Transportation varies widely across Gansu. High-speed trains connect Lanzhou with Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang. Regular trains serve most cities. Long-distance buses reach remote areas but can be uncomfortable. In cities, taxis are affordable; use DiDi (China's Uber equivalent) in Lanzhou. Car rentals with drivers are recommended for desert and mountain routes. Domestic flights connect Lanzhou with Dunhuang and other major cities. For remote areas like Labrang Monastery, shared minibuses are common. Download offline maps as cellular service can be unreliable in remote regions.
May to October offers the most pleasant weather. September-October provides comfortable temperatures (15-25°C), clear skies, and autumn colors. May-June features blooming landscapes but can be windy. July-August is warm but crowded with domestic tourists. Avoid winter (November-March) when temperatures drop below freezing, especially in desert and high-altitude areas. Tibetan Buddhist festivals in Xiahe (January/February) offer unique cultural experiences but require preparation for extreme cold.
Respect religious customs at Buddhist monasteries: walk clockwise around stupas, don't touch religious artifacts, and ask permission before photographing monks. Remove shoes when entering homes or certain temple areas. In Muslim Hui communities, avoid eating pork or drinking alcohol in public during Ramadan. Tipping isn't customary but appreciated for exceptional service. Dress modestly at religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. When offered food or tea, accept with both hands as a sign of respect. Bargaining is expected at markets but not in department stores. Avoid discussing sensitive political or ethnic topics.
Gansu is generally safe with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in cities. Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas like Mogao Caves and Zhangye Danxia. Road safety varies significantly—mountain roads can be hazardous, especially after rain. Avoid political demonstrations. Some border areas near Xinjiang and Tibet have travel restrictions; check current regulations. Scams targeting tourists include overpriced tours, fake antiques, and inflated taxi fares. Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps. Earthquakes occasionally occur in seismic zones. Respect religious sites and local customs, particularly in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
Gansu's high-altitude areas (especially southern regions near Tibetan Plateau) may cause altitude sickness; acclimatize gradually. Air quality can be poor in industrial areas like Lanzhou. Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid gastrointestinal issues. Hospitals in major cities (Lanzhou, Tianshui, Jiayuguan) offer reasonable care, but rural areas have limited facilities. Recommended vaccinations: routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid. Consider altitude sickness medication if visiting areas above 2,500 meters. Bring any prescription medications with original packaging. Medical insurance covering evacuation is strongly recommended.
