Gansu is a long, narrow province in northwest China that follows the Hexi Corridor, the Silk Road passage between the Qilian Mountains and the Gobi. It joins the Yellow River city of Lanzhou, the Mogao Caves and Mingsha dunes at Dunhuang, the Ming fort at Jiayuguan, the rainbow Danxia hills of Zhangye, and the Tibetan monasteries of Xiahe and Langmusi into one of China's richest cultural and landscape routes.
Top adventure experiences
The most exciting activities Gansu has to offer.
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1
Camel Trek over Mingsha Mountain Dunes
Camel trains cross the dunes at Mingsha Mountain and stop at a photo viewpoint above Crescent Spring. Prices are set per rider at the scenic-area stalls; ticket staff can confirm current rates at the gate.
Best season: April-October
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2
Sandboarding on Mingsha Mountain
Sand boards and sleds are rented at the foot of the main dune for runs down the slip face. No prior experience is needed; the climb back up is the hard part.
Best season: April-October
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3
Motor-Paragliding and Helicopter Flights over Mingsha Mountain
Motor-gliders and helicopters take off from the Mingsha Mountain area for short flights over the dunes and spring. The activity is listed by Wikipedia as one of the scenic area's options; availability depends on wind, season and the operators present.
Best season: May-September mornings
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4
Desert Off-Road Vehicle Ride at Mingsha Mountain
Off-road vehicles run guided circuits over the dunes near Crescent Spring, priced per rider at the scenic area. One travel guide lists CNY 100-200 per rider, so rates should be confirmed on the day.
Best season: April-October
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5
Sheepskin Raft (Yangpi Fazi) Ride on the Yellow River
Yangpi fazi are traditional rafts of inflated sheepskin bags on a wooden frame, a river-crossing craft with a history of more than a thousand years. Rides start at the Water Wheel Garden on the Yellow River; fares have been reported between CNY 60 and CNY 100, so confirm at the dock.
Best season: May-September
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6
Bingling Temple Boat Trip on Liujiaxia Reservoir
The Bingling Temple Grottoes are reached by boat across the Liujiaxia Reservoir in summer and autumn, according to Wikipedia, because the area has few roads. The cliffside caves and Buddha statues are the destination, and the drive from central Lanzhou to the dock takes about 2.5 hours.
Best season: June-September
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7
Horse Trek on Sangke Grassland
Tibetan herder families around Sangke rent horses for circuits over the grassland near Xiahe. The rate depends on route and duration and is agreed with the owner before riding.
Best season: July-August
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8
Zhagana Guided Mountain Trek
Local guides take hikers beyond the village paths into the stone-forest canyons of Zhagana. A guide fee of about CNY 200 a day has been reported, and booking through the Gannan tourism mini-program is advised in peak season.
Best season: June-September
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.
Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring Scenic Area
Where: Dunhuang
Lanzhou Water Wheel Garden raftsmen
Where: Lanzhou Water Wheel Expo Park, Chengguan District
Liujiaxia reservoir ferry operators
Where: Liujiaxia Dam dock, Yongjing County
Zhagana scenic area local guides
Where: Diebu County
China Highlights
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