Begin this journey from Xi'an to Kashgar by visiting a 2,000-year-old army of Terracotta Warriors, built to protect an emperor.

Overland through the province of Gansu to Pingliang, which sits at the edge of the beautiful Kongtong Mountain. Peruse the wonderful shops or climb the mountain for rewarding views.

Travel down the fertile Gansu Corridor, a rugged stretch of the famed Silk Route.

Travel to the Tibetan monastery town of Xiahe, often described as one of the most enchanting places to visit in China.

At the crossroads of Qinghai and Gangsu, arrive at Liujiaxia. Visit the Bingling Si Buddhist Grottoes to see intricate cliff-side carvings.

Continue the journey west towards Jiayuguan, where we set up camp en route.

Arrive in Jiayuguan after a full day of driving, and discover deserted sections of the Great Wall.

Arrive in Dunhuang and relax in this Gansu oasis trading town. Visit the nearby Mogao Caves and discover their breathtaking Buddhist art.

Continue the overland adventure towards the ancient oasis town of Turpan. Spend the night wild camping beneath the desert stars.

Escape the desert sands in the laidback town of Turpan.

Travel towards the Tian Shan mountain range, and arrive at the pristine Heavenly Lake. Located at the top of a mountain and in the middle of a desert, this is a remote spot, perfect for relaxation.

Head to the outskirts of the enormous Taklamakan Desert. Travel into seemingly unchartered terrain and begin two days on an overland adventure.

Arrive in Kashgar, an exotic fusion of Chinese, Uzbek and Kyrgyz cultures. Wander the streets that weave through the old town and discover the markets and bazaars of this diverse city before saying goodbye to this incredible part of the world.

Set off early to get to stunning Lake Karakol. Spend the day wallowing in the surrounds of this magnificent setting.

Hike the lakeside mountains to wear yourself out before the drive back to Kashgar. Take time out in comfort this evening to relax and recuperate.

Take a good book as today's lengthy border crossing meanders through the Torugart pass and into Kyrgyzstan.

Spend some time getting to know the locals of Kochkor with a traditional Kyrgyz homestay and experience a glimpse of daily life.

Driving into the capital city, explore the crowded bazaars and vast bustling squares of this modern city.

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time