China – Panda Conservation Adventure

The panda bear shares its home with China and has become a symbol of the country as well as conservation efforts around the world. As a result of farming, deforestation, and other development, Giant Pandas are still considered a vulnerable species, and their future remains dependent on human protection. According to some researchers, there are approximately 2000 left in the wild.

At the Panda Research Center, you’ll lend a hand with some of the conservation superheroes who are turning pandas’ prospects around. To achieve our purpose, feed and care for the animals, shovel panda dung, clean enclosures, and prepare food. There will also be lots of time to engage with Chinese culture and explore the stunning Chengdu landscape.

Volunteer Time = 10 hours (2 half-days)

Over the course of two days, volunteer directly alongside the Rangers at the panda research base and participate in feeding pandas – truly experiencing these precious animals up-close (Note: children 11 years old & younger will have an alternative itinerary). Learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect the panda and its habitat, and earn a certificate for your efforts in supporting panda conservation in their native land.

Outside of our time at Dujiangyan, we will uncover the ancient culture and traditions of China. Spend an afternoon with a local family heading to the market to gather ingredients and learn to cook local dishes. Journey into the countryside to an age old tea plantation and take a boat across a lake to view one of China’s largest Buddha statues carved into a mountainside.

Combine your time learning what it takes to care for pandas with an in-depth cultural experience. Marvel at a traditional Chinese face changing performance one evening and try a savory hotpot at one of Chengdu’s many traditional restaurants the next. Meander through the alleys of Jinli Ancient Street, one of Chengdu’s oldest roads filled with Qing Dynasty architecture and bustling markets. Each night, return home to the comforts of your hotel, hand-picked for traditional aesthetic and located in the midst of some of the area’s must-see sights.

For those that want to continue the journey, extend the trip with a visit to China’s capital city, Beijing. Experience the unforgettable Great Wall of China, a wonder of the modern world, as well as The Summer Palace, a collection of palaces now said to be one of the most widely-visited sites in Beijing. After marveling at Beijing’s most impressive sites, barter your way through the famous Panjiayuan Fea Market.

Your journey to China will take you to two unique, hand-picked hotels – one in the bustling center of Chengdu’s historical district and the other in the countryside. During our time in Chengdu, stay at a charming traditional-style hotel walking distance to Chengdu’s top sites including Kuanzhai Ancient Street and Chengdu’s culture park.

During our time at the Panda Research Center, stay in a leafy 5-star hotel complete with a sauna, indoor & outdoor pools and hiking trails.  For those who want to opt-out of any planned activities during the day, both hotels offer a great atmosphere for relaxing and popping to a quick café or bar.