How to Plan Sichuan Bird-Watching Tour

Sichuan is located in the west of China with a variaty of natural landscape. It is home to many nature reserves including Giant Panda Sanctuary, Siguniang National Park, Yading Reserve, Zoige Reserve, Ya’an Reserve, etc. The drastic change of altitude between Sichuan Basin and Tibetan Plateau provides the best habitats for wild animals including birds. The bottom of the basin is at meer 400m while the top of the mountains are over 6000m. Relatively low lantitude provides a distinguish four seasons in most part of Sichuan Province. We have kush and wet summer while warm and dry winter in Sichuan. All conditions come together, making it a good place for birds. Here included are the usual birding places information as well as popular birding trips in Sichuan.

Planning a Sichuan bird-watching tour is an exciting endeavor for nature enthusiasts. Here are some steps to help you organize a memorable birding experience in this diverse province:

Research and Choose Your Destinations:
- Sichuan boasts several excellent bird-watching spots. Research the following areas:
  - Chengdu: Known for its rich bird diversity, Chengdu alone hosts around 516 bird species across 80 families and 21 orders.
  - Longcanggou: A scenic location for bird enthusiasts.
  - Wawu Mountain: Explore the unique avian life here.
  - Balangshan: Enjoy bird-watching in the morning and then drive to Mt. Wawu in the afternoon.
  - Zoige: Discover the birdlife in this picturesque region.
  - Songpan: Explore natural beauty and bird habitats.
  - Hailuogou: Experience bird-watching amid stunning landscapes.
Choose the Duration of Your Tour:
- Depending on your availability, decide whether you want a short day trip or a more extended bird-watching adventure.
Select a Tour Operator or Plan It Yourself:
- You can either join an organized bird-watching tour or plan your own itinerary.
- If opting for a tour operator, ensure they specialize in birding and have knowledgeable guides.
Season and Timing:
- Sichuan’s climate varies significantly due to its diverse landscapes. Consider the best time for bird-watching:
  - Winter: Witness migratory birds during the relatively warm winters.
  - Spring and Autumn: Ideal for observing resident and migratory species.
  - Summer: Explore the lush greenery and bird habitats.
Accommodations and Logistics:
- Book accommodations near your chosen bird-watching sites.
- Arrange transportation (private car, guided tours, or public transport) to move between locations.
Pack Essentials:
- Binoculars: Essential for spotting distant birds.
- Field guidebooks: Identify species accurately.
- Comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear.
- Water, snacks, and insect repellent.
Guided Tours and Local Experts:
- Consider hiring local birding guides who know the area well.
- They can lead you to prime birding spots and share their expertise.
Respect Wildlife and Environment:
- Keep a safe distance from birds to avoid disturbing them.
- Follow ethical bird-watching practices and adhere to park rules.
Enjoy the Experience:
- Bird-watching is not just about ticking off species; it’s about appreciating nature’s beauty.
- Capture memories through photographs and take in the breathtaking landscapes.

Itinerary of Sichuan Birding Tours:
Chengdu Bird-Watching Tour – 1 Day
Price: upon inquiry

Destinations Visited: Chengdu

Departure: Private Tour / Flexible Date

Highlights of this Tour
This is a one-day bird-watching tour in Chengdu. Sichuan is the bordering area of different climate zones in China. It has relatively warm winter where you see migrate birds in cold seasons. According to the latest record, Chengdu has total 516 species of birds in 80 families in 21 orders. It has taken up around 35% of total recorded bird species in China. West of Sichuan has one of the biggest elevation differences that is home to different kind of birds.

Sichuan Bird-watching Tours
We also have below the most popular bird-watching trip plans including Longcanggou, Wawu Mountain, Balangshan, Zoige, Songpan and Hailuogou. Please send your inquiry.

Balangshan and Mt. Wawu 7 Days Bird Tour
Day01 Chengdu arrival and set out for Balang, arrive Wolong
Day02 Balangshan Bird-watch
Day03 Balangshan Bird-watch
Day04 Balangshan in the morning and then drive to Mt. Wawu in the afternoon
Day05 Mt. Wawu Bird-watch
Day06 Mt. Wawu Bird-watch
Day07 Mt. Wawu in the morning and drive back to Chengdu and send to airport
Northern Sichuan Bird Tour: Songpan and Zoige – 8 Days
Day01 Chengdu arrival and drive to Mengtun
Day02 Mengtun Bird-watch
Day03 Mengtun and drive to Songpan
Day04 Songpan Bird-watch
Day05 Songpan and drive to Zoige
Day06 Zoige Flower Lake
Day07 Zoige Forest and drive back to Songpan
Day08 Songpan drive back to Chengdu and send to airport
Mt.Wawu and Hailuogou Bird Tour – 6 Days
Day01 Chengdu arrival and drive to Mt. Wawu
Day02 Mt. Wawu Bird-watch
Day03 Mt. Wawu Bird-watch
Day04 Mt. Wawu drive to Luding, bird-watch by Erlangshan, then drive to Hailuogou
Day05 Hailuogou bird-watch
Day06 Drive back to Chengdu and send to airport
Bird-Watching Travel Guide
Up until 2022 there are recorded 757 spieces of birds in Sichuan. It is half of the number of spieces found in China. Sichuan is located by the upper part of Yangtze River, a major super-size natural protection place in China. There are total 46 sites of “Important Bird Area” in Sichuan Provice alone including Sershul, Zoige, Jiuzhaigou, Emei, Balangshan, Erlangshan, Mengbishan, Wawushan, Muli, etc. Awareness of bird protection has been rising through years.