Yunnan is the most welcoming region in China for a first-time self-drive: altitude rises gradually from Kunming (1900m) to Shangri-La (3300m), roads are well paved, and tourist infrastructure is mature.
Where to pick up your car
We arrange pickup at Kunming Changshui Airport or Lijiang Sanyi Airport. You fly in, pick up the car at the terminal, and drive off. One-way rentals between Kunming and Lijiang cost 1500 RMB.
What you need
- Passport with valid Chinese visa or visa-free entry stamp
- Your home country driving licence (IDP is not recognised in China)
- We arrange the Chinese temporary driving licence for you, no need to visit the DMV yourself, cost 1500 RMB, 1-3 working days
Cars and prices
- VW Lavida / Jetta: 260 RMB/day, deposit 3000, unlimited kilometres - perfect for 2-3 people
- Tank 300 4x4: 400 RMB/day, deposit 5000, 300 km/day - for 4 people or rough roads
Classic routes
Kunming-Dali-Lijiang (6-8 days): easy first route, low altitude, good roads.
Lijiang-Shangri-La-Meili Snow Mountain (5-7 days): G214 highway, Tiger Leaping Gorge, 3300m altitude.
Lijiang-Lugu Lake (2-3 days): mountain roads, stunning lake views.
Fuel, tolls and navigation
Fuel stations are everywhere in Yunnan. Use Amap (Gaode) or Baidu Maps, which cover China much better than Google Maps. Toll roads cost about 0.5 RMB/km. Bring some cash for small restaurants - mobile payment is universal but requires a Chinese phone number and WeChat/Alipay account, which we help you set up.
Contact WeChat qxzj7557 (WhatsApp +86 13759155671) for a free quote.