7-Day Motorcycle Riding Itinerary – Qinghai-Gansu Loop Adventure

Route Map about the Journey

Day 1: Xining to Qinghai Lake to Chaka Salt Lake (308 km)

Our journey begins in the historic city of Xining. We’ll head west over the Riyue Mountain to Qinghai Lake, where a lake loop ride awaits. In August, the blooming canola flowers, the lake, blue skies, and white clouds create a picturesque scene straight out of a Miyazaki film. The color of this high-altitude lake is ever-changing with the weather, and each sunrise and sunset reveals a new hue. From Qinghai Lake, we’ll ride through the vast grasslands and pass numerous herds of cattle and sheep, making the first day’s magical experience the perfect start to our trip.

Day 2: Chaka Salt Lake to Deka to Ha to Dachaidan (220 km)

Before 9 a.m., we’ll visit Chaka Salt Lake, often referred to as the “Mirror of the Sky.” Standing on the lake’s surface feels like walking on water, with the lake mirroring the sky above. At night, the lake provides a stunning view of the Milky Way and meteors, blending the starry sky with the lake’s surface. This day’s highlight is undoubtedly Chaka.

Day 3: Dachaidan to U-shaped Highway to Oil Town (230 km)

We’ll ride along the undulating G315 National Highway, which features a unique U-shaped landscape, often compared to the “Chinese Route 66.” The joy of cycling through this route is undeniable. In the afternoon, we’ll reach Mars Camp and Oil Town, where the vast Gobi Desert, historical relics, and the stark beauty of the environment evoke a Hollywood-like atmosphere. This is a moment to connect with the earth and experience a different kind of grandeur.

Day 4: Oil Town to Silk Road Heritage City to Dunhuang (265 km)

Dunhuang is a must-see in the northwest, known for its desert landscapes, sunsets over long rivers, and ancient camel caravan routes. The city vividly depicts the essence of the northwest. We’ll ride through the Devil City, listen to the tales of the millennium-old grottoes, and trace the ancient Silk Road with the roar of our engines, paying homage to the ancient traders.

Day 5: Dunhuang (Rest Day)

Having conquered half of the northwest loop, we’ll rest in Dunhuang. Today, we’ll explore historical and literary sites such as the Silk Road, Hexi Corridor, Yangguan, and Yumenguan. Let’s take a break from daily life and immerse ourselves in the romance unique to this land, drawing wisdom from the ancients and literary figures.

Day 6: Dunhuang to Jiayuguan to Zhangye (590 km)

On this day, we’ll chase the northwest wind on our motorcycles, heading east. We’ll visit the imposing Jiayuguan Pass, standing tall for 600 years, and nearby Jiuquan, a significant site in China’s space history. Riders will journey through history and into the new era as we embrace the wind and freedom.

Day 7: Zhangye to Qilian Mountains Grassland to Xining (400 km)

From Zhangye to the Qilian Mountains Grassland, we’ll experience the changing seasons of the grassland. Although August brings a gentle and beautiful landscape, the overall harsh yet majestic environment is ever-present. On the final day, we’ll take photos with the grasslands and continue, leaving memories behind as we conclude our trip. The snow-capped Gangshika Peak and the golden canola flowers of Menyuan will serve as the final memories of this journey, marking a perfect end to our adventure in purity and vibrancy.

Inclusions

• Accommodation Booking
• High-standard local hotels for 10 nights in standard twin rooms (2 people per room, with the option to choose your roommate or be assigned by the trip leader; a single room requires an additional fee).
• Meal Arrangements  
• Alternating between regular meals and specialty local cuisine along the route.
• Support Services
• Deluxe group: Accompanied by a support vehicle with food and beverage supplies.
• Luxury group: No support vehicle, but equipped with emergency supplies.

Exclusions

• Personal Expenses
• All drinks, entertainment, and other personal expenses during the trip.
• Vehicle Expenses
• Fuel, tolls, and other expenses for personal or rented vehicles.
• Additional Costs
• Extra entrance fees and other services not included in the main itinerary.
• Vehicle Transport Fees
• Shipping and packing fees for picking up or returning vehicles in different locations.
• Optional Services
• Any additional optional services during the trip.
• (Note: All costs are subject to the terms and conditions of the contract.)