Explore The Wild Side Of China 2027

Explore The Wild Side Of China 2027

Small group wildlife expedition through the remote mountain habitats and stunning scenery of Sichuan Province, China.

Why Join This Trip?

• Journey deep into Sichuan’s remote mountain regions and explore unique habitats where the landscape transitions from the Sichuan basin to the Tibetan plateau
• Search for rare and endangered indigenous species such as the golden snub-nosed monkey, red panda, and many species of bird
• This trip is timed to coincide with peak annual giant panda activity, giving the best chance for a rare sighting
• Experience a taste of authentic China, journeying into some less-explored areas
• 25% off rental photo gear from Bluewater Photo
• Fully refundable deposit until 12 months from departure
• Great option for non-divers and wildlife enthusiasts
• Off the beaten track travel experience

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Trip Overview

Embark on an 8-night wildlife expedition through the remote mountains of Sichuan Province, China. Discover the region's unique and indigenous species, including the endangered golden snub-nosed monkey, red pandas, Tibetan macaque, and sambar deer, as well as many fascinating bird species like the Lady Amherst's pheasant, the Sichuan golden Pheasant, and the Chinese monal. This trip is timed to coincide with the giant panda mating season, and while sightings are rare, this itinerary offers the best opportunity to spot these iconic animals in the wild.

This overland journey takes travelers deep into less-developed regions of Sichuan, offering the chance to experience local culture and traditions. The surrounding snow-capped mountain ranges you will explore are draped in misty bamboo forests, moss-covered trails, and dramatic valleys that feel untouched and serene. These unique habitats create a beautiful, ever-changing backdrop, offering excellent opportunities for atmospheric landscape shots, wildlife photography, and candid moments that capture the essence of this remarkable region.

It's important to be aware that spotting giant pandas in the wild is exceptionally rare as they live in remote, densely forested mountain terrain and are naturally elusive. Sightings are never guaranteed, and finding them may require challenging and/or long hikes on uneven trails at altitude. While this trip includes opportunities to search for giant pandas, this is not the main focus of the itinerary.

Learn more and check out our China Panda and Wildlife Trip Recap!

Important Note on Physical Fitness

Much of this trip includes searching for shy or illusive wildlife that avoid roads and habitated areas. While vehicles will provide access to trek start points, there will often be several hours of hiking on basic mountain paths, and often in rain or snow. Guests should therefore have a good level of fitness and be comfortable hiking for extended periods to give themselves the best possible chance of a wildlife encounter.

For those who prefer not to hike, there will also be the opportunity to drive and search for wildlife from the vehicles.

Sample Itinerary

Here's a sample day-by-day itinerary of this trip (subject to change):

• Day 1 (Mar 28): Arrive in Chengdu by mid-afternoon and airport transfer to hotel. Evening dinner and Sichuan Opera face-changing show. Overnight in Chengdu.
• Day 2 (Mar 29): Meet with the local guides. Morning and early afternoon visit to Chengdu Panda Sanctuary and then after a late lunch, drive from Chengdu for 5 hours into the mountains and check in to mountain lodge. Overnight in mountain lodge.
• Day 3 (Mar 30): Morning hike up a remote hillside to scan the surrounding mountains for wildlife and signs of giant pandas. Light lunch on the mountain, then hike back to base late afternoon for a hearty dinner. Overnight in mountain lodge.
• Day 4 (Mar 31): Full day at Labahe Park to search for wildlife including golden snub-nosed monkeys and red pandas. Overnight in mountain lodge.
• Day 5 (Apr 1): Early morning departure from lodge to a scenic viewpoint at 12,500 feet to watch the sunrise and changing shadows on the snow-capped mountains. There is always a chance to spot wildlife on the drive, including rare and endemic pheasant species. Rest and lunch at the lodge from late morning to mid afternoon, late afternoon drive along a dramatic gorge to search for wildlife. Overnight in mountain lodge.
• Day 6 (Apr 2): Drive to Mount Siguniang, also known as the Oriental Alps. The group will either visit Shuangqiao Valley for easy walks with stunning views, or head to Changping Valley for a half-day hike or horseback riding in the valley. Overnight in mountain lodge.
• Day 7 (Apr 3): Morning visit to Dengchigou Giant Panda Culture and Education Center. Early afternoon lunch and rest at the lodge, then late afternoon search for wildlife. Overnight in mountain lodge.
• Day 8 (Apr 4): Morning drive and hike to search for wildlife. Rest and lunch at the lodge until mid afternoon, late afternoon drive and hike to search for wildlife. Overnight in mountain lodge.
• Day 9 (Apr 5): Transfer back to Chengdu for flight out.

Check out this amazing video from our latest China trip!

