1. The most unique experience is the underground river rafting in the karst cave. The raft plunges into the dark cave, stalactites overhead, and the moment you emerge, lush green mountains and clear waters greet you – the atmosphere is breathtaking, a rare experience in China. The classic rafting is paddled by a boatman, so you don't have to exert yourself; it's suitable for the elderly and children (over 1.2 meters tall).
2. The Gulong Waterfall is stunning! During the high-water season, the water volume is enormous, and standing on the viewing platform, you're enveloped in mist. On sunny days, you might even witness a rainbow. The canyon is densely forested with high levels of negative ions, making it feel several degrees cooler than outside in summer – a natural summer retreat.
3. The route is very user-friendly, avoiding backtracking. After rafting, there's a short hike to see the waterfall, and then a shuttle bus takes you back to the entrance. The entire trip takes about 3 hours. A pure hiking ticket is available, allowing those who don't want to swim to explore the canyon and karst caves.
⚠️Negative Reviews & Important Notes
1. You will get completely soaked during the rafting trip, so be sure to bring a change of clothes, river tracing shoes, and waterproof cases for your camera and phone; the area around the waterfall is very humid, and lenses can easily get wet.
2. During the dry season, the waterfall's flow is low, significantly reducing the viewing experience. The best time to visit is during the rainy season from June to September.
3. There is a downhill staircase leading to the rafting starting point, which can be tiring for those with mobility issues; the cave is cool, so bring a light jacket if you are sensitive to the cold.
4. There are few shops inside the scenic area, so it is recommended to bring your own food and drinking water.
📸Photo Spots
1. Gulong Waterfall Viewing Platform: Panoramic view of the waterfall; wide-angle shots are best, and the soft morning light makes it easy to capture rainbows.
2. Cave Exit: As the raft exits the underground river, the cave entrance frames the green mountains and clear water—a perfect spot for photos.
3. Canyon Boardwalk: Emerald green streams and ancient trees with vines create a refreshing, forest-themed photo opportunity.
4. Stalactites inside the Cave: Soft lighting inside the cave allows for atmospheric photos of boating on the underground river, creating a mysterious and enchanting ambiance.
💡Tips
Don't confuse it with Qingyuan Gulong Gorge! Qingyuan Gulong Gorge is located in Qingyuan, Guangdong, and features a high-altitude glass platform; Gulong Mountain Grand Canyon is located in Jingxi, Guangxi, and features underground river rafting in a karst cave and a giant waterfall. They are two completely different scenic areas.