southern china cycle & hike

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Sandra Wilkerson
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cycle & hike trip highlights Cycle on ancient pathways through quaint traditional villages Evening boat cruise past Elephant Trunk Hill Hike amongst spectacular Longji rice terraces Walk amongst the

Grade Moderate Activities Cycling & Daywalks Accommodation hotels and traditional lodgings (one night shared bathroom) Kia Ora from Adventure South Thank you for your interest in our Southern China

Thanks to our experience we re confident to say that we offer the very best active travel itineraries available in New Zealand, Japan, Bali, Vietnam, Peru, Korea and now Southern China.

1 cycle & hike trip highlights Cycle on ancient pathways through quaint traditional villages Evening boat cruise past Elephant Trunk Hill Hike amongst spectacular Longji rice terraces Walk amongst the Danxia rock formation in Bajiazhai Geographical Park Bamboo Rafting amongst limestone kaarst formations Stay in traditional guesthouses Visit Longsheng Market Trip Duration 11 days Trip Code: CGT Grade Moderate Activities Cycling & Daywalks Accommodation hotels and traditional lodgings (one night shared bathroom) Kia Ora from Adventure South Thank you for your interest in our Southern China Cycle & Hike adventure. It s a superb adventure and we hope you can join us. Adventure South has been operating active holidays throughout New Zealand and internationally since Thanks to our experience we re confident to say that we offer the very best active travel itineraries available in New Zealand, Japan, Bali, Vietnam, Peru, Korea and now Southern China. An Adventure South holiday aims to take you beyond the more popular and busy trails to provide you with a truly unique Chinese wilderness experience. We re here to show you that there are many, many more trails and cycling routes in this great country that are the new frontiers in adventure tourism. We aim to explore these delicate environments in a sustainable manner to ensure we leave as little impact as possible from our visit. We d be honoured to introduce you to the wide variety of natural wonders that Southern China is famous for. Go forth, go south join us on this amazing small group, value packed adventure! why travel with Adventure South? Small Groups, Great Guides, Superb Holidays. This comment encapsulates an Adventure South active holiday in Southern China. The phrase was not born from a long and tortuous strategic planning process, it came from a client review. We could not have said it any better. What helps make our holidays different is the quality of our professional guides. They share their humour, compassion and local experience to ensure that you have a great vacation and the right degree of personal challenge. On an Adventure South tour you can also expect the right, proven equipment is provided for your tour; the food is delicious, plentiful and can be catered to your dietary requests; your guides are all First Aid trained; that the itinerary you have chosen has been carefully crafted from years of personal experience in the Guangxi Province not from a guide book recommendation Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 4/1/2015 1:20:58 PM

2015 16 Aug - 26 Aug 13 Sep - 23 Sep 18 Oct - 28 Oct trip dates If you are travelling alone, we will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender.

the trip Experience Southern China off the beaten track backroad cycling at its best.

2 Aug - 26 Aug 13 Sep - 23 Sep 18 Oct - 28 Oct trip dates If you are travelling alone, we will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender. However if we are not able to find you a rooming partner by 60 days prior to the trip departure date, you will be required to pay a single supplement for the trip. the trip Experience Southern China off the beaten track backroad cycling at its best. We are excited to offer an itinerary in the beautiful Guangxi Province with its spectacular Karst mountains, stunning river valleys and ancient culture. Take in the major highlights of Southern China and enjoy wonderful cultural experiences while meeting local people, many of them belonging to minority population groups. Combined with the natural beauty of this spectacular province the trip is outstanding. Tour dates are timed to enjoy the mild weather of autumn and spring seasons. All levels of cyclist are catered for; there is some challenging riding with several good climbs but at all times the support vehicle is available if you wish to take a break. The cycling is superb and many off the bike experiences are to be enjoyed, including some great day walks. Chinese food is world renowned and carefully chosen restaurants allow plenty of opportunity to indulge in delicious meals. This trip really is the essence of Southern China with its friendly people, ancient ethnic cultures, spectacular landscapes and traditional cuisine. about your leader/escort Enjoy the trip in the company of experienced local Chinese guides who will provide interpretations as well as look after your every need. Your guides speak English and they take great pleasure and pride in introducing you to their region. The guides come from all walks of life but they have a common desire to ensure you have the best possible experience, a lot of fun and have some fond memories to take home with you. All guides are certified in first aid and CPR and many are trained bike mechanics. at a glance DAY 1 GUILIN DAY 2 GUILIN TO BAJIAOZHAI NATIONAL PARK DAY 3 BAJIAOZHAI TO CHETIAN DAY 4 CHETIAN TO LONGSHENG HOT SPRINGS DAY 5 LONGSHENG HOT POOLS TO PINGAN VILLAGE (LONGI RICE TERRACES) DAY 6 PINGAN, LONGJI RICE TERRACES DAY 7 PINGAN TO SHIERTAN DAY 8 SHIERTAN TO XINPING (DAHEBEI VILLAGE) DAY 9 XINPING TO YULONG RIVER DAY 10 YULONG TO YANGSHUO DAY 11 YANGSHUO what s included 7 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 7 dinners Bilingual cycle guide/ cycle mechanic Air conditioned support vehicle and driver Medical kit Guilin evening canal cruise Bamboo rafting trip Hot springs entry Entry fees to National Parks and hiking trails 27 speed mountain bike Bicycle helmet and water bottle Front handle bar bag and rear rack bag Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 4/1/2015 1:20:58 PM

