Anhui is an inland province in eastern China, best known for the granite peaks of Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), the UNESCO-listed Huizhou villages of Hongcun and Xidi, and the Buddhist mountain of Jiuhua Shan. Its capital and largest city is Hefei. Anhui is the home of Hui cuisine, Xuan paper and Hui ink, and some of China's most famous teas. It has no sea coast, but the Yangtze River, Chaohu Lake and Taiping Lake give it plenty of waterfront.
Top adventure experiences
The most exciting activities Anhui has to offer.
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1
Xin'an River Landscape Gallery Boat Cruise from Shendu
A boat trip along the Xin'an River Landscape Gallery, stopping at riverside villages such as Jiusha, Miantan and Zhangtan for about 15-20 minutes each. Reach Shendu Port by bus from Shexian bus station.
Best season: April to June and September to November
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2
Huangshan Xihai Grand Canyon Monorail and Plank Walk
Cliff-side stairs and plank paths cut into the Xihai Grand Canyon, plus a short monorail that reduces the climbing. Stairs are steep with drop-offs; not suited to those with severe vertigo.
Best season: April to June and October to November
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3
Huangshan Sunrise Summit with Cable Cars
A two-day summit stay: ride a cable car up, walk the ridge routes, sleep near Beihai and watch sunrise from Bright Summit. Book summit rooms and tickets weeks ahead, especially around 1 to 7 October.
Best season: October to November and April to May
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4
Taiping Lake Cycling and Lake Boat Trip
Quiet lakeside roads and island-dotted water on the largest man-made lake in Anhui, a low-key day between Huangshan mountain days. Expect basic facilities and limited English.
Best season: April to June and September to October
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5
Qiupu River Drifting and Bamboo Rafting at Shitai
A summer river drift and bamboo rafting on the selenium-rich Qiupu River near Shitai, one of the cooler water activities in southern Anhui. Insist on operator-supplied life jackets and check the water level after heavy rain.
Best season: June to September
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6
Guniujiang Forest Trek
Primeval forest at the Shitai and Qimen border, known as the last large stretch of native forest in East China, with cool air, waterfalls and marked walking routes.
Best season: May to October
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7
Huihang Ancient Trail Multi-Day Trek
A historic merchant road between Anhui and Hangzhou, walked as a one- or two-day trek through old villages. Independent trekkers should confirm bus times in advance.
Best season: March to May and October to November
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8
Jiuhua Mountain Cable Car and Temple Circuit
A cable-car-assisted visit to the Buddhist mountain's main temples including Tiantai, Baisui Gong and Huacheng Temple, with vegetarian meals available at temple canteens.
Best season: March to May and September to November
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9
Qiyunshan Stream Pools and Cliff Paths
A Taoist mountain with cave pools such as Feiquan and the Ming dynasty stone arch at Dengfeng Bridge, combining short hikes with stream bathing.
Best season: May to September for pools; April and October for walking
Activities by type
Find adventures that match your interests.
Land adventures
Trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking, and overland expeditions through diverse terrain.
Water adventures
Rafting, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and water sports where conditions permit.
Air adventures
Paragliding, skydiving, hot air ballooning, and aerial tours for unique perspectives.
Expedition treks
Multi-day treks and expeditions through remote areas with camping and guide support.
Difficulty levels
No experience needed. Suitable for most fitness levels.
Basic fitness required. Some prior experience helpful.
Good fitness and some experience required.
Significant experience and high fitness essential.
Recommended operators
Vetted companies for safe adventures.
Adventure safety
Stay safe while pushing your limits.
Never go on adventures alone in remote areas. Always use reputable guides for challenging activities.
Get comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers adventure activities and emergency evacuation.
Check weather conditions and be prepared to cancel or postpone. Mountain weather changes rapidly.
Know your limits. Choose activities appropriate for your fitness and experience level.
Acclimatize properly before high-altitude activities. Altitude sickness is serious.
Preparation & gear
Get ready for your adventure.
Essential gear
- Quality hiking boots (broken in)
- Layered clothing system
- Rain gear and sun protection
- First aid kit
- Headlamp and batteries
- Water purification
Physical preparation
- Start training 6-8 weeks before
- Build cardio endurance
- Include strength training
- Practice with loaded backpack
- Get medical clearance if needed