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Shanghai to Chengdu Panda-monium

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11 days

Get up close and personal with pandas on this 11-day tour starting in bustling Shanghai! Explore the historic streets of Beijing, hike along the iconic Great Wall, and discover the celestial art of Luoyang's Longmen Caves. Stand face-to-face with the Terracotta Army's ancient warriors in Xi'an. Then, in Chengdu, taste renowned Sichuan hotpot, and learn about China's treasured pandas at the Panda Research Center. This unforgettable journey weaves together history, culture, and gastronomy, offering a deep dive into the heart of China's heritage.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

11 days

Starts

Shanghai

Ends

Chengdu

Range

Signature

Tour Guide

Yes - escorted by a tour guide

Group Size

Min 2 / Max 24

Minimum age

15 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Fridays

Hotel Rating

3 - 4 star

Countries

China

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

No - bookable for a supplement

Meals included

Breakfast: 10, Lunch: 3, Dinner: 4
Save 35% today
Per Person From
R 71,465.00
R 46,452.25
Deposit From
Final payment
R 10,000.00
R 82,904.50

Tour Highlights

Shanghai – Free time for you to independently explore. Consider exploring The Bund and Old Shanghai, Yuyuan Garden, Plaza Tower or cruising the Huangpu River
Beijing - Visit the iconic Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, explore the Hutong area of Beijing, enjoy a Chinese Acrobatic Show and taste the famous peking duck
Huanghuacheng Great Wall - A section of the Great Wall of China, unique for its partially submerged and picturesque portion of the wall
Xi'an - Experience the UNESCO listed Terracotta Warriors, Terracotta Warrior Factory, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter, City Wall and bike ride and savour a dumpling-making experience
Luoyang - Take a high-speed train to Luoyang, and enjoy a visit to the Longmen Caves, food hunt in Old City Shizi Street and watch Kung Fu at a Shaolin Monastery
Chengdu - Come face to face with adorable pandas at the cutting-edge Chengdu Panda Research Center
Leshan - Admire the towering Great Buddha, carved into the cliff face and overlooking the rushing rivers of Min, Qingyi and Dadu

Included

Daily breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners, inclusive of traditional Peking Duck dinner in Beijing, dumpling-making experience in Xi'an & Hotpot dinner in Chengdu
9 nights 4 star hotels
Chinese acrobatic performance
2 Highspeed train tickets, from Beijing to Luoyang & Xi'an to Chengdu (2nd class)
Xi’an - bike ride on medieval City Wall
Shanghai Airport arrival transfer on day 1
Touring of Beijing, Huanghuacheng Great Wall, Luoyang, Xi'an & Chengdu
English speaking specialist guides at local sights
All relevant transfers and transportation in private A/C vehicles
Visit to Shaolin Monastery
Shadow puppetry show
Economy class flight from Shanghai to Beijing

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$5 - 7 per day, per traveller as a tip for your guide. Tipping your guide and driver is an entirely personal gesture
Departure airport transfer
Entrance Fees: USD$130-150pp, paid in local currency
Tipping Kitty: USD$55-75pp, paid in local currency
Tipping is not a natural part of many Western cultures and many of us feel uncomfortable, or unsure, about when, or how much, to tip. However, in the places you will visit, tipping makes up a significant part of many people's wages so it's important that we get it right. For this reason we've developed a very simple system to take all the hassle out of tipping. With our 'tipping made easy' policy, a nominal pre-determined amount is collected from all group tour participants to cover tips en route. This then saves you the hassle of when and how much to tip bellhops, luggage handlers, local guides and other support staff through the tour. Our 'tipping made easy' doesn't include a tip to your group tour leader. Naturally, though, the amount is up to you as tipping is an entirely personal gesture.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to China

Friday. Huang ying, welcome to China and the start of your holiday! Upon your arrival at Shanghai Pudong or Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in.

