Behind the phenomenal development of China lie culture and traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries. This tour takes us to remote the modern cities of Beijing and Xian and northern lands.

We start by visiting Beijing and Xian, the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City and Terracotta Warriors, then head into the wilderness of the Tengger Desert on camels to explore the ever-changing landscape. We see traditional villages and take sheepskin rafts down the Yellow River. Heading into Inner Mongolia we stay in gers - the traditional tents of the nomadic Mongol people - and learn about their lifestyle. Throughout our journey we learn about the Buddhist culture that unites this diverse people.

Best time to visit: April to September

Download the dossier for this tour.

Among the many highlights on this trip we particularly mention:

Beijing Visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and walk the Great Wall

Xian See the Terracotta Warriors

Modern and traditional China Contrast the bustling cities with the charms of rural China

Tengger Desert 3 Day camel trek through salt lakes, sand dunes & forests

Yellow River Drift on sheepskin rafts

Lands of Inner Mongolia Visit a Mongolian family and stay in a 'ger'

Buddhis art Cave temples of Datong

China has so much to offer. Learn about colonial influence in Shanghai or Hong Kong, see pandas in Chengdu or enjoy a spectacular Yangtze Cruise.