Going camping?

Weather permitting, Wang recommends foregoing tents entirely and sleeping out under the stars. "We just rolled out these long pads, kind of like glorified yoga mats, and slept in our sleeping bags right on the Wall," he said. "I remember it getting a bit chilly overnight but in general it was quite comfortable."

Both Botrip and the China Culture Center provide tents, sleeping bags, food and water. They recommend guests bring snacks, insect repellant and a mobile phone, which can generally receive service at Jinshanling. According to Wang, the Jinshanling camping site has indoor toilet facilities that can be accessed at night.

Botrip Tours

Tel: 5126-6688

China Culture Center

Tel: 6432-9341