The day is yours to explore and enjoy the vibrant energy of Shanghai, China's bustling metropolis that seamlessly marries tradition with modernity. Discover the city's captivating historic neighborhoods, futuristic skyscrapers, and iconic landmarks like the Bund and Yu Garden.

Overnight: Shanghai

Day 2 - Bound for Beijing!

Shanghai - Beijing. After breakfast, enjoy time at leisure to further explore the bustling city of Shanghai. Later in the day, we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Beijing, with departure scheduled for around 4-5 p.m.

The night is yours to traverse Beijing, the captivating capital of China. Exploring Beijing at night is a unique experience, as the city takes on a new and vibrant persona after dark. Why not check out the historic Houhai Lake area which comes alive with lively bars and restaurants? Or perhaps explore Beijing's modern skyline, especially around the CBD area, which showcases dazzling buildings beautifully illuminated against the night sky. Alternatively, the Temple of Heaven Park stays open in the evening, allowing for peaceful strolls and the chance to observe locals engaging in traditional activities.

Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - The Forbidden City

After breakfast, our first stop today will be the iconic Tiananmen Square, where Chairman Mao’s tomb lies and various monuments to the people are located. While we won't enter the tomb, we will get to view the exterior.

Following this, we'll enter the *Forbidden City, a magnificent palace complex which served as the seat of power for Chinese emperors over five centuries. With over 800 buildings and 9,000 chambers, this is one of China's best preserved historical treasures. *Tickets to the Forbidden City are limited, see trip notes for more information.

In the afternoon, delve into Beijing's hutongs, a maze-like network of ancient alleyways that form the city's historical core. Wander through these charming lanes, where generations of families have lived, and discover traditional courtyards and compact houses. Afterward, you'll take a leisurely stroll along Wangfujing Pedestrian Street, a renowned shopping avenue at the heart of the city.

In the evening, enjoy a Beijing dining experience by savouring a Peking roast duck dinner, typically enjoyed wrapped in thin pancakes, with spring onions and hoisin sauce!

Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 - The Great Wall of China

Today, prepare for an exciting journey to the iconic Great Wall of China. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Wall stands as an enduring symbol of Chinese civilization and ingenuity. Initially constructed for defensive purposes, it snakes an impressive 6,700 kilometers across diverse terrains and towering mountains.

We'll be visiting the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall, known as the "Yellow Flower Great Wall." Its name originates from the vibrant yellow wildflowers that bloom along the wall during specific seasons. What sets Huanghuacheng apart is that a portion of the wall is partially submerged underwater. We'll embark on a scenic hike along the wall, offering breathtaking views and a deeper understanding of the structure's historical significance.

This evening promises an enchanting spectacle as we attend a Chinese acrobatic performance. These skilled artists will leave you spellbound with their gravity-defying feats.

Overnight: Beijing
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Welcome to Luoyang

Beijing - Luoyang. After breakfast this morning, we'll head to the railway station for a comfortable 2nd class high-speed train journey to Luoyang, which will take approximately 4-4.5 hours. Luoyang is one of the four ancient Chinese capitals, renowned for its magnificent peony blooms and the celestial Longmen Caves.

After meeting our local guide and enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, prepare to be captivated by the Longmen Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These remarkable caves are perched densely along the cliffs lining the Yi River, and they house the world's most extensive collection of celestial art treasures, boasting the largest array of statues to be found anywhere on Earth. This enduring art form, etched into the stone, has not only withstood the test of time but has also borne witness to the reign of over 10 dynasties spanning more than 1,400 years.

In the evening, we'll take a stroll through Old City Shizi Steet, a renowned food street in old city Luoyang. Here, you'll have the chance to follow tantalizing aromas and sample a wide variety of local flavours.

Overnight: Luoyang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 - Xiyuan Park & Shaolin Monastery

Today will begin with a visit to the vibrant Xiyuan Park. Here, residents gather to dance and sing, infusing the park with a lively burst of morning energy. It's an excellent opportunity to observe and perhaps even join in the joyful morning activities that reflect the spirit of the community.

