Starting June 1, 2025, the Chinese mainland will welcome nationals from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay visa-free through May 31, 2026. This move lowers the barrier for travelers eager to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures and iconic landmarks.
For many, South America’s famous Iguazu Falls sets the bar for waterfall marvels. Straddling the border of Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu roars with a network of 275 cascades, drawing over 1 million visitors annually. Its sheer scale and thunderous energy act as a natural anthem to the power of water.
Yet the Chinese mainland holds its own in waterfall grandeur. Enter Huangguoshu Waterfall in Guizhou province, one of Asia’s largest cascades. Spanning 81 meters in height and 101 meters in width, its verdant surroundings and accessible viewing decks offer an immersive experience for nature lovers. During peak season, over 700,000 tourists marvel at its mist-shrouded cliffs and rainbow-lit waters.
This visa-free trial aligns with China’s push to diversify tourism sources and strengthen cultural ties with South America. Industry data suggests visa waivers could boost visitor numbers by 20% in the trial year, injecting fresh energy into local economies from Yunnan to Guizhou.
For young global citizens, business enthusiasts and digital nomads, this window offers more than photo ops. It invites deeper engagement—from eco-friendly homestays in ethnic villages to startup exchanges in tech hubs like Chengdu and Shenzhen. Thought leaders and changemakers can connect over sustainable tourism initiatives, while sports and entertainment fans may time their trips to festivals or esports events across major cities.
Travel tips:
- Plan ahead: Check the latest entry requirements and flight connections via São Paulo, Buenos Aires or Santiago.
- Go local: Opt for community-led tours in Guizhou’s karst landscapes to support sustainable development.
- Stay connected: Leverage digital nomad co-working spaces in Xi’an, Hangzhou and Guangzhou.
Whether you're chasing the thunder of Iguazu or the mist of Huangguoshu, this visa-free period is your ticket to waterfall wonders and cultural exchanges in the Chinese mainland.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