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Weather Conditions

Temperature in the mountains is around 0–5°C (32–41°F) at the lowest and 10–20°C (50–68°F) at the highest. In Chengdu city, it can be above 20°C (68°F). A separate clothing list and packing list will be provided.

Recommended Camera & Optical Gear:

• Camera with telephoto lens (600mm or above recommended)
• Tripod
• Binoculars or spotting scope (minimum 10x42)

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Trip Type

This is a GUIDED GROUP TRIP. Led by an experienced Bluewater trip leader or accredited local guide who will manage the trip logistics and ensure your needs are met throughout. While this trip is designed to optimize your photography opportunities, it is not led by one of our photo instructors and so meaningful photography advice from your trip leader should not be expected.

What to Expect From Our Guided Group Trips

• Meet like-minded travelers - Our Group Trips are perfect for solo travelers who enjoy meeting other divers or photographers and enjoy the support of a pre-arranged itinerary. Your trip leader will arrange group activities such as meals or game nights to ensure everyone feels part of the Bluewater family.
• Problems solved - Your trip leader will be on hand to assist with any issues you may have. From delayed or canceled flights, to lost room keys and dietary requirements. We have dealt with it all before and will ensure that your trip runs smoothly.

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Inclusions

• 1 night hotel accommodation in Chengdu, twin share
• 7 nights mountain lodge accommodation, twin share
• Meals while in the mountains (full board with some simple meals while in the mountains)
• Half-day visit to Chengdu Panda Sanctuary
• Half-day visit to Dengchigou Giant Panda Culture and Education Center
• Round-trip airport transfers from Chengdu Tianfu (TFU) or Chengdu Shuangliu (CTU) International Airports
• All travel during the trip in a 4x4 Jeep with driver (3 guests per vehicle)
• Experienced wildlife guide
• Evening meal and show in Chengdu on the first night

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Exclusions

• Single room supplement
• Additional nights accommodation in Chengdu before or after the trip
• Optional visits and change of plans
• Personal gear and expenses
• Trip insurance - ask us about our preferred partner plan
• Gratuity

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Accommodation Overview

The mountain lodge is simple but modern, with ensuite bathrooms and western toilets. Every room features stunning lake and mountain views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The lodge is operated by a hospitable Tibetan family and meals are Tibetan-Chinese specialities prepared with fresh vegetables and meat from their farm.

Electricity is available 24-hours and guests can charge phones and cameras, no problem. There is internet and cell reception available after Chengdu, and the only time you may not have reception or internet is when you go into the mountains searching for wildlife.

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China Trip Extensions

Want to extend your trip? We can help with that! See more of China before or after your trip with Bluewater. Flying all that way merits a multi-destination vacation! Here are some examples of packages we can add on to your workshop reservation:

Read More.

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Trip Leader

Tim Yeo

Tim grew up in tiny Singapore, where driving for more than an hour meant you would need a passport. Traveling was always his passion, but Tim became addicted to dive travel soon after he got scuba certified in Malaysia. As his diving addiction grew, Tim eventually became a Staff Instructor with PADI and an Instructor Trainer with SDI. After getting his instructor certification, Tim spent time teaching scuba in Malaysia and Vietnam.

Tim serves as General Manager and COO at Bluewater Travel and is the company's most seasoned trip leader. With a portfolio of leading over 30 group trips, his extensive expertise encompasses a variety of popular dive destinations such as the Galapagos, Raja Ampat, French Polynesia, Fiji, the Red Sea, Palau, Maldives, among others. His travels have taken him across all seven continents and allowed him to dive in all five oceans—the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, Arctic, and Antarctic.

Read more about Tim Yeo.

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How To Get There

Flight Information

ARRIVAL

Guests should fly into Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), arriving on March 28th. There are direct flights from LAX and Vancouver with Sichuan Airlines. Alternatively, flights may also arrive into Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), and transfers will be provided from either airport.

DEPARTURE

The flight out on April 5th should be booked for early evening to allow for the transfer back to Chengdu.

Flight Package

Our group trips attract guests from all over the globe and many of our customers prefer to book their own flights to take advantage of mileage points or credit card discounts. For these reasons, flights are not included in our group trip packages.

However, we are more than happy to work with you to find the best travel itinerary for your trip and will gladly give suggestions and advice, even if you make the final booking. We will check through your travel reservations at any time to ensure they fit with the trip schedule and can give recommendations on transit hotels and day tours where needed.

If you would like us to book flights and transit hotels for domestic and/or international travel on your behalf, we are also happy to arrange this. Contact Us for more information.

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Payment Schedule

• Deposit: $1,000 to confirm your spot
• Payment 2: $2,000 due 1 September 2026
• Balance: Due 1 December 2026

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