Volcano Geological Park

Historical Overview

The geopark’s volcanic activity dates back 34 million years, with the last eruption recorded in 1609. Local Hui communities have long revered the volcanoes as guardians of the earth, while Dai legends tell of fire dragons dwelling beneath the peaks. European explorers first mapped the region in the 19th century, but systematic research began in the 1980s. Today, it serves as a hub for volcanology studies and eco-tourism, balancing conservation with cultural preservation.

Structural Layout

The geopark is divided into three zones:

1. Volcanic Zone: Features the 2,614-meter Dayingshan Caldera and the “Volcano Column Forest”—hexagonal basalt columns.
2. Geothermal Zone: Home to Rehai Hot Springs and the “Hot Sea”—a 10km² geothermal field with boiling mud pools.
3. Cultural Zone: The Volcano Museum and Hui Minority Village showcasing traditional volcanic stone architecture.
   Key infrastructure includes 15km of hiking trails, 10 observation decks, and a 3.5km aerial tramway.

Major Attractions

1. Dayingshan Caldera: A collapsed volcano with a 6km-wide crater, accessible via a 1,442-step staircase.
2. Volcano Column Forest: A surreal landscape of hexagonal basalt pillars rising from the earth.
3. Black Fish River: A crystal-clear river cutting through a volcanic canyon, ideal for rafting.
4. Volcano Museum: Interactive exhibits on Tengchong’s volcanic history and seismic monitoring.
5. Hui Minority Village: Traditional houses built with volcanic stone, offering workshops on jade carving.
6. Lunar Playground: A 3D art zone replicating Mars’ surface, perfect for astrophotography.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Half-Day Classic Route:
   Visitor Center → Aerial Tramway → Dayingshan Viewpoint → Volcano Column Forest → Return.
   Highlights: Caldera vistas and basalt formations in 3 hours.

2. Full-Day Adventure Route:
   Visitor Center → Black Fish River Rafting → Volcano Museum → Hui Village → Hot Sea Boardwalk.
   Highlights: Rafting, cultural interactions, and geothermal exploration.

3. Multi-Day Expedition (2 Days):
   Day 1: Volcanic Zone hiking and museum visits.
   Day 2: Geothermal Zone spa treatments and astrophotography workshops.
   Highlights: Immersive geology studies and wellness experiences.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Tengchong Geopark WeChat account (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Tickets available at the Visitor Center; arrive early to avoid queues.
• Prices:
  • Peak Season (October–April): ¥180 (adults), ¥90 (students/seniors).
  • Off-Season (May–September): ¥120 (adults), ¥60 (students/seniors).
  • Combo Pass (Volcano + Hot Springs): ¥300 (adults), ¥150 (students/seniors).
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

• By Bus:
  • Baoshan Bus Station → Tengchong (2 hours, ¥40) → Local shuttle to Geopark (30 minutes).
• By Car:
  • 3-hour drive from Baoshan via G56 Expressway.
• By Tour:
  • Group tours from Dali/Lijiang include volcanic hikes and hot spring stops.
• Departure: Shuttle buses depart every 30 minutes to Tengchong/Baoshan.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: November–February (dry season, clear skies for stargazing).
• Avoid Crowds: Weekdays; weekends host domestic tourists.
• Weather: Pack layers (5–20°C at altitude) and rain gear (June–September).
• Essentials:
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots (uneven terrain).
  • Carry a headlamp for cave explorations.
  • Respect Hui customs (remove shoes before entering mosques).
• Prohibitions: Drones, littering, and touching thermal features to prevent burns.