The Great Wall of China Extension
Our Purpose
China’s 1.3 billion people have witnessed an extraordinary change of pace as the face of their country has seen rapid economic expansion, however, the pull of tradition remains strong. We’ll bring you together with residents of the bustling capital city of Beijing and go beyond the city boundaries to share a homemade meal with a welcoming local family. You’ll also see China from two completely different points of view while visiting two iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites – The Great Wall of China and the Summer Palace – in between.
What You'll Do
We’ll make the three-hour flight to Beijing and hit the ground running before enjoying a peking roast duck and kung fu show. Rise early and join the locals who start each morning with a Tai Chi session in the park as you learn the basics from an expert instructor. Day two will be spent sight-seeing and exploring Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City.
On day three, experience one of the Wonders of the Modern World, the Great Wall of China. We’ll explore the wall’s Mutianyu section, where you’ll have the chance to take an optional Toboggan ride or take a cable car down from the wall before heading to Beijing’s old streets and hopping in a Hutong rickshaw. Dinner brings something truly special as we introduce you to a local family who will invite you into their home for a hearty, homemade Hutong-style family meal. It’s the perfect farewell before embarking on your trip home the next day.
What You'll See
After landing and settling in to your hotel, experience the spectacular Summer Palace, the former imperial garden and the largest, most well-preserved royal park in China. Between April and October, we’ll also take a scenic boat ride across the lake. On Day two, relax in the Temple of Heaven, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning imperial Chinese architecture, and enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony in a local teahouse. We’ll also benefit from the expert knowledge of a local guide who will lead our visit to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Take in breathtaking views of historic Beijing from Jingshan Park before watching an astonishing evening performance by Chinese acrobats. Rest up for Day three as we head to The Great Wall of China!
Where You'll Stay
Stay in a charming 4-star hotel in the center of all the action in Beijing. Amenities include air conditioning, wifi, TV, hot water, breakfast in the morning, and fine dining dinner options for those who do not want to venture out to the city after an action-packed day. Walks to the park for Tai Chi lessons have never been more convenient.
Itinerary Overview
After a 3-hour flight to Beijing, head to your charming hotel in the heart of the city. Enjoy a guided tour of some of Beijing’s most famous and spectacular sites before traditional dinners with kung fu or acrobat shows by night. In addition to
Beijing’s parks and temples, explore The Great Wall of China with an optional toboggan ride down to the bottom. Zip through the town on a rickshaw before visiting a family’s home for a traditional Chinese Hutong-style meal.
Want to learn more?
Request an itineraryTraveler's Journal
“The China panda trip was incredible if you have kids who love wildlife. My daughter’s favorite animal was always the panda, and being able to watch her feed them and learn about their history was truly special. She can’t stop talking about this trip to her friends, and my heart is full knowing she was able to have such an unforgettable and unique experience at such a young age. I can’t believe how much interaction we were able to have. Cannot say enough good things! We also couldn’t leave without seeing The Great Wall, which was another highlight.”
Susan G.
San Diego, CA
Dates & Fees
4 days / 3 nights
Program Cost: $1,295 Adult* / $1,195 Child*
This extension can be added onto any China: Panda Conservation Adventure departure
Please note: Discover Corps has suspended all departures to China due to the coronavirus concern until further notice. You can keep up to date with us on the status of the outbreak here.
- 3 nights in standard level lodging (see itinerary for more information)
- 10 meals throughout the trip
- All transportation, including airport transfer to Beijing and your return home ($200 domestic flight supplement not included)
- Expert local guide during your visit
- $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
- Turnkey customer support from preparing for your trip to arrival back home
What's Included
Our trips are inclusive of all activities, lodging, transport and most meals to make your experience hassle-free. Here’s a sample of what’s included:
- 3 nights in standard level lodging (see itinerary for more information)
- 10 meals throughout the trip
- All transportation, including airport transfer to Beijing and your return home ($200 domestic flight supplement not included)
- Expert local guide during your visit
- $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
- Turnkey customer support from preparing for your trip to arrival back home
What’s Not Included:
- International airfare
- Alcoholic beverages
- One-way domestic flight from Chengdu to Beijing ($200 additional supplement, added at checkout)
- Tips for the primary guide and driver
Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More
Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.
Customized Private Trips
Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.
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