The Silk Road in Small Groups
Gobi, Taklamakan & Steppe 27 days classique

The Silk Road in Small Groups

On the Traces of Caravans, from Beijing to the Timurid Cities of Uzbekistan

From€5,913per person
20 years of local expertise4.91/5 (55 reviews including 47 Google)

Duration

27 days

From

€5,913/pers.

Ideal seasons

Apr, May, Sep, Oct

Style

Guided tour

Comfort

classique

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends, groupe

The spirit of travel

With the Great Silk Road in small group, embark on an epic journey across Chine, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, following the great stages of Central Asia. This route crosses territories shaped by centuries of commercial and cultural exchanges, where merchants, pilgrims and travelers once traveled along legendary paths.

From Beijing to Xi'an, from the oases of Xinjiang to the landscapes of Pamir, then from Kyrgyz valleys to historic cities of Uzbekistan, this itinerary brings back the spirit of ancient caravan routes. Each stage reveals a different face of this region of the world, alternately urban, desert or mountainous, always marked by a strong identity.

You will discover bustling markets, imperial monuments, caravan cities built in sun-dried brick and vertiginous summits that recall the scale of this territory once crossed by great caravans. This rich and structured circuit combines major sites, local cultures, varied landscapes and emblematic cities of the Silk Road, for a journey that crosses multiple countries and multiple eras at once.

The stages of your journey

D1–3
PékinHôtel SSAW Garden
D4–5
Xi'anHôtel Yunheyebo 4*
D6
Grottes de BinglingsiHôtel Nirvana
D7
TongrenHôtel Rebkong
D8
ZhangyeHôtel Zhangye
D9
JiayuguanHôtel à Jiugang
D10
DunhuangHôtel Silk Road 5*
D11–12
TurpanHôtel Silk Road 5*
D13
KachgarTrain de nuit
D14–15
KachgarHôtel Mercure
D16
Sary-Tash
D17–18
OshHôtel Rayan 4*
D19
MargilanIkat Hotel
D20
TashkentHôtel Milan 4*
D21
KhivaHôtel boutique Shakhrezada
D22–23
BoukharaHôtel Boutique Emir
D24–25
SamarkandHôtel Jahongir Premium
D26–27
Tashkent

Highlights

A complete itinerary on the great Silk Road between Chine, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan
The great sites of Chine, with Beijing, the Great Wall, Xi'an and the Terracotta Army
The iconic stages of Xinjiang, from Dunhuang to Turpan to Kashgar
Altitude landscapes and mythical roads, between Karakoram, Lake Karakul, Kyrgyz passes and Fergana Valley
The great historical cities of Uzbekistan, with Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand and Tashkent

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Flight to Beijing

Your circuit begins with the booking of your flight to Chine, heading towards Beijing, first stage of your journey.

Jour 2
D2

First Steps in Imperial Beijing

You arrive at Beijing airport in the morning, between 6am and 9am, where your driver and English-speaking guide welcome you.

The day begins with a stroll through Tiananmen Square, the "Gate of Heavenly Peace". You continue with a visit to the Forbidden City, former residence of Chinese emperors and a major center of political power.

As you exit, you gain some height with a walk on Coal Hill, which peaks at 108 meters, offering you a 360-degree view of Beijing.

In the afternoon, you discover the Temple of Heaven, located in the heart of the vast Tiantan Gongyuan park. Its triple-roofed rotunda finely illustrates Ming architecture.

Dinner, then night at the SSAW Garden hotel.

Dinner
Jour 3
D3

Great Wall and Summer Palace

You are leaving this morning for the Great Wall at Mutianyu, built over 6,700 km to protect the Middle Kingdom from invasions from the North and inscribed in the World Heritage List. The ascent is planned by cable car, followed by a descent on foot, with the option to descend by toboggan, to be paid on site.

After lunch, return to Beijing for a visit to the Summer Palace, then for a stroll through its vast park along Kunming Lake.

In the evening, you share a dinner of Peking duck, a specialty of Beijing.

Overnight at SSAW Garden Hotel.

Hôtel SSAW GardenLunchDinner
Jour 4
D4

Xi'an, Between Muslim Quarter & Pagoda

Pékin → Xi'an

2h501216 km

You are transferred to the railway station in Beijing to board the train with approximately 4 hours 30 minutes of travel.