Afterwards, brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure as we head to the legendary Shaolin Monastery, renowned as the reputed birthplace of Chinese martial arts. This sacred temple is not only a spiritual haven but also the epicenter of Kung Fu mastery. Witness a mesmerising performance that promises to entertain and awe. The skills and discipline of these martial artists are sure to leave a lasting impression.

As the day comes to an end, we'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, allowing you to indulge in the flavours of Luoyang cuisine.

Overnight: Luoyang
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 - The Train to Xi'an

Luoyang - Xi'an. Rise and shine, today we'll catch an early morning train bound for Xi'an. Enjoy a swift yet scenic journey as we head toward this ancient city. Upon arriving in Xi'an, we'll start our day with a bike ride along the Xi'an City Wall. This remarkable structure stands as one of the oldest and best-preserved among the few remaining Chinese city walls.

Afterwards, get ready for the sensory delights of Xi'an's Muslim Quarter, a bustling neighbourhood in the heart of the city. Here, the air is thick with the mouthwatering aromas of sizzling lamb skewers and fragrant spices emanating from the food stalls that line the narrow alleys. Engage with the warm and welcoming locals, witness their skilled craftsmanship in action, and let the diverse flavours tantalize your taste buds.

Not far from the Muslim Quarter, discover the majestic courtyard of the Gao Family. Within these hallowed walls, a unique spectacle awaits—a 15-minute shadow puppetry show, an art form believed to originate from this province. These performances breathe life into simple yet vibrant leather or paper figures, spinning enchanting narratives that have captivated audiences for generations.

Then, pay your respects at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a serene contrast to the bustling Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Within this peaceful Buddhist complex, you'll discover intriguing exhibits in the Xi'an Museum.

Tonight, roll up your sleeves and try your hand at making dumplings, a local delicacy that is also a true form of culinary art. Enjoy the delicious dumplings you've created, accompanied by a refreshing drink.

Overnight: Xi'an
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 - Terracotta Warriors

Xi'an - Chengdu. Our day begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army and Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This remarkable collection of terracotta sculptures depicts the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. These life-sized figures were meticulously modeled after actual soldiers of the Qin Army, displaying incredible attention to detail. The army consists of an astounding 8,000 life-size soldiers, 100 chariots, and 600 horses, and each figure is unique. The purpose of this vast army was to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, entombed within a massive mausoleum complex.

Next, you'll have the opportunity to visit a Terracotta Warrior Factory. Here, you can delve deeper into the intricate production process, which remains unchanged since the time of the Qin Dynasty. Gain insights into the techniques behind these captivating artworks, adding a layer of appreciation to these ancient treasures.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we'll hop on a second-class high-speed train bound for Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. This dynamic city is famous for being the home of China's beloved pandas and a hotspot for spicy cuisine. Chengdu showcases China's relaxed and easygoing way of life, promising an enjoyable experience over the next few days.

Overnight: Chengdu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9 - Meet the Pandas

Today's the day you'll get to meet China's famous fuzzy mascots - the panda! After breakfast, we'll take a short drive out of town to visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

China's giant pandas are considered the most endangered mammals on the planet, with less than 1500 remaining in the wild. Of this number, 80% of them are located in Sichuan Province. This center is dedicated to breeding, research, and education. The facility covers over 92 acres, providing ample space for giant pandas and other rare and endangered animals. While here, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Panda nursery to get close to the center's infant population!

After the panda visit, explore the Wenshu Monastery, built during the Qing Dynasty under the guidance of Zen Master Ci Du Hai Yue in 1697. Make sure to visit the teahouse located inside the temple grounds, where you can enjoy a fine cup of green tea and some of the best vegetarian food in the city. Afterwards, we'll head to Jinli Street, an ancient pedestrian street in the old city, filled with food stalls and vendors of every description. We'll also visit the Wuhou Memorial Temple, a peaceful temple set amongst expansive gardens.

