Overview

As the name suggests this tour has been designed for the visitor to experience first hand the majesty of the Yangtze River and the dramatic natural landscapes of the Three Gorges. Commencing with a visit to the commercial powerhouse city of Shanghai and then a four night Yangtze River cruise, the tour is enriched by including historical Xian, the capital Beijing and a visit to the Panda Reserve in Chengdu. With all this being incorporated in a very concise 15 day itinerary, first time visitors to China will find this a great way to be introduced to the country.

Itinerary

TOUR ITINERARY
Days 1-2: Australia/Shanghai
Fly to Shanghai with Singapore Airlines, where upon arrival we will transfer to our hotel for the next 2 nights. Shanghai is often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’. Experience this exciting city on sightseeing tours to the beautiful Yu Gardens, Old Town and the Bund. In the evening enjoy a sumptuous banquet of traditional Shanghai cuisine as our welcoming celebration.

Day 3: Shanghai
Visit the Shanghai Museum and cross the Great Nanpu Bridge to tour the New Economic Zone in Pudong. We will also have the opportunity to explore the restored area of Xintiandi and its 1920’s architectural style ‘shikumen’ buildings. In the evening, enjoy a stunning Huangpu River Cruise.

Day 4: Shanghai/Yangtze
Fly to Yichang today and transfer (approx 1 hour) to board our Yangtze River cruise vessel for the next 4 nights.

Days 5-7: Yangtze River Cruise
Enjoy a tour of the Three Gorges Dam, before cruising on the mighty Yangtze River, passing through the spectacular Three Gorges and the equally dramatic Shennong Stream or the Lesser Three Gorges.

Day 8: Chongqing/Chengdu
Disembark in Chongqing this morning and drive to Chengdu for an overnight stay. Chengdu is the capital of the Sichuan Province, renowned for its natural beauty as well as its popular and distinct cuisine.

Day 9: Chengdu/Xian
This morning visit the famous Panda Reserve to see these endearing animals being reared in their natural habitat, before flying to the historic city of Xian. Transfer to our hotel for the next 2 nights. In the evening feast on a traditional Shui Jiao Banquet.

Day 10: Xian
Today we will see the most important archeological discovery of the 20th Century - the life-size Terracotta Warriors, followed by the ancient City Wall, one of the best preserved in all of China. This magical day is completed with a performance of Tang Dynasty Dancing.

Day 11: Xian/Beijing
Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaanxi Provincial Museum, then take a stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter to see the Great Mosque and explore the interesting Islamic food markets. Later fly to Beijing for 3 nights. Our welcoming banquet includes a sample of the delicacy ‘Peking Duck’.

Days 12-13: Beijing
Beijing is a city full of wonders. Our first day of sightseeing includes a visit to the famous Tiananmen Square, the treasure filled Forbidden City and the exquisite Summer Palace. Tomorrow we will take an exciting walk on the Great Wall, and visit the unique Temple of Heaven. Our evening entertainment will be a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show.

Days 14-15: Beijing/Australia
Transfer to the airport to board our flight to Australia, arriving home the following morning.

This tour can be run as an independent departure. For prices and detais please contact our reservations team.

Prices

Price Guide
From $3,780 per person 15 Days, Fully Inclusive - Departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth
From $320 Single Supplement
From $440 Single Cruise cabin Supplement
From $3,080 Land Only
From $480 Additional to travel via Hong Kong. See Hong Kong short stays for land arrangements

Regular scheduled departures through to May 2009.

Enquire for a brochure & full departure dates & prices.