What’s the best way to travel Xinjiang? A local guide’s perspective

As a local guide from Xinjiang, I’ve spent years helping travelers experience this beautiful region in a way that’s comfortable, authentic, and unforgettable. Here’s my honest advice on the best way to travel Xinjiang in 2025 and beyond.

1. Understand the Geography First

Xinjiang is huge — about five times the size of Germany. That means driving from one famous site to another can take 6 to 12 hours. There are two major travel regions:

• Northern Xinjiang (Altay, Ili, Kanas, Sayram Lake): Green grasslands, alpine lakes, wildflowers in summer and golden colors in fall.

• Southern Xinjiang (Kashgar, Hotan, Taklamakan Desert): Ancient Silk Road towns, desert landscapes, Uyghur culture, and oasis life.

Unless you have a full month, choose one region per trip to avoid exhaustion.

2. Don’t Try to DIY Everything

It’s tempting to rent a car and go, but Xinjiang is not like Southeast Asia. There are long distances, areas without signal, few English signs, and unpredictable road conditions. Also, many places require local permits or check-ins.

Instead, consider working with a local travel team who understands:

• The best time to visit each place (flower season, snow season, etc.)

• Cultural norms and local hospitality

• Hidden spots that tourists rarely find

You can still customize everything (routes, pace, hotel types, experiences), but with local help, you avoid stress and get more depth.

3. Budget Travel? It’s Possible!

Many people think Xinjiang is only for high-budget travelers. Not true.

As locals, we’ve helped students, backpackers, and solo travelers enjoy unforgettable experiences on limited budgets. How?

• Mix homestays and guesthouses with a few splurges

• Join shared transport on long-distance routes

• Visit off-season or lesser-known locations

• Eat at local family-run restaurants (the food is amazing!)

With the right planning, even a small budget can go far in Xinjiang.

4. Cultural Respect = Better Experiences

Xinjiang is home to over 13 ethnic groups, and culture is deeply felt here.

• Dress modestly, especially in southern cities like Kashgar

• Always ask before taking photos of people

• Try to learn a few words of Uyghur or Mandarin — locals love the effort

• Participate in local life: bazaars, music, tea houses, and festivals

When you travel respectfully, people open their hearts to you.

5. Go Beyond Instagram

Yes, Kanas, Sayram Lake, and the desert dunes are stunning. But the real magic of Xinjiang is in the slow moments:

• Watching stars in a yurt with Kazakh herders

• Drinking hand-brewed tea in a village home

• Joining a spontaneous dance in a town square

Let your trip include space for unexpected beauty.

Final Thoughts: Travel Like a Guest, Not a Consumer

Xinjiang is not a "tick-the-list" destination. It’s a place to feel, listen, connect. Whether you come with a big camera or just your phone, come with curiosity, patience, and an open heart.

From a local guide’s view, the best way to travel Xinjiang is:

• Custom-planned (not packaged)

• Locally guided (not corporately controlled)

• Deep, slow, and human-centered

If that sounds like the kind of journey you’re dreaming of, you’ll fall in love with this land.