Wild China

The second programme in BBC 2’s new six-parter Wild China, focusses on Yunnan Province, widely regarded as the country’s most culturally diverse and scenically spectacular region. For those who want to do more than just armchair travel, Peregrine Adventures’ 10-day ‘Yunnan Explorer’ adventure goes off-the-beaten-track and gets under the skin of wild China. Departures from Kunming are available 22nd July, 9th September, 7th & 21st October 08.

China’s Yunnan Province is home to a multitude of fascinating minority groups, each with their own distinct characteristics. The origins of these people are as varied as their languages and costumes. Many migrated from the mountains of Tibet, whilst others came from Muslim regions along the ancient ‘Silk Route’.

Yunnan’s scenery also changes dramatically across the province – from the dry, windswept plains of the Tibetan plateau, to the spectacular gorges surrounding the early stages of the Yangtze River. A highlight of the tour is the trek into the breathtaking ‘Tiger Leaping Gorge’, framed by 5,000-metre-high mountains.

Overnight stays in local villages such as bucolic Ben Di Wan, though facilities are extremely basic, remote areas being frequented only by adventurous travellers, offer an unforgettable experience. Further highlights include a tour of the Songzanlin Monastery at Zhongdian – the gateway to Shangri-la, and an opportunity to take a chairlift up the impressive Cang Shan Mountains.

The ‘Yunnan Explorer’ costs £506 p/p (based on twin share) including accommodation, all transport, some meals, sightseeing and entrance fees, local guides and the services of a Peregrine tour leader.

Flights are not included but are available through Peregrine Adventures.

Find out more at Peregrineadventures.co.uk.