3 detailed itinerary DAY 1 Guilin Please make your own way to the Eva Inn Hotel, 66 Binjiang Road, Guilin by mid-afternoon today. The hotel is conveniently situated close to the river walkways and lively central city area. At 6.00 p.m. we meet in the lobby of the hotel for a short briefing before walking to a local restaurant for a welcome Chinese banquet dinner. After dinner we take an evening boat cruise through the limestone landscapes of the Li River. meals: D DAY 2 Guilin to Bajiaozhai National Park We depart around 8:00am this morning and transfer to the far north of Guangxi Province. We lunch at a local restaurant in an isolated village near Miexe, (where we will be the star attraction with the locals), before we enter the Bajiaozhai Geographical Park. We have two hike options: a moderate 2hr loop which does include some steep sections as we walk between the remarkable Danxia rock formations or, for the strong hiker, there is an additional optional 1hr return climb to enjoy the views from the monastery at the top of Bajiaozhai mountain. After our hike we take a short transfer to our homestay lodge which is situated in the middle of the National Park and surrounded by granite rock formations. Here we do a bike fitting and then go for a short test ride before settling in to enjoy the evening at our lodge and the company of our Chinese hosts. Cycling distance 7 km (test ride) / 4 miles Hiking 2hr or 3hr options DAY 3 Bajiaozhai to Chetian Today is a cycling day as we ride out from our lodge on quiet rural roads. There are two good uphill climbs this morning, both with the option of a ride in the support vehicle if you want to save yourself for later, but the long downhill rewards make the effort worthwhile. The scenery is beautiful as we cycle past terraced slopes into mountain villages and small towns. We arrive at our traditional guest house lodgings mid-afternoon and after a short walk we can relax, take in the view and swim beneath a beautiful local waterfall. Dinner tonight is at our lodge where we enjoy a shared Chinese meal. Cycling distance 62 km / 39 miles Hiking easy 15 min hike from lodge DAY 4 Chetian to Longsheng Hot Springs The riding this morning begins with a challenging climb to a mountain ridgeline but then follows a delightful route as we traverse the ridge before descending into Liangshui Valley. We pass several villages populated by the Miao minority people, where the women wear intricately embroidered dresses and display the family s wealth by way of ornate silver jewellery. Around mid-afternoon we take a short walk into our lodge situated above the Longsheng River with private natural hot pools. There is an option to continue past the lodge on a short hike alongside the river to an isolated Miao village. It is also well worth staying up to watch the locals fish in the swiftly flowing river at night using torches and spears. Cycling distance 43 km / 27 miles Hiking option easy 30 min walk from the lodge Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 4/1/2015 1:20:58 PM

