To view images fullscreen please turn device
Southern China Explorer: From Megacities to Mountain Realms
Group Tour
Overview
The subtropical landscapes of southern China differ in many ways from the imperial heartlands of the north. Away from the deserts and snow-capped peaks lies a land of lush and verdant rice fields and spectacular karst landscapes that benefit from the milder winters and longer summers. Its language and cuisine too offer up a more subtle distinction from its northern rival, whilst its glittering modern cities follow an entrepreneurial spirit that can trace its origins back to a time when the trading ...
The subtropical landscapes of southern China differ in many ways from the imperial heartlands of the north. Away from the deserts and snow-capped peaks lies a land of lush and verdant rice fields and spectacular karst landscapes that benefit from the milder winters and longer summers. Its language and cuisine too offer up a more subtle distinction from its northern rival, whilst its glittering modern cities follow an entrepreneurial spirit that can trace its origins back to a time when the trading routes of the south eclipsed those of the Silk Road.
Beginning in Chongqing, we embark on a journey of discovery that takes us through a land scattered with the relics and reminders of China’s imperial, communist and religious heritage. We travel by Bullet Train and bamboo raft, enjoy dazzling cityscapes and experience the natural beauty of some of the most diverse and spectacular vistas on earth. UNESCO Heritage Sites, sumptuous regional food and unforgettable cultural experiences await around every corner.
Set against the backdrop of timeless iconic scenery and innovative modern achievement, this is a journey that lays bare the historic and modern heart of Southern China, where each day is a true feast for the senses.
HIGHLIGHTS
At a glance
MEALS
TRANSPORT
Mini Buses, Bullet Train & River Ferry
GROUP SIZE
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
3 nights x Standard
ENTRANCE FEES
FITNESS RATING
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wherever possible we aim to use characterful accommodation that enhances the overall travel experience. This can obviously vary greatly across both countries and tours. On this particular trip we will be in hotels. Please note that the accommodation mentioned in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is always subject to availability.
FITNESS RATING
LOW: You should be comfortable walking around towns and cultural sites. May include some optional walks (typically 1-2hrs).LOW/MODERATE: May be of a long duration and/or involve numerous border-crossings. May include easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-3hrs/day). You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle.
MODERATE: May include several easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-5hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle. Previous experience of similar trips helpful.
MODERATE/HIGH: May involve several days of moderate hiking (up to 3-6 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
HIGH: May involve several days of moderate/strenuous trekking (up to 4-7 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a very fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
Map & Itinerary
Individual departures may vary so please refer to the information in the tour specific links in the Dates and Prices section below
Day 1 Tour Starts in Chongqing
Day 1 Tour Starts in Chongqing
Rooms will be available in Chongqing from this afternoon. Sandwiched between the Sichuan Basin and the lower reaches of the Yangtze, Chongqing was once the provisional wartime capital during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1946), it also became one of the last strongholds of Chiang Kai-shek’s Nationalist Kuomintang during the subsequent Chinese Civil War of the late 1940s. Chongqing today is one the world's most distinctive megacities and is often described as 'Cyberpunk' in its aesthetic. Tonight, we will enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2 Chongqing: City Tour
Day 2 Chongqing: City Tour
Chongqing has a resident population of over 30 million making it, by the standards defined by the United Nations, the largest city in the world by population. It is also home to some quite remarkable urban enigmas. Today we will spend our first full day here discovering trains crossing through buildings, take a walking tour through the glittering Jiefangbei Business District to Raffles City and enjoy the dazzling evening views of Hongyadong from Qiansimen Bridge. Dinner will then be taken at a Hot Pot restaurant on the Nanbin Road, where we can enjoy the city vistas by night.
Day 3 Chongqing: Dazu Rock Carvings & River Cruise
Day 3 Chongqing: Dazu Rock Carvings & River Cruise
After breakfast this morning we will drive out to the Dazu Rock Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 7th century AD. Influenced by Buddhist, Confucian and Taoist beliefs, some 50,000 statues and carvings lie scattered across 75 protected sites within the steep hillsides. From here we move on to explore the historic streets and charming architecture of Ciqikou Old Town, on the banks of the Jialing River, before returning to the city to enjoy an evening meal followed by a night boat cruise on the Yangtze River, taking in the sights and sounds of Chongqing.
