Destinations > Guilin

Guilin

Guilin

Route Overview

Li River East Bank: Guanyan Cave & Gudong Waterfall Eco Day Trip

Immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of karst landscapes and thrilling water adventures. Glide through Guanyan’s multi-level cave by boat, train, and elevator, then climb cascading waterfalls at Gudong with safety gear provided. Perfect for active travelers seeking nature, photo ops, and refreshing dips—English-speaking staff and rental equipment make it accessible and fun.

calendar_month
Days
1 Days
hiking
Type
Free & Easy
location_on
Start
Guanyan Cave
flag
End
Gudong Waterfall Scenic Area
Map View
© Mapbox © OpenStreetMap
D1

Day 1

schedule Approx. 2 hours
location_on A spectacular multi-level river cave explored via boat, mini-train, and glass elevator.

You’ll step into a cool, echoing underworld where stalactites glisten under soft lights and an underground river whispers beneath your feet. Glide silently on a flat-bottomed boat, then hop aboard a charming miniature train that winds through caverns dripping with millennia-old formations. Ascend via a glass elevator carved into the rock face—your stomach will flutter as you rise past layers of sculpted stone. The air smells faintly of wet limestone and moss, and the temperature stays refreshingly cool. English signage is minimal but friendly staff point you in the right direction. Don’t miss the ‘Music Stone’ chamber, where tapping certain rocks produces clear chimes. Restrooms are clean and located near transport transitions. No food inside, but bottled water is available at kiosks.

lightbulb Travel Tips
  • Wear non-slip shoes—some walkways can be damp.;Bring a light jacket—the cave stays around 18°C (65°F) year-round.;Photos without flash are allowed; tripods may require permission.
directions_walk
directions 30-minute drive by private car or tour shuttle
schedule Approx. 3 hours
location_on A series of climbable waterfalls winding through lush forest—perfect for cooling off and adventure seekers.

Here, you don’t just look at waterfalls—you climb them. After renting grippy straw sandals and a helmet (included in ticket), you’ll wade into crystal-clear pools and scramble up seven tiers of cascades using iron chains and natural rock grips. The roar of falling water surrounds you, mist kisses your skin, and sunlight filters through jungle canopy overhead. Kids and adults alike shriek with delight as they slide down smooth rock chutes or leap into emerald plunge pools. Vegetarian-friendly bamboo rice wraps and coconut water are sold at trailside stalls. English-speaking guides demonstrate safety techniques and cheer you on. Midway, there’s a suspension bridge offering panoramic views—pause here to dry off slightly before the final ascent. Changing rooms and hot showers are available post-climb (bring a towel and dry clothes!).

lightbulb Travel Tips
  • Secure waterproof phone case or dry bag—phones get soaked even in pockets.;Arrive early—afternoon crowds thicken, especially on weekends.;Cash or Alipay/WeChat Pay needed for gear rental; USD not accepted.