Historical Overview
This region demonstrates 30 years of ecological transformation:
- 1988: Desertification control initiative launched by Elion Resources Group
- 1997: First ecological restoration zone established
- 2014: Awarded UNESCO China Desert Eco-Tourism Demonstration Zone
- 2018: Hosted the "Kubuqi International Desert Forum" with 35 participating countries
- 2022: Achieved carbon neutral certification for tourism operations
Structural Layout
The tourism zone operates through three integrated zones:
- Eco-Core Zone (Central Area):
- 7 interconnected lakes (total area 15km²)
- 18km ecological boardwalk with viewing platforms
- Adventure Zone (Western Area):
- 300m-tall sand dune for sandboarding
- Off-road ATV trails spanning 40km
- Cultural Experience Zone (Eastern Area):
- Traditional Mongolian ger (yurt) village
- Desert Science Museum showing restoration techniques
Key infrastructure includes:
- China's first desert cable car system (2.8km length)
- Solar-powered eco-resort with zero-waste facilities
Major Attractions
- Starry Sky Observatory: World's largest desert observatory with 20 telescopes
- Sandboarding Park: Professional-grade slopes with coaching services
- Eco-Lake Cruises: Electric boat tours through lotus-filled waterways
- Desert Seed Bank: Interactive exhibition of drought-resistant plants
- Camel Caravan: 2-hour sunset tours with 200+ trained camels
- Mirage Island: Artificial oasis with pool and tropical vegetation
Suggested Itineraries
-
Eco-Adventure (Half Day):
Eco-Core Zone Entrance → Lake Cruise → Desert Science Museum → Sunset Camel Ride
Highlights: Flamingo sightings and solar-powered facilities tour
-
Adventure Package (Full Day):
ATV Desert Safari → Sandboarding → Zip Line Adventure → Evening Bonfire with Nomadic Songs
-
Family Experience (2 Days):
Day 1: Eco-Resort Check-In → Seed Bank Workshop → Lake Paddleboarding
Day 2: Camel Caravan → Stargazing → Departure with Custom Souvenir
Ticket Purchase
- Online: Book via Ctrip or Seven Star Lake Official Website (up to 30 days in advance)
- On-Site: Main Ticket Office (opens 8:00 AM)
- Prices:
Comprehensive Pass: ¥260 (adults), ¥130 (students)
Basic Entry: ¥120 (adults), ¥60 (students)
Free: Children under 1.4m (with adult supervision)
- By Air: Hohhot Baita International Airport (2-hour drive)
- By Train: High-speed rail to Ordos Station + 1.5-hour taxi
- By Car: 4-hour drive from Baotou City via G65 Expressway
- Shuttle Bus: Daily tours from Dongsheng District (¥120/person round-trip)
Best Time & Tips
- Optimal Visit: May–October (average 15–25°C)
- Avoid Midday: Sand temperatures exceed 60°C (140°F) at noon
- Essentials:
- Sun protection (SPF 50+ recommended)
- Dust masks for windy days
- Cash for remote yurt vendors
- Prohibited: Off-trail hiking, littering, drone flying without permit