2-Day Solo Adventure: Outdoor Activities & Sightseeing at The Great Wall

The Great Wall of China, China

2 days

Great Wall of China
Great Wall of China
Great Wall of China
Great Wall of China
Great Wall of China

About The Great Wall of China, China

Experience the grandeur of one of the world's most iconic landmarks, The Great Wall of China. Spanning over 13,000 miles, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking views and a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. Embark on a journey through time as you traverse its ancient steps, exploring watchtowers and battlements. Whether you choose a guided tour or a solitary hike, the Wall's majestic beauty and the surrounding scenic landscapes will captivate you. Don't miss the chance to visit the most preserved section at Mutianyu, or the wild and rugged Jiankou. This trip promises a unique blend of adventure, history, and culture that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Mutianyu Section

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. This section is less crowded and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Take a cable car or hike up to the wall, and spend your morning exploring the ancient fortifications.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch on the Great Wall itself. There are several spots along the wall where you can sit and enjoy your meal while taking in the breathtaking views.

Afternoon

After lunch, continue your exploration of the Mutianyu section. Don't miss the watchtowers and the unique features of this part of the wall. Take the toboggan ride down for a fun end to your visit.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant in the town near the Great Wall. Try some traditional Chinese dishes like Peking duck or dumplings.

Evening

Spend the evening strolling around the town. Visit the local shops and markets to buy souvenirs or just enjoy the local atmosphere.

Morning

Visit the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in the morning. This section is famous for its beautiful scenery and the original features of the Ming Dynasty Wall.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in Jinshanling. Try some local dishes and enjoy the rural atmosphere.

Afternoon

After lunch, continue your exploration of the Jinshanling section. Take a leisurely hike along the wall and enjoy the stunning views.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant in the town near the Great Wall. Try some traditional Chinese dishes like hot pot or noodles.

Evening

Spend your last evening relaxing in your hotel or strolling around the town. Reflect on your experiences and the amazing sights you've seen.

Attractions in Itinerary (2)

Mutianyu

1
Mutianyu

Mutianyu is a section of the Great Wall of China located in Huairou District within the city of Beijing. It is one of the best-preserved parts of the wall and a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to Beijing and its distinctive watchtowers.

Attractions
Landmarks
Jinshanling

2
Jinshanling

Jinshanling is a section of the Great Wall of China located in the mountainous area in Luanping County. It is one of the best preserved parts of the Great Wall with many original features.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Peking Duck

Peking Duck

A famous dish from Beijing, which is just a short distance from the Great Wall. The duck is roasted in a special oven and served with a sweet bean sauce, spring onions, and pancakes.

Jiaozi

Jiaozi

Traditional Chinese dumplings often eaten during Chinese New Year. They are a popular food in Northern China, where the Great Wall is located.

Hot Pot

A popular communal eating experience in China, particularly in the colder regions near the Great Wall. Ingredients like meat, tofu, and vegetables are cooked in a simmering pot of soup at the table.

Baozi

Baozi

Steamed buns filled with various ingredients like meat and vegetables. They are a common breakfast item in Northern China.

Zha Jiang Mian

A popular noodle dish in Beijing, which is near the Great Wall. The noodles are topped with a thick sauce made from stir-fried ground pork and fermented soybean paste.

Jianbing

Jianbing

A popular street food in Northern China. It's a type of crepe filled with various ingredients like eggs, green onions, and a crispy fried cracker.

Ma Po Tofu

Ma Po Tofu

A spicy tofu dish from Sichuan province. It's a popular dish in China and can be found in restaurants near the Great Wall.

Youtiao

Youtiao

A type of fried dough stick that is a popular breakfast item in China. It's often eaten with soy milk or porridge.

Baijiu

Baijiu

A strong Chinese liquor made from grain. It's the most consumed spirit in the world and is often served at celebrations.

Tsingtao Beer

Tsingtao Beer

A popular beer in China, brewed in the city of Qingdao. It's a common drink choice for tourists visiting the Great Wall.

Yuanxiao

Yuanxiao

Sweet dumplings made from glutinous rice flour and filled with various fillings like sesame, red bean, or peanut. They are traditionally eaten during the Lantern Festival.