Upon your arrival, you are welcomed by your new English-speaking guide.

You begin discovering Xi'an with a stroll through the Muslim Quarter, including a visit to the Great Mosque. You then continue to the Small Goose Pagoda, built to house the sutras brought from India by the monk Yijing.

In the evening, as an optional activity (€40 per person), you can attend a dumpling banquet dinner, followed by a Tang Dynasty dance performance.

You spend the night at the 4-star Yunheyebo Hotel, located near the city's south walls, as well as the Bell and Drum Tower, a neighborhood where you can stroll freely after dinner.

Hôtel Yunheyebo 4*
Jour 5
D5

Terracotta Army and Shaanxi Museum

You will discover the famous historical site of the Terracotta Army, protector of the tomb of Chine's first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi. You will discover the 6,000 life-size terracotta warriors and horses, lined up in battle formation.

After lunch, return to Xi'an to visit the Shaanxi Provincial Museum. Considered the cradle of Chinese civilization, Shaanxi Province is home to numerous protected archaeological sites. The museum houses over 300,000 objects that testify to the richness of this civilization and trace the history of Chine.

Dinner, then return to the hotel.

Hôtel Yunheyebo 4*LunchDinner
Jour 6
D6

Bingling Caves and Yellow River

Xi'an → Lanzhou

3h30568 km

This morning, you are transferred to Xi'an railway station to take the high-speed train to Lanzhou.

Upon arrival, you head towards Binglingsi.

The excursion continues by boat to the Thousand Buddhas sanctuary caves, through a corridor of cliffs overlooking the Yellow River, between rocky peaks and steep ravines. You then cross by boat to the other side of the river to reach the Binlingsi caves, a remarkable ensemble of statues carved into cliffs of porous rock shaped by water.

Night at Nirvana Hotel.

Hôtel Nirvana
Jour 7
D7

Labrang and Wutun Monastery

You discover the immense Labrang Lamasery, built in 1709 and housing 1,200 monks of the Yellow Hat sect. The visit takes you to the Golden Temple, to the Tibetan medicine institute, to libraries, temples and numerous treasures of Buddhist art. You then enjoy a city tour as well as a panorama from the hill overlooking the Labrang Monastery.

The road continues to Tongren, where you visit the Wutun Monastery, renowned for the artistic talents of its monks, known for creating beautiful statues and Tibetan Tangka paintings.

Night at the Rebkong Hotel.

Hôtel Rebkong
Jour 8
D8

From Tongren to Zhangye

Tongren → Xining

3h45190 km

You start the day with a visit to the Tongren Monastery, one of the six great lamaseries of the Yellow Hat sect of Buddhism, known for its yak butter sculptures.

You then continue by road in a private vehicle towards Xining, through beautiful landscapes.

Xining → Zhangye

3h30350 km

Upon arrival, you take the high-speed train to Zhangye.

On site, welcome and transfer to your hotel.

Night at Zhangye Hotel.

Hôtel Zhangye
Jour 9
D9

Zhangye Danxia then road to Jiayuguan

Zhangye → Jiayuguan

3h230 km

In the morning, you discover the Horse Roof Temple as well as the Giant Buddha. You then continue with a visit to the colorful rock formations of Zhangye Danxia. These landscapes were born from the deposit of layers of sediments of different colors over 24 million years between two tectonic plates, then from the action of erosion. The ensemble creates a decor with remarkable reliefs and hues.

After this discovery, you head towards Jiayuguan, with approximately 2h45 of travel, then you settle into the hotel.

Night at Jiugang Hotel.

Hôtel à Jiugang
Jour 10
D10

Jiayuguan and Dunhuang Dunes

Jiayuguan → Dunhuang

4h384 km

You discover the Jiayuguan fortress, located between the Gobi desert and the Qilian mountains. Nicknamed the "Impregnable Pass under Heaven", it marked the stronghold and western border of Chine. The visit also includes a section of the Great Wall.

You then travel by vehicle to Dunhuang, with approximately five hours of travel.

Upon arrival, an excursion to the giant dunes of the Singing Sands of Mingsha, which surround the Blue Crescent Lake, at the point where the oasis meets the desert. Along the way, you discover the sunset over the dunes.

