After falling in love with China on my first journey, I'm going back for a third time — and opening a few spots for people who would like to experience it with me.
From ancient temples and traditional tea houses to wild mountain landscapes and futuristic cities, China is a country of incredible contrasts. Here's a taste of what we'll discover together.
Overall Itinerary
Please note that the program may change, so we kindly ask you to remain flexible.
Departure from Budapest
Arrival, Rest and Free Time
Chengdu Light Tour
Monasteries, Old Alleys and Cultural Night
Monastery entrance fees are not included in the price.
Entrance fees not includedDujiangyan City Centre and Town Stroll
Panda Valley and Red Pandas
Included in the priceDujiangyan Scenic Area
Hiking day.
Included in the priceQingcheng Mountain and Onsen Recharge
A day to rest and recharge.
Included in the priceQingcheng Mountain Town Hike
Included in the priceTravel to Lijiang
Travel and rest day.
Old Towns Exploration
Yulong Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley and Yak Meadow Cableway
Hiking day.
Included in the priceTiger Leaping Gorge
Short hike.
Not included in the priceReturn to Chengdu
Travel and rest day.
Flight from Chengdu to Budapest
Arrival in Budapest
FAQ:
https://www.wonderlightsevents.com/eventsretreats/china2027#china-faq
An active adventure
Expect long days, plenty of walking, stairs and mountain paths. You don't need to be an experienced hiker, but you should be reasonably fit and comfortable spending long days on your feet.
Backpacks only — no suitcases or trolleys. We'll be moving between destinations, so travelling light is essential.
Trip costs
€510 deposit to secure your place.
€450 for accommodation, main attraction and park tickets, and the hot spring experience.
€60 Wonder Lights contribution for trip planning, guidance and logistical support.
Tiger Leaping Gorge is not included and is estimated at around €30, including the shuttle bus, to be confirmed locally.
The €510 budget is refundable until March 2027. If the final cost is lower, the difference will be returned. Any later price adjustments will apply only to new bookings.
Additional budget
Flights: approximately €500 return from Budapest to Chengdu.
Food and breakfast: not included.
Trains and local transport: paid separately, with my help organizing the logistics.
Accommodation
Single rooms with private bathrooms are planned. Non-smoking rooms will be requested where possible, but cannot be guaranteed.
Travelling as a couple? Please message me before booking.
Some attractions may involve small additional local fees that cannot be confirmed in advance.
More detailed information will be sent by email before the trip, including practical arrangements and preparation tips.
China is waiting. Are you coming?
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before we go. Click on a question to find out more.
Before you travel
Do I need a visa to enter China?
European travellers may be eligible for visa-free entry, but the rules will be checked again in November 2026. Travellers of other nationalities should check the official visa website.
Everyone must complete an entry card before the trip. Don't worry, I'll help you with the process free of charge.
Can you help me find flights?
Absolutely! I can help you look for flight options and discounts to get the best possible price. We'll discuss suitable options before you book.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is your choice, but I strongly recommend suitable coverage for a trip that includes mountain areas and high-altitude destinations. Check that your policy covers the activities you plan to do.
What type of accommodation is included?
I'm planning single rooms with private bathrooms. I'll request non-smoking rooms wherever possible, although this cannot be guaranteed.
If you're travelling as a couple and would like to share a room, please contact me before booking. I'll recalculate the ticket price based on any savings or additional costs.
The trip & what's included
What does the €510 ticket include?
The ticket covers accommodation, main attraction and park tickets, the hot spring experience, and the Wonder Lights contribution for trip planning and logistical support.
The ticket is paid in one payment.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes. Flights, food, local transport and personal expenses are not included in the ticket.
Some scenic areas require additional local transport, such as eco-buses that cannot always be booked in advance. These usually cost less than €5 per ride.
Tiger Leaping Gorge is not included and is estimated at around €30, including the shuttle bus. The final cost will be confirmed locally.
Will I have free time?
Yes! The trip is designed to leave room for flexibility and free time. You can explore independently when appropriate, while still having a travel companion to help you navigate China and its practical challenges.
If you decide to skip an activity or go somewhere outside the group itinerary, you'll be responsible for arranging and paying for your own plans during that time.
What is the cancellation policy?
The ticket is fully refundable until March 2027.
Getting around China
How will we get around?
We'll use a combination of trains, buses and taxis. I'll coordinate the logistics and help with payments when needed. Before departure, we'll also set up the essential apps you'll need in China.
How will I pay for things in China?
Mobile payments are widely used in China. We'll set up Alipay or WeChat Pay together before departure so you can pay for purchases and split taxi expenses with the group.
Cash is not usually necessary for everyday payments, but having a backup payment option is sensible.
Will I have internet access?
I'll help you set up an eSIM before departure. With a suitable eSIM, you should be able to access your usual social media apps.
Google Maps can be unreliable in China, so I'll help you prepare alternative navigation options.
What about chargers and power banks?
Bring a travel adapter for your wall charger. For this trip, plan to buy a power bank locally in China rather than bringing one from home.
Preparation & practical advice
How physically demanding is the trip?
China can be exhausting! Expect long days, plenty of walking, stairs, queues and uneven paths. Some attractions are at high altitude, which can affect people differently.
You don't need to be an experienced hiker or particularly sporty, but you should have good stamina and be comfortable staying active for extended periods. Oxygen cans may be available locally in some areas, but they are not a substitute for proper acclimatisation or medical care.
What should I pack?
Bring a backpack only — no suitcases or trolleys. We'll move between destinations, and some old towns have stairs and uneven stone streets.
The weather may be mild and humid in some places, but high-altitude areas can be very cold. Bring a warm jacket, comfortable long trousers and suitable walking shoes. Warm clothing can sometimes be bought or rented locally.
What if I have food allergies or intolerances?
Please let me know before the trip. We'll prepare a written explanation of your dietary requirements in both Chinese and English so you can show it when ordering food.
How many people will join the trip?
The group is limited to a maximum of 8 participants. There is no minimum group size, so we could even end up travelling together just the two of us!
Feel free to contact me before booking. I'd rather help you feel prepared than leave you guessing.