Venturing into the interior of Hainan Island means trekking in the rainforest and up the peaks
While the beaches are still the primary attractions, the mountains and lush tropical greenery at the heart of the island are becoming increasingly popular destinations
Sanya has a reputation for its magnificent beaches, but some of the most thrilling excursions are away from the sea and into the interior. The middle of Hainan Island features soaring peaks and a thick tropical rainforest.
Just north of Sanya, the foothills of these central peaks start to rise up, and the pineapple orchards give way to the tangled greenery of the forest.
There are treks up slick steep hillsides that jut above the canopy, giving visitors an unforgettable view of the land as it slopes down toward the city of Sanya, and the glittering ocean beyond.
The city created the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone for visitors who want to experience the majesty of the interior without taking the sometimes gruelling treks up the mountains.
At Yanoda, people can follow wooden paths deep into the rainforest, and signposts tell of the flora and fauna to be seen there. The zone includes a great view of the Chitian Reservoir, a chance to scale a small cliffside, ancient jungle trees, and a landscaped park at the top with flowers, beverages, and lakeside tables.
Down in the city, most major hotels offer short treks north of the city towards the mountains, and there are several companies that specialise in trips deep into the centre. These excursions include a night or two at a Li minority village, and efforts to spy a tropical bird or flower, or to catch a view of the lowlands.
