Natural Wonders of China

• Return international full-service flights (economy class)
• One-way domestic flight from Chendu to Changsa

• 8 nights 4-star hotel accommodation

• Start every day right with breakfast included
• One lunch

• English-speaking tour guides
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles
• A one-way high-speed train journey

• Return airport transfers

• Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (payable directly to the tour operator at the time of travel).

Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.

Today depart Australia for Chengdu, China, on an overnight flight.

Please note:

• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.

• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in China with accommodation and transfers provided by the airline.

• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in an Australian city with airport accommodation provided (excluding transfers).

• Some travellers may arrive early in the morning of Day 2.

Meals included: In-Flight

Welcome to Chengdu! This vibrant and culturally-rich city is located in the heart of Sichuan Province, China. Known as the 'Land of Abundance', Chengdu offers a unique blend of history, cuisine, and natural beauty that makes it a must-visit destination for tourists.

Upon arrival in Chengdu this morning, you will be met at the airport, and head out on an introductory tour of Chengdu. First visit Kuanzhai Alley, one of Chengdu’s three historic-conservation districts. Constructed in 1718 during the early years of the Qing Dynasty, this charming pedestrian thoroughfare is home to an eclectic mix of classic Sichuan architecture, modern cafes and smart boutiques. As you explore, listen to commentary from your guide about the district's history and design, and witness how some of the city’s old establishments — local restaurants, traditional teahouses, Chinese calligraphy demonstrations — sit alongside the new. Then visit Heming Teahouse. Nestled in the People's Park, it has always been a popular destination for both locals and visitors who are looking for a relaxing cup of tea or a unique cultural experience. The ambiance of Heming Teahouse is peaceful and serene, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The teahouse is decorated in a traditional Chinese style, with wooden tables and bamboo chairs adding to the atmosphere.

Overnight: Mercure Hotel Chunxi or similar

Meals included: None

Enjoy the morning to relax or join an optional tour to visit the famous Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base of Chengdu (not included - 280 RMB per person).

Late in the morning, travel to nearby Leshan where you will take a cruise to view the famous Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Leshan Giant Buddha is a 71-metre tall stone statue, built between 713 and 803, depicting Maitreya. It is carved out of a cliff face of Cretaceous red bed sandstone that lies at the confluence of the Min River and Dadu River, in the southern part of Sichuan Province. 

Afterwards, drive onwards to Emeishan City, located in the shadow of Mount Emei (Emeishan), the highest of the country's four sacred Buddhist mountains at 3099 metres. On arrival, check into your hotel for an evening at leisure, or join an optional tour to watch the famous Emei Kung Fu Show (not included - 220 RMB per person).

Overnight: Hua Sheng Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in China as you walk through the Emeishan area. Visit Bao Guo Temple, the largest temple at Emei Mountain, is the doorway to the mountain as well as the centre of Buddhist activity of Emei Mountain.

Afterwards, transfer back to Chengdu Airport for an afternoon flight to Changsha. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight: Ramada Plaza Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Were you impressed by the Hallelujah Mountains in the film Avatar? The real ones are in Zhangjiajie. There are 243 peaks and more than 3,000 pinnacles and spires in the national park. Scenes from the film come to mind when the peaks are caught in the right light, or when the early morning mountain mist rolls in around them. In 1982, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park became China's first National Forest Park.

This morning, drive to Zhangjiajie and take a Ten-Li Gallery Monorail Train (one-way) to see one of the most famous attractions in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – Ten-Li natural Gallery. There are dense woods, fragrant flowers and grotesque rocks that make the valley seem like a natural art gallery. Over 200 rocks vividly mimic human and animal profiles on both sides of the walking path, extending deep into the valley. Many natural pictures formed on the precipices seem like paintings hanging on the cliffs.

Afterwards, visit Gold Whip Stream, a brook at the foot of the towering mountains. The 400-metre-high cliff by Gold Whip Stream is spectacular. One thing to watch out for is the wild monkeys along the stream.

Finish the day at your hotel in Wulingyuan for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Best Western Plus Zhangjiajie or similar, Wulingyuan

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

Today enjoy the day at leisure, or take the opportunity to join an optional full-day tour to see the nearby Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, including return rides on the Bailong elevator, the No.1 elevator in the world (not included - 460 RMB per person). 

Bailong Lift looks like a giant dragon soaring up to sky. The Guinness World Records confirms it as the highest and fastest elevator with the maximum loading capacity in the world. The machinery might be a bit incompatible with nature, but standing at its feet you will admire the power and wisdom of humankind. It reaches the mountain top in two minutes and everyone will be shocked at the sight of the mountains before their eyes. Paddy fields and houses are visible among the green hillside.

