Price based on tour starting 14 December 2026

Price based on departing from Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney

Pace
This is a moderate paced tour. The tour covers multiple prefectures within China and can involve early starts and long travel days. Please be aware many iconic attractions in China can be overcrowded and busy, so please ensure you remain with your dedicated Tour Leader.

Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and exiting/disembarking vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain. If airport transfers are included, they may not always reach the hotel door, so short walks may be required of you.  This trip is not suitable for travellers’ requiring wheelchair, mobility scooters or specialised facilities. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able to move independently and keep pace with the group. Please note that there will be a fair amount of walking and some locations will have stairs. If you have any health concerns, let us know when booking so we can help confirm if this trip is suitable for you.

Tipping in China
Suggested local payment: $180 AUD pp

Tipping in China is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore strongly recommended. The expected tipping amount is $180 AUD per person paid to your Tour Leader. This amount is based on an estimated $12 AUD per person per day and is used to support all the local tour guides and drivers you will encounter along the way.

Visa-Free China

Ordinary Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enter China visa-free for visits of up to 30 days or less as per the visa waiver program for travel up to 31 December 2026. Travellers do not need to complete any pre-departure documents; however, it is advised that you print a copy of your travel documents, including your return flight itinerary, as you may be asked to show this at customs and immigration upon arrival into China.

Travellers entering China on a foreign passport, or any Australian or New Zealand passport holder travelling China for more than 30 days, must apply for a full visa before travelling to China.  For eligibility requirements, latest costs and visa types, please see the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Full travel advice for China or for travel date extensions to the visa waiver program please visit Smartraveller.

• Beijing 5* – Wyndham Beijing North or similar
• Gubei 5* – Gubei Water Town Hotel or similar
• Zhengzhou 5* – Radisson Blu or similar class
• Xian 5* – Hilton Hotel High-Tech Zone or similar
• Chengdu 5*- Crowne Plaza Hotel or similar
• Yangtze River Cruise 5*- Victoria Anna in an Executive Balcony Cabin or similar
• Shanghai 5* – Radisson Collection Hotel Shanghai or similar
• Hong Kong 5* – Harbour Grand Hong Kong or similar

Note: The accommodation and cruise mentioned above is listed for visa purposes and is subject to change. Please refer to your confirmed Hotel List provided to you at the time of Final Documentation sent no later than two weeks prior to departure.

The itinerary featured is based on a 3 night cruise operated by Victoria Cruises from Chongqing to Yichang. The itinerary includes the Luxury Amenities Program and Cruise Tipping (Cruise Service Fee).

All Victoria’s ships are specially designed to navigate the Yangtze River, and are all officially rated five stars by the China Ministry of Culture and Tourism (its highest rating). Enjoy all the comfort and elegance of river cruising: attentive and professional staff, delicious onboard meals and spectacular scenery from every stateroom and public area.

The Victoria Anna raised the bar for luxury cruising on the Yangtze when it was inaugurated in 2006 with a total of 133 cabins onboard. Each cabin features twin bedding (2 singles), private balcony and ensuite bathroom. Facilities onboard Victoria Anna include two restaurants, two elevators, a three-story atrium lobby, two lounges, three bars, a gym, lecture room, reading room, massage room, and gift shop.

Luxury Amenities Program: The itinerary includes the Luxury Amenity Program offered by Victoria Cruises. The program offers a welcome fruit basket, complimentary house wine and beer during dinner, select shore excursions as per itinerary, complimentary happy house in the Executive Lounge and much more.

Optional Sightseeing

• Day 2 – Beijing Golden Mask or Acrobatics Show from RMB380 pp
• Day 7 – Tang Dynasty Show & Dumpling Banquet from RMB380 pp
• Day 8 – Sichuan Opera with Hot Pot Dinner from RMB280 pp
• Day 9 – Chinese Therapeutic Massage from RMB260 pp

Optional programs are special unique experiences that you may add to your tour. Optional programs are payable directly to the Tour Leader in the local currency (RMB) and cannot be prepaid. In the event that some programs or venues may not be available, alternative programs may be offered or the Tour Leader. For any passenger not participating in optional programs, they will be directed by the Tour Leader with where to remain until the optional program with other passengers attending is complete.

A single supplement from $2,500 per person is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms are typically smaller than twin/double rooms in China.

Exclusions

Meals not stated, beverages, optional programs, travel insurance (strongly recommended), China Visa (if required), tipping, personal expenses, and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense.

Payment

A deposit from $2499 per person is required to secure your booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.

Pace

This Small Group tour maintains a moderate pace, encompassing various prefectures across China, which may entail early starts and lengthy travel days. Some iconic attractions in China can be overcrowded and busy, so please ensure you remain with your dedicated Tour Leader. Free time mentioned in the itinerary allows for downtime, or alternatively, you have the flexibility to explore further and book optional tours (at your own expense and paid to your Tour Leader).

Tipping

The suggested local payment for this 19 Day tour is $228 AUD per person

Tipping in China is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore strongly recommended. The expected tipping amount is $228 AUD per person paid to your Tour Leader. This amount is based on an estimated $12 AUD per person per day and is used to support all the local tour guides and drivers you will encounter along the way.

