Wild China

Itinerary

Days 1-3 Shanghai

Once the underbelly of the trading world, Shanghai has been reborn as China's cosmopolitan soul. Stroll along the elegant Bund, discover the French Concession, check out the excellent Shanghai Museum. Then sample the great restaurants and nightlife this exciting city has to offer.

Days 4-5 Shaolin/Luoyang

The legendary Shaolin Monastery is home to kung fu and still attracts thousands of young disciples each year, eager to learn from the masters. There is the opportunity here to soak up some of the wisdom in a class with a local teacher. At the World Heritage site of the Longmen Grottoes, see more than 100,000 Buddha images carved into the side of a mountain.

Days 6-8 Xi'an

In the ancient city of Xi'an, thousands of terracotta soldiers are lined up in battle formation, ready to protect the treasures in an emperor's tomb. Escape the noise of the city in the peaceful Great Mosque and savour some local food from one of the many markets before exploring the Muslim Quarter, home to the Hui people.

Days 9-12 Xiahe

Nestled on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, Xiahe's streets are a colourful mix of monks and nomads. Spend a day discovering grasslands dotted with yurts and stock herds. Turn the prayer wheels at the Labrang Monastery, the largest working Tibetan monastery outside of Lhasa.

Days 13-15 Beijing

A walk along the Great Wall is a fantastic finale to our wild adventure. In Beijing, enjoy a guided tour of the vast Forbidden City and other sights before taking to the streets for some sensational shopping opportunities or to simply soak up the atmosphere.