The mountain trail invites you to walk around the area and enjoy vistas. Major highlights in Yuanjiajie Scenic Area includes Bailong Lift, Fields and Gardens in the Air, No.1 Natural Bridge under Heaven, Hanging Waterfall, Mihun Bridge and Tujia Village.

Tonight, take the opportunity to attend an optional large scale dramatic musical and acrobatics, Charming Xiangxi Show (not included -350 RMB).

Overnight: Best Western Plus Zhangjiajie or similar, Wulingyuan

Meals included: Breakfast

Early this morning travel to Zhangjiajie Railway Station for a high-speed train ride to Guilin (approximately a 7-hour ride). Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at Guilin Railway Station and transfer you to check-in to the hotel.

The city of Guilin is located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China, and is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and unique karst topography, with dramatic limestone hills and towering peaks.

Please note: Today, a light boxed breakfast will be provided due to the early start.

Overnight: Mercure High Tech Zone or similar, Guilin

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, visit Chuanshan Park, one of the most famous attractions in Guilin. The Li River offers plenty of beautiful scenery, such as the graceful idyllic Chuanshan Park on the east bank, with the clear Xiaodongjiang River passing by. Chuanshan Park is famous for its Cockfighting Hills, formed by Chuanshan Hill and Pheasant Hill. The two hills together resemble 2 birds itching for a fight.

This afternoon will offer you free time to explore Guilin at your own pace.

Tonight, enjoy an optional Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic cruise (not included - 280 RMB per person). The Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area refers to the water loop consisting of Li River, Peach Blossom River, Mulong Lake, Gui Lake, Rong Lake, and Shan Lake that enclose the downtown Guilin. Taking a sightseeing boat to cruise this inner-city water loop, you will get the most beautiful scenes of the night Guilin.

Overnight: Mercure High Tech Zone or similar, Guilin

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, enjoy the day at leisure, or take the opportunity to join an optional full-day tour to see Yangshuo Ancient Town and the famous Li River (not included - 550 RMB per person). 

With this optional tour, you will first drive to Yangshuo and visit Fuli Ancient Town. This old town has a history of 800 years, and it's particularly known as the artistic town of the area, with traditional colourful fans and scroll paintings. Along the cobbled alleyways that connect the town centre you will find plenty of small factories making painted paper fans. Watch the intricate paper fans being made and hand painted in this sleepy old town set on the banks of the Li River. Then take a Bamboo raft to see the Li River. The rafts are built in the traditional design which has plied the river for centuries and is still used by fisherman and farmers. Bamboo was originally used in construction, however these days the hull consists of 10 large plastic pipes fastened together. You will see why Yangshuo and the Li River offer some of the most extraordinary views on the planet.

Enjoy an included lunch in Yangshuo and visit a local village to learn how local families and children live before returning to Guilin where you will enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Mercure High Tech Zone or similar, Guilin

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy some free time to explore this beautiful city and transfer to Guilin Airport for your homebound flight.

Please note:

Some travellers may be required to depart a day later and additional accommodation and transfers will be provided free of charge. This will not apply to passengers departing before 2am the following day as they will be transferred to the airport the day prior.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note some customers may arrive +1 days

 
After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase. Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.
 
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.
 
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.
 
CANCELLATION POLICY
Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.
 
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with. We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.
 
Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated).  
 

 
This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 5th of November 2025.
 
This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.  

This travel offer is strictly valid for those 18 and over.
 
As a condition of purchasing this travel offer, you must not deviate from the advertised itinerary, and the local supplier reserves the right to cancel your onward travel services if you do. This does not apply to days where there is specified time at leisure.
 
Single Traveller Supplement  
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement of $900 applies. 
Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability. 
 
Departure Dates 
2025 
March: 15, 19
May: 12, 15, 20, 21, 27
June: 3
September: 6
October: 16, 22
November: 5
Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability. 
 

Departure Cities  
Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, *Perth or *Auckland. 
 
Departure City Surcharges  
*Adelaide or Brisbane: $450 per person. 
*Perth or Auckland: $600 per person.
 
International Full-Service Airline(s) Used  
• Cabin Class: Economy class.
• Airlines: Sichuan Airlines, China Southern, China Eastern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Air China, Tianjin Airlines, Capital Airlines, Xiamen Airlines and code share partners (subject to availability).
Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 
 
Domestic Airline(s) Used
• Cabin Class: Economy class.
• Route: Chengdu to Changsa.
• Airlines: Air China, China Southern, XiamenAir, Sichuan Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, Chengdu Airlines, Okay Airways (subject to availability). 
 
Missed Flights   
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you will miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements.  
 
Arrive Early in Chengdu  
Not available. 
 
Stay Behind in Guilin  
Not available. 
 
Stopover Packages   
Not available. 
 
