Yunnan - Adventures in Tribal China

How big are the groups?

Each group is limited to 16 participants. Small groups are an important ingredient in adventure travel. They allow for more interaction and more personalized service throughout the itinerary.

What is included in the tour price?

All accommodations throughout; all meals, starting with dinner on day 1 and finishing with breakfast on departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks tour); bottled drinking water throughout the trip; all internal transportation; airport transfers on day 1 and departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks tour); all day trips and entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary; tips for hotels (porterage) and bus driver, restaurants and spot guides; services of a trip leader.

What is not included in the tour price?

International flights, tips to ElderTreks tour leader, national guide, alcoholic drinks, visa’s and travel insurance.

Are these “educational” tours?

Yes, in the broadest sense of the word, “educational”. We visit cultural centers and historical sites, and have talks and discussions on many aspects of history, culture and nature. But this is only a portion of the educational experience. We believe that it is equally educational to meet local people on a non-commercial basis, visit their homes and even try to learn a few words in the native language. Sometimes the most “educational” moments are spent sipping a cold drink in a street market or trying some newly learned Chinese phrases.

How do we travel during the tour?

All local transportation is included in the land price of the trip. We use minivans or bus for our land travel; we take a boat cruise on Lake Erhai and fly from Lijiang to Chengdu. Please note: We spend several days traveling on winding mountain roads (paved and dirt).

What are our accommodations like?

We always stay in good accommodations — both hotels and lodges, where rooms have a private bath or shower.

What about the weather?

Yunnan enjoys one of the most pleasant climates in China — Kunming is known as the ‘city of eternal spring’. We travel to Yunnan in spring and autumn, which are the best times to visit. Temperatures range from the mid 60s˚F (16˚C) to the mid 70s˚F (21˚C) and rainfall is moderate. Rainfall, however, can occur throughout the year. At the higher altitudes, it is generally in the 60s – 70s˚F during the day but can drop into the 30s or 40s˚F at night, so remember to bring clothing that you can layer.

When is payment due?

A non-refundable deposit of $500 USD (plus insurance if you require it) is due at time of booking and will reserve your place on the adventure. Payment of the full land cost is due 100 days before departure. Cancellation charges are applicable and are outlined in the “Terms and Conditions” section of our brochure.

Is medical insurance required?

Insurance coverage is not included in the cost of your trip. Please note that medical insurance is not required for this adventure but is recommended. ElderTreks offers comprehensive travel insurance and we are happy to provide you with a quote if you call our office. If you are purchasing insurance elsewhere, please ensure you provide the details to ElderTreks as soon as possible.

*Please note those travelers with pre-existing medical conditions must take out travel insurance at the time of deposit

What should I take on the tour?

There is a detailed “What to Take” list in our Trip Kit, which we will send to you after you have booked the trip.

What meals are included?

All meals during the itinerary are included, starting with dinner on day 1 and finishing with breakfast on departure day. We eat a variety of local foods prepared in a wide range of settings. In many cases, we simply order a number of dishes and share, allowing you to sample new foods.

Can you arrange my flights?

We would be happy to take care of your air arrangements. ElderTreks offers personalized flight itineraries — not group flights. Stop over en route, come in a few days early, or extend your stay. Call us for a customized itinerary.

What if I would like more information?

If you have any further questions about the trip, please do not hesitate to contact our office for additional information. A Trip Kit containing further details on the destination will be sent to you once you have booked the trip.