As most tour guides in China consider tipping a part of their income, please don’t feel intimidated should the Tour Leader approach you to ask for tipping as they bid you farewell.

Triple Share

Triple share is not available.

Extra Accommodation

Pre and Post tour accommodation is currently unavailable. Should you wish to extend your holiday, you can book your own accommodation however additional flight costs/deviation fees may apply.

Child

This tour is best enjoyed to adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. Children 12 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult.

Price

Surcharges may apply for select travel periods. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.

Change & Cancellation Fees

Changes for any reason will incur a fee of $110 per person per change in addition to any travel service provider fees. Cancellation for any reason will incur a fee of $550 per person in addition to any travel service provider fees. Travel service provider fees for the tour and air components of the package are dependent on the date of the change or cancellation as follows:

• 0-29 days before departure 100% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
• 30-60 days before departure 65% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
• 61-99 days before departure 50% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
• 100-180 days before departure 30% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
• 181+ days before departure 10% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply.

Airfares are generally non-refundable but any refundable ticket taxes will be returned. Full details of the change and cancellation fees is outlined in the Terms & Conditions available on our website.

Deviation

Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and stay behind, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.

Passport

For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports.

Visa

Ordinary Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enter China visa-free for visits of up to 30 days or less as per the visa waiver program for travel up to 31 December 2026. Travellers do not need to complete any pre-departure documents; however, it is advised that you print a copy of your travel documents, including your return flight itinerary, as you may be asked to show this at customs and immigration upon arrival into China.

Travellers entering China on a foreign passport, or any Australian or New Zealand passport holder travelling China for more than 30 days, must apply for a full visa before travelling to China.  For eligibility requirements, latest costs and visa types, please see the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Full travel advice for China or for travel date extensions to the visa waiver program please visit Smartraveller.

Baggage

Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Due to high-speed train baggage restrictions, you may wish to pack a separate light bag or backpack containing essentials – your luggage will also be stored in the designated luggage racks located on the train and not easily accessible once the train is moving. All porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.

Airport Transfers in China

Seat in coach airport transfers on group tour arrival and departure days are included.

Meals

Breakfasts offered by the Chinese accommodation providers and are typically buffet style, with limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, your Tour Leader will escort you to preferred Western friendly restaurants or suggest dining options nearby. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your Tour Leader whilst on tour.

Accommodation

All accommodation featured in this itinerary is based on 5 star hotels. Please note most hotels in China are either self-rated or locally rated based on Chinese standards. All hotel rooms will feature either a twin room (two single beds) or a double room (1 Queen bed). All bedding requests cannot be guaranteed however all special requests should be made known at time of booking. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. All hotel rooms will be requested as non-smoking, however, please be aware that some hotels offer smoking rooms and smoking floors. Hotel names mentioned are indicative and subject to change based, with final group tour hotels being confirmed on your final documentation. The standard check-in time is from 3pm and check-out is prior to 10am.

International Flights

The outbound flight may depart one day prior to day 1 shown on the itinerary. The inbound flight may arrive one day after the final day shown on the itinerary. Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on Cathay Pacific or Singapore Airlines with a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes or government fees at the time of booking flights, then an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing, should this situation arise.  Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. No show of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.

Fuel

In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.

Group Size

You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of 10 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 24 passengers. If the tour does not operate due to minimum numbers, you will be offered a credit or alternative date.

Itinerary

The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19 or other factors beyond our control including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’ or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.

Train Transportation

All train transportation featured in the itinerary is based on 1st class seating.

Due to factors outside of our control, such as operational changes, last-minute track maintenance, or unfavourable weather conditions, train travel may be substituted with a flight to maintain the continuity of the itinerary while prioritising the safety of all passengers.

Beijing Sightseeing

Due to a daily ticket limit imposed at Beijing’s Forbidden City, there may be the rare occasion where this attraction cannot be visited. In this event, your tour guide will secure an alternative visit to the Lama Temple or Gongwangfu Garden in Beijing. Unfortunately, tickets for international groups cannot be pre-purchased and subject to the above daily ticket limit policy.

Breakaway

Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure. Please note if you leave the group from the scheduled itinerary in order to partake in your own sightseeing, this may result in the local supplier cancelling your onward travel services including accommodation and transportation. This does not apply to days on the itinerary where free time is mentioned.

Health

It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19 and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing and quarantine costs are the expense of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended. Tap water in China may not be safe to drink. Drink only bottled water with intact seals.

Money

The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB). ATMs are widely available in major Chinese cities. They accept major credit cards including at international hotels and restaurants. In some smaller cities, using international cards will be limited and local currency is suggested.

Shopping

China is a treasure trove for those looking to shop. From busting markets to large shopping centres. Famously known for silk and jade products, China is also known for its pearl and tea produce, along with traditional Chinese medicine. Your itinerary may allow for stops at English speaking shops where you can browse/purchase products. Any purchase of products are at your own discretion. Please do not make any purchases if you are not comfortable or feel pressured into. Should you require any assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Leader.

Documentation

Final documentation will be emailed within two weeks of departure. An itinerary/flight details are required for China visa requirements, a preliminary itinerary will be provided to you at least 30 days prior to departure to ensure you can complete necessary visa documentation forms.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.

Force Majeure

Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.