Guigang Longtan Forest Park: The Green Wonderland on the Tropic of Cancer
In the early morning, the city of Guiping was still shrouded in mist, and our group had already set off by car towards the northwest direction to Jintian Forest Farm. When the navigation announced that we were about to arrive at "Longtan National Forest Park," the scenery outside the car window gradually changed from flat rice fields to towering mountain ranges—this forest park, located 24 kilometers from the city center, welcomes every distant visitor in its unique way.
1. First Encounter with Longtan: Touching Time in a Geological Scroll
Passing through the park entrance, the first sight was the viewing platform of Yuntai Waterfall. Standing here and looking down, the entire canyon group resembled a winding dragon, with sheer cliffs soaring into the clouds and clearly visible geological strata. Our fellow geology enthusiast Xiao Wang excitedly pointed at the rock walls: "These carbonate rock layers are at least 250 million years old, dating back to the Permian period of the Paleozoic era!"
Walking down along the wooden plank walkway, the rushing stream roared beneath our feet. Suddenly, a silver chain of water dropped from the cliff—the Longtan Waterfall, with a single drop of 280 meters, thundered loudly, and the mist refracted colorful light under the sun. We quickly passed the viewing platform beneath the waterfall with umbrellas, the slippery ground testifying to the majestic momentum of "water plunging straight down three thousand feet."
2. Rainforest Exploration: Searching for the Code of Life in Pristine Ecology
In the blazing afternoon sun, we changed into anti-slip shoes and started hiking. Climbing the wet stone steps, the vitality of the tropical rainforest greeted us.
At the 800-meter elevation viewing platform, we encountered a group of Zhuang ethnic herbalists. Carrying bamboo baskets, they skillfully climbed the cliffs to collect stone orchids. "These medicinal herbs take three years to mature before harvesting," said an old herbalist, reminding me of the many traditional Chinese medicine plantations scattered throughout the park.
3. Monkey Paradise: Intimate Encounters with Mountain Spirits
The next morning, we took the park shuttle deep into the canyon. As the pickup truck entered the macaque habitat, a group of "road-blocking robbers" suddenly jumped out from the mulberry trees:
• Some squatted in the middle of the road bowing,
• Some jumped onto the car roof and grabbed the side mirrors,
• The naughtiest monkeys poked their heads inside the car windows, looking around for snacks.
Staff smiled and said, "These monkeys are the park's 'gatekeepers,' guarding the secret realm of Longtan Waterfall."
While resting at the Wind Pavilion, we took out bananas we brought along. Instantly surrounded by monkeys, they skillfully peeled and shared the fruit, even lining up patiently, showing none of the wild animal behavior.
4. Canyon Sunset: Farewell Under the Rainbow Gate
At dusk, we returned to Longtan Waterfall. At this moment, sunlight shone at a specific angle, forming a complete rainbow circle in the waterfall mist, like a crystal bridge between heaven and earth. Our photographer companion Xiao Li set up a tripod and used a slow shutter to capture the silky texture of the flowing water: "This view only appears about 60 days a year; we are so lucky!"
As the sunset draped the canyon in golden light, we set off home, soaked and filled with unforgettable memories. Looking back at the glass bridge hidden among the mountains, I suddenly understood why this place is called a "relic plant treasure trove" and "Little Xishuangbanna"—it not only boasts six rare wonders of "majestic peaks, secluded valleys, perilous cliffs, strange rocks, beautiful waters, and playful monkeys," but also perfectly integrates geological changes, ecological evolution, and ethnic culture, allowing every visitor to find their own touch of emotion.
This forest park, crossed by the Tropic of Cancer, carves the most moving geological poem with its billions of years of time and performs the miracle of life with its endless vitality. As the city's noise fades away, the sounds of Longtan's streams, the playful monkeys, and the herbalists' mountain songs together compose a natural symphony that heals urban fatigue.
Basic Information
- Address: Inside Jintian Forest Farm, Guiping City, Guigang.
- Opening Hours: 08:00-17:00 (last entry at 17:00).
- Tickets: About 50 RMB; free for children under 1.3 meters and seniors over 65; half price for students and those aged 60-64.
- Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours.
- Best Seasons: Summer (cooling off, playing in water, viewing waterfalls); Spring and Autumn (comfortable hiking).
Transportation Guide
Self-driving (Recommended)
- From Guiping city center → about 9 km towards Jintian at Xishan intersection → turn left and drive another 9 km to arrive.
- From Guigang direction → take the Guijin secondary road, bypassing the city, follow signs directly.
- Highlights: Self-driving allowed inside the park, mountain roads are winding but in good condition, no parking fees.
Public Transport
- From Guiping High-Speed Rail Station → take special line 666 directly to the park entrance.
- From Guiping urban area → bus line 9 is available.
Must-Visit Spots
1. Longtan Waterfall
The soul of the park, spectacular drop, mist swirling, rainbows often appear on sunny days, great for photos at the viewing platform.
2. Wild Macaque Troop
Commonly seen along the way, lively and cute, observe from a distance only, no feeding or reaching out, stay safe.
3. Glass Walkway + Sky Dragon Slide
The cliffside glass walkway is about 388 meters long, overlooking the canyon; the slide offers an easy and thrilling way down.
4. Forest Trails and Viewing Pavilions
Peach Blossom Pavilion, Dragon Gazing Pavilion, Scenic Pavilion, ancient trees along the way, full of negative ions, hiking is healing.
5. Car Camping / Camping
Camping and bonfires allowed, stargazing at night, suitable for family and friends gatherings.