Day trip to Hukou and Bolang Valley is it possible?

Question

Hi there,

Just checking if anyone has done a day trip (private driver) to Hukou then followed by Bolang Valley?

Any advise?

Thank you.

Answer

Yes, a day trip from Xi’an to Hukou Waterfall and Bolang Valley is possible, especially if you hire a private driver. However, it will be a long day due to the distances involved and travel times.

Distance and Travel Time:

Xi’an to Hukou Waterfall: approximately 330 km, about 4.5–5 hours by car one way.
Hukou Waterfall to Bolang Valley: around 80–100 km, roughly 1.5–2 hours drive depending on traffic.
Bolang Valley back to Xi’an: approximately 250–300 km, around 4–5 hours.

Considering the total driving time, you could spend 1–2 hours at Hukou Waterfall and 1–2 hours at Bolang Valley. This would make the day quite long, roughly 12–14 hours in total including breaks.

Recommendations:

Hire a reliable private driver who is comfortable with long distances and early starts.
Start very early in the morning (around 5–6 AM) to maximize sightseeing time.
Bring snacks, water, and prepare for limited dining options en route.
Check opening hours for both Hukou Waterfall and Bolang Valley ahead of time.
Consider staying overnight near Hukou or Bolang Valley if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

In summary, a day trip is technically possible, but it will be a long and tiring day. If you are comfortable with extensive driving and want to see both attractions in one day, it can be done. Otherwise, splitting the trip over two days would provide a more enjoyable experience.