Dunhuang Private Silk Road Day Tour: Mogao Caves, Crescent Spring
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on an exclusive Silk Road tour with our premium Dunhuang private day tour to discover Dunhuang's Treasures: Mogao Caves, Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Moon Spring, meticulously designed to immerse you in the city's iconic highlights away from the crowds. This personalized small group experience begins with convenient private hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey from start to finish.
Your adventure delves deep into the Buddhist art sanctuary of the Mogao Caves, followed by the vast, golden dunes of the Singing Sand Mountains (Mingsha Shan). Witness the natural wonder of the Crescent Moon Spring oasis nestled within the sands. As evening falls, explore the lively local flavors at Shazhou Night Market. Committed to an authentic, none-shopping tour, we prioritize cultural immersion, allowing you to skip crowded areas and connect deeply with Dunhuang's timeless legacy.
Available options
All Inclusive Option
This option includes the private transfer, guide, entrance tickets.<br/>Pickup included
With Tour Guide Only
English-speaking Tour Guide : This option only include English speaking tour guide, please take taxi to the attractions and reserve tickets in advance.<br/>Pickup included
Only Transfer & Guide Service
This option includes the basic service of transfer and guide without entrance tickets. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private transfers in air-conditioned vehicle with licensed driver
Private, small-group experience for personalized attention
One bottle of mineral water per person
Services of an English speaking local tour guide throughout the day
Visit to Shazhou Night Market
Entrance tickets as listed in the itinerary (if you select the all-inclusive option))
All local taxes and fees
Detailed itinerary
1
At 09:00 meet your guide and driver in your hotel. Then we will drive to visit the most notable attraction in Dunhuang, Mogao Grottoes. The grottoes also were known as Caves of the Thousand Buddha, house Buddhist cave temple architecture, clay sculpture, mural paintings and manuscripts, dating from the 4th to the 19th centuries, nearly 1500 years.
2
Stop 2
In the afternoon, we will continue to visit the Singing-Sand Mountain. When you slide down the slope, you can hear the roaring echo of sands, hence the name.
3
Walking along the mountain to reach the Crescent Lake, your eyes will be feasted on the crescent-shaped spring surrounded by the endless Gobi desert. You can try some optional activity like camel riding and sand skiing (cost on your own).
4
In the evening, you will visit the famous local Sazhou Night Market. After the tour transfer back to your hotel.
5
Warm Notice:
1. The pickup time is approximate due to the open time of attractions and the peak season or not, you will be contacted one day in advance to reconfirm the exact time.
2. You might visit the Mogao Grottoes in the afternoon and Crescent Lake & Singing Sand Mountain in the morning instead based on the ticket reservation condition of Mogao Grottoes attraction site.
What's not included
Personal expense such as souvenirs or shopping
Gratuities
Optional activity (such as special caves at Mogao Grottoes and camel riding or sand skiing)
Lunch
Airport or train station pickup/drop-off available at an extra cost of CNY 200–500 per group
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.6
5 reviews
5★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Camel riding and sand skiing is optional
Special caves at Mogao Grottoes are not included
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
You will be contacted at least one day ahead of the travel day via email to advise the pickup info. The tour guide will also call you or leave you a message through your hotel room the night before tour about pickup time.
You are suggested to wear comfortable shoes on tour day.
Important notes
• Dress code is smart - no casual clothes (i.e. jeans, sportswear, joggers or sneakers)
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
About Dunhuang
Dunhuang is a historic oasis city located at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road. Known for its stunning desert landscapes, ancient Buddhist caves, and rich cultural heritage, Dunhuang offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It is a gateway to the vast Gobi Desert and the famous Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top Attractions
Mogao Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mogao Caves are a system of 492 ancient Buddhist temples and cave sanctuaries. They house some of the finest examples of Buddhist art and murals spanning a thousand years.
Historical/Religious
Half day to full day
¥170 (including entrance fee and guided tour)
Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes)
A massive sand dune complex near the Mogao Caves, known for the unique sound it makes when the sand slides down. It offers stunning desert landscapes and adventure activities.
Nature/Adventure
Half day
¥10 (entrance fee) + activity costs
Yadan National Geopark
A unique geological landscape featuring eroded rock formations, canyons, and desert scenery. It offers hiking and exploration opportunities in a stunning natural setting.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
¥60 (entrance fee)
Dunhuang Museum
A museum showcasing the history and culture of Dunhuang and the Silk Road. It features artifacts, exhibits, and information about the region's rich heritage.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamb Skewers (Yangrou Chuan)
Grilled lamb skewers marinated in a blend of spices and soy sauce
Snack
Contains meat
Hand-Pulled Noodles (Lamian)
Freshly made noodles served with a variety of sauces and toppings
Main dish
Vegetarian options available
Sweet Melon (Gua)
A local sweet melon known for its juicy and refreshing taste
Dessert
Vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking in the desert
Camel riding
Sandboarding
Tea house visits
Desert meditation
Local spa treatments
Visiting the Mogao Caves
Exploring the Dunhuang Museum
Best Time to Visit
April to October
This period offers the most pleasant weather for sightseeing, with warm days and cool nights. It's the best time to explore the desert and historical sites.
15°C to 35°C
59°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mandarin Chinese
- Widely spoken: Mandarin Chinese
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Dunhuang is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and scams, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
Getting there
By air
- Dunhuang Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Dunhuang Railway Station
By bus
Dunhuang Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses are frequent and cover most major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Shazhou Night Market
Dunhuang Old Town
Day trips
Eagle's Beak (Yingpan)
120 km from Dunhuang • Full day
A unique geological formation featuring a narrow canyon and stunning desert landscapes. It offers hiking and exploration opportunities.
Sanggan Temple
30 km from Dunhuang • Half day
An ancient Buddhist temple with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It offers a peaceful retreat and cultural insights.
Festivals
Dunhuang International Silk Road Week • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Mogao Caves early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
- Carry plenty of water and wear a hat when exploring the desert.
- Try local street food at the Shazhou Night Market for an authentic experience.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
- Use a local SIM card or eSIM for convenient internet access.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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