Night at the 5* Silk Road hotel, a charming hotel located at the edge of the desert and reminiscent of caravanserais.

Hôtel Silk Road 5*
Jour 11
D11

Mogao Caves & Route to Turpan

Dunhuang → Turpan

5h30700 km

You visit the famous Mogao Caves, carved on five levels and extending 1,600 meters on the east side of Mingshan Mountain, 25 km southeast of Dunhuang. In the past, the site had up to 1,000 caves and niches, of which 492 are still visitable today. They contain 2,415 painted statues and 45,000 m² of frescoes, making this ensemble one of the great architectural, pictorial and sculptural treasures of Chine.

After the visit, transfer to Liuyuan station, approximately 1.5 hours away by road, to board your high-speed train to Turpan, with approximately 4 hours of travel.

Night at the Silk Road – The Vines hotel.

Hôtel Silk Road 5*
Jour 12
D12

Turpan, Oasis and Silk Road

You are heading off to discover Turpan, an amazing oasis known as the second lowest place in the world after the Dead Sea, and as the hottest place in Chine. The road then takes you towards the landscapes of the Flaming Mountains.

You continue with a visit to the ruins of Gaochang, an ancient major center of exchange on the Silk Road, dating from the beginning of the Han dynasty.

Along the way, you enjoy landscapes of vineyards and trellises surrounded by the desert.

The day continues with the discovery of an ancient Uyghur village in the Tuyuk valley.

Framed by mountains of fire, this small village offers a glimpse of traditional Uyghur life. You then visit the caves of Bezeklik, then a Karez well, part of an irrigation system in the Turpan basin composed of wells connected by underground channels carrying glacier meltwater to the oasis.

In the evening, you have free time for a stroll in the city, near the mosque, where a few traditional architecture alleyways are still preserved.

Overnight at Silk Road – The Vines.

Hôtel Silk Road 5*
Jour 13
D13

From Turpan to Kashgar along the Silk Road

Turpan → Kachgar

12h1398 km

You start the day with a visit to the Emin Minaret, also called Sugong Ta, or "the duke's tower", considered the highest minaret in Chine. You then continue with the discovery of the ruins of Jiaohe, former capital of the kingdom of Jushi from 108 BC and a major exchange point on the Silk Road. This fortress remained undefeated until the Mongol invasion in the 13th century.

You are then transferred to Turpan station to take your train to Kashgar. Provisions are provided for your meal on board.

For those who do not wish to travel by overnight train, it is also possible to take the plane: drive to Urumqi (2 hours), then flight to Kashgar (2 hours flight). Price on request.

Train de nuit
Jour 14
D14

Kashgar, Bazaars and Old Town

You are welcomed in the morning, then set off to discover Kashgar, a great crossroads where Uyghur, Tajik, Kyrgyz and Uzbek peoples intermingle. You visit the Abakh Hoja Mausoleum, a mausoleum dedicated to the family of the concubine Xiang Fei, as well as the neighboring mosque, whose beams reveal some Buddhist details.

The day continues at the famous Sunday Bazaar, then at the livestock market, considered the largest and most impressive in the entire Xinjiang province. You then discover the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Chine.

From the mosque, you continue with a stroll through the old town, between the artisans' street and picturesque quarters.

In the evening, the streets fill with small restaurants, an ideal setting for dinner. Overnight at the Mercure Hotel.

Hôtel Mercure
Jour 15
D15

Karakoram Highway & Karakul Lake

You take the Karakoram road through high alpine landscapes, where camels and yaks graze.

Along the way, you use this newly renovated road, with a brief stop in Upal to buy some supplies for the journey, as there are no restaurants planned along the route.

The day continues along the Kunlun Shan mountain range, with beautiful panoramas throughout the journey. You then stop at the Karakul Lake, located at 3,650 meters altitude, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, between the Ghez Gorges and the Pamir Plateau, before continuing on the road to Kashgar.

Hôtel Mercure
Jour 16
D16

Towards Kyrgyzstan via the Torugart Pass

Kachgar → Sary-Tash

4h30280 km

After breakfast, you head towards the Kyrgyz border and climb up to the Torugart Pass, at 3,750 meters altitude. After crossing the border, you are welcomed by the Kyrgyz team.

You then continue towards Sary Tash, located 100 km from the border.

