China Hike, Bike & Raft

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Beijing

Arrive in Beijing at any time.

Days 2-5 Beijing/Great Wall Trek

Discover the history of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square then join the throngs of locals as you hop on your bike to explore the city's ancient hutongs for a couple of hours. On Days 3 & 4, walk in the footsteps of ancient soldiers as you get far away from the tourist herd and hike along a lesser known section of the Great Wall (4-5 hours per day). Return to Beijing on Day 5. Take an overnight train (10 hrs) to Luoyang, where we will take a bus to Shaolin.

Day 6 Shaolin Temple

The mystical birthplace of Kungfu. There's no better place to learn about this ancient discipline developed by the monks. Take the opportunity to join in on a kungfu class at China's oldest and largest Kungfu academy for a once in a lifetime experience. If you still have energy, you can take a hike up in the surrounding hills.

Day 7-8 Luoyang and Xi'an

Marvel at the ancient archaeological wonder of the Terracotta Warriors. These stone warriors, all facing east in battle formation, were buried for over 2,000 years complete with horses and chariots. Back in Xi'an, go for a bike ride high up on the ancient city walls for a bird's eye view into the old city. Visit some of the many other great sights, such as the Great Mosque, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Small Wild Goose Pagoda and the Provincial Museum.

Days 9-12 Guilin Region and Yangshuo

The visually stunning geography around Yangshuo is postcard perfect and a favourite among travellers. Cycle around the emerald rice paddy fields and visit Moon Hill for a short hike. Enjoy a leisurely bamboo raft down the Li River as it winds its way around towering limestone pinnacles. There are great opportunities for more hikes and several optional activities, such as cooking classes and caligraphy courses. On Day 12 we board a sleeper train to the border city of Shenzhen and then transfer to Hong Kong.

Day 13 Hong Kong

There's so much more to Hong Kong than just the bright lights of Kowloon. Hike up to the peak, wander around Stanley Market, jump on the famous Star Ferry or go exploring one of the nearby islands.