4 fast facts Countries Visited: China Visas: Yes* responsible travel We all have a responsibility to minimise the impact we have on the environment and communities we visit when we travel. Since our beginnings this has been a cornerstone of our company. The New Zealand travel industry has become a world leader in developing an external audit process to identify quality, and that process has been extended to now include a 3 level Enviro Mark based on company processes. We re very proud that we ve received a Gold rating, the highest category; each year since this initiative began. Being responsible when we travel isn t about a single process or project but rather a way of thinking and then doing. We started this journey many years ago, and acknowledge we still have a lot to learn. We invite you to join us! trip grading To determine the grade of a particular adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the condition of the terrain, the number of hill climbs and the length of the trip. This trip is graded moderate. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and we suggest 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, (either cycling or jogging) three times a week for the three months leading up to your trip. The tour is fully supported and if at any stage you feel like having a rest from cycling you will be able to ride in the support vehicle. DAY 5 Longsheng Hot Pools to Pingan Village (Longi Rice Terraces) We ride this morning on a quiet and scenic new road with little traffic that takes us past a huge swing bridge across the Longsheng River. It is worth a stop for photos and the brave can pay a small fee and walk across to the temple on the other side. Further along the river is another must stop at a local monument, where we will meet Yao ladies in traditional clothing. We ride into Longsheng late morning and visit the thriving local market, often frequented by local minority peoples from differing tribes. The market is full of all manner of unusual goods but is also a great opportunity for people watching. We transfer to our lunch stop to avoid a busy section of road before our final cycle takes us into a quiet river valley and through a Duan minority village. The last 6km up to the village of Pingan in the Longji Rice fields is very steep. Those who want a serious challenge can ride it but we do advise caution as this is a gut-buster of a climb and is followed by a further 30 min hike uphill to our lodgings. We stay for the next two nights in a family run guesthouse high on the mountain with wonderful views of the rice terraces as they cascade down the mountain slopes. Cycling distance up to 62 km / 39 miles Hiking distance 30 min uphill DAY 6 Pingan, Longji Rice Terraces Today is a day off the bikes and a chance to relax or hike in the beautiful mountain surrounds. Laundry facilities are available in Pingan and there are several café & restaurant options for your meals, (a picnic lunch can be arranged from your guest-house if you are going for a long hike). There are three hiking options, an easy self-guided loop of the local rice terraces with spectacular views, or your guides will accompany you on one of two other options. One is a 4 hr easy return hike through the terraces to Longji village or for fit hikers only, a 7 hr loop along the mountain ridges mountain visiting remote Aiwan and Longji villages. No matter which hike you choose the scenery is amazing and the colorful local minority people are very hospitable. This will be a day to remember and a tour highlight. Hiking options 1.5 hr self-guided 4 hr easy return trip, guided 7 hr strenuous loop, guided meals: NIL DAY 7 Pingan to Shiertan After a relaxed breakfast at the lodge we take a short hike down the mountain to our waiting vehicle and bikes. There is an option to ride downhill from Pingan and retrace our route from two days ago before we start on a lovely cycle through quiet backroads. The ride is undulating as we pass through valleys covered in bamboo groves and forest. After lunch, around the 30km mark, there is an option to take a 90 min rafting trip in 2 person rubber rafts - you will get wet and be prepared for a bumpy ride. Mid-afternoon sees us check into our lodgings in a tranquil riverside setting with time to relax before dinner. Cycle distance up to 60 km / 37 miles meals: L,D DAY 8 Shiertan to Xinping (Dahebei Village) We transfer this morning to Daxu in the heart of limestone country and from here we start cycling through the Karst Mountains that jut out of the landscape like islands and finish in the quaint village of Caoping. After a local dumpling lunch we board our bamboo raft for the 2.5 hr journey down the Li River. It s time to relax and take in the breathtaking views as the river snakes its way between mountain gates and alongside forested cliffs and valleys. Our traditional guest house is in a small Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 4/1/2015 1:20:58 PM

