In Pursuit of Pandas

Fly to Beijing, China's historic capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Begin in Beijing's symbolic heart with a stroll across vast Tiananmen Square, flanked by grand government buildings and Mao's mausoleum. Step into the Forbidden City, a maze of golden rooftops, serene courtyards and imperial treasures, once home to China's emperors. Later, wander through the Temple of Heaven, a vision of Ming design and harmony, then savour a dinner of Peking duck, Beijing's cherished local delicacy.

This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Stretching thousands of miles from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, over all sorts of dramatic landscapes, it is one of the world’s most impressive feats of engineering. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate both the wall itself and the magnificent scenery that it crosses. Drive back to Beijing and enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the idyllic gardens of the Summer Palace. You will also have an opportunity to visit a jade factory, where you will be able to buy a small handcrafted piece. A thrilling fusion of athleticism and artistry at a Chinese acrobatic show rounds off the day.

Take the bullet train to Xian. An illustrious and age-old city, Xian is one of the four great ancient capitals of China. It is also the capital of Shaanxi province and the starting point of the fabled Silk Road with a history spanning 3,100 years. Take a leisurely stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian's old town. Tonight, enjoy a delicious feast of traditional Shui Jiao dumplings and a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

After their fortuitous discovery by local farmers in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses who stand in their original formations at the exact location they were excavated. Visit the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate terracotta warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Watch the skilled production process and perhaps buy a souvenir warrior to take home. Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that encircle Xian's old town and stop at a local brewery for a refreshing beer tasting.

Step back in time with a visit to Yuanjia Village, a beautifully restored heritage village offering a glimpse into Qing Dynasty architecture, traditional crafts, and authentic local flavours. Later, board a bullet train to Chengdu, the vibrant capital of Sichuan province.

This morning visit Dujiangyan Panda Base for your first panda encounter! Located 1.5 hours outside of Chengdu, this centre is dedicated to the study of disease control and the rescue of wild pandas – the perfect place to gain insight into the hard work that goes into caring for and boosting the population of this endangered species. Later, enjoy the atmosphere of Jinli Street – a lively street lined with antique shops and restaurants before sampling a delicious Sichuanese meal.

Your second panda experience will take place at Chengdu's famous Panda Conservation Centre, located right in the city. An education centre and breeding facility, here you'll see both pandas and red pandas up close as they chomp through piles of bamboo, sleep and play, and learn all about their physiology and conservation. Back in Chengdu, enjoy a cup of tea at a traditional teahouse, then visit Matchmaker's Corner, where parents search for worthy suitors for their children.

Fly to New Zealand, arriving home the same or following day.