China

China Express Tour

From Original price was: R37,255.Current price is: R26,079.

Per person sharing

Valid

26 October 2024 - 26 April 2025

Travel outside of these dates may be subject to supplements and increases

Land Only
7 Nights Breakfast Daily & 5 added meals Great Value offer!

Ready To Book

WHY BOOK WITH US?

Quality Service

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Attention to Detail

Our travel magicians will compile every detail of your trip according to your specified budget, schedule and wanderlust wish list. We’ll even take into account stopovers, seat- and meal preferences.

Deals and Pricing

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Peace of Mind

We are experts at planning complex trips with multiple stops across various destinations. We take care of last-minute changes, delays or itinerary adjustments, giving you peace of mind.

Our travel specialists have been around the world and are fully equipped to help plan your amazing trip!

After years of hiding from western eyes, China has transformed itself into a true heavyweight on the global tourism scales. Welcoming more than 55 million foreign visitors each year, China is by far the most-visited country in Asia and one of the top travel destinations in the world. According to statisticians, it might well eclipse France as the world’s most popular tourist destination by the year 2020. One of the most ancient civilisations on earth, China’s heritage spans the ages and is home to Neolithic structures, the Silk Road, and more than 2,000 years of Dynastic reign. The country’s long and proud cultural heritage is reflected by the fact that it is home to no fewer than 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are more ‘must-see’ cultural attractions in China than travellers could ever hope to experience in a single visit, including fascinating sights like the Summer Palace, the Stone Forest, and the Beijing National Stadium.

Tourists to China looking to explore its incredible natural bounty will be particularly blown away by the Five Sacred Mountains, as well as the Jiuzhaigou Valley, a natural wonderland filled with snow-capped mountain peaks, crystal-blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation; a prime example of the astonishing variety of China’s natural landscape. China is an enigmatic and mysterious country, where modernity and tradition, as well as progress and conservatism, all coexist in a tumultuous morass. It is one of those countries that has tourists returning home filled with a far greater sense of wonder at the world than when they left.

Includes

  • All relevant transfers and transportation in private A/C vehicles

  • Beijing Capital Airport arrival transfer on day 1

  • Daily breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners, inclusive of traditional Peking Duck dinner in Beijing and dumpling-making experience in Xi'an

  • 7 nights 4 star hotels (set departure Dates: 07 -21 Sept 2024)

  • Chinese acrobatic performance
  • Highspeed train ticket to Luoyang (2nd class)

  • Xi’an - bike ride on medieval City Wall

  • Touring of Beijing, Huanghuacheng Great Wall, Luoyang & Xi'an

  • English speaking specialist guides at local sights

  • Visit to Shaolin Monastery

  • Shadow puppetry show

Excludes

  • International flights and taxes (Ask us, we can arrange this)

  • Visa(s)

  • Travel insurance (Highly recommended!)

  • Entrance fees: USD$85-105, paid in local currency

  • Tipping Kitty: USD$35-55, paid in local currency

  • Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$5-$8 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guide is an entirely personal gesture

  • Anything not mentioned

Day 1 - Welcome to Beijing!

Saturday. Huang ying, welcome to China and the start of your holiday! Upon your arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in.

The day is yours to explore Beijing, the captivating capital of China, renowned for its blend of history, contemporary skyscrapers, and iconic cultural sites such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China. In the evening, there will be a welcome meeting in the hotel lobby to kick off your exciting journey.

Overnight: Beijing

Day 2 - The Forbidden City

After breakfast, our first stop today will be the iconic Tiananmen Square, where Chairman Mao’s tomb lies and various monuments to the people are located. While we won't enter the tomb, we will get to view the exterior.

Following this, we'll enter the Forbidden City, a magnificent palace complex which served as the seat of power for Chinese emperors over five centuries. With over 800 buildings and 9,000 chambers, this is one of China's best preserved historical treasures.

In the afternoon, delve into Beijing's hutongs, a maze-like network of ancient alleyways that form the city's historical core. Wander through these charming lanes, where generations of families have lived, and discover traditional courtyards and compact houses. Afterwards, you'll take a leisurely stroll along Wangfujing Pedestrian Street, a renowned shopping avenue at the heart of the city.

In the evening, enjoy a Beijing dining experience by savouring a Peking roast duck dinner, typically enjoyed wrapped in thin pancakes, with spring onions and hoisin sauce!

Overnight: Beijing | Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 - The Great Wall of China

Today, prepare for an exciting journey to the iconic Great Wall of China. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Wall stands as an enduring symbol of Chinese civilization and ingenuity. Initially constructed for defensive purposes, it snakes an impressive 6,700 kilometers across diverse terrains and towering mountains.

We'll be visiting the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall, known as the "Yellow Flower Great Wall." Its name originates from the vibrant yellow wildflowers that bloom along the wall during specific seasons. What sets Huanghuacheng apart is that a portion of the wall is partially submerged underwater. We'll embark on a scenic hike along the wall, offering breathtaking views and a deeper understanding of the structure's historical significance.

