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Wild Landscapes

🕑  12 Days

📍 Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Lijiang, Shaxi & Tiger Leaping Gorge

🕑  12 Days

📍 Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Lijiang, Shaxi & Tiger Leaping Gorge

Ascend into the mystical heart of China’s wild west, where ancient towns meet alpine wilderness. From panda reserves and Tibetan valleys to jade-green lakes and epic canyons, this route is ideal for travelers craving unspoiled landscapes and authentic culture.

Ascend into the mystical heart of China’s wild west, where ancient towns meet alpine wilderness. From panda reserves and Tibetan valleys to jade-green lakes and epic canyons, this route is ideal for travelers craving unspoiled landscapes and authentic culture.

About This Tour

Begin in the relaxed charm of Chengdu, the gateway to Sichuan’s tea and spice culture.

Travel to the fairy-tale scenery of Jiuzhaigou, a national park of rainbow-colored lakes and waterfalls.

Then, fly to Lijiang, a Naxi minority town framed by snow-capped peaks. Wrap up your adventure with a 2-day trek through the towering cliffs of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of Asia’s most iconic hikes.

Highlights

  • Visiting giant pandas in Chengdu’s lush bamboo forest

  • Gazing into mirror-like lakes in Jiuzhaigou National Park

  • Learning about Naxi and Bai minority cultures in ancient towns

  • Hiking dramatic cliffside trails above the Yangtze River gorge

  • Experiencing raw nature while staying in local guesthouses with mountain views

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Chengdu
  • Morning: Arrive in Chengdu and transfer to your hotel for check-in.
  • Afternoon: Take a gentle walk through People’s Park, sip tea at a traditional teahouse, and watch local life unfold.
  • Evening: Optional: Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring classic Sichuan hotpot.
  • Morning: Visit the Chengdu Panda Base and see China’s most beloved bears in a lush, bamboo-filled sanctuary.
  • Afternoon: Wander Kuanzhai Alleys, sampling local snacks and browsing boutiques in Qing-style courtyards.
  • Evening: Optional: Watch a traditional Sichuan opera performance with dramatic face-changing.
  • Morning: Fly to Jiuzhaigou and transfer to a scenic lodge in the mountains.

  • Afternoon: Rest and acclimate to the higher elevation (~2,000m). Enjoy a short walk near the lodge.

  • Evening: Sip tea or a warm drink while enjoying sunset views from your balcony.

  • Morning: Visit Five Flower Lake and Mirror Lake, two of Jiuzhaigou’s most photogenic spots.
  • Afternoon: Continue exploring Pearl Shoal Waterfall and forest boardwalks at a relaxed pace.
  • Evening: Return to your lodge and enjoy a quiet dinner or optional photo session at golden hour.
  • Morning: Relax at your lodge or take an optional day trip to Huanglong Valley, known for its golden limestone pools.
  • Afternoon: Return to Jiuzhaigou for lunch and a quiet stroll near your accommodation.
  • Evening: Enjoy a peaceful mountain evening — perfect for stargazing or journaling.
  • Morning: Take a scenic flight to Lijiang, a UNESCO-listed Naxi town.
  • Afternoon: Check into a boutique inn and take a leisurely walk through the cobbled alleys and canals of the old town.
  • Evening: Dine in a traditional courtyard restaurant or sip tea with mountain views.
  • Morning: Visit Black Dragon Pool and admire views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Dongba Culture Museum or browse artisan shops at your own pace.
  • Evening: Optional rooftop tea or wine while watching the sunset over the rooftops.
  • Morning: Travel to Shaxi Ancient Town (approx. 2–3 hours), a beautifully preserved market town on the Tea Horse Road.
  • Afternoon: Explore the cobbled market square, Xingjiao Temple, and nearby farmlands.
  • Evening: Return to Lijiang or opt to spend the night in Shaxi for a slower pace.
  • Morning: Transfer to Qiaotou and begin your 2-day hike into the gorge along scenic cliffside trails.
  • Afternoon: Hike slowly through forests and past waterfalls toward your guesthouse.
  • Evening: Stay in a rustic lodge overlooking the gorge; enjoy a hot meal and quiet evening.
  • Morning: Continue your hike through the gorge, taking in dramatic views of the Yangtze River.
  • Afternoon: End your trek and transfer back to Lijiang by car.
  • Evening: Celebrate with a well-earned dinner and perhaps a foot massage.
  • Morning: Sleep in or enjoy a relaxed café breakfast in a quiet alley.
  • Afternoon: Optional: Visit nearby villages, local markets, or take a short countryside bike ride.
  • Evening: Have a final leisurely dinner in Lijiang, soaking up the town’s timeless charm.
  • Morning: Pack and enjoy a final walk or coffee before your flight.
  • Afternoon: Transfer to the airport for departure.
  • Evening: Onward journey with memories of mountains, mist, and moments of peace.

What's Included

  • Private chauffeur service to and from the airport at the start and end of the trip.
  • All transfers by car, train, or plane with booking assistance.
  • Admission fees and activities as indicated in the itinerary.
  • English/Spanish-speaking guide.
  • Assistance with hotel reservations throughout the trip.
  • Local SIM card with data or support for eSIM.

How to Book Your Adventure

Save your Spot

Once you’re happy with the itinerary, simply confirm your booking and make the payment to reserve your adventure.

Enjoy your Journey

From your arrival to your last stop, we’re here to make sure every part of your adventure runs smoothly.

Let’s Talk

Send us a message. We’ll get to know your travel style, interests, timeline, and budget.

Tailored Planning

We design a custom itinerary that matches your interests—whether you’re into nature, food, culture, or a bit of everything.

How to Book Your Adventure

Let’s Talk

Send us a message. We’ll get to know your travel style, interests, timeline, and budget.

Tailored Planning

We design a custom itinerary that matches your vibe—whether you’re into nature, food, culture, or a bit of everything.

Save your Spot

Once you’re happy with the itinerary, simply confirm your booking and make the payment to reserve your adventure.

Enjoy the Journey

From your arrival to your last stop, we’re here to make sure every part of your adventure runs smoothly.