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Secrets of Southwest China (Yunnan & Sichuan)
Operated by Wendy Wu
Tripcode: CYS_NZ
Overview
Destination:
China,
Start:Kunming, China
Finish:Chengdu, China
Finish:Chengdu, China
Duration:17 days
Type:Group tour (max 28)
Travel Period
April 2025 - October 2026
As two of the most fascinating, diverse and colourful provinces in China, Yunnan and Sichuan are a cornucopia of wonders, from the lofty peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the colourful calcite pools of Huanglong, to the lovable nature of the Giant Panda.
Price notes:
- Prices include airline fuel surcharge and taxes and are subject to change. Correct as of 1 July 2024
- Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
- Customary tipping amount of approximately RMB755 pp is paid locally in China.
- Based on departures from Auckland, Wellington & Christchurch
- Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available upon request
- Land only (Kunming - Chengdu) 15 days from $7,880 per person, twin share
- Single supplement from $1,350
Standard inclusions
- Domestic transportation
- Accommodation
- Entrance fees, guides and daily tours
- Meals as stated
- China Visa is NOT required for New Zealand and Australia passport holders for STAYS 30 DAYS and under. For longer periods in China Visa assist fees will apply
Itinerary
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Collapse allDays 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: Fly to 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 flight 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 flight to Chengdu.
Day 15: Chengdu Panda Reserve
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 New Zealand
Fly to New Zealand, arriving home the following day.
Departure dates
Select your preferred date or enquire
Operator
Wendy Wu
Wendy Wu Tours is Australia's leading touring specialist, offering extraordinary tours throughout Asia, Latin America, Eurasia, the Middle East – and most recently, Australasia. Since Wendy sent her very first tour to China in 1994, we've grown from strength to strength and are proud of the multiple awards we've won throughout the years and the unique travel experiences we offer to an expanding range of destinations.
Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice.
For more information, please see Terms of Use
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