Classic Tour of Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia-Inner Mongolia | Five Lakes Crossing in Tengger Desert

The Five Lakes Crossing in Tengger Desert refers to an adventurous activity of traversing five distinctive lakes within the Tengger Desert in Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Scattered across the desert, these lakes form diverse and unique natural landscapes due to geological formations and mineral effects, attracting numerous explorers and travelers.

*Featured Five Lakes Crossing Routes by Scenic Area Vehicles (Professional Off-road Vehicles Provided):
① Classic Five Lakes Route:
Ulan Lake → Egg Yolk Lake → Camel Lake → Hailiuqi Lake → Guitar Lake. This route allows visitors to experience the unique scenery of five lakes: Ulan Lake's vibrant "Earth's Heart" appearance, Camel Lake's reclining camel shape, Egg Yolk Lake's golden hue, the mysterious charm of Hailiuqi Lake, and Guitar Lake's distinctive form.

② Swan Lake Starting Five Lakes Route:
Swan Lake → Ulan Lake → Camel Lake → Hailiuqi Lake → Guitar Lake. Starting from Swan Lake, visitors can first admire its oasis beauty before exploring the other lakes.

③ Advanced Five Lakes Route:
Swan Lake → Ulan Lake → Guitar Lake. Suitable for time-constrained travelers or those seeking highlights, this route features Swan Lake's tranquility, Ulan Lake's grandeur, and Guitar Lake's romance.

④ Niche Five Lakes Route:
Swan Lake → Ulan Lake → Maple Leaf Lake → Egg Yolk Lake → Hailiuqi Lake. This less-traveled path offers unique salt lake textures and desert lake views away from crowds.

⑤ Six Lakes & Seven Lakes In-Depth Routes:
a/ Six Lakes Route: Swan Lake → Dragon Eye Emerald Lake → Ulan Lake → Hailiuqi Lake → Camel Lake → Guitar Lake;
b/ Seven Lakes Route: Swan Lake → Dragon Eye Emerald Lake → Ulan Lake → Egg Yolk Lake → Camel Lake → Hailiuqi Lake → Guitar Lake.

*Self-drive Five Lakes Crossing Common Routes:
① Swan Lake → Ulan Lake → Camel Lake → Moon Lake → Sun Lake: ~3 hours, suitable for general visitors, featuring aerial photography of Ulan Lake.
② Camel Lake → Ulan Lake → Egg Yolk Lake → Hailiuqi Lake → Guitar Lake: ~40-50km, ~3 hours, ideal for thrill-seekers, focusing on aerial shots of Ulan and Egg Yolk Lakes.
③ Little Swan Lake → Ulan Lake → Camel Lake → Hailiuqi Lake → Guitar Lake: ~50-60km, ~4 hours, for adventure lovers, highlighting Little Swan Lake and Ulan Lake.

*Five Lakes Crossing Tips:
① Choose licensed tour operators: Desert crossings involve risks; licensed agencies ensure safety and legal compliance with complaint channels available.
② Driving skills & gear: Desert terrain requires 4WD vehicles and professional driving skills. Essential gear includes compasses, UV-protective clothing, masks, sunglasses, and sandproof shoe covers.
③ Safety measures: Follow guides' instructions strictly, watch footing on dunes, check weather forecasts, and prepare for heat (summer) or cold (winter).
④ Environmental protection: No littering; maintain lake purity. Fly drones only in permitted areas following local regulations.
⑤ Health conditions: Not recommended for those over 60 or with heart disease, hypertension, or joint issues.