Overview
A private two-day adventure into Guangxi's hidden karst country, trekking around the giant Longyang sinkholes and the karst ridgeline of Jianlong Mountain.
About This Tour
Venture into one of Guangxi's least-touristed corners on this private two-day trek through dramatic karst landscapes that have earned the nickname 'real-life Zelda.' The highlight is the Longyang tiankeng group, a cluster of giant natural sinkholes, some up to 300 m across and 200 m deep, still wild and untouched, with grassy floors, hidden ponds and otherworldly pinnacle-karst surroundings that turn dreamlike when mist rolls in. After exploring a cave inside the sinkhole, you trek across Longyang pasture, weaving between the rims and floors of sinkholes 4 to 7 for ever-changing perspectives. On day two you climb the ridge of Jianlong Mountain for panoramic views over Guangxi's classic karst peaks. Spending the night at a comfortable local four-star hotel, this trip pairs genuine off-the-beaten-path scenery with the ease of a private tour, private vehicle, private English-speaking guide and small-group walking. Best in the cooler, drier months. Itinerary may adjust based on weather, road and local regulations. Good to know: • Best season: autumn to spring (cooler, drier); summer can be hot and humid • Fitness level: moderate; ~4 km day 1 and ~6 km ridge walk day 2 with some up-and-down • Max altitude only ~290 m, but trails are rugged and partly unmarked • Wear sturdy hiking shoes; bring water, snacks and sun protection • Caves and sinkhole floors can be slippery
Itinerary
1
Day 1: Nanning to Longyang Tiankeng Sinkholes
Meet at Nanning East Station around 10:45 and drive about 2.5 hours to the Longyang tiankeng group. This cluster of giant sinkholes varies dramatically in size and shape, with some reaching 300 m wide and 200 m deep; standing on the rim and looking down into the vast swirling pits is genuinely awe-inspiring. The sinkholes remain in their natural state, with lush grass, spring-fed pools and seasonally dry, desert-like floors set against the surrounding karst pinnacles and rolling ranges. When clouds drift through, the scene feels like stepping into a fantasy game world, the source of the 'human-world Zelda' nickname. After exploring a cave within a sinkhole, you trek across Longyang pasture through sinkholes 4 to 7, shifting between rim-top and valley-floor viewpoints. Today's walk is about 4 km with roughly 50 m of ascent. Around 18:00 descend and drive about 1 hour to your hotel. Meals: own. Overnight: local 4-star hotel in Tiandeng County.
2
Day 2: Jianlong Mountain Ridge Trek & Return
Meet at the hotel around 08:30 and drive about 30 minutes to the trailhead at Jianlong Mountain. After warming up, begin the roughly 6 km trek, crossing field embankments and irrigation channels before climbing to the summit ridge. The undulating ridgeline walk is full of mountain-wilderness fun, and from the top you take in spectacular panoramas of Guangxi's classic karst topography, a sea of limestone peaks stretching to the horizon. You then descend along a hillside path and follow a trail beside a reservoir to the finish. Today's walk is about 6 km with roughly 400 m of ascent. Around 13:00 board the vehicle for the drive back to Nanning East Station (about 2.5 hours), arriving around 16:30. Travelers continuing on should book onward trains after 17:00. Meals: own.
What's Included
✓ Included
Private English-speaking guide (also driver for small groups) Private vehicle & all transfers 1 night at a local 4-star hotel Trekking route arrangement & support
✕ Not included
International & domestic flights and transport to/from Nanning China visa Travel insurance All meals Personal expenses Tips
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation is available on most tours up to 24 hours before the start time. The exact cancellation terms for this tour are shown during booking.
Traveler Reviews
4.7★★★★★Based on 11 reviews
Julia F.🇨🇭 Switzerland★★★★★2024-07
Honestly, I chose this route for the trail, but it didn't feel built around a single attraction. Guangxi Karst Secret gave the day a different rhythm.
Liam S.🇳🇿 New Zealand★★★★★2025-04
There was no pressure to turn every pause into a photo stop. We could catch our breath, look around and move when ready.
Hannah J.🇧🇪 Belgium★★★★☆2024-09
A practical note: this is not technical hiking, but it isn't a city stroll either. Starting early gave us a cooler, quieter stretch on the trail. For 2 days around Guangxi Karst Secret, the pace felt about right.