How to get to Libo

Libo, located in the picturesque Guizhou province, is often referred to as the "Green Pearl" of China. This remarkable region is famous for its fantastic karst landscapes, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, travellers are welcomed by emerald rivers, majestic waterfalls, and dense ancient forests, creating an atmosphere of seclusion and complete harmony with nature.

A trip to this region is an excellent chance to see a completely different China, far from the hustle and bustle of noisy megacities. Libo attracts visitors not only with its natural beauty but also with the distinctive culture of local ethnic groups who carefully preserve their traditions. Walking along protected trails and contemplating unique landscapes make a journey to this corner of the world an unforgettable adventure for eco-tourism enthusiasts and photographers.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is by air. The city has its own airport, Libo Airport, which, although small, receives regular flights from some major Chinese centres, such as Guiyang and Changsha. Arriving here saves time and allows you to be close to the main natural attractions almost immediately.

Since the number of direct flights to Libo may be limited or depend on the season, a popular alternative remains flying to the capital of Guizhou province — the city of Guiyang. The local Longdongbao Airport serves a multitude of domestic and international destinations, ensuring stable connections with most of the country's megacities. From there, travellers can easily continue their journey to Libo by high-speed train or bus.

Travelling by rail has become one of the most convenient and popular ways to get to Libo. Currently, a modern railway station operates here, accommodating high-speed trains. This has significantly simplified logistics for tourists: it is now possible to reach the "Green Pearl" with comfort and without unnecessary transfers from major transport hubs in the region.

The most in-demand routes connect Libo with the provincial capital, Guiyang, as well as with the city of Nanning. Travel time on the high-speed line passes unnoticed, allowing passengers to enjoy picturesque views of karst mountains directly from the carriage window. Upon arrival at the station, travellers can easily reach the city centre or head straight to the famous landmarks by using regular tourist buses or taxis.

Bus services remain an excellent option for those who wish to enjoy the scenic views of Guizhou province on the way to their destination. The nearest major transport hub is Duyun, from where comfortable express buses cover the distance of about 100 kilometres in approximately two and a half hours. The route from the colourful city of Kaili is no less popular: the journey takes about four hours, but this time is amply compensated by breathtaking panoramas of winding mountain roads outside the window.

For travellers heading from the neighbouring Guangxi region, a convenient starting point is Hechi, located just three hours' drive from the destination. The road network in this part of China is constantly being modernised, so trips are quite fast and smooth. Upon arrival at the Libo bus station, tourists can easily transfer to local minibuses or taxis to get to their hotel or head straight to the famous karst reserves.

Travelling by car to Libo allows you to appreciate the quality of local expressways and enjoy the landscapes of Guizhou province at your own pace. The shortest and most convenient route lies through Duyun: the road can be comfortably covered in about two hours. An alternative route from the colourful city of Kaili will take a little more time, offering travellers picturesque views throughout the journey.

If you are coming from the direction of Guangxi, the road from Hechi will take about two and a half hours. It is important to note that to drive a car yourself in this country, local driving licences are required — international permits are not valid here. Therefore, the most convenient and safe option for tourists is renting a car with a driver or booking an intercity taxi. This allows you to relax and not be distracted by navigation, entrusting the road to a professional.

A trip to picturesque Libo promises unforgettable impressions of natural beauty, but it requires certain preparation for maximum comfort. To ensure your journey to China goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle, we have prepared a list of important recommendations that will help you feel confident in this region.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The climate in Guizhou province is humid subtropical, so rain can start suddenly. Be sure to bring a raincoat and a waterproof case for your electronics. Most importantly, bring comfortable, broken-in shoes with non-slip soles, as you will be walking a lot on rocky reserve trails and damp paths.
2. Transport within the city. Public transport is reasonably developed, but for tourists, it is most convenient to use taxis. Ride-hailing apps (such as DiDi) are popular in the country, but using them requires mobile internet. Tourist shuttles and minivans run regularly from the bus station to the main attractions.
3. Finances and Payment. International Visa or Mastercard cards are accepted only in large, high-class hotels. The primary method of payment is via mobile apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay, to which you can link a foreign card. Nevertheless, always keep a supply of cash in Yuan, especially small notes, for buying water or souvenirs in remote places.
4. Health and First Aid. Libo is a land of forests and water, so there are many insects in summer. Be sure to bring a high-quality repellent. Also, pack a basic first aid kit with familiar medicines (for stomach upsets, allergies, colds), as local pharmacies will list drug names only in characters.
5. Communication. The level of English proficiency among the local population is not high. Download an offline translator with voice input and photo translation functions to your phone in advance. This is critically important for reading menus in restaurants and communicating with taxi drivers.
6. Local Etiquette. Show respect for traditions. When handing over money, a business card, or a gift, use both hands. In restaurants, do not leave chopsticks sticking vertically into rice — this is associated with funeral rites and is considered bad manners.
7. What to Avoid. Do not attempt to visit remote wild sections of the Maolan Reserve without an experienced guide: it is easy to get lost there, and mobile signal may be absent. Also, avoid buying tours from street touts; it is safer to book excursions through your hotel or official ticket offices.
8. Best Time to Visit. The most popular locations, such as the Xiaoqikong Bridge, attract thousands of tourists. To enjoy the views without the crowds, try to arrive at the park opening times (usually 7:30–8:00 AM) and start your route from the furthest points, moving against the main flow.

By following these practical tips, you can avoid common difficulties and fully focus on contemplating the emerald rivers and majestic karst mountains. Libo is a hospitable city, and a little preparation will make your acquaintance with it truly pleasant.