In the evening, enjoy an unmissable Chengdu experience – a hotpot dinner! Chengdu is renowned for its hotpot, which offers a unique combination of spiciness and numbing flavors.

Overnight: Chengdu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10 - The Great Buddha of Leshan

This morning, we'll embark on a trip to the Great Buddha of Leshan, which is close to Chengdu. Marvel at the iconic colossal Buddha statue, and don't forget to join the queue for a brief boat ride on the Minjiang River to capture a panoramic view of the Giant Buddha in all its glory. The statue is carved into the red sandstone face of Lingyun Hill and overlooks the treacherous confluence of the Min, Qingyi, and Dadu rivers below it. The dimensions of the Buddha are immense, with 8 meter feet, 7 meter drooping ears, a 28 meter span of shoulders, and a 5.6 meter nose.

Afterwards, we'll enjoy lunch, and if time permits, make a stop at the ancient town of Huanglongxi on our way back to Chengdu. Huanglongxi offers a glimpse into the past with its quaint streets, traditional architecture, cobbled pathways, age-old temples, and bustling market stalls.

Tonight, enjoy the evening at leisure. You can relax, explore the city further, try local foods or even consider attending a Sichuan Opera performance at the Shufengyayun Theatre!

Overnight: Chengdu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11 - Goodbye

Monday. Today marks the conclusion of your remarkable China adventure, full of cultural wonders and tasty delicacies. After breakfast and 12pm hotel check-out, make your own way to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Pre-Tour Accommodation - Shanghai (From price)

Double

R 885per passenger

Twin

R 885per passenger

Single

R 1,775per passenger

Post-Tour Accommodation - Chengdu (From price)

Double

R 1,125per passenger

Twin

R 1,125per passenger

Single

R 2,255per passenger

Additional Excursions

Enhance your tour with these optional extras, helping you to get the most from your adventure.

A traditional wooden pavilion and walkway in the attractive Yu Yuan Gardens in Shanghai
Full Day Shanghai City Tour

Discover some of Shanghai's most famous and intriguing sites on this Full Day Shanghai City tour. Stroll through the magnificent Yu Garden, marvel at the two Jade Buddha statues at the most popular Buddhist Temple in the city, visit a silk factory, admire colonial-era buildings at the Bund, and explore trendy Xintiandi and the French Concession.

R 3,185

per passenger
The traditional timber buildings of Zhujiajiao water town near Shanghai
Full Day Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour

Join us on a full day tour to Zhujiajiao, a charming water town on the outskirts of Shanghai!

R 3,785

per passenger
Suzhou's picturesque canals in China
Full Day Suzhou Tour

Join this full day tour to Suzhou, a city west of Shanghai that is known for its great beauty, including lakes, rivers, ponds, and wonderous gardens nestled amidst scenic hills. Today, we will visit the UNESCO-listed Humble Administrator's Garden, Pinjiang Road, take a boat trip along the Grand Canal, and visit a silk factory enroute back to Shanghai.

R 4,595

per passenger

Daytime Chengdu Airport (CTU) Departure Transfer (max. 3 pax)

R 2,585

per passenger

Nighttime Chengdu Airport (CTU) Departure Transfer (max. 3 pax)

R 3,375

per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Hongkou
Shanghai

SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Hongkou boasts a convenient location near the Wujiaochang business district, Fudan University, and Tongji University, all accessible within 10 minutes by car. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms ensuring a comfortable stay with 'KingKoil' mattresses and tropical rainforest showers. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast at the Four Seasons Garden Restaurant, and the hotel's proximity to Quyang Road Station (Subway Line 8) makes exploring Shanghai's attractions, including the Hongkou Football field, the Bund, and Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street, a breeze.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Dong Fang Hotel Beijing
Beijing

