looking for a tourist guide

Question

Hi, I plan to travel to KunMing

from Bangkok in the beginning of December, this year.

I had this mind, to explore KunMing for a couple of days-and later on to go to QuJing city.

also I want to visit some museums like the one on 93 Tuodong Lu street.

There some notable-places for a tour like Golden Horse and Jade Rooster--

26 is the year of the horse (anyway)

Dianchi Haigeng - village area

Guandu Ancient Town

-the stone forest and the Jiuxiang Cave

-Jiulong Waterfalls, Huize Accent City

The colored Sarin and the Haifeng wetland.

For up to 500$ is anyone willing to show me half of the things (at least) on the list.

Thank you.

Answer

Hi,

For your planned trip to Kunming and Qujing in December, hiring a local tourist guide is definitely possible, especially for the sights you mentioned. With a budget of up to $500, you can cover guided tours for 2–3 days focusing on key attractions.

Here’s a detailed breakdown and suggestions:

Kunming City Highlights: Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways, Dianchi Haigeng and the surrounding village areas, Guandu Ancient Town, and local museums (including the one on 93 Tuodong Lu Street).
Natural Attractions: Stone Forest (Shilin) and Jiuxiang Caves are a must-visit and can usually be done on a full-day guided tour from Kunming.
Extended Trips: Jiulong Waterfalls and Huize Accent City are further out and may require an overnight trip if you want a comfortable pace.
Other Nature Sites: Haifeng Wetland and areas with colored sarin are possible half-day or full-day excursions depending on transportation.

Tour Options:

Private guide: Hiring a private English-speaking guide can give you flexibility to pick and choose which sites to see. A typical rate for a full day (8–10 hours) ranges from $80–$120 USD, including transport in a private car. For two to three days, this can fit your $500 budget.
Small group tours: Some local agencies offer small group tours from Kunming to Stone Forest, Jiuxiang Caves, and other highlights. These tours usually cost $40–$70 per person per day.
Customized itineraries: Many guides can customize half-day or full-day tours around your interests, ensuring you hit at least half of the sites on your list within your budget.

Tips for hiring a guide:

Contact local travel agencies in Kunming via WeChat or email ahead of your trip; many are responsive and offer English-speaking guides.
Make sure transportation is included if your itinerary covers distant sites like Qujing or Jiulong Waterfalls.
Confirm the price and what is included (entrance fees, meals, transport) before finalizing.
Check reviews or ask for references; Tripadvisor and local travel forums often list reliable guides.

With careful planning, you can comfortably cover Kunming highlights, Stone Forest, Jiuxiang Caves, and perhaps one extended site like Jiulong Waterfalls or Haifeng Wetland within your budget and time frame.

looking for a tourist guide

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