Journeys: Pandas & the Peaks of Zhangjiajie - 10 Days



Who is this trip for
Age range
12 - 100Start / End
- Shanghai
- Hong Kong
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
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Summary
China’s past and present contrasts are as epic as its landscapes—and this 10-day journey captures the best of both. From the futuristic skyline of Shanghai to the misty peaks of Zhangjiajie National Park, you’ll explore a country where modern energy meets ancient beauty. Ride the world’s highest outdoor elevator and float through the dreamy karst mountains of the Li River. In Chengdu, go behind the scenes at a giant panda research centre and learn about the conservation efforts protecting these beloved animals. End in vibrant Hong Kong and reflect on the unforgettable moments and experiences that connect you to the heart of China.
Itinerary
Day 1
SHANGHAI
This evening, gather for a welcome meeting and a walk around the famous Bund, an iconic waterfront promenade listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 2
SHANGHAI / ZHANGJIAJIE
Catch a morning flight to Zhangjiajie–an otherworldly landscape, where 1,000-meter quartzite pillars rise above misty valleys. We’ll spend the next 3 nights in this dreamlike region exploring some of China’s most incredible natural phenomena.
Day 3
ZHANGJIAJIE
Spend the day at the UNESCO World Heritage Site–listed Zhangjiajie National Forest. We’ll soar beside the misty peaks on the Tianzi Mountain cable car and stop to admire an amazing view at Yuanjiajie, known as the Hallelujah Mountains, which inspired the Disney film Avatar. Then, drive and do some hiking to see the various lookout points before descending the cliffside in the Bailong elevator–the world’s tallest outdoor elevator.
Day 4
ZHANGJIAJIE
Head to Tianmen Shan National Park, home of one of the longest cable cars in the world. Take the cable car up Tianmen Shan Mountain to the Heavenly Gate. Gaze through the natural rock arch carving to see the sun shine through and learn of its legendary folklore. For those with an adventurous side, step onto the glass skywalk, a clear bridge that hugs the edge of the cliff to make an amazing view even better. As we head back down to the bottom, the adventure continues with a series of escalators and cable cars for one last chance to marvel at the beautiful landscape.
Day 5
ZHANGJIAJIE / CHENGDU
This morning, take a high speed train to Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan Province. Later, explore People’s Park, the first public park in the city where local life is on full display. Walk through the beautiful green space to see teahouses and lotus ponds while people play mahjong, drink tea and practice calligraphy. Surrounded by koi ponds and bonsai gardens, relish the chance to immerse yourself in Chengdu’s laid-back lifestyle. Tonight, the culture-filled day in Chengdu continues with its world-renowned cuisine as the focus. Hot pot is on the menu–a delicious, family-style bubbling broth that cooks meat and veggies for a personalized and incredible soup experience. You’ll quickly learn why Sichuan is one of China’s most celebrated culinary regions.
Day 6
CHENGDU
Drive out of the city to the Dujiangyan Panda Base, a national conservation and research centre dedicated to supporting the panda population from extinction. You’ll have the opportunity to meet with a local conservationist who will share insight into the centre’s efforts as well as introduce the pandas. Learn about their habits, diet and behaviour as they play and munch bamboo. Our local expert will share how programs like this research center have improved the population numbers of wild pandas as discussed in the National Geographic article “Giant Pandas 101,”. We’ll leave with a newfound inspiration to your own role in wildlife conservation around the world as we return to Chengdu for a free afternoon to explore or rest.
Day 7
CHENGDU / YANGSHUO
After breakfast, take the train out of the city to the beautiful town of Yangshuo. Nestled between sky-scraping limestone pillars and green rice paddies, enjoy the slower lifestyle where tradition and custom thrive. Life along the Li River is one of the most enchanting and inspiring places in the world, as recognised in the National Geographic book “The 10 Best of Everything: Top 10 Watery Wonders.” Arrive in the evening and enjoy the remainder of the day to rest.
Day 8
YANGSHUO
Float down the Li River on a bamboo raft past the towering karst mountains and lush fields for an exciting and tranquil morning. This beautiful place will have you feeling inspired and moved as did poets and painters who have journeyed here before us looking for inspiration. Lunch will be served at Jia Community Restaurant, a the tour operator-supported initiative where local female farmers curate meals full of traditional flavors blended with international cuisine and locally sourced ingredients. After, visit the Qixianfeng Tea Plantation learning about each step of the ancient Chinese art of tea. From picking the leaves, to the traditional techniques of hand-frying passed down through generations, then finishing with a tea ceremony. Today, you’ll explore the historic heritage and natural wonder that makes Yangshuo so special.
Day 9
YANGSHUO / HONG KONG
Board a bullet train for Hong Kong, a city steeped in history, opulence and a unique blend of international influence. Tonight, sit together for a dinner of dim sum (small savoury and sweet dumplings) and yum cha (tea). These flavorful, steamed favorites, a mix of tradition and culinary artistry, are often filled with shrimp, pork, crab roe, pork and more. After dark, make our way to Victoria Harbor for the famous light show–the Symphony of Lights. This dazzling show will light up the already impressive Hong Kong skyline. Then, walk along the harbor and enjoy your last night together.
Day 10
HONG KONG
Depart at any time.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotel (9 nts)
Meals
Breakfasts: 9, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 3
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
May 26
from £2,331Jun 26
from £2,253Jul 26
from £2,253Sep 26
from £2,331Oct 26
from £2,184Nov 26
from £2,184Mar 27
from £2,184Apr 27
from £2,184May 27
from £2,184Jun 27
from £2,184Jul 27
from £2,184Aug 27
from £2,184Sep 27
from £2,184Oct 27
from £2,184Nov 27
from £2,184Dec 27
from £2,184
- Save 2%Fri 14 May 2027 > Sun 23 May 2027Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£2,229Best offer£2,184Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Fri 21 May 2027 > Sun 30 May 2027Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£2,229Best offer£2,184Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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