Kaili is a compact city and most central sights are within walking distance of each other. City buses cover the main routes for ¥1; taxis are cheap and plentiful. Didi (the Chinese ride-hailing app) works in Kaili and is often faster than flagging a taxi on the street.
The practical transport challenge is reaching the villages. Public buses from the main bus station are the cheapest option and go everywhere, but schedules are limited — last buses back from smaller villages may be in the early afternoon. For more flexible timing, hiring a private car or joining a small group tour is worthwhile. Several guesthouses in Kaili can arrange shared car trips to two or three villages in a day for ¥150–250 per person.