Dreams of Nature

Embark on an epic journey that encompasses some of China's most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites and most incredible natural landscapes. Gaze over the mythical Zhangjiajie, whose mist-swathed, soaring peaks were the inspiration for the blockbuster film Avatar, cruise through the tranquil vistas of the Li and Yangtze rivers and walk the serpentine rice terraces of Longji.

Amongst the incredible scenery you’ll meet the people who call it home, from simple farmers tending their crops to the minority hilltribe communities who will invite you into their village, and stumble on ancient traditions in the most unlikely of places.

What's Included:

• International flights and current taxes
• 4 star accommodation
• Visa fees for UK passport holders
• Domestic transportation
• Most meals
• Maximum group size 18 passengers
• Touring with guides and entrance fees

Day 1 - 2: Fly overnight to Guilin

Fly overnight to Guilin. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day 3: Yangshuo Landscapes

Take a gentle cruise along the Li River to Yangshuo. Lined with dramatic limestone cliffs, the serenity of life on the riverbanks is a wonderful sight. Later, take a walk through this idyllic wonderland and get an insight into life here. There’s an option to take a rewarding hike to Moon Hill for beautiful views. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Tai Chi & Bamboo Rafting

Start the day with a relaxing and invigorating session of Tai Chi, taking a class with a master to learn this ancient martial art. This afternoon, there is an option to go bamboo rafting on the Yulong River. Drift past verdant riverbanks and under ancient bridges as you paddle on the glass-like water. This evening, you have the option of enjoying the magical Liu Sanjie night show. (B,L)

Day 5: Reed Flute Cave

Drive back to Guilin and spend the afternoon exploring Reed Flute Cave and learning about the South China pearling industry at a pearl factory. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Longji Rice Terraces

Travel to the iconic Longji Rice Terraces and head out for a three-hour walk through the traditional rural landscapes. There are several viewpoints boasting picture-postcard views of the extensive rice terraces that cover the hillside in intricate patterns. Drive back to Guilin. (B,L)

Day 7: Bullet Train to Changsha

Take the bullet train to Changsha and drive to Zhangjiajie, located in Hunan Province. (B,L,D)

Day 8 - 9: Zhangjiajie

A scenic area of over 3,000 sandstone pillars, rising from misty folds of subtropical forest and cloaked in vibrant green vegetation, Zhangjiajie’s striking beauty is unforgettable. Ravines and gorges, streams and waterfalls and a plethora of endangered plants and animal species complete this idyllic scene. Over the next two days, enjoy some beautiful walks, take a cruise on Lake Baofeng and spend some time exploring Huanglong Cave, also known as ‘Yellow Dragon Cave’. Trek to Jinbian Stream and explore the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery. You will also see the famous Yuanjiajie Avatar Mountain and Emperor Mountain. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Yichang

Catch the train to Yichang and board your Yangtze cruise vessel, home for the next four nights. (B,L,D)

Day 11 - 13: Yangtze River Cruise

A man-made marvel, the Three Gorges Dam showcases this massive feat of engineering. But as you cruise upstream, nature takes over, revealing some of the world’s most dramatic scenery including the Three Gorges themselves. A voyage along China’s riverine treasure is a chance to relax and enjoy a slower pace, whilst absorbing extraordinary countryside. Over the next three days, take a side trip to the attractive Goddess or Shennong Stream and enjoy various shore excursions. (B,L,D)

Day 14: Heishan Valley

Disembark in Chongqing and transfer to Wulong. Stop en route at Heishan (Black Mountain) Valley, a scenic area enveloped by mysterious fog that is home to deep valleys, lush green forests, majestic waterfalls, rivers and streams, caves and wildlife. (B,L,D)

Day 15: Three Bridges National Park & Longshuixia

Today, visit Three Bridges National Park, a rare geological wonder consisting of three natural karst bridges: Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridge and Heilong Bridge. Continue to Longshuixia Fissure, a narrow fault line that has been carved out by the river. (B,L,D)

Day 16: Wulong National Park

Spend the day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wulong National Park – an area of stunning natural scenery with towering limestone karsts, deep gorges, caves and natural bridges. Its remote location has ensured that the park remains relatively unspoilt. Later, return to Chongqing. (B,L,D)

Day 17: Chongqing

Visit the charming town of Ciqikou and spend some time strolling the streets, admiring the traditional architecture. Continue by road to Chengdu. (B,L)

Day 18: Leshan Grand Buddha

Travel to Leshan to see the 71-metre high UNESCO-listed Grand Buddha. Completed in the year 803, it is said that the Buddha’s presence has calmed the turbulent waters of the river. View the Buddha from below on a short boat trip. Later, continue to Emeishan. (B,L,D)

Day 19: Explore Mount Emei

Mount Emei is the cradle of the Buddhist religion in China with the first temple built on its peak in the 1st century. Pilgrims and tourists mix amongst the lush vegetation and inconspicuous old temples, all admiring the striking and diverse natural beauty of the mountain and its setting. Spend the day soaking up the ambience and exploring. (B,L,D)

Day 20: Pingle Ancient Town

Dating back to the Han Dynasty, Pingle was a stopping point on the Tea Horse Road. Take time to walk through its maze of teahouse-lined streets before seeing the bamboo forest from above on the Jinji Rope Bridge. Drive back to Chengdu. (B,L)

Day 21: Chengdu Panda Base

Spend the morning visiting the giant pandas. This afternoon, absorb the culture at People’s Park. People-watching here is an endless pleasure, from the lively locals playing mahjong to the singles looking for love in Matchmaker’s Corner. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Sichuanese dinner and an optional ‘face-changing’ show. (B,D)

Day 22: Fly Chengdu to UK

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day. (B)