Flight Class Upgrades  
Not available. 
 
Domestic Flight Information  
Baggage allowance per person:

• 20 kilograms of checked baggage
• 7 kilograms of carry on baggage

Accommodation Used

• Chengdu: Mercure Hotel Chunxi or similar
• Emeishan City: Hua Sheng Hotel or similar
• Changsha - Ramada Plaza Hotel or similar
• Wulingyuan: Best Western Plus Zhangjiajie or similar
• Guilin - Mercure High Tech Zone or similar 

 Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.
 
Extra Nights
Not available at check-out. 
Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour. 
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Child Policy
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for children 18 years old and over.
 
Triple Share
Not available.
 
Bedding Configuration
2 x Single or 1 x Queen (subject to availability).

Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 42 per vehicle.
 
Optional Tours/Activities
• Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base of Chengdu: 280 RMB
• Emei Kung Fu Show: 220 RMB
• Yuanjiajie Scenic Area Full Day Tour: 460 RMB
• Charming Xiangxi Show: 350 RMB
• Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Cruise: 280 RMB
• Full Day Yangshuo and Li River Excursion: 550 RMB
Please note:
• Prices are based per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions, and are payable directly to the tour operator in the currency specified or AUD equivalent at the time of travel.
• Some tours or shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate. 

• Visa fees and requirements. 
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer.
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer.
• Highly recommended gratuities/tipping.
• Optional activities/tours. 
• Personal expenses.
• Travel insurance.

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 
 
Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 
Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 
 
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Chengdu
Seasons

• Spring (March to May): Mild and pleasant with blossoming flowers.
• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, with occasional heavy rainfall due to the East Asian Monsoon.
• Autumn (September to November): Cool and comfortable with clear skies.
• Winter (December to February): Cold and damp, but snow is rare.

Temperature
Summer temperatures can reach up to 30-35°C on average, with occasional spikes above 35°C.
Winter temperatures range from 3-10°C on average, occasionally dropping below freezing at night.

Rainfall
Chengdu experiences a significant amount of rainfall, primarily during the summer months due to the monsoon.
The wettest months are July and August, with heavy rainfall and the potential for flooding.
Annual precipitation is around 1,000 - 1,200 mm.
 
Guilin
Seasons

• Spring (March to May): Mild and pleasant with blooming flowers and moderate rainfall.
• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, with the highest rainfall of the year, occasional thunderstorms, and temperatures often exceeding 30°C.
• Autumn (September to November): Comfortable and relatively dry with clear skies. It's considered one of the best times to visit.
• Winter (December to February): Cool and occasionally damp, but temperatures seldom drop below freezing.

Temperature
Summer temperatures can range from 25-35°C, with occasional spikes above 35°C.
Winter temperatures average around 8-12°C, rarely dropping below freezing.

Rainfall
Guilin experiences a pronounced wet season during the summer months, particularly in June and July, with heavy rainfall.
Annual precipitation is approximately 1,900 - 2,000 mm.
 
FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.
 
Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.
 
COACH TOUR
Meals
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements.
Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.
 
Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.
 
OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.
 
Fitness Level Required
Expect a moderate pace of touring with a focus on guided tours that may include full days with guided walks of up to 2 hours at a time. You will require a general level of fitness for unassisted navigation of stairs and inclines, longer distances with possible periods of standing when visiting sites, walking on sloping, uneven ground or elevations. You will be responsible for your own luggage and have the ability to board all modes of transport without assistance. 
 
Please note: It is expected that every traveller be self-reliant and able to undertake all aspects of their own travel. Please speak to your booking agent about your personal circumstances and any assistance requirements to ensure this tour is right for you.
Please note: If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.
 
Yellow Fever
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate upon arrival. You must check with your doctor well before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.
 
Gratuities/Tipping
Land
Tipping is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore highly recommended. The expected tipping amount is $12 AUD or 60 RMB per person per day. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a common practice in China and a gesture of appreciation which is shared amongst the local guides, drivers and other staff members who have serviced your tour. The tipping amount can be paid in AUD or RMB to your expert tour guide in each region. As most tour guides in China consider tipping a part of their income, please don’t feel intimidated should the tour guides approach you as they bid you farewell.
Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.
 
Sightseeing
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).
 
Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. 
Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

The Chinese Government has announced that Australian and New Zealand citizens will now qualify for Visa-free travel to China. This will commence from the 1st of July 2024 and apply for stays up to 15 days in China. Eligibility criteria will apply. Please consult Smart Traveller and your nearest Chinese consulate for up-to-date eligibility criteria and information. 
 
Important:
• Visa rules are subject to change. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination/s you are visiting once you receive your travel documentation to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
• Passengers who are not Australian or New Zealand citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
 
Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.