Rivers, Gorges & Pandas

Days 1 & 2. Yichang [D (Day 2 only)]

Depart London on the overnight flight to Shanghai and a commuting service to the middle reaches of the Yangtze River where you will be met and taken to a 5-star Yangtze River Boat, for four nights cruising up the Yangtze River through the spectacular and remote Three Gorges region.

Days 3 to 5. Cruising [B, L, D]

Pass through the east part of Xiling Gorge. Take a shore excursion to view the Three Gorges Dam. Learn at first hand about the environmental and social implications before passing through the five stage ship lock. Gaze up at the towering sides of the Xiling Gorge and disembark to take a boat trip up the Shennong Stream in traditional wooden boats poled by the local tribes people. Numerous birds and monkeys live amongst the cracks in vertical rock faces and mysterious hanging coffins rest in niches far above. Continue upstream and sail through the Wu and the Qutang gorges.

The river is the major transport route through the mountains and watching the numerous barges and ferries passing in the turbulent waters is an experience in itself. Various talks and demonstrations on Chinese culture, nature and history will be given throughout the cruise, but you may prefer to simply sit on deck and watch the scenery, towns and villages pass by.

Day 6. Chongqing & Chengdu [B, L, D]

Arrive into the city of Chongqing early this morning. This hilly city has historically been of strategic importance as the gateway to Sichuan Province. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Chengdu where you stay in a 4-star hotel overnight.

Day 7. Wolong Nature Reserve [B, L, D]

Today, drive outside the city to the wildlife reserve at Wolong. An International Biosphere Reserve, Wolong protects Giant Pandas, Golden Monkeys, Golden Langurs, Muntjac Deer and Snow Leopard. This afternoon you can visit the panda enclosures and the ecology museum before checking into the Panda Inn for two nights.

Click here for a recent customer review of a trip to Photograph Wolong's Pandas - including some wonderful images.

Day 8. Shanghai [B,L]

Spend this morning in the Panda Enclosure at Wolong before heading back to Chengdu in the afternoon and flying to Shanghai later in the day. On arrival you will be transferred to a 4-star hotel for the night.

Day 9. Homeward [B]

Fly back to London, arriving later today.

Hands-on Panda care

Extend your trip to Wolong Reserve and have the chance to help out in the breeding area of the reserve. Tasks are changeable but under the guidance and supervision of Chinese zoologists you can help to feed and care for mature or baby pandas. Please ask us for further details.