This evening promises an enchanting spectacle as we attend a Chinese acrobatic performance. These skilled artists will leave you spellbound with their gravity-defying feats.

Overnight: Beijing | Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Welcome to Luoyang

Beijing - Luoyang. After breakfast this morning, we'll head to the railway station for a comfortable 2nd class high-speed train journey to Luoyang, which will take approximately 4-4.5 hours. Luoyang is one of the four ancient Chinese capitals, renowned for its magnificent peony blooms and the celestial Longmen Caves.

After meeting our local guide and enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, prepare to be captivated by the Longmen Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These remarkable caves are perched densely along the cliffs lining the Yi River, and they house the world's most extensive collection of celestial art treasures, boasting the largest array of statues to be found anywhere on Earth. This enduring art form, etched into the stone, has not only withstood the test of time but has also borne witness to the reign of over 10 dynasties spanning more than 1,400 years.

In the evening, we'll take a stroll through Old City Shizi Steet, a renowned food street in old city Luoyang. Here, you'll have the chance to follow tantalizing aromas and sample a wide variety of local flavours.

Overnight: Luoyang | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 - Xiyuan Park & Shaolin Monastery

Today will begin with a visit to the vibrant Xiyuan Park. Here, residents gather to dance and sing, infusing the park with a lively burst of morning energy. It's an excellent opportunity to observe and perhaps even join in the joyful morning activities that reflect the spirit of the community.

Afterwards, brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure as we head to the legendary Shaolin Monastery, renowned as the reputed birthplace of Chinese martial arts. This sacred temple is not only a spiritual haven but also the epicenter of Kung Fu mastery. Witness a mesmerising performance that promises to entertain and awe. The skills and discipline of these martial artists are sure to leave a lasting impression.

As the day comes to an end, we'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, allowing you to indulge in the flavours of Luoyang cuisine.

Overnight: Luoyang | Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 - The Train to Xi'an

Luoyang - Xi'an. Rise and shine, today we'll catch an early morning train bound for Xi'an. Enjoy a swift yet scenic journey as we head toward this ancient city. Upon arriving in Xi'an, we'll start our day with a bike ride along the Xi'an City Wall. This remarkable structure stands as one of the oldest and best-preserved among the few remaining Chinese city walls.

Afterwards, get ready for the sensory delights of Xi'an's Muslim Quarter, a bustling neighbourhood in the heart of the city. Here, the air is thick with the mouthwatering aromas of sizzling lamb skewers and fragrant spices emanating from the food stalls that line the narrow alleys. Engage with the warm and welcoming locals, witness their skilled craftsmanship in action, and let the diverse flavours tantalize your taste buds.

Not far from the Muslim Quarter, discover the majestic courtyard of the Gao Family. Within these hallowed walls, a unique spectacle awaits—a 15-minute shadow puppetry show, an art form believed to originate from this province. These performances breathe life into simple yet vibrant leather or paper figures, spinning enchanting narratives that have captivated audiences for generations.

Then, pay your respects at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a serene contrast to the bustling Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Within this peaceful Buddhist complex, you'll discover intriguing exhibits in the Xi'an Museum.

Tonight, roll up your sleeves and try your hand at making dumplings, a local delicacy that is also a true form of culinary art. Enjoy the delicious dumplings you've created, accompanied by a cup of rice wine.

Overnight: Xi'an | Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 - Terracotta Warriors

Our day begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army and Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This remarkable collection of terracotta sculptures depicts the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. These life-sized figures were meticulously modeled after actual soldiers of the Qin Army, displaying incredible attention to detail. The army consists of an astounding 8,000 life-size soldiers, 100 chariots, and 600 horses, and each figure is unique. The purpose of this vast army was to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, entombed within a massive mausoleum complex.

Next, you'll have the opportunity to visit a Terracotta Warrior Factory. Here, you can delve deeper into the intricate production process, which remains unchanged since the time of the Qin Dynasty. Gain insights into the techniques behind these captivating artworks, adding a layer of appreciation to these ancient treasures.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we'll return to the hotel. From here, enjoy time at leisure to explore Xi'an at your own pace.

Overnight: Xi'an | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8 - Goodbye

Saturday. Today marks the conclusion of your remarkable China adventure, full of cultural wonders and tasty delicacies. After breakfast and 12pm hotel check-out, make your own way to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast

Terms and Conditions

  • Conditions and validities apply.

  • This offer is subject to availability

  • Prices may change due to seasonal and exchange rate fluctuations

  • Visas may be necessary and Insurance is essential


  • Accommodation is per person sharing, unless otherwise specified

  • Errors and omissions in this offer are excepted

  • Subject to IGO Travel's general Conditions of Business

  • Excludes high season/school holidays, block out dates may apply

  • Why we like it

    Explore the Forbidden City, climb the Great Wall, bike a medieval fortress and meet a Terracotta Warrior - the perfect introduction to the charms of China!