13 Days Emeishan and Wawushan Mountains Birding Tour

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This 13-day birding tour through the Emeishan and Wawushan mountains immerses you in some of the richest avian habitats in Sichuan. With an impressive diversity of bird species—ranging from high-altitude specialists to unique endemic varieties—this tour is ideal for avid birdwatchers. The best time for this adventure is from April to August, when the weather is pleasant, and birds are most active.

Tour Highlights

  • Golden Summit: Ascend to the summit of Emeishan for stunning views and unique birdwatching opportunities.
  • Monastery Exploration: Visit historic monasteries known for their rich birdlife, including Xixiangchi and Xianfeng.
  • Wawushan Diversity: Explore varying elevations and habitats in the Wawushan Mountains, including mid-level forests and alpine regions.
  • Cable Car Rides: Experience scenic rides to higher elevations for unparalleled birdwatching access.
  • Target Species: Look out for endemic birds like the Emei Shan Liocichla, Firethroat, and several pheasant species, among many others.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu

Location: Chengdu
Activities:

  • Arrive at Chengdu International Airport.
  • Transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Begin your journey in Sichuan’s vibrant capital, known for its rich culture and delicious cuisine.

Day 2: Chengdu to Emeishan

Location: Emeishan
Activities:

  • Drive from Chengdu to Leidong Ping (2,500 m).
  • Begin birding as you ascend to the Golden Summit (3,079 m).
  • Overnight at Golden Summit Hotel.

This day introduces you to high-altitude birding, with a chance to spot species adapted to cooler climates.

Day 3: Birding at Golden Summit

Location: Golden Summit
Activities:

  • Early morning birding in the Golden Summit area, searching for high-altitude species.
  • Descend to Xixiangchi Monastery (2,050 m), birding along the route.
  • Overnight at Xixiangchi Monastery.

Look for unique birds like the Emei Shan Liocichla and various warblers as you explore this biodiverse region.

Day 4: Monastery Birding

Location: Xixiangchi Monastery
Activities:

  • Morning birding near Xixiangchi Monastery.
  • Walk down to Xianfeng Monastery (1,700 m), enjoying birdwatching en route.
  • Overnight at Xianfeng Monastery.

This leg of the journey provides opportunities to observe both common and rare species.

Day 5: Xianfeng Monastery Birding

Location: Xianfeng Monastery
Activities:

  • Full day of birding around Xianfeng Monastery.
  • Overnight at Xianfeng Monastery.

Explore the surrounding forests and mountains, focusing on diverse habitats to maximize bird sightings.

Day 6: Descent to Hongchunping

Location: Hongchunping
Activities:

  • Walk down to Hongchunping (1,300 m), birding along the way.
  • Overnight at Hongchun Monastery.

Observe the changes in bird species as you transition between elevations.

Day 7: Transfer to Baoguosi

Location: Baoguosi
Activities:

  • Walk down to Wu Xian Gang Car Park and take a sightseeing bus to Baoguosi (700 m).
  • Overnight at Hong Zhu Shan Hotel.

Experience birding in lower elevations and enjoy the local scenery.

Day 8: Morning Birdwatching and Transfer to Wawushan

Location: Wawushan
Activities:

  • Morning birdwatching around the hotel.
  • Drive from Emeishan to Mt. Wawushan.

Get ready for a new birding adventure in a different mountain range.

Day 9: Full Day Birding in Wawushan

Location: Wawushan
Activities:

  • Full day of birding in mid-level forests, focusing on diverse habitats.
  • Overnight in Wawushan.

Look for notable species and enjoy the stunning mountain landscapes.

Day 10: Higher Elevation Birding

Location: Wawushan
Activities:

  • Early morning cable car ride to higher elevations for birding.
  • Return for lunch, then explore lower elevations until dusk.
  • Overnight in Wawushan.

Access remote birding spots with ease, enhancing your chances of sightings.

Day 11: Morning and Afternoon Birding

Location: Wawushan
Activities:

  • Morning birding at lower elevations; return for lunch.
  • Afternoon cable car ride to explore new trails.
  • Overnight in Wawushan.

Continue your search for species like the Blue Eared Pheasant and various warblers.

Day 12: Free Birding Day

Location: Wawushan
Activities:

  • Enjoy a free day for personal birdwatching.
  • After lunch, drive back to Chengdu.

Make the most of your last full day in the mountains.

Day 13: Departure from Chengdu

Location: Chengdu
Activities:

  • Conclude your tour and transfer to the airport for departure.

Reflect on the incredible birdwatching experiences and memories from your journey through Sichuan’s stunning landscapes.

Service Included:

  • Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary;
  • Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
  • Private English-speaking tour guide;
  • Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
  • Service charge & government taxes;
  • Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
  • Domestic train tickets of soft sleeper.

Service Excluded:

  • Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
  • Chinese visa fees;
  • Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
  • Single room supplement;
  • Tips to guides and drivers;
  • Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
  • Personal travel accident insurance;
  • All optional programs.
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