Dunhuang Yardang National Geopark

Honestly, I was a bit let down. It's a two-hour drive from Dunhuang, and when you finally get there, you're confined to a crowded bus with only a few designated stops. The rock formations look cool from a distance, but up close they're just dusty clay. The scorching heat and lack of shade made it uncomfortable. Feels overpriced for what it is – I'd rather spend the time at the Mogao Caves.

The landscapes are genuinely stunning – like a giant natural sculpture park. However, the wind was brutal the day I went, and I spent half the time shielding my face from sand blasting. Also, you're stuck on the shuttle bus the whole time with very limited stops. I wish we could have walked around a bit more. Worth seeing once, but manage your expectations on comfort.

I went late afternoon when the crowds had thinned out. Standing there surrounded by the weird, wind-sculpted rocks in total silence – it was profoundly moving. You can hear your own heartbeat. The sunset colors were incredible too. If you want a moment of pure wonder away from the tourist rush, this is the place.

Booked the off-road vehicle tour and it was a game-changer. Our driver was a local guy who knew all the best spots and told hilarious stories. We got deep into the backcountry where the rock formations look like a fleet of ghost ships – the 'West Sea Fleet' area is insane. Dusty, bumpy, but absolutely unforgettable. 10/10 recommend splurging on the extra ride.

Absolutely breathtaking! We arrived just before sunrise and watched the first rays of light turn the Yardang formations into a glowing, golden landscape. It felt like stepping onto another planet. The sheer scale and silence made it an almost spiritual experience. Totally worth the early wake-up call – this is the highlight of our entire Gansu trip!

Came here as part of a Silk Road road trip. The park is huge and the scenery is otherworldly. We spent about 3 hours and could have stayed longer. The staff at the entrance were friendly and gave good tips on which viewpoints to hike. Unforgettable place.

Absolutely breathtaking! I've traveled to many national parks around the world, and this one is a true gem. The silence, the vastness, the layers of golden earth – it's like walking on Mars. Our driver stopped at the best photo spots. 10/10 experience!

The geopark is decent but honestly a bit overhyped. The landscape is unique, but the visitor facilities are basic and the entrance fee felt high for what you get. The dust storm didn't help – got sand in every pocket. Okay if you've never seen a desert before.

We went on a windy afternoon and the whole place felt majestic. The rock formations are incredible, though the heat was exhausting. The off-road buggy ride to the deeper area was a highlight. Would recommend going early or late to avoid the midday sun.

Stunning landscape that feels like another planet. The wind-carved yardangs are absolutely surreal, especially at sunset when the shadows stretch forever. Our guide was knowledgeable and we had plenty of time to explore. A must-see in Gansu!

We took the sunset tour and it was pure magic. The colours shifted from orange to deep purple against those weird rock shapes—I've never seen anything like it. The park is well maintained, clean toilets at the entrance, and the shuttle service is efficient. Definitely a highlight of our Gansu trip. Don't skip this!

One of the most surreal places I've ever visited. It's like walking on Mars without leaving Earth. The rangers were knowledgeable and gave great tips on which trails to take. The silence out there is deafening in the best way. Highly recommend the early morning tour to catch the changing light. Absolutely 5 stars.

Absolutely mind-blowing! The golden hour light made the wind-carved clay formations look like another planet. I spent two hours just walking around the main viewing platform—no crowds, just silence and endless shapes. This place is a photographer's dream. Bring extra batteries and a windproof jacket!

Pretty impressive landscape, but the visitor center could use some work—there's hardly any shade and the water refill stations were out of order. The sunset views over the yardangs are gorgeous though, and our driver was super friendly. I'd say it's worth a stop if you're already in the area, but don't expect luxury.

Honestly, I was a bit let down after hearing so much hype. The wind was brutal, sand got everywhere, and the shuttle bus felt rushed. Some of the rock formations are cool, but without a good guide you're just staring at piles of dirt. Not worth the long drive if you're short on time.