Day 4 Chongqing - Furong: Ancient Waterfall Town
Day 4 Chongqing - Furong: Ancient Waterfall Town
Departing Chongqing this morning, we board the early Bullet Train on to Zhangjiajie, set amongst the subtropical and temperate forests of northwest Hunan. On arrival we will then head towards the historic town of Furong, scenically located amongst the mountains that lie along the You River. Originally home to the ethnic Tujia people, Furong’s traditional stilted wooden architecture is built around a dramatic waterfall that flows into the You and, as dusk falls, glowing lanterns create a quite magical atmosphere around the town.
Day 5 Furong - Zhangjiajie: Tianmen Mountain
Day 5 Furong - Zhangjiajie: Tianmen Mountain
Our destination this morning is the heavenly mountain of Tianmen, set within the Tianmen Mountain National Park. On arrival, we board the express cableway up to Tianmen Cave and continue up to the summit by way of a ‘trans-mountain escalator’. The cable way is claimed to be the longest of its type in the world, with a total length of some 7,455 metres. Sections of the walkway are also made of glass, making it an incredibly immersive journey to the top. After a visit to the Tianmen shan Temple we descend back to the Tianmen Cave and continue the rest of the journey down by shuttle bus.
Day 6 Zhangjiajie: Discover the Landscapes of Avatar
Day 6 Zhangjiajie: Discover the Landscapes of Avatar
Part of the UNESCO accredited Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park was believed to be the inspiration for the floating mountain landscapes in the movie ‘Avatar’. China’s first national forest park, its towering quartzite pillars provide a spectacular backdrop for our full day’s exploration of the park. Beginning with the 326-metre Bailong Elevator to the top, we then take a walking tour of Yuanjiajie and visit Tianzi Mountain, returning back down by way of the mountain’s cable car system. The day then ends with a walk along the Golden Whip Stream.
Please note: walking distance will be 6km of easy walking in total.
Day 7 Zhangjiajie: Grand Canyon & Rainbow Lake Cruise
Day 7 Zhangjiajie: Grand Canyon & Rainbow Lake Cruise
Zhangjiajie’s magnificent ‘Grand Canyon’ is spanned by one of the world’s largest and tallest glass-bottomed bridges. Suspended some 300 metres above the canyon, the bridge is 430 metres long and provides a spectacular aerial view of the forests, caves and waterfalls that lie scattered throughout the valley. Descending by a scenic elevator, we then join our boat cruise amongst the tranquil waters of Rainbow Lake, hemmed in as it is by towering limestone cliffs, before we end our visit with a scenic walk inside the canyon to the exit.
Day 8 Zhangjiajie - Changsha: Hunan Museum & Orange Isle
Day 8 Zhangjiajie - Changsha: Hunan Museum & Orange Isle
The morning Bullet Train gets us into Changsha, capital of Hunan Province, in time for lunch today. After enjoying a fortifying stop, we then head out this afternoon to visit the Hunan Museum. Changsha can trace its heritage back to the Bronze Age and during the Han period (206BC - 200AD) it rose to prominence as the centre of a separate Changsha Kingdom. The famous tombs at Ma Wangdui date from this period, including the lacquered coffin of Xin Zhui, a Chinese noblewoman from the Western Han Dynasty (206BC - 9AD). We will also visit Orange Island today, a scenic spot located in the centre of the Xiangjiang River which houses a grand bust of a young Chairman Mao.
Day 9 Changsha: Mao's Hometown of Shaoshan
Day 9 Changsha: Mao's Hometown of Shaoshan
This morning we pay a visit to the birthplace of Mao Zedong at Shaoshan. A significant centre of activity during the Chinese Communist Revolution, Mao is still a popular figure in the area and we will learn more about his early years before he became known as the founding father of modern China. Returning to Changsha we next visit the Yuelu Academy, one of China’s four most prestigious centres of learning over the last 1000 years. A historic centre of Confucian schooling, the academy dates back to the Northern Song Dynasty of the 10th century. Dinner this evening will be centred around Hunan cuisine, known for its dry heat and bold flavours.
Day 10 Changsha - Guilin: Reed Flute Cave & Elephant Trunk Hill
Day 10 Changsha - Guilin: Reed Flute Cave & Elephant Trunk Hill
A Bullet Train to the southwest takes us on towards the beautiful karst landscapes of Guilin this morning. Lying beside the waters of the scenic Li River, Guilin’s majestic scenery has been inspiring poets and artists for millennia. Taking lunch on arrival, this afternoon then sees us heading off to explore the spectacular and colourful limestone formations of Reed Flute Cave which features an array of stalactites and stalagmites. Continuing on to our hotel from there, we then have time to settle in before ending the day with a night tour of the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, glowing magically against the still waters of the Li River.
Day 11 Guilin - Yangshuo: Li River Cruise & Countryside Cycling Tour
Day 11 Guilin - Yangshuo: Li River Cruise & Countryside Cycling Tour
The day begins with a scenic river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. Without doubt one of China’s most breathtaking natural settings, the dramatic karst peaks that rise up from the emerald waters of the Li River create some of southern China’s most iconic landscapes. Enjoying lunch on board, we arrive in Yangshuo later this afternoon, in time to enjoy either a bicycle tour through the surrounding rice paddies and traditional villages, all set against the magnificent backdrop of these remarkable limestone formations, or enjoy a nice walk along the Yu Rivrr and nighbouring villages.
Day 12 Yangshuo: Tai Chi, Cooking Class & Bamboo Rafting
Day 12 Yangshuo: Tai Chi, Cooking Class & Bamboo Rafting
A serene start to the day begins with a Tai Chi session with a master beside the banks of the Li River. This will then be followed by a cookery class in one of the local villages, where we will learn how to make some authentic Guilin cuisine. After enjoying the products of our labours, we then take to the waters on an afternoon bamboo rafting trip along the nearby Yulong River, lazily drifting past the timeless vistas and limestone peaks. Later there will be time to take a stroll down lively West Street, where we can soak up the mix of old and new amongst the shops and cafes of Yangshuo’s oldest thoroughfare.
Day 13 Yangshuo - Guiyang: Tea Tasting & Plantation Visit
Day 13 Yangshuo - Guiyang: Tea Tasting & Plantation Visit
A morning visit to a local tea plantation provides an opportunity to learn more about the traditional cultivation of one of China’s most famous exports, as well as sampling some of the fresh local brews. We then take the high-speed Bullet Train on to Guiyang, arriving later this afternoon, in time to pay a visit to the beautifully lit Jiaxiu Tower, whose landmark three-story tower rises above the waters of the Nanming River. We then end our evening wandering through the bustling food market, sampling some of Guizhou’s famous street food.
Day 14 Guiyang - Huangguoshu: Huaxi Yelang Art Valley & DI Xi Folk Performance
Day 14 Guiyang - Huangguoshu: Huaxi Yelang Art Valley & DI Xi Folk Performance
Huaxi Yelang Valley is a somewhat unique ecological art park, created over the past 20 or so years by local artist, Song Peilun. Featuring massive handmade stone castles and totems, much of it is inspired by the folklore of the ancient Yelang tribes. We then continue on to Tianlong Ancient Castle, positioned along what was once the ancient Shunyuan Post Road of the Yuan Dynasty (1271 - 1368). Steeped in traditions that date back over six centuries, we have an opportunity today to experience a performance of Di Xi, a local folk drama featuring masked performers and colourful costumes. After our visit we complete our journey on to Huangguoshu.
Day 15 Huangguoshu: Stone Village & a Mighty Waterfall
Day 15 Huangguoshu: Stone Village & a Mighty Waterfall
The ancient ethnic village of Shitouzhai translates, quite literally, as ‘Stone Village’. Built entirely from the abundant rock that features so prominently, the village was once the stronghold of the powerful Bozhou clan of the late Ming Dynasty. We will also view the magnificent Huangguoshu Waterfall today, one of the largest in China and East Asia. We finish the day with a visit to the nearby Tianxingqiao Bonsai Garden, a natural bonsai garden (rather than landscaped) famed for its stunning karst formations and winding water pathways.
Day 16 Hunagguoshu - Kunming: The Spring City
Day 16 Hunagguoshu - Kunming: The Spring City
After a leisurely morning we take the midday express train on to Kunming, the 'Spring City'. On arrival in Yunnan’s bustling capital we will then transfer to the colourful Dounan Flower Market on the outskirts of the city. Asia’s largest flower market, Dounan can boast over 300 species of flowers, which on a normal day amounts to between four and six million blooms. Returning to Kunming, we then celebrate our arrival in the city with a traditional crossing-the-bridge rice noodle dinner. Yunnan is home to the largest number of ethnic minority groups in China and, as you might expect, its cuisine reflects this rich cultural mix.
Day 17 Kunming: Stone Forest & Farewell Dinner
Day 17 Kunming: Stone Forest & Farewell Dinner
To the east of Kunming lie the notable limestone formations of the Stone Forest. Reminiscent of stalagmites, with many looking like petrified trees, the area is part of the South China Karst, which falls under the auspices of UNESCO. Following our visit we then drive back to Kunming to enjoy a relaxing stroll through the picturesque landscapes of Green Lake Park. Located in the heart of the city and spanned by bridges built in the traditional Chinese style, the park was originally constructed as a reservoir for the city. Farewell dinner this evening will be at a Yunnanese restaurant near to Green Lake Park.
Day 18 Tour Ends In Kunming
Day 18 Tour Ends In Kunming
The tour ends today. Late check out has been arranged today until 18:00. Those on the suggested group tour flights will have an airport transfer arranged for the late afternoon. Those taking alternative flights have use of the hotel rooms until check-out at 18:00.
ACCOMMODATION USED ON THIS TOUR
Gongguan Hotel, Chongqing
Opened in 2026, the Gongguan Hotel is a stylish four-star hotel located near the historic Eighteen Steps district in Chongqing. Blending neoclassical with old-Shanghai charm, the property offers just 62 guest rooms featuring smart controls and comfortable amenities, and there is a delicious; and a delicious buffet breakfast is provided each morning.
Annai Xizhou Ji Hotel, Furong
Located near to Furong Ancient Town, the Annai Xizhou Ji Hotel is a highly rated property, offering a blend of modern luxury and traditional Tujia-inspired design. Just a short walk from key attractions, it features spacious, tech-equipped guest rooms, with an on-site spa. The included buffet breakfast offers both western dishes and Chinese dishes, showcasing the local cuisine.
Avatar Hilltop Resort, Zhangjiajie
Named after it's proximity to the 'Avatar mountains', the Avatar Hilltop Resort is a beautiful premium property located within walking distance of the Zhangjiajie National Park entrance. Guest rooms are designed with a modern and minimalist style to emphasise the beautiful natural scenery around the property. One of the property's highlights is the glistening infinity swimming pool that overlooks the dramatic landscapes. The ideal property to immerse in the natural splendour of Zhangjiajie.
Wyndham Garden Changsha Yuelu, Changsha
The Wyndham Garden Changsha Yuelu Hotel is a modern property located conveniently for exploring the city's landmarks and historical sights. Guest rooms are designed to be bright and spacious, offering panoramic views of the Changsha skyline. Gia, the property's on site restaurant, offers a buffet breakfast including local Hunanese dishes as well as western staples, and the property offers free Wi=fi throughout.
Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel, Guilin
Located within walking distance of the Sun and Moon pagodas and vibrant Zhengyang Street, Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel is located directly across from the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill and along the banks of the Li River. Guest rooms are equipped with mod cons and there is wi-fi available throughout the property. The on-site restaurant offers a mix of Chinese and western cuisine and the buffet breakfast offers a myriad of dishes, including local dishes such as freshly cooked rice noodles.
Yangshuo Ancient Garden Boutique Hotel, Yangshuo
Yangshuo Ancient Garden Boutique Hotel sits ideally near the confluence of the Li and Yulong rivers, surrounded by breath-taking karst mountains and expansive rice fields. The property is home to an outdoor swimming pool and a pavillion dedicated to Tai Chi and Yoga; and guest rooms are individually decorated, furnished with either a balcony or patio. There are a number of dining options within the property including the option to eat al fresco.
Holiday Inn Express Guiyang Downtown, Guiyang
Modern in design ad conveniently located, the Holiday Inn Express Guiyang Downtown offers a suitable overnight option. Guest rooms are stylish and convenient, equipped with free Wi-fi and blackout curtains for a good night sleep. Buffet breakfast is served daily in an open-dining setting, providing a range of western, Chinese and local Guizhou dishes.
Huangguoshu Yizhai VINVANA, Huangguoshu
Huangguoshu Yizai VINVANA is ideally located a five-minute drive from the iconic Huangguoshu Waterfalls and offers a tranquil retreat, designed in an elegant Chinese aesthetic. Guest rooms offer a bright and spacious sanctuary and the staff provide a warm and friendly welcome and service to your stay. The on site restaurant offers a more local breakfast of Asian, vegetarian and local Guizhou cuisine.