Dong Fang Hotel Beijing, nestled in Beijing's Cultural Tourism District, offers a rich cultural experience with its proximity to historical attractions. Comprising of three distinct buildings from 1918, 1953, and 1985, this Republic of China-themed hotel seamlessly blends nostalgia with classic charm. Guests can savor traditional Shandong cuisine at the 'Flavor 1918 restaurant'.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
New Friendship Hotel
Luoyang

The New Friendship is a modern hotel with a beautiful garden of bridges, brooks and peonies. The practical rooms are cosy and comfortable with modern amenities including internet access. The hotel is on Xiyuan Road, a few blocks from Wancheng Park and the museum. It is 15km from the airport and 7km from the railway station.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Titan Times Hotel
Xi'an

Titan Times Hotel offers luxury and convenience, featuring 350 suites, each equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and modern conveniences. Guests can enjoy a daily express breakfast in the restaurant and relax with a drink at the lounge bar. The Titan Times Hotel also offers a health club for leisure and a business center for professional needs. The hotel, standing by the ancient city wall and near the west gate's main traffic road, boasts an advantageous location. Titan Times Hotel ensures excellent quality and a superior experience, welcoming guests to enjoy their stay.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel
Xi'an

Located a stone’s throw away from the Ancient City Wall and Islamic Mosque, is the Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel. The hotel offers modern comforts in the heart of the city. Each air-conditioned guestroom features WiFi, a minibar and satellite TV. There is an onsite restaurant which serves a daily buffet or a la carte breakfast as well as a variety of Asian and Western dishes. During free time, guests can enjoy a relaxing massage or work out in the fitness centre.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Dorsett Chengdu
Chengdu

Dorsett Chengdu offers 556 spacious guest rooms and suites, blending modern amenities with warm hospitality. For leisure, there's a 24-hour gym and a games room with chess. The rooms feature contemporary decor with subtle Asian touches, bay windows for city views and natural light, and plush bedding. The hotel's amenities include an executive lounge, a well-equipped ballroom, and various function rooms, Dining options include Fuyuexuan Chinese Restaurant, offering Cantonese and Sichuan cuisines, and Yue Rong Cafe, serving international dishes to suit every palate.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

All dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 4 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
20 Dec - 30 Dec
Save 35%
Sold Out
Sold Out
2025
Twin/Double
Single
7 Mar - 17 Mar
Save 35%
R 73,235R 47,603
R 91,895R 59,732
21 Mar - 31 Mar
Save 35%
R 73,235R 47,603
R 91,895R 59,732
28 Mar - 7 Apr
Save 35%
R 73,235R 47,603
R 91,895R 59,732
11 Apr - 21 Apr
Save 35%
R 73,235R 47,603
R 91,895R 59,732
18 Apr - 28 Apr
Save 35%
R 73,235R 47,603
R 91,895R 59,732
25 Apr - 5 May
Save 35%
R 73,235R 47,603
R 91,895R 59,732
2 May - 12 May
Save 35%
R 73,235R 47,603
R 91,895R 59,732
16 May - 26 May
Save 35%
R 77,485R 50,366
R 93,555R 60,811
2026
Twin/Double
Single
13 Mar - 23 Mar
Save 35%
R 76,755R 49,891
R 96,725R 62,872
27 Mar - 6 Apr
Save 35%
R 76,755R 49,891
R 96,725R 62,872
3 Apr - 13 Apr
Save 35%
R 76,755R 49,891
R 96,725R 62,872
10 Apr - 20 Apr
Save 35%
R 76,755R 49,891
R 96,725R 62,872
17 Apr - 27 Apr
Save 35%
R 76,755R 49,891
R 96,725R 62,872
24 Apr - 4 May
Save 35%
R 76,755R 49,891
R 96,725R 62,872
1 May - 11 May
Save 35%
R 76,755R 49,891
R 96,725R 62,872

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