Dinner included, then night in a guesthouse at Dome Hotel Pamir Alai – Glamping.

Dinner
Jour 17
D17

From Sary Tash to Osh

You discover the small village of Sary Tash before taking the road through the Kyrgyz mountains. The journey takes you through the Taldyk pass, located at 3,615 meters altitude. Lunch is planned during the trip in the form of a packed meal.

Upon arrival in Osh, you settle into your guesthouse. An ancient historic city in the Kyrgyz part of the Fergana Valley, Osh is then discovered through a visit to Solomon's Mount (Suleyman), the History Museum and the bazaar.

Dinner in a local restaurant, then overnight at the Rayan Hotel 4*.

Hôtel Rayan 4*LunchDinner
Jour 18
D18

Excursion to Ouzgene from Osh

This morning, you head east to Ouzgene, a small town located near the Uzbek border. You will discover the famous minaret as well as the complex of tombs of the Karakhanid khans.

The visit continues with a stroll through the central market, in contact with local culture and regional specialties. Lunch is scheduled in a chaikhana, before returning to Osh. Dinner, then overnight at the same hotel as the previous night.

Hôtel Rayan 4*LunchDinner
Jour 19
D19

From Ferghana Valley to Margilan

Osh → Margilan

3h30130 km

The Fergana Valley forms the heart of Uzbekistan's most fertile region, favorable for agriculture and livestock farming. Its wealth is ancient, and the traditions of master weavers, silk production, ceramics, wood carving and many other crafts still reflect the way of life of its inhabitants.

After breakfast at the guesthouse, you take the road towards the Uzbek border at Dustlik, on the main axis between Osh and Andijan. Border crossing is easy and quick. Once formalities are completed, you are welcomed by the Uzbek team.

Lunch on the way.

Upon arrival in Marguilan, you join Fergana, a city founded in the second half of the 19th century. You discover the pedestrian street Mustakillik, stroll through Al-Fergani Park and visit the former Tsarist residence Skobelev. At the end of the day, return to Margilan.

Dinner at your own expense, then overnight at Ikat Hotel.

Ikat HotelLunchDinner
Jour 20
D20

Fergana Valley, Kokand and train to Tashkent

Margilan → Tashkent

4h300 km

You are leaving for Oltiarik, located 25 km away, to discover picturesque villages that testify to the country's rich agricultural traditions. Along the way, you observe vast gardens of fruits, vegetables and vineyards that rhythm the landscape. This stage also includes immersion with an Uzbek peasant family.

The day continues towards Richtan, known for its ceramic traditions. You discover local life by visiting a potters' village, between ceramic workshops and meeting with a luthier who makes traditional instruments. Lunch.

For the last visit, stop in Kokand to discover the Khoudayar Khan Palace. This palace houses a museum dedicated to the history and present of Kokand and the Fergana Valley. You also visit the Jomi Mosque, craft workshops and Dakhmai Jahon, "the Governors' Tombs".

To reach Tachkent, the last 270 kilometers are covered by train. The line crosses the Kamtchik mountain pass, at 2,050 meters altitude, and offers beautiful scenery throughout the journey, approximately five hours.

Upon arrival in Tachkent, check-in at the Milan 4* hotel for the night.

Hôtel Milan 4*Lunch
Jour 21
D21

Khiva, museum city of the Silk Road

Tashkent → Ourguench

1h30720 km

Transfer to the airport for your Uzbekistan Airways HY1055 domestic flight to Urgench, departing at 07:40 and arriving at 09:20.

Ourguench → Khiva

30min35 km

Upon arrival, transfer to Khiva, located 35 km away.

The day is dedicated to discovering this open-air museum city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a former stop on the Silk Road. You visit the Ata Darvaza fortress, the Kalta Minor minaret, the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah, the king's residence as well as the ancient Kounya Ark palace.

After lunch, continue visiting the Mohamed Rahimkhan madrasah, the Friday Mosque, the Pahlavan Makhmud mausoleum, the Islamkhodja minaret, the Tochhovli palace, the Khan's harem and the Ollokoulikhon madrasah. You will also discover the Nurulla Bay palace and the official chambers of Isfandyar Khan, built in 1912. This palace stands out from other royal residences in Khiva due to its blend of Russian and Oriental styles, as well as its ornamental details.

