China's Imperial Treasures and Natural Wonders

Your first stop in Xi’an is the Institute of Archaeology, where a special-behindthe- scenes visit invites you to learn about the latest discoveries and view artefacts up close, before an evening spent dining in the city’s colourful Muslim Quarter. No visit to Xi’an is complete without visiting the legendary terracotta army, comprising over 8,000 intricate sculptures buried at the tomb of China’s first emperor in around 210 BC.

Set out along the River Yangtze’s spellbinding Three Gorges region on your four-night voyage, during which local crafts, healing workshops and morning tai chi can be enjoyed on board. Excursions include a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest engineering project, while you can also explore tributaries by local sampan boat or explore the fascinating Baiheliang Underwater Museum.

While in Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan Province, delight in meeting the glorious giant pandas at the Dujiangyan Giant Panda Base that is set across 126 acres. Prepare meals and feed these endangered animals, considered a national treasure in China, as well as learning more about the centre’s important conservation work.

Best known for its striking scenery, your exploration of Guilin begins with a descent into the Reed Flute Cave, characterised by stunning stalactites and stalagmites.Take an optional stroll to Elephant Trunk Hill, from which the views of the karst peaks are simply spectacular. While based in Guilin, enjoy the scenic limestone pinnacles and rice terraces of the Li River on a boat cruise. Soak up the splendid scenery that has inspired artists for centuries and stop to browse a local market.

xpect a change of pace in bustling Shanghai. Enjoy lunch with National Geographic grant recipient, conservationist and wildlife photographer, Jing Li, who will explain his work in protecting critically endangered birds in the area. Look out over the skyline from the Shanghai Tower, the tallest in China, before an evening spent discovering the city on your own. The classical Yu Garden’s pavilions, ponds and charming bridges are next to explore, followed by a trip to the mind-boggling Old Bazaar. On the final evening, toast your Chinese adventure with your fellow travellers at a local restaurant. On your last day, you will fly back to the UK.