Motorcycle
9-Day Northwest Yunnan Motorcycle Loop
Kunming · Dali · Lijiang · Shangri-La · Meili Snow Mountains · Weixi · Dali · Kunming
- Kunmingstart · days 1–2
- Daliday 3
- Lijiangdays 4–5
- Feilai Templeday 6
- Daliday 7
- Kunmingday 8tour ends day 9
Route map
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Tour overview
This compact motorcycle loop brings together some of the very best landscapes and cultural highlights of northwestern Yunnan.
Starting in Kunming, ride west to Dali and Lijiang, where ancient towns, ethnic traditions and beautiful mountain scenery set the tone for the journey.
The route then climbs north into the greater Shangri-La region, passing through high mountain valleys before reaching Deqin and the magnificent Meili Snow Mountains.
Rather than returning along the same road, the journey forms a true loop. From Deqin, ride south through Weixi and the upper Lancang River region, crossing remote mountain country and minority areas before returning to Dali and finally Kunming.
In just nine days, the tour combines ancient towns, alpine landscapes, deep river valleys, snow mountains and some of Yunnan's most enjoyable motorcycle roads.
Day by day
1Arrival in Kunming
Welcome to Yunnan. Arrive at Kunming Changshui International Airport, where airport pickup and hotel check-in will be arranged. No riding is planned today, allowing time to rest, recover from your flight and explore the city at your own pace.
2Kunming – Riding Documentation & Motorcycle Handover
A full day is reserved for the required driving documentation, eligibility checks and motorcycle rental procedures. Complete the motorcycle inspection, organise your riding equipment and take a short familiarisation ride. A briefing on local traffic rules, safety and the upcoming route will also be provided.
3Kunming → Dali
Your motorcycle journey officially begins. Leave Kunming and ride west through the mountains and valleys of central Yunnan towards Dali. Arrive beneath the Cangshan Mountains in the afternoon and spend the evening exploring the relaxed streets of Dali Ancient Town.
4Dali → Lijiang
Continue northwest through rural landscapes, traditional Bai villages and mountain scenery towards Lijiang. After arrival, enjoy free time exploring the famous old town, its cobbled lanes, traditional architecture and fascinating Naxi culture.
5Lijiang – Rest & Exploration Day
Enjoy a relaxed day in and around Lijiang. Visit Lijiang Old Town and Shuhe, or take a short scenic ride towards the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain area depending on weather and group preference. The slower pace also helps prepare for the higher-altitude riding ahead.
6Lijiang → Shangri-La → Deqin / Feilai Temple
Ride north into the greater Shangri-La region along the G214 highway. Pass through dramatic mountain valleys, Shangri-La, Benzilan and the Baima Snow Mountain area before reaching Deqin. Stay near Feilai Temple, one of the best viewpoints for the spectacular Meili Snow Mountains.
7Deqin → Weixi → Lanping Area → Dali
The longest and most adventurous riding day of the tour. Rather than returning along the same road, head south from Deqin through the Weixi region and the upper Lancang River valleys. Continue through the mountains around Lanping before reaching Dali. Along the way, high alpine scenery gradually gives way to forested valleys, rural villages and the diverse landscapes of northwestern Yunnan.
8Dali → Kunming
Leave Dali and begin the final ride back to Kunming. This is a longer road day but with a more relaxed rhythm than the previous stage. Arrive in Kunming in the afternoon, return the motorcycles and enjoy some free time before gathering for a farewell dinner in the evening.
9Kunming – Departure
After breakfast, enjoy some free time depending on your flight schedule before transferring to the airport. Your 9-day Northwest Yunnan motorcycle loop comes to an end, leaving you with memories of Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, the Meili Snow Mountains and the remote roads of northwestern Yunnan.
Important tour information
- Distances: All distances are approximate and may change according to the final motorcycle-permitted route, road works, weather and local traffic regulations.
- Motorcycle Rental & Driving Requirements: Riders must meet the applicable legal requirements for operating a motorcycle in China. Required documentation and riding eligibility must be confirmed before the tour begins.
- High-Altitude Riding: Shangri-La, Baima Snow Mountain and Deqin are located at significant altitude. Riders should monitor their physical condition and allow adequate time for acclimatisation.
- Long Riding Day: Day 7 is a long mountain-riding stage and requires good riding experience, concentration and physical endurance.
- Mountain Roads: The Lijiang–Deqin and Deqin–Weixi sections cross rugged mountain terrain with numerous bends and significant elevation changes. Weather and geological conditions may affect the route.
- Night Riding: Night riding is generally avoided, particularly in the mountain regions of northwestern Yunnan.
- Route Flexibility: Weather and road conditions can change quickly in the Hengduan Mountains. For safety reasons, the tour leader may adjust the itinerary while preserving the main travel experience whenever possible.
Ways to ride this route
Join a group
Fixed dates, a tour leader up front and riders from around the region beside you.
Add to any trip
Ask for a quote
Ask for a quote
Ask for a quote
What's included
Included
Fees for the motorcycle ride leader; costs for obtaining a temporary driver’s license; accommodation in 3- to 4-star hotels throughout the trip (double rooms, including breakfast); personal insurance.
Not included
Lunches, dinners, and beverages; motorcycle fuel; vehicle shipping; motorcycle rental fees; motorcycle security deposits; and any other expenses not explicitly listed as included
Questions riders ask
How to Join Our Boutique Group Trips
1.We regularly update our schedule with the latest travel dates for each year. You can browse our available itineraries, select the one that suits you best, and get in touch with us to sign up. Once your booking is confirmed, simply make your own way to our designated meeting point—we’ll take care of everything else.
2.For your trip, you'll need to prepare your own equipment, such as cycling gear and a helmet, for safe driving.
How to Customize Your Own Itinerary
1.If you have your own group and require a custom travel itinerary, please contact us to arrange a tailored service.
2.We offer a range of options, including support vehicles, photographers, maintenance technicians, motorcycle ride leaders, and translator-guides.
3.If you have specific itinerary requirements for entering China by private vehicle, we can also provide customized arrangements.
How do I apply for a temporary Chinese driver's license?
1. We require an image of your home-country driver’s license in order to translate it and prepare the necessary documentation.
2. Currently, this service is available in Kunming, Chongqing, Guangzhou, and Urumqi.
3. Regarding vehicle pickup in Chengdu: due to recent policy adjustments, it is no longer possible to process temporary driver’s licenses there. You must obtain your temporary license elsewhere; therefore, we recommend securing it in advance before traveling to Chengdu to pick up your vehicle.
4.The process for obtaining a temporary driver's license typically takes about two hours to complete.
5.Service hours are Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.