SEMI INDEPENDENT: Uncover the delights of China’s vibrant cities and pristine landscapes on this 8 day tour from Hong Kong to Chengdu. Cruise along the karst limestone peaks of the Yulong River, get close to China’s fury mascot in Chengdu’s Panda Research Centre and marvel at the Hong Kong Skyline.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Hong Kong to Yangshuo
Welcome to China! Meet the group and tour leader at 7am at the Yes Inn @ Yau Ma Tei Hostel and to Victoria Peak where we admire the incredible panoramic views of city below. After a quick safety briefing we catch the 120-year-old funicular railway down the peak and back to the hostel to collect our luggage. This afternoon we board a bullet train to Guilin in mainland China. Onward transfer to Yangshuo where we check-in to our hostel. The rest of the evening is at leisure to walk through the towns streets or try some of the local delicacies including beer fish, a must try.
Overnight: Yangshuo
Yangshuo
Wake up to the breath-taking scenery of limestone mountains, glistening rivers and rice paddies on the first morning in Yangshuo. We start our day with a bike ride through the valleys before embarking on a cruise down the Yulong River, on the famous bamboo rafts, soaking up the spectacular views around us. The remainder of the day is at leisure to continue exploring the beautiful landscape or simply relax on one of the towns rooftop bars which offer panoramic views of the town.
Day 3 and 4 are at leisure to partake in one of the many optional activities available. From kayaking, to deep water soloing and rock climbing to underground mud-baths, there is something for everyone looking for some adrenalin. For those looking to relax, there are traditional cooking classes and traditional Chinese therapies such as hot cupping on offer.
Overnight: Yangshuo
Yangshuo to Chengdu
Yangshuo - Chengdu. Our final morning in Yangshuo is at leisure to see any last minute sites before we leave beautiful Yangshuo and our tour leader behind and board the night train to Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan province and home to the largest and best-known Panda breeding and research centre. On arrival we are met by our local tour guide and make our way to our hostel for an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Chengdu
Chengdu Pandas
On day 6 we take a short drive out of town to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, to visit China's animal emblem. We spend the day exploring the grounds watching the pandas eat their bamboo breakfast and seeing other endangered animals including red pandas, golden monkeys and more. Visit the panda nursery and get close to the new born or infant pandas. In the afternoon we learn some useful Mandarin phrases in a brief lesson with our tour leader before returning to our accommodation where we have the rest of the evening to relax and unwind. For those looking for an authentic experience, there is the optional traditional Sichuan opera.
Day 7 is at leisure to explore Chengdu, and perhaps wander down Jinli street or explore the Tibetan districts. We also have the opportunity to visit Leshan for a visit to see the worlds largest stone Buddha. This evening return to Chengdu for an optional hot pot dinner, a must try in Chengdu and night out!
Overnight: Chengdu
Chengdu
Our Chinese adventure comes to an end today. The final morning in Chengdu is at leisure to relax or buy any last-minute souvenirs. There is also an optional visit to Wenshu Monastery before it's time to check out and bid farewell to the group. Additional nights in Chengdu and airport transfers can be arranged for an additional fee.
Is this holiday for you?
If you’re the kind of traveller that doesn’t mind time spent travelling independently on public transport and sharing a mixed dorm room with other travellers, then this trip will suit you just fine. There’s plenty of free time on this tour so it’s a great option if you like to explore a city at your own leisure.
At a Glance
