How long does the Erhai loop take?

Driving the full lake loop is about 120 km and 3-4 hours of driving, plus stops. We suggest a full day so you can linger in Xizhou and Shuanglang.

Can we take a boat on Erhai?

Yes — ferries and small boats run from the south and east shores. Tell us if you want a cruise and we will time it into the loop.

What is Dali Old Town like?

A relaxed walled town of cobbled streets, Bai architecture, tea houses and street food. Great for an evening stroll after the lake loop.

How much does it cost?

Full-day lake loop starts from $120 for a sedan (1-3), $160 for a GL8 (4-6), $240 for a V-Class (7-8). Entrance and boat tickets are paid locally.

How does Dali fit into a Yunnan trip?

Most travelers fly into Kunming, visit the Stone Forest, then go to Dali (2-3 hours) and continue to Lijiang. Our 5-day Yunnan loop covers all three.

Dali Erhai Lake Private Scenic Tour | Private Car

Erhai Lake is a turquoise alpine lake framed by the Cangshan mountain range — the postcard of Dali, an ancient Bai kingdom. Circling the lake by private car you pass Bai white-walled villages, the iconic Three Pagodas, Xizhou's morning market, and quiet lakeside cafes.

A private car lets you circle the 120-km lake road at a relaxed pace, stopping for photos and tea. From $120 for a full day — combine with the old town and a sunset by the water.

Distances & Driving Time

Route	Distance	Driving Time
Dali Old Town to Three Pagodas	~2 km	5 min
Three Pagodas to Xizhou village (north shore)	~20 km	~30 min
Xizhou to Shuanglang (east shore)	~30 km	~45 min
Shuanglang to Dali Old Town (south loop)	~45 km	~1 hour

Private Car Rates

Full-day lake loop charter (~9 hours) with professional driver. Boat cruise on Erhai optional. Bai tie-dye and Xizhou cake stops arranged.

Vehicle	Seats	Rate
VW Passat / Toyota Camry (Sedan)	1-3 pax	$120
Buick GL8 MPV	4-6 pax	$160
Mercedes V-Class	7-8 pax	$240