DAY 2:
Spend the day in and around Dunhuang highlighted by a visit to the Mogao Caves - the world's largest repository of Buddhist art spanning more than 1,000 years of history.

DAY 3:
This morning, drive into the Gobi Desert to visit the Han Dynasty Great Wall and the ruins of the great Yumen garrison. Later today, fly to Urümqi.

DAY 4:
The morning is spent at the Xinjiang Provincial Museum. This afternoon, drive overland to Turfan, set in the heart of China's greatest desert.

DAY 5:
Visit the ancient city of Gaochang, the Astana Tombs and the beautiful design of Suliman's Minaret.

DAY 6:
Depart Turfan, visiting the ongoing excavation of the historic Silk Road City of Jiaohe. This afternoon, fly to Kashgar.

DAY 7:
Spend the day driving along the Karakorum Highway to Lake Karakuli, taking in breathtaking scenery.

DAY 8:
This morning, stroll through the Sunday Market, the largest bazaar in central Asia. This evening, return to Urümqi, ending your travels across China's historical Silk Road.