Real-name Booking: Mogao Caves requires real-name reservation with ID card number. We handle reservations for free — provide ID details for all travelers at least 15 days in advance during peak season.
Discount Certificates: Bring student ID, senior citizen card (60/65+), military ID, or disability certificate for on-site cash refunds of applicable discounts.
Peak Season Advance Booking: June-October is peak season. Mogao Caves A-Class tickets sell out quickly. We recommend booking at least 2 weeks in advance.
2. Transportation
By Air: Dunhuang Mogao International Airport (DNH) has flights from Lanzhou, Xi'an, Beijing, Chengdu, Hangzhou, and other major cities.
By Train: Dunhuang Railway Station connects to Lanzhou (overnight), Xi'an, and Urumqi. High-speed rail via Lanzhou is available.
Airport/Station Pickup: All our tours include complimentary airport/train station pickup. Provide your flight/train number in advance.
Local Transport: All ground transport between attractions is included in tour packages. No need to worry about navigation.
3. Packing Essentials
Sun Protection: Dunhuang receives intense UV radiation. Bring SPF50+ sunscreen, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and UV-protection clothing.
Hydration: The desert climate is extremely dry. Carry water at all times. Lip balm and moisturizer are essential.
Layered Clothing: Temperature can vary 15-20°C between day and night. Bring a light jacket even in summer.
Comfortable Shoes: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for desert walking and sand dune climbing. Sand-proof shoe covers available locally.
Camera Protection: Fine sand can damage electronics. Bring a protective bag or case for your camera.
4. Dining Tips
Local Specialties: Don't miss Dunhuang lamb skewers, hand-pulled noodles, donkey meat huangmian (huangmian), apricot peel water (xingpi shui), and desert herbs.
Shazhou Night Market: The best place to experience local food culture. Try the various noodle dishes and grilled lamb.
Dietary Requirements: Inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance. We can arrange vegetarian, halal, or other special meals.
5. Travel Benefits
Tour Includes: All attraction tickets, accommodations, ground transport, and guide services as specified in your itinerary.
Free Experiences: Many premium experiences (desert BBQ, Flying Apsaras photo, etc.) are included free with our tours.
Travel Insurance: Basic travel liability insurance is included. Optional personal accident insurance available.
6. Refund Policy
Day Tours: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
Multi-Day Tours (2-3 days): Free cancellation up to 3 days before departure.
Extended Tours (5+ days): Free cancellation up to 7 days before departure.
Within Cancellation Window: Partial charges may apply based on incurred costs (hotel bookings, tickets, etc.).
Weather Cancellations: If tours are cancelled due to severe weather or safety concerns, full refund or rescheduling offered.