5 adventure travel By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are mentally flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your consultant or travel agent. important note These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede any information in the current brochure, including but not limited to the itinerary and price. The itinerary should be seen as a guide only. This itinerary may change at any time due to inclement weather, forces of nature and other circumstances beyond our control. village across the river Xinping. There is a lovely courtyard in which to relax and take in the views. A walk around the village at dusk is most interesting and provides some insight into the life of the local people. Cycling distance 21 km / 13 miles meals: B,L DAY 9 Xinping to Yulong River We take a local ferry across the river to explore the historic village of Xinping before cycling via backroads to Bai Sha and the Yulong river. Another ferry crossing leads us to an optional 3 km climb which provides us with awesome views as we look down on the Karst Mountain landscape. A cycle down a narrow trail takes us to our luxurious lodgings beside the tranquil Yulong river. Enjoy a swim in the pool or an evening stroll in the beautiful gardens. Cycling distance - 50 km / 31 miles meals: B,L DAY 10 Yulong to Yangshuo This morning there is an optional early hike before breakfast. It begins with a short cycle to Moon Hill where a 30 min climb (one way) takes us to a moon-shaped hole in the rock with some amazing views over the mountainous landscape and villages below. For those who prefer to relax and sleep in, breakfast is at leisure in the luxurious surrounds of the property and we have a late checkout this morning. Once we are all back together, we head out on a local cycle around the Yulong River valley, which takes us into Yangshuo where we spend our final night. Dinner is a sumptuous Chinese banquet and a chance to celebrate our achievements of the last ten days, before we take a walk to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of this very interesting city. Cycle distance 30 km / 19 miles Optional hiking - 1 hr return meals: L,D DAY 11 Yangshuo Trip arrangements end after breakfast. Airport transfers to Guilin airport or additional accommodation in Yangshuo can be arranged if required (additional cost applies). Yangshou is a very interesting city with a multitude of things to do if you wish to extend your stay. meals: B This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control. country information China never fails to conjure up a myriad of feelings, images and a sense of mystery. Within the almost four million square miles of China s vast territory live more than 1.3 billion people, which makes it the most populated nation on earth. For centuries, outsiders have yearned to visit China and it s only since 1976 that tourism really started. Initally, foreign visitors were only allowed to see a fraction of what the country had to offer, however today it is possible to visit as many as 60 different areas. An increasing number of historical sites are also being restored and opened up to viewing for foreign tourists. As much as China is keen to display its stunning scenery, historical sites and impressive cities, it is also dedicated to conveying something about how its society works. Although its political system has set it apart from the west, China is now moving forward in leaps and bounds, especially in the areas of trade and commerce. The major cities are indicative of the burgeoning economy of modern China Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 4/1/2015 1:20:58 PM

6 climate The Guangxi Province where we cycle is China s most southerly province and experiences a rather broad temperature range throughout the year. In leon summer trips (June to September) expect hot, humid days with temperatures up to 33C (91F) and some rain is likely although daytime temperatures in the hills further north should be milder. During October, the days are mild, from 15 26C (60 79F) and nights are cooler. what you carry Your bike will be equipped with a water bottle and rack bags as above. It will have enough space for a warm jacket, camera, sunscreen and personal items that you may need during your ride. Your main luggage will be transported in the support vehicle. You should not plan to access this during the day. equipment required Bikes are provided. Chinese Customs now forbid foreign tourists to bring their own bicycles into China without special permits. The application to the Security Bureau for these permits is tedious and time consuming and we therefore recommend that you do not bring your own bicycle. The tour price includes the use of a 27 speed MTB with semi slick tires and an adjustable stem plus rear rack and front handlebar bags. You may bring your own panniers if you wish but please check with us first for dimensions to make sure of sizing. special visa requirements Please arrange your visa for China prior to travelling. Visa s are unavailable on arrival. what s not included International flights and taxes Airport arrival and departure transfers Meals not mentioned in the itinerary All drinks (except water while cycling) Optional activities Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, shopping etc Visa Travel insurance Tipping private groups The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point. Planning and providing special group departures is something we do exceptionally well. Over the past 18 years we have developed some exceptional itineraries, from cycling to hiking or combination multi adventure trips. School groups, charities, work colleagues and cycling buddies have all been part of our experience. Our team can assist you with all aspects of your private group to ensure the trip is tailored just right for your group. Contact our team today. subscribe to our e-newsletter To keep up to date with the new and exciting trip releases, special offers plus more please subscribe to our free e newsletter at Or why not view past travellers images and join in on the conversation at com/adventuresouthnz Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 4/1/2015 1:20:58 PM

7 follow us Follow us on Facebook at: trip availability Please contact the Adventure South team for further information and trip availablity. how to book To book an Adventure South holiday, you can book directly online ( ) or you will need to complete a booking form (found at the back of our brochure). You can also download a copy from On completion, please fax or post the form to Adventure South or your nearest World Expeditions office, along with your non refundable deposit. If you re coming from outside New Zealand call your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent for assistance with your travel arrangements including flights, travel insurance and additional accommodation. If you re unsure what would be the best option for you call us NZ free phone , AUS free phone , USA free phone anywhere else or us on guide@advsouth.co.nz Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 4/1/2015 1:20:58 PM

HIGHLIGHTS: TOUR INCLUDES: +44 (0)

HIGHLIGHTS: TOUR INCLUDES: +44 (0) +44 (0)20 8741 7390 Carved from limestone, the southern provinces of Guizhou and Guangxi are home to a rich diversity of minority tribes. Blessed with a haunting landscape of monolithic karst hills and