Yunnan | spirit of yangzi

​Follow in the footsteps of Tibetan pilgrims, eccentric explorers and Red Army soldiers, as you loop the golden banks of the Yangzi River in one of Yunnan’s far-flung corners. Hang out with Lisu poachers-turned-rangers in primeval forest, spot protected wildlife, discover sacred Tibetan waterfalls and caves, and create your own family adventure while you experience the thrills of frontier life.

• All-inclusive | private groups (2-8 people),
• Personal Explorer (your multilingual host & chauffeur),
• 7 to 10 days tailor-made programs, 
• Available spring (blossoms) | summer (flowers) | autumn (best time) | winter (stargazing),
• From 1,400 RMB per person per day, 
• From 8 years and older | kids aged 6-12 get 10% discount.

LIJIANG | BEYOND THE JADE DRAGON

Lijiang Valley | visit the former residence of a foreign explorer, who made the last village of the valley his home for 20+ years in the first half of the 20th century, before you continue to the original Naxi capital and learn more about Dongba culture & traditions.

Tiger Leaping Gorge | a natural wonder carved out by the rushing waters of the mighty Yangtze River over the course of millennia. Leave the masses behind and hike one of the lesser-known trails criss-crossing the picturesque hillsides.

Laojun Mountains | stop for panoramic views of the Yangtze River's First Bend, which influenced the course of Chinese history (multiple times), before you head deep into Lisu territory. Go on a wildlife patrol with local poachers-turned-rangers, learn how to set up infrared camera traps and roast your own BBQ meal over an open fire.

SHANGRI-LA | GATEWAY TO TIBET

Mountain Sanctuary | head out early to look for snub-nosed monkeys, followed by a visit to the park’s sanctuary, where brought in animals are temporary sheltered. Alternatively, head up the mountain and follow a still used pilgrimage path that leads to a sacred cave and offers some stunning views of the Yangzi River below.

Tibetan Introduction | ascend curvy mountain roads to 3,300 meters altitude in order to reach Shangri-La, at the eastern edge of the Himalayas. Drop by the quirky Long March museum in the rebuilt 'old town', before you dig a bit deeper into the culinary aspect of Tibetan culture with a beer tasting at a local brewery, followed by a yak hotpot for dinner.

Shangri-La Frontiers | travel to a secluded valley to visit a small Buddhist temple, frequented only by local Tibetans who come to pray to be blessed with children. Explore the nearby grasslands, experience the natural hot springs and perhaps look for your inner spirit at a sacred cave.

Buddhist Oasis | visit an artisan incense maker before you head out to a lesser-known Yellow Hat Monastery, founded in the late 1600s and witness the Tibetan monks chanting their daily prayers or have a quick chat during one of their breaks. Go for a pleasant hike in the forest and look for a sacred Tibetan waterfall.

A WORD ON ACCOMMODATION

Our programs include a selection of boutique hotels, simple guesthouses and authentic homestays. While conditions at the Laojun homestay may be rather Spartan, all other accommodation feature the necessary comforts for a revitalizing sleep so you’re ready for your next adventure!