Joining a small tour group in China can be a lot of fun, as it offers well-planned and organized tour activities with everything paid for in advance. This ensures you always have a clear direction of where you’re going and what you’ll be doing during your trip.

However, one concern some travelers have is the lack of flexibility that comes with such structured tours. The last thing you want is to feel restricted, as if you’re on a rigid school excursion with no opportunity to explore on your own terms.

The best multi-day tours strike a balance between structure and flexibility. They offer pre-planned activities to give you a sense of direction while also allowing room for spontaneity and personal exploration.

For example, let’s say you arrive in Guilin and discover information about the stunning Longji Rice Terraces. A tour that values flexibility will be open to accommodating your request to swap out a day in Guilin for a side trip to Longji, enabling you to seize exciting opportunities as they arise.

Moreover, top-notch tour companies ensure that you have ample free time during the tour to explore on your own and savor the local cuisine of your choice, enriching your overall experience.

It’s important to be aware that China attracts a significant number of tourists, both domestic and international, and some companies cater to large groups on rigid schedules. To truly immerse yourself in the authentic experience of China, seek out tours that offer a blend of flexibility and structure.

Consider booking a private tour for your group of friends or family, as this option provides maximum flexibility regarding scheduling and enables you to craft your own unique adventure tailored to your preferences. This way, you can have the best of both worlds – the convenience of a guided tour and the freedom to explore China on your terms.