Journeys: Pandas & the Peaks of Zhangjiajie - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the 'Journeys: Pandas & the Peaks of Zhangjiajie' tour?

  This tour offers a journey through China's contrasting past and present. You'll marvel at the towering karst peaks and glass walkways in Zhangjiajie National Park, visit a Giant Panda research centre to learn about conservation, drift down the Li River on a bamboo raft, and explore the futuristic energy of Shanghai and the cultural fusion of Hong Kong.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation for this tour is in hotels for 9 nights. Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators, requiring you to carry luggage up stairs.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch (at Jia Community Restaurant in Yangshuo), and 3 dinners (including a Chengdu Hot Pot Dinner and a Dim Sum Dinner in Hong Kong).

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be accompanied by an English-speaking Chinese Chief Experience Officer (CEO). Their role is to facilitate your travels, provide information on the places visited, offer suggestions for activities and dining, and introduce you to local insights.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers, or can I share accommodation?

  We aim to ensure solo travelers do not pay more. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation where single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex, without an additional single supplement. If you opt for the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

• What forms of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, planes (for internal flights), cable cars, shuttle buses, walking, bullet trains, bamboo boats, and ferries.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for China and Hong Kong?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Visa requirements vary by nationality. For China, you may need an official Letter of Invitation (LOI) to apply for your visa, which can be obtained through our visa support agent. It is your personal responsibility to ensure you have the correct and up-to-date travel documentation.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The currency in China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). While common payment methods are apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay, we strongly recommend carrying some cash as a backup, as credit cards or mobile apps may not always work, especially outside major cities. It is advised to set up WeChat Pay or Alipay on your device and link a credit/debit card prior to arrival, along with a data roaming package for local payments.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. It's recommended to pack loose, lightweight, long clothing suitable for hot and humid climates. When visiting temples or other holy sites, please dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• Will I have internet access in China?

  Due to internet restrictions in mainland China, some popular websites and applications, including social media sites like Facebook and email services like Gmail, may not work. It may be possible to access some of these websites using a VPN, so it's suggested you research and prepare for this before your departure.

• Are there any health considerations or required inoculations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and any personal medical requirements, as leaders are prohibited from administering drugs and medical facilities may be remote.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. You must have medical coverage, with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Your Expedition Leader will require evidence of your travel insurance.

• Are there any specific notices regarding travel during certain periods?

  Golden Week, which falls between October 1st and 7th each year, is a major national holiday in China. This is a very busy time for domestic tourists, so expect crowding at major attractions. We recommend booking these dates well in advance as accommodations and transportation availability can be extremely limited.

• Are there any items prohibited on trains and metro in China?

  Yes, prohibited items on China's trains and metro include any knives or scissors, items with an unpleasant odor (e.g., Durian), open liquor bottles (new, sealed bottles are permitted), and pressurized/flammable containers over 120ml. For trains to/from Guangxi Province, Floria Water and self-heating food items are also prohibited.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Traditionally, tipping is not expected in restaurants or general interactions in China. However, it is customary, though not compulsory, in the tourism industry. Recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers range from 1 to 3 USD per person per day. If you feel your National Geographic Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, a guideline of 5 USD per person per day is appreciated as a personal preference.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There may be times when you need to do your own laundry, so we suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap.