Secrets of Southwest China (Yunnan & Sichuan)
As two of the most fascinating, diverse and colourful provinces in China, Yunnan and Sichuan are utopias of wonder, from the lofty peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the colourful calcite pools of Huanglong, to the lovable nature of the Giant Panda.
- 20 May 2026 – 04 Jun 2026
from $7,980 pp twin share * - 14 Oct 2026 – 29 Oct 2026
from $8,380 pp twin share * - 07 Apr 2027 – 22 Apr 2027
from $8,380 pp twin share * - 19 May 2027 – 03 Jun 2027
from $8,380 pp twin share * - 08 Sep 2027 – 23 Sep 2027
from $8,680 pp twin share * - 13 Oct 2027 – 28 Oct 2027
from $8,680 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Days 1-2 – Fly Overnight To Kunming:
Fly to the relaxed city of Kunming. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture. - Day 3 – Stone Forest:
Spend the morning meandering through the formations of the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest, where towering limestone pillars stand tree-like in a fascinating illusion of woodland. Return to Kunming and in the evening, sample the local delicacy, Across the Bridge Noodles. Tonight, there is also the option to see a colourful showcase of Yunnan’s performing arts. - Day 4 – Discover Dali:
Travel to Dali, a charming town that offers a peek at the China of times-gone-by. Begin your tour by exploring the fascinating old quarter and lively market to soak up the local atmosphere. Next, visit the age-old Three Pagodas and later this evening, take a stroll down Foreigners’ Street. - Day 5 – Erhai Cruise:
Spend the morning cruising the mirror-like waters of Erhai Lake, admiring the spectacular scenery provided by the Cang Mountains. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to further explore the area. - Day 6 – Travel To Lijiang:
This morning, explore Xizhou Village, where you can mingle with traditionally-dressed Naxi women, and browse its lively local market. Drive to Lijiang, set in the foothills of the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Visit the Black Dragon Pool, where there are wonderful views of the mountains. - Day 7 – Jade Dragon Snow Mountain:
A magnificent mountain, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain comprises several peaks, the tallest of which soars 5,500 metres. Taking a cable car, explore one of the beautiful high meadows and enjoy the amazing vistas. On the way back to Lijiang, visit Baisha old town to view the fascinating frescoes painted during the Ming Dynasty followed by a visit to the Embroidery School. - Day 8 – Tiger Leaping Gorge:
Journey to the 3,000-metre-deep Tiger Leaping Gorge. With its backdrop of snow capped mountains, it is one of China’s most extraordinary sights with spectacular and breathtaking views. Return to Lijiang and explore the old quarter; the quintessential Chinese ‘old town’ and wander the jumble of cobbled streets, traditional wooden buildings and rustic stone bridges. - Day 9 – Chengdu:
Fly to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. In the evening, wander the night food markets with your local guide on hand to recommend the most delicious Sichuanese snacks! - Day 10 – Leshan Grand Buddha:
Travel to Leshan to visit the Grand Buddha. The 71-metre Buddha is carved into a hillside overlooking the confluence of the Dadu and Min rivers. Completed in the year 803, it is said that the Buddha’s presence has calmed the turbulent waters of the river. A short boat trip will give you an even better perspective. Later, continue to Mount Emei, or Emeishan, the cradle of the Buddhist religion in China with the first temple built on its peak in the 1st century. - Day 11 – Explore Mount Emeishan:
Take a cable car to the summit and admire the striking and diverse natural beauty of the mountain and surrounding landscape. Spend the day soaking up the ambience and exploring. - Day 12 – Jiuzhaigou National Park (Nine Villages Valley):
Transfer to Chengdu for your bullet train to Nine Villages Valley (Jiuzhaigou National Park). - Day 13 – Jiuzhaigou National Park (Nine Villages Valley):
Considered to be one of China’s most beautiful areas, the newly reopened Nine Villages Valley is a pristine national park renowned for its rugged peaks, sapphire lakes, abundant forests, and cascading waterfalls. This natural wonder, named after nine scattered Tibetan settlements, is a World Biosphere Reserve, home to unique flora and a diverse bird population. Enjoy the day exploring in awe and serenity. - Day 14 – Huanglong Pools:
Travel to Huanglong Valley, where hundreds of vivid pools in striking colours, formed by thousands of years of mineral deposit, tumble gently down through the bright green forests. The whole area is full of spectacular sights and, as it is relatively undiscovered, is a pleasure to explore. Visit Huanglong Temple before your bullet train to Chengdu. - Day 15 – Pandas:
Visit Chengdu’s famous Panda Conservation Centre to see and learn about China’s celebrated bears. Later, stroll through People’s Park, visit traditional teahouse and see Matchmaker’s Corner where parents search for worthy suitors for their children. This evening, dine on mouthwatering Sichuanese cuisine. - Days 16-17 – Fly Chengdu To Australia:
Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.
Highlights
- Wander the mysterious Stone Forest and charming old town of Lijiang.
- Marvel at the panoramic views around Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
- Come face-to-face with the lovable Giant Pandas in Chengdu.
As two of the most fascinating, diverse and colourful provinces in China, Yunnan and Sichuan are utopias of wonder, from the lofty peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the colourful calcite pools of Huanglong, to the lovable nature of the Giant Panda.
Inclusions
- Get lost in the mysterious Stone Forest.
- Walk the cobbled streets of traditional Lijiang.
- Admire panoramic views around Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
- See the mighty Leshan Buddha, the largest pre-modern sculpture in the world.
- Walk through the colourful forests of Nine Villages Valley.
- Come face to face with the Giant Pandas.
FAQs
- Jinjiang Hotel
- Landscape Hotel
- Lijiang Wangfu Hotel
- Xinliang Hotel
- Le Méridien Emei Mountain Resort
- Celebrity Jiuzhaigou Hotel
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 17 days and 14 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 20 May 2026 and 28 Oct 2027, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
What style of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.
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