations before you set off.  

Please note that trekking in Baihaba Village is subject to local border policies. If trekking is restricted, an interval vehicle will be arranged to take you to Baihaba Village instead.

The Kanas Scenic Area is renowned for its "one pavilion (Fish Viewing Pavilion), two lakes (Kanas Lake and Yaze Lake), three villages (Kanas Village, Baihaba Village, and Hemu Village), and four bays (Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, Fairy Bay, and Camel Neck Bay)." Today, you have a full day to explore this breathtaking area at your leisure.  

Fairy Bay is particularly famous for its morning mist, which is most visible until 8:40 a.m. Make sure you arrive early to catch this magical sight. For the best views, head to the western meadow or the hillside across the road. As the sun rises, you'll witness the mist gradually lifting, revealing a stunning contrast between light and shadow.

In the afternoon, take an interval vehicle to the Fish Viewing Pavilion (at your own expense) for a panoramic view of the cloud sea and Kanas Lake. If time permits, your team leader may guide you on a trek to Kanas Lake, known for its mysterious "lake monster" and unique natural beauty.

After breakfast, you'll depart from Kanas and head to Black Lake. The trek through the canyons is challenging, with steep slopes and rugged terrain, but the serene mountain streams and rustling poplar leaves make it all worthwhile. Along the way, you'll stop by a local herder's home to enjoy authentic yogurt and hot baursak, giving you the energy to continue your journey.  

By evening, you'll arrive at Black Lake, a tranquil destination far from the hustle and bustle of tourists. The scattered white felt tents and the serene lake create a poetic and picturesque scene, especially under the vast starry sky at night. As you gaze at the Milky Way reflected on the lake's surface, you'll feel that the hardships of the journey were truly worth it.

After breakfast, you'll trek back to Hemu Village, passing through dense birch forests adorned with autumn scenery that looks like a painting. The total trekking distance is approximately 22km.  

Upon arrival in Hemu, you'll have the chance to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this ancient village. Hemu is far away from the hustle and bustle just like a paradise retaining its pristine charm. In the evening, visit the Hemu River to capture the sunset or simply relax and listen to the wind rustling through the birch forest. If the weather is clear, head to an open hillside for some stargazing before gathering around the fireplace to enjoy tea, local specialties, and traditional Kazakh music.

Wake up early to visit the Point of Command for a stunning sunrise and morning mist over Hemu Village. After breakfast, you'll trek along the Hemu River for approximately 12km to reach the halfway inn, your accommodation for the night.

Depart early from halfway inn, trekking through the Hemu River Delta and birch forests to reach Jiadengyu. In the afternoon, you'll drive to Burqin for a celebration dinner before concluding the tour.

After dinner, you can choose to take a night train from Beitun Railway Station to Urumqi or a bus to Altay for your onward journey. If flying from Altay, consider a flight after 23:00.