Tips for Visiting the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is one of the great wonders of the world - literally. So it's no wonder that countless individuals from all over the world flock to The Great Wall each year. Visiting The Great Wall during my month-long stint in China was definitely one of the highlights of my life. But at more than 4,000 mind-boggling miles long, there's a lot to see. Not all of The Great Wall is available for tourists to see - and there are a lot of things about visiting The Great Wall that could be easily overlooked. Here are some tips from someone who's been there on making the most of your visit to The Great Wall of China.

Consider Going As Part of a Tour

This is something that will need to be considered upfront, which is why it's listed first. After spending time in several Chinese cities, I can tell you this: making your way through China and dealing with government officials can be sticky business. If you don't speak fluent Mandarin, it's even more difficult, as China is not a country where everyone speaks English as a second language. There are many legitimate day-trip tours from Beijing to The Great Wall of China. They usually include transportation to and from The Great Wall, any admission fees and sometimes even food and drink.

If you simply want to visit a section of The Great Wall and enjoy the view it provides, a tour that includes other sites as well might be for you. If you want to spend an entire day hiking different areas of The Great Wall, a day-long tour dedicated solely to The Great Wall might be more your speed. Depending on whether you're looking for budget travel (or something more luxurious), a paid tour to The Great Wall will likely cost $150 and up. Travellers can often receive a rate reduction when visiting with a group, even if that group is small.

Consider the Real Experience

Visiting The Great Wall sounds fabulous, and it is. But it can also be very physically challenging. Few parts of The Great Wall are perfectly smooth and easy to maneuver, though a tour will probably start out in one of the easier-to-manage areas. If you want to walk along The Great Wall, or even take an adventurous hike, be aware that it is physically taxing. I visited The Great Wall with a group of fellow college students, and we had quite a go of it.

Because of the terrain on which it is built, The Great Wall includes huge sections of steep and uneven rock stairs, many of which are at a near-90 degree angle. That is certainly something I did not expect; during some parts of the trip, I literally climbed the stairs using my hands. Some have railings along the side - some do not. Expect to rest and enjoy the view along the way. Be careful not to hike farther than you can physically hike back - the stairs will still be there when you return! It can be tempting, since the sheer sprawling length of the wall is fascinating. When you've hiked a ways, you'll have a chance to buy an inexpensive t-shirt commemorating your achievement. Buy it, even if you don't want it. When will you have the chance again?

So, when is the best time to visit The Great Wall? Many experts say May, September and October are the best months, as they are moderate in temperature while still providing a great view. July and August are the wettest months around Beijing; if you visit during this time, bring a travel poncho.

Pack The Essentials Yourself

What do you need to bring for a visit to The Great Wall? Good walking shoes, bottled water, a camera, a small first aid kit, your passport and your Chinese currency. Portable food such as beef jerky or trail mix is also advisable. Place your passport and currency in a special holder, preferably one that is worn under the clothes. Wear layered clothing, something you can take off and tie around your waist should you get to warm.

Pack what you would need for The Great Wall carefully in a sturdy backpack, regardless of what your tour is supposed to provide. If you have extra, so be it, but you don't want to be left without what you need. Two things you can never be without while visiting China are bottled water and your passport.

Visiting The Great Wall of China was definitely one of the highlights of my life, and I believe that everyone should make a trip to see it. The sheer size, age and history surrounding The Great Wall are awe-inspiring. You may be sore for a few days after a good hike along The Great Wall, but the memories last a lifetime. With a little careful planning, your visit to The Great Wall can be an amazing experience, too.