Date: TBC Monday/Tuesday Oct 13/14th

Our itinerary for walking the Great Wall of China is incredible!

It offers a great balance of hiking, cultural experiences, and exploration of Beijing's rich history and will also be a challenge in the true spirit of the great man Steve Prescott MBE without the problems of altitude.

Here’s a concise overview of the trip, highlighting the main activities and accommodations:

Itinerary Overview: Walking the Great Wall of China

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

• Activities: Meet guide and driver at Beijing airport; transfer to hotel; welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
• Meals: Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel in Beijing

Day 2: Beijing to Huangyaguan (5 km/3 hours)

• Activities: Depart for Huangyaguan; hike on the Great Wall; late lunch; drive to Gubeikou; overnight stay in a traditional walled village.
• Highlights: Huangyaguan history and architecture; unique watchtowers; Street of the Eight Diagrams.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Local farmer’s guesthouse at Gubeikou village

Day 3: West Gubeikou (9 km/5 hours)

• Activities: Hike through original sections of the Wall; dumpling-making lesson in the afternoon; dinner with local produce.
• Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Local farmer's guesthouse at Gubeikou village

Day 4: Gubeikou to Jinshanling West (10 km/5 hours)

• Activities: Hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling; visit historical watchtowers and temples; return to Gubeikou village.
• Highlights: History of Gubeikou; temple dedicated to General Yang Ye.
• Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Local farmer's guesthouse at Jinshanling village

Day 5: Jinshanling West to East (10 km/5 hours)

• Activities: Hike through Jinshanling; enjoy panoramic views; visit statue of General Qi Jiguang.
• Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Local farmer's guesthouse at Jinshanling village

Day 6: Peak Towers at Simatai (4 km/5 hours)

• Activities: Challenging hike at Simatai; panoramic views from Wangjinglou Tower; drive back to Beijing; visit Olympic venues.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Optional Peking Duck Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel in Beijing

Day 7: Exploring Beijing

• Activities: Tour of the Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square; afternoon free for exploration.
• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel in Beijing

Day 8: Free Day in Beijing

• Activities: Optional visits to Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and Hutongs.
• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel in Beijing

Day 9: Departure

• Activities: Transfer to the airport for departure.
• Meals: Breakfast

Notes:

• Ensure you have appropriate footwear and gear for hiking, as some sections can be rugged and challenging.
• Keep hydrated and consider altitude changes during hikes.
• Enjoy the local culture, cuisine, and interactions with locals throughout your journey!

This trip promises a memorable blend of adventure, history, and cultural immersion. Enjoy your challenge on the Great Wall of China!