8 DAYS ESSENCE OF NINGXIA: WINE, DESERT AND IMPERIAL LEGACIES

Arrival in Yinchuan
Arrive in Yinchuan, the capital of Ningxia and gateway to China’s emerging wine region along the Helan Mountains. Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check in.

The History of Ningxia
Begin your introduction to Ningxia at the Ningxia Museum, accompanied by Professor Li Tong, a distinguished museum scholar and rock art authority, whose four decades of research offer rare insight into the region’s history and cultural heritage.

Continue to the Western Xia Imperial Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site set against the foothills of the Helan Mountains. Often referred to as the “Pyramids of China”, this vast royal necropolis preserves the legacy of the Tangut kingdom that once flourished along the Silk Road.

Shuidonggou and Xige Estate Winery
This morning, embark on a 1-hour drive to Shuidonggou, one of China’s most important prehistoric sites and the cradle of early Palaeolithic discoveries. Explore a remarkable section of the Great Wall and marvel at the dramatic yardang landscapes shaped by wind and time.

Afterwards, continue approx. 1.5-hour drive to Xige Estate, a boutique winery in the Helan Mountain East Foothills wine region. Enjoy a guided introduction to Ningxia’s rapidly rising wine industry, followed by a tasting of selected vintages.

Drive approx. 1 hour south to Zhongwei and check in at your desert retreat. In the evening, relax under the desert sky with a specialist guide and enjoy a serene stargazing experience away from city lights.

Shapotou Desert and the Yellow River
Visit Shapotou scenic area, where towering desert dunes meet the Yellow River in one of northwest China’s most dramatic landscapes. Explore the desert scenery and enjoy a selection of experiences tailored to your interests, such as sand sliding, camel riding, or crossing the Yellow River by cable ride. Some activities may be best suited for guests under 65, ensuring safety and comfort while still enjoying the desert’s breathtaking scenery.

Yellow River Canyon and Helan’s Winery
Drive approx. 1 hour to the Yellow River Grand Canyon at Qingtongxia to visit the 108 Stupas, one of the most striking clusters of lamaist pagodas in China. Arranged in orderly tiers along the hillside overlooking the river, they form a distinctive spiritual landmark. Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Yellow River, offering beautiful views of the stupas and canyon landscape.

Continue approx. 1.5 hours to Chandon China, a renowned winery owned by LVMH in the Helan Mountain East Foothills, known for producing high-quality sparkling wines. Enjoy a guided tour and tasting before proceeding to your boutique vineyard retreat set beneath the Helan Mountains.

Unique Alxa Desert Lakes
Journey into the vast landscapes of Inner Mongolia’s Alxa Left Banner for a 4WD desert exploration across sweeping plains and colourful salt lakes. Visit the extraordinary Ulan Lake, famous for its heart-shaped form and deep red hue, as well as the peculiar Camel Lake, surrounded by remote desert scenery.
Please note that the off-road desert excursion may involve uneven terrain and is recommended for guests in good physical condition.

Drive back approx. 3 hours to the Helan Mountain region and visit a goji berry estate to learn about the cultivation and medicinal heritage of this prized fruit grown in Ningxia for centuries.

Gems of Sand Lake and Helan Mountain
After breakfast, drive approx. 1 hour to Sand Lake, where golden dunes meet glistening wetlands to create a serene desert oasis. Enjoy a private boat ride to Bird Island, gliding past reed beds while observing flocks of waterbirds.

Next, head to the Helan Mountain Rock Art site, once again accompanied by Professor Li Tong, whose decades of scholarship provide rare insight into these ancient carvings depicting hunting, rituals, and early tribal life.
Later, visit one of Ningxia’s most celebrated boutique wineries in the Helan Mountain foothills, Silver Heights vineyard, for a private tour and tasting, discovering why this region has become the leading fine wine destination in China.

Transfer: Hotel to Airport
Drive approx. 1 hour to Yinchuan Airport for your onward flight.