Douhua

Douhua

A soft tofu dessert often served with a sweet ginger syrup. It's a popular dessert in Northern China, where the Great Wall is located.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit The Great Wall of China is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons provide the most comfortable weather conditions and the scenery is also beautiful. The summer months (July and August) can be quite hot and crowded, while the winter months (December to February) can be extremely cold and icy, making the trek a bit challenging. However, if you're a fan of winter landscapes, a visit in the winter can also be quite magical. Please note that the Mutianyu section of the wall is equipped with a cable car, making it accessible year-round.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 9

Fri

Spring Festival Eve

February 10

Sat

Lunar New Year

February 11

Sun

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 12

Mon

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 13

Tue

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 14

Wed

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

February 15

Thu

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

March 8

Fri

International Women's Day

April 4

Thu

Qing Ming Jie

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 4

Sat

Youth Day

June 10

Mon

Dragon Boat Festival

September 17

Tue

Mid-Autumn Festival

October 1

Tue

National Day

October 2

Wed

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 3

Thu

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 4

Fri

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 5

Sat

National Day Golden Week holiday

October 6

Sun

National Day Golden Week holiday

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The nearest airport to the Great Wall of China is the Beijing Capital International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or hire a private car to reach the Great Wall.

There are direct trains from Beijing to the Great Wall of China. The nearest train station to the Great Wall is Badaling, which is just a short taxi ride away.

There are several bus routes from Beijing to the Great Wall of China. The most popular ones are the 877 and 919, which go directly to the Badaling section of the Great Wall.

Taxis are readily available in Beijing and can be hired to take you directly to the Great Wall. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

Hiring a private car with a driver is a convenient way to get to the Great Wall. The driver can wait for you while you explore the Wall and take you back to Beijing afterwards.

Ridesharing services like Didi (the Chinese equivalent of Uber) are available in Beijing and can be used to reach the Great Wall. However, keep in mind that not all drivers may be willing to go that far.

For the adventurous, it's possible to cycle from Beijing to the Great Wall. This is a long and challenging ride, but it offers a unique way to experience the Chinese countryside.

Once you reach the Great Wall, the best way to explore it is on foot. There are several hiking routes along the Wall, ranging from easy to challenging.

At some sections of the Great Wall, like Badaling and Mutianyu, there are cable cars available. These can take you up to the Wall, saving you a steep climb.

At some sections of the Great Wall, shuttle buses are available to take visitors from the entrance to the base of the Wall.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency RMB

Time zoneUTC+8

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 120; Fire: 119; Police: 110, 122 (traffic accident)

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type CPower socket type I

Voltage220 V

Things to know about The Great Wall of China, China as a first time visitor

1

The Great Wall of China is not a single, continuous wall but a collection of walls and fortifications.

2

The best time to visit the Great Wall is during spring (April - June) and autumn (September - November) when the weather is mild.

3

The most popular sections to visit are Badaling and Mutianyu, which are well-preserved and easily accessible from Beijing.

4

The Great Wall can be very steep in some sections. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and be prepared for a strenuous hike.

5

Bring plenty of water and snacks. There are limited facilities on the wall itself.

6

The wall can be very crowded, especially during Chinese holidays and weekends. Try to visit on a weekday if possible.

7

The weather can change quickly on the wall. Dress in layers and bring a rain jacket.

8

Sunscreen and a hat are recommended as there is little shade on the wall.

9

Be respectful of the wall and its history. Do not litter or deface the wall in any way.

10

The Great Wall is very long, stretching over 13,000 miles. Plan your visit carefully and don't try to see too much in one day.

11

The wall is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. It is not recommended for those with mobility issues.

12

There are many tours available that include transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals. Consider booking one if you're not comfortable navigating on your own.

13

The temperature can vary greatly between the base and the top of the wall. It can be as much as 10 degrees cooler at the top (50°F/10°C cooler).

14

There are cable cars available at some sections of the wall, which can save you a strenuous climb.

15

Beware of vendors selling souvenirs on the wall. Their prices are often inflated and they can be very persistent.

16

Toilets on the wall are very basic and often lack toilet paper. Bring your own.

17

There is a fee to enter the wall. The price varies by section but is generally around 40-60 CNY.