Dinner is planned at a terrace restaurant offering views over the city and its monuments.

At the end of the day, enjoy a leisurely sunset stroll to appreciate the atmosphere of Khiva. Night at Shakhrezada Boutique Hotel.

Hôtel boutique ShakhrezadaLunchDinner
Jour 22
D22

Train to Bukhara across the desert

Khiva → Boukhara

7h354 km

You head to the station to board the train to Boukhara, with approximately 7 hours of travel across the Kyzyl Koum desert. More comfortable than the road, this train journey allows you to enjoy the landscapes of the Kyzyl Koum desert, the "Red Sands", which evoke the era of caravans crossing these expanses by camel.

A packed lunch is included and can be enjoyed on board the train.

Upon your arrival in Boukhara in the late afternoon, you have free time to stroll through the charming streets of the old town.

For dinner, you discover local flavors in one of the city's typical restaurants.

Overnight at the Emir Boutique Hotel.

Hôtel Boutique EmirLunchDinner
Jour 23
D23

Bukhara, the holy city of Uzbekistan

Khiva → Boukhara

6h15425 km

After breakfast, you set off to discover Boukhara, the fifth holy city of Islam. Among the many monuments in the city, you visit the Ark fortress, a citadel that is 2,000 years old and the former residence of the emir, as well as the mausoleum of Ismail Samani, one of the most important representatives of the Samanid dynasty.

Lunch is planned during the tour.

You then continue with the Poi-Kalon ensemble, which brings together the minaret, mosque and Miri Arab madrasa, then the Ulugh Beg madrasa, built in 1417, as well as the Khan Abdalaziz madrasa. You also discover the Magoki Attory mosque, built in the 12th century and then rebuilt in the 16th century on the foundations of a temple dedicated to Zoroaster.

The day ends with a visit to the Lyabi-Hauz ensemble with its madrasas, as well as the Maggoki-Attar mosque.

Dinner and overnight in Boukhara.

Hôtel Boutique EmirLunchDinner
Jour 24
D24

Around Bukhara then train to Samarkand

Boukhara → Samarkand

1h40236 km

The morning is dedicated to guided visits by vehicle to the surroundings of Bukhara. You discover the summer residence of the last emir of Bukhara, Sitorai Mohi Khosa, then the tomb of Bakhauddin Muhammad Naqshbandi, sheikh and founder of the Naqshbandi Sufi order, the most widespread in Central Asia.

Back in Bukhara, you visit the house-museum of the wealthy merchant, father of Fayzulla Khodjaev, former president of Soviet Uzbekistan before World War II. This residence is a fine example of a 19th century Uzbek dwelling. You then continue with a visit to the Chor Minor madrasa.

Lunch is planned in a local restaurant, where you taste local specialties.

In the afternoon, transfer to the station then departure by express train for Samarkand, with a journey of approximately 1 hour 40 minutes. Upon arrival, welcome and check-in at the hotel.

Dinner on your own, then night at the Jahongir Premium hotel.

Lunch
Jour 25
D25

Samarkand, Heart of the Timurid Empire

You begin your visit of Samarkand with Ulugbeg Observatory, the first observatory in the East, built by Ulugbeg, grandson of Tamerlane, and unique in the world in the 15th century. You then enjoy a panoramic view of the Afrosiab archaeological site before visiting its museum. The morning continues with the discovery of the impressive Shahi Zinda necropolis, dating from the 11th to 19th century.

Lunch is provided during the visits.

You then continue the discovery of Tamerlane's capital with the Gur-e Amir mausoleum, dating from the 15th century and housing the tombs of Tamerlane and his descendants. You also discover the Registan, the official center of the Timurid empire and a great ensemble of Central Asia, which in the 15th century was a commercial, craft, cultural and religious center at the heart of Tamerlane's capital.

The visit continues with the Bibi-Khanym mosque, dedicated to Tamerlane's wife, then with the Siob bazaar, one of the most lively places in the city. Dinner with local specialties is planned in an Uzbek family in Samarkand. This moment allows you to immerse yourself in local culture and discover their hospitality.

In the evening, you enjoy a tour of the historic center, between parks with fountains and alleys of old Samarkand around the Registan square.

Night at the hotel.

