Kunming Private Tour to Stone Forest&Jiuxiang Cave with Boat Ride

Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park

Meet your private guide in the lobby of your Kunming hotel, then set off directly for Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park—a 1.5-hour journey. Along the way, your guide will share related stories, and feel free to ask any questions you may have.

Kunming Stone Forest is a breathtaking collection of limestone formations, standing as a prime example of South China’s karst landscapes. Dubbed the “First Wonder of the World” since the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), this site has a remarkable geological history: around 270 million years ago, during the Carboniferous period of the Paleozoic era, the region was covered by a vast sea. Over time, tectonic movements caused the waters to recede and the limestone to rise; constant erosion by natural elements eventually shaped it into the landscape we see today.

The entire park is like a massive natural museum of wonders. Upon arrival, follow your guide to explore using your imagination—they’ll share countless legendary tales and point out the best spots for photos. You’ll spend 2–3 hours visiting both the Big Stone Forest and Small Stone Forest areas.

Duration: 2 hours • Admission included

Jiuxiang Scenic Region

Enjoy a typical Yunnan-style lunch at a local restaurant, then travel to Jiuxiang Scenic Region (a 50-minute drive).

Known as the “Museum of Karst Caves,” Jiuxiang is home to hundreds of karst caves, forming China’s largest such complex. Here, you’ll not only marvel at stunning landscapes but also gain insight into the unique customs and cultures of the Yi and Hui ethnic minorities. It’s also a filming location for Jackie Chan’s movie The Myth, thanks to its extraordinary scenery.

Upon arrival, follow your guide to take a 53-meter (174-foot) sightseeing elevator down to Green Shady Valley—also called Lover Valley, once a spot where young people sang love songs to each other. Cruise through the narrow gorge by boat, admiring uniquely shaped limestone formations draped in lush vegetation on both riverbanks. Next, walk through The Grand Underground Valley to the Grand Lion Hall, Jiuxiang’s “Fairy Palace,” where colorful lights illuminate diverse stalactites and stalagmites, creating a bright yet mysterious atmosphere. Cross Diehong Bridge to enter Lying Dragon Cave, home to two massive waterfalls—have your camera ready to capture the moment.

Continue to Yi Minority Village, where locals perform traditional dances. Your final stop is Bat Cave, featuring an upside-down “stone forest” of irregularly slanted rock formations hanging from the cave ceiling.

At the end of the trail, take a chairlift to the exit, then be transferred back to your Kunming hotel.

Duration: 2 hours • Admission included