Cachet Boutique Hotel, Kunming
A former rubber factory, the Cachet Boutique Hotel transformed in to a beautiful property right in the heart of Kunming. Each guest room is furnished with a branded matress and luxury bath amenities and free Wi-fi is available throughout the property. Guests can enjoy a dip in the on site indoor swimming pool or unwind with a drink at the lobby bar, and the included breakfast offers western, Chinese and local Kunming dishes.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation displayed here should be taken as a guide only. *Please refer to the Detailed Itinerary of your individual departure for more information.
PRIVATE HOLIDAYS: DATES DON’T FIT?
All group tours can be taken on a private basis.
Additional Details
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Reducing Single Use Plastic
We recognise the environmental issues and challenges around single-use plastic in many countries we visit and are actively working with our partners on the ground to reduce plastic waste on our tours and within the hotels and restaurants we visit. You can help to reduce your personal plastic waste by taking a refillable, filtered water bottle with you on your trip. Filtered water bottles can be refilled from water sources including your hotel room and restaurant taps, drinking fountains and refill stations. Every time you refill your bottle without the use of single-use plastic, you will be helping to reduce waste and protect the environment. Filtered Water Bottles | Wild Frontiers (wildfrontierstravel.com)
Getting There
If you would like us to send you a quote for the suggested tour flights or on any alternative flight that may suit you better, please let us know, noting that for our US clients, we will most likely refer you to one of our preferred partners. For this trip our suggested flights from the UK (subject to change) are shown below.
If you wish to arrange your own flights you are completely free to do so and in this case we can arrange any transfers or supplementary accommodation that you may require. However please note that if you are planning on making your own flight arrangements, we recommend that you first check with us to see if the trip is guaranteed. We then suggest that you purchase flights that are flexible and ideally refundable as due to the nature of adventure travel, itineraries and destination accessibility can change at any time. For more information, please refer to our booking conditions.
For flights operated by Air China, the name on your booking must match your passport exactly, including any middle names. Missing middle names may result in check-in complications and/or delays. If you are booking flights through us, please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport.
Please also note that the Air China website does not currently support online booking management if flights have not been booked directly by the passenger. If you book, or have booked, flights through Wild Frontiers, you will be able to check in to your flight at the airport desk on arrival.
| Flight Code | Departing | Arriving |
|---|---|---|
| CA 0852 | London Gatwick (LGW) 12:35 | Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) 05:45 |
| CA 1429 | Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) 08:45 | Chongqing Airport (CKG) 11:45 |
| CA 8538 | Kunming Airport (KMG) 19:40 | Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) 22:45 |
| CA 0847 | Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) 01:40 | London Gatwick (LGW) 07:00 |
Visas & Vaccinations
VISAS
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for China for up to 30 days. This visa-free policy is currently in place until 31st December 2026 and there are hopes that it will be continued beyond that date. However if it isn’t, then UK passport holders will require a visa.
Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour and have two blank pages for visas and stamping.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to China.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is a mandatory requirement for all travellers to China arriving/transiting from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.
For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.
If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Extensions
If you have more time available, why not arrive early to adjust to a new time zone or just to get a feel for the country before your tour starts? Alternatively, you might choose to allow a few extra days after the tour to relax or to undertake some further exploration.
The choice is completely yours and we can usually arrange anything from simply additional accommodation and transfers to full tailor-made itineraries*. Please contact the office for more details and to discuss your requirements.
*Please note bespoke, tailor-made itineraries need to be a minimum of 7 days and we can only offer them in countries where we have a tailor-made expert
Northern & Western China
Fancy seeing some of China's most iconic sights, including: the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors and Giant Pandas? Why not start your China adventure on our China: From Imperial Capitals to Wild Sichuan tour, which connects perfectly with this tour on a selection of dates.Governmental Travel Advice
Many governments issue advice which highlights potential hazards their citizens might experience when travelling abroad. We strongly suggest you refer to your country’s particular advisory site before booking and contact us if you have any queries or concerns. Click to follow links to the advice of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the US State Department.
Non-UK citizens should consult the travel advice of their respective governments.
