China Wild Panda Adventure 2027
Join Bluewater in 2027 for a rare chance to search for wild pandas in Sichuan, China, on an adventurous wildlife tour through remote mountain habitats.
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Group Trip
Off the Beaten Track
Great for Non-divers
Why Join This Trip
Journey deep into Sichuan’s remote mountain regions and enjoy uninterrupted time in nature
Get the chance to search for wild pandas in their natural habitat (sightings are a truly rare and special occurrence)
Encounter other unique wildlife, including red pandas, Tibetan macaques, and sambar deer
Experience an authentic side of China in a less-developed region, far from typical tourist paths
25% off rental photo gear from Bluewater Photo
Fully refundable deposit until 12 months from departure
Trip overview
Trip Overview
Embark on an 8-night Wild Panda Expedition through the remote mountains of Sichuan Province, China, for a rare chance to search for giant pandas in their natural habitat. This overland journey takes travelers deep into less-developed regions, where sightings of wild pandas—while not guaranteed—offer an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts. Along the way, guests may also encounter red pandas, Tibetan macaques, sambar deer, and other elusive species.
Weather Conditions
Temperature in the mountains is around 0-5C at the lowest and 10-20C at the highest. In Chengdu city, it can be above 20C. A separate clothing list and packing list will be provided.
The following gear is recommended:
Camera (with lens 600 or above) and tripod binoculars (or scope) - 10*42 minimum.
Sample Itinerary
- Day 1 (Mar 27): Arrive in Chengdu and airport transfer to hotel, overnight in Chengdu
- Day 2 (Mar 28): Morning visit to Chengdu Panda Sanctuary and then after lunch drive from Chengdu for 5 hours into the mountains for late afternoon search, overnight in mountain lodge
- Day 3 (Mar 29): Early morning search, go back to lodge to rest, late afternoon search, overnight in mountain lodge
- Day 4 (Mar 30): Early morning search, go back to lodge to rest, late afternoon search, overnight in mountain lodge
- Day 5 (Mar 31): Early morning search, go back to lodge to rest, late afternoon search, overnight in mountain lodge
- Day 6 (Apr 1): Early morning search, go back to lodge to rest, late afternoon search, overnight in mountain lodge
- Day 7 (Apr 2): Early morning search, go back to lodge to rest, late afternoon search, overnight in mountain lodge
- Day 8 (Apr 3): Early morning search, go back to lodge to rest, late afternoon search, overnight in mountain lodge
- Day 9 (Apr 4): Early morning search (depending on flight schedules), transfer back to Chengdu to airport
Trip Inclusions
1 night hotel accommodation in Chengdu, twin share
7 nights mountain lodge accommodation, twin share
Meals while in the mountains (full board with some simple meals while in the mountains)
6 full days and 2 half days of searching for wild pandas
Half-day visit to Chengdu Panda Sanctuary
Round-trip airport transfers from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)
All travel during the trip in a 4x4 Jeep with driver (3 guests per vehicle)
Experienced guide
Trip Exclusions
Meals in Chengdu (first night dinner and last day dinner)
Single room supplement ($415)
Trip extensions
Optional visits and change of plans
Personal gears and expenses
Trip insurance - ask us about our preferred partner plan
Gratuity
Accommodation
Accommodation Overview
The mountain lodge is simple but modern with ensuite bathrooms. Electricity is available 24-hours and guests can charge phones and cameras, no problem. There is internet and cell reception available after Chengdu, and the only time you may not have reception or internet is when you go into the mountains searching for pandas.
Trip Price
Trip starts from $3,800 per person.
Mountain Lodge Twin Room
En Suite Bathroom
Toilet
Shower
Double-occupancy
$3,800
per person
Single-occupancy
$4,250
Payment Schedule
- Deposit: $1,000 to confirm your spot
- Payment 2: $2,000 due 1 September 2026
- Balance due: 1 December 2026
Extend your trip
Check availability
and start planning your perfect trip
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