Explore China at your own pace with a self-drive itinerary designed by Steppes Travel. This 15-day journey begins in Beijing and Xi’an, then continues with a small convoy through the diverse landscapes of Yunnan Province.
The itinerary opens with several days in Beijing to experience the city’s most famous sights. Visit the Summer Palace and the historic heart of the nation at Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Spend time walking sections of the Great Wall and enjoy an evening at the Peking Opera to round out the capital’s cultural highlights. From Beijing, high-speed rail carries you to Xi’an to see the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors and learn more about China’s ancient past.
The second half of the tour begins with a short flight to Kunming, where you join a Steppes Travel convoy to explore southwest China. Yunnan is a region of dramatic scenery and rich cultural variety, yet it remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. The driving routes are relaxed and scenic, making this an ideal place for a self-drive adventure. Highlights include seeing the Yangtze, Mekong and Salween rivers; wandering the cobbled streets of the historic market town of Shaxi; admiring the snow-capped Meili Mountains; and visiting a Tibetan monastery to gain insight into local spiritual life.
Steppes Travel schedules departures for June 27 and September 18, with the option to arrange alternative dates on request for private groups or travelers needing different timing.
This 15-day itinerary balances China’s iconic urban heritage with the tranquil, varied landscapes of Yunnan, offering independent driving experiences alongside guided convoy segments where helpful. It’s suited to travelers who want both the convenience of organized logistics and the freedom to explore at their own pace.
You may also like:
Secrets of China’s Silk Road
Beijing: A Portrait of Change