Key Information
CLIMATE
Southern China has a generally milder, greener and more humid climate compared to northern China. Chongqing is known for its seasonal weather whereas Zhangjiajie has a subtropical climate, though its mountainous landscapes can bring cooler temperatures. Guilin and Yangshuo offer warm, lush and sometimes misty landscapes whereas Guiyang offers relatively cool and comfortable weather all year round due to its higher elevation. Kunming is known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' and enjoys one of China's most pleasant climates all year round.
IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?
It may sound obvious, but not all Wild Frontiers tours are the same, and it is important that you choose a tour which is suitable for you. To help you decide and ensure you choose a suitable tour, please refer to our helpful guide here. As a minimum, you should make sure that you read the day-by-day itinerary and the Key Aspects to Consider sections carefully. Should you still have any concerns about your ability to partake in any aspect of the tour, then please contact us.
KEY ASPECTS TO CONSIDER
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour.
Only eco shuttle buses are allowed to operate in Zhangjiajie National Park and usually run every 15 minutes. When the park is busy, we might need to wait longer before getting on a bus. There are three optional routes at Tianmen Mountain National Park and we will arrange the less busy option at the time of travel, to reduce waiting times. For those who do not wish to cross the Glass Bridge at Zhangjiajie National Park, there is an option to walk down wooden boardwalk steps to the bottom of the canyon. These steps can be narrow at times. As today’s visit to Zhangjiajie National Park includes cable car rides and sections of glass walkways at significant heights, guests who are prone to vertigo or a fear of heights may find some areas challenging.
Please note there are sections of the itinerary which include uneven, inclined an sometimes slippy steps so we encourage you to practice caution. We recommend you wear non-slip shoes when visiting the Reed Flute Caves in Guilin and the Huangguoshu Waterfall.
At the Kunming Stone Forest, the path is made of natural stone steps of varying height and width. Sometimes the path is steep and it is often necessary to lower your head and turn sideways to pass through narrower sections.
We have designed this itinerary to try and take clients away from the beaten track where possible, however please do note that China has a thriving domestic tourism market, and as such, world-famous sights in China can be very crowded at times, such as in Chongqing and in Zhangjiajie National Park. We have worked the itinerary to do our best to avoid the most crowded periods where possible.
RECCE TOURS
As we all know, the world is a constantly changing place - destinations & routes that were once cutting-edge now regularly find themselves appearing in mainstream brochures. Coming up with truly original tour ideas is a constant challenge but at Wild Frontiers we are committed to offering you a real alternative to the mainstream and each year we run a handful of new and original adventures. These are our so-called Recce Tours and since the very beginning have proven incredibly popular with those of you who like to act as our “guinea pigs” and join us on these tours. Fantastic fun and highly rewarding, Recce Tours will assuredly not go 100% to plan and it is not uncommon for clients to take an active role in tweaking the itineraries along the way. More challenging than our normal tours, these will often require a greater degree of flexibility...they will not be for everyone.
THE NATURE OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL
We feel that it’s worth pointing out that while we will always strive to stick as close to the stated itinerary as possible, it may be necessary from time to time to make changes to our itineraries or services (due to weather, political and religious influences etc.) and this can happen with little or no notice. This unpredictability can be one of the most exciting aspects of adventure travel and for many of our clients often leads to unexpected highlights as the tour-leader necessarily adapts the tour to the changing conditions. However we are aware that this lack of assuredness may not suit everyone. As such, with the greatest respect, if you are someone who needs to know that everything will happen exactly as planned, we would kindly suggest that perhaps our tours are not for you. Adventure travel can be infectious and once you’ve caught the bug, it is likely to never leave you, but especially if this is your first such tour we would strongly urge you to give us a call if you have any concerns whatsoever about your suitability for this trip.
TRAVELLING SOLO AND SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
INSURANCE
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
General Information
TOUR PRICE
All our tours are priced on a land-only basis, giving you maximum flexibility when deciding how to get to and from your tour.
DEPOSIT
A 10% deposit is required to confirm your booking.
PROTECTION FOR YOUR MONEY
For further details please see our travelling with peace of mind page
WILD MILES
This tour will earn you 10632 Wild Miles
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
WILD FRONTIERS COMMUNITY
If you’re still not sure if this trip is right or just want to see get some different perspectives, then why not have a look at the wide variety of resources we have on our website? Browse our community section to read our blogs, watch videos and find out about our events.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
We are frequently asked what makes Wild Frontiers different from other tour operators. Visit our Why Wild Frontiers page to find out.