18

The Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Treat it with respect and follow all posted rules and regulations.

19

In winter, some sections of the wall can be icy and dangerous. Check the weather and conditions before you go.

20

Remember to take plenty of photos. The views from the wall are spectacular and it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Basic Mandarin Chinese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

你好

Ni hao

Greeting someone

Goodbye

再见

Zai jian

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

谢谢

Xie xie

Showing appreciation

Please

Qing

Making a request

Excuse me

对不起

Dui bu qi

Getting attention or apologizing

Yes

Shi

Agreeing or confirming

No

不是

Bu shi

Disagreeing or denying

I don't understand

我不懂

Wo bu dong

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

你会说英语吗?

Ni hui shuo ying yu ma?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

I'm lost

我迷路了

Wo mi lu le

When you are lost

Where is the bathroom?

洗手间在哪里?

Xi shou jian zai na li?

Looking for a bathroom

How much does this cost?

这个多少钱?

Zhe ge duo shao qian?

Asking for the price

Help

帮助

Bang zhu

When you need assistance

Food

食物

Shi wu

When you're looking for something to eat

Water

Shui

When you're thirsty

Taxi

出租车

Chu zu che

When you need a taxi

Hotel

酒店

Jiu dian

When you need to find a hotel

Great Wall of China

中国的长城

Zhong guo de chang cheng

When you want to go to the Great Wall of China

Beautiful

美丽

Mei li

Complimenting something or someone

I'm sorry

对不起

Dui bu qi

Apologizing

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Warm layers for cooler evenings

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Local currency (Chinese Yuan)

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and adapter

  • Camera

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks and water bottle

  • Travel guidebook

  • Map of the Great Wall

  • Travel pillow

  • Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Visiting the Great Wall of China can be a breathtaking experience, but it's important to consider the weather conditions to make the most of your trip. The weather can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the section of the wall you plan to visit. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are generally the best times to visit the Great Wall. During these periods, the weather is typically mild with temperatures ranging from 50-75°F (10-24°C), offering comfortable conditions for hiking and sightseeing. However, it's worth noting that spring can be quite windy and autumn can be a bit crowded due to the beautiful fall foliage. Summer (July to August) can be quite hot with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C), and there's also a higher chance of rainfall. If you're planning to visit during this time, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunblock, and rain gear just in case. Winter (December to February) is the least crowded time to visit, but it's also the coldest with temperatures often dropping below freezing, sometimes as low as 14°F (-10°C). The snow-covered Great Wall can be a spectacular sight, but it can also make the steps slippery and dangerous. If you're planning a winter visit, be sure to dress warmly and wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and prepare accordingly. Also, remember that the weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it's wise to bring layers and be prepared for various conditions.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

2° / -10°

January is the coldest month in the Great Wall of China, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Dress warmly and be prepared for possible snowfall.

February

5° / -7°

February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. Snowfall is less likely, but still possible.

March

11° / -1°

March sees a significant increase in temperature, but it can still be chilly, especially in the early mornings and late evenings.

April

23° / 5°

April is a comfortable month to visit the Great Wall, with mild temperatures and less crowd. However, it can be a bit windy.

May

29° / 11°

May is a popular time to visit the Great Wall, with warm temperatures and clear skies. It's a great time for hiking and photography.

June

32° / 16°

June is the start of the summer season, with hot temperatures and occasional rain showers. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat.

July

32° / 20°

July is the hottest month in the Great Wall of China. It can be quite crowded, and there may be occasional thunderstorms.

August

31° / 19°

August is still quite hot, but temperatures start to drop slightly. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the peak summer crowds.

September

26° / 14°

September is a pleasant month to visit the Great Wall, with mild temperatures and less crowd. The weather is perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

October

19° / 7°

October is a beautiful time to visit the Great Wall, with fall colors and comfortable temperatures. However, it can get a bit chilly in the evenings.

November

10° / 0°

November sees a significant drop in temperature, and it can be quite cold, especially in the early mornings and late evenings. Dress warmly and be prepared for possible snowfall.

December

3° / -7°

December is a cold month in the Great Wall of China, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you want to see the Great Wall covered in snow.

Did you know?

Did you know that the Great Wall of China is over 2,300 years old?

1 of 10

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