Hôtel Jahongir PremiumLunchDinner
Jour 26
D26

Urgut, Shahrisabz and arrival in Tashkent

Samarkand → Tashkent

3h30344 km

You head towards Urgut, located about forty kilometers from Samarkand. This small town, at the foot of the Zeravshan mountains, offers a pleasant stopover with its freshness and rolling landscape. It is notably known for its market, where you will find carpets, jewelry, ceramics and especially suzannahs, these traditional embroidered cotton fabrics. You also enjoy a stroll through the bazaar.

You then continue towards Shakhrisabz, considered the birthplace of Timur. The road passes through the Takhtakaratcha mountain pass, at 1,700 meters altitude, with a planned stop for photos. Upon arrival, you discover Shakhrisabz with a visit to the ruins of the White Palace, Ak Saray. Behind the walls of the mausoleum lies the Khazrati Imam mosque, dated to the 19th century, which completes the architectural complex named Dorus Saodat, the "Seat of Power".

Lunch is scheduled during the visits.

You also discover the Dorut Tyllawat ensemble, the "Seat of Reflection", composed of two mausoleums, that of Sheikh Shamseddin Kulal and that of Gumbazi Saidon, as well as the Kouk Goumbaz mosque.

In the late afternoon, transfer to the station then departure by fast train for Tashkent, with approximately 3 hours of travel.

Upon arrival, welcome at the station exit then check-in at the Milan 4* hotel.

Lunch
Jour 27
D27

Tashkent between bazaar and last landmarks

You are leaving for the guided tour of Tachkent. This discovery begins at the colorful Chorsu bazaar, in the heart of the old city, then continues with the Khazrati Imam complex, the Juma Grand Mosque, the Barakhan-Khan madrasah and the Kaffal Chachi mausoleum. This stage also includes a walk through the streets of old Tachkent.

Lunch is free during the visits.

You then continue discovering the capital with the Opera and Ballet Theater square, Independence Square, Amir Timur Square, as well as the applied arts museum.

A farewell dinner is planned in a restaurant in the capital.

Depending on your flight schedule, you are then transferred to the airport for your return. It may be necessary to add an extra night (60 euros per person, transfer included on the basis of 2 people).

Price per person

This trip can be tailored to your preferences

This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.

Not included

  • Lunches and dinners to enjoy according to your preferences
  • Personal expenses and activities not mentioned
  • Tips for Guides and Drivers
  • Personal travel insurance and visa fees
  • Arrival flights in Beijing and departure flights in Tashkent

Included

  • Hotel accommodation, with breakfast included every day
  • All meals mentioned in the program
  • All transportation and transfers in private vehicle
  • Domestic flights and trains included in the program
  • Entrance fees for all mentioned visits
  • Accompaniment by English-speaking guides throughout the trip

Practical Information

Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.

The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.

See our specific terms of sale for full details.

In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:

  • Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
  • Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
  • Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total

We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.

The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to China for tourism purposes. Since entry rules may change, we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.

Passport

To enter China, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry date and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).

Tourist stay without visa

China has extended its unilateral visa exemption program to numerous countries. Nationals of most European Economic Area countries, as well as Switzerland, benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays. Canadian nationals are also eligible for this exemption following the recent expansion of the program.

Currently, this exemption allows a stay of up to 15 days upon entry to the territory, for transit or tourism purposes. The exact duration and conditions may vary depending on nationality; it is advisable to verify the provisions applicable to your passport before departure.

Authorities may also request:

  • an outbound ticket (return or onward flight),

  • proof of accommodation booking for the duration of your stay,

  • proof of sufficient financial resources.

Tourist visa (type L)

For travelers not eligible for visa exemption, or wishing to stay for a longer period, you must obtain a type L tourist visa from the competent Chinese embassy or consulate before departure.

The application file generally includes:

  • the completed visa application form,

  • a recent identity photograph meeting requirements,

  • the valid original passport,

  • proof of flight and accommodation booking,

  • any document evidencing sufficient financial resources.

Processing times may vary; it is recommended to submit your application several weeks before departure.

Entry registration card

Upon arrival in Chinese territory, foreign travelers must complete an entry registration card provided on board the aircraft or available at border posts. This document must be presented to immigration services when passing through passport control.

Furthermore, any foreigner staying in China must register with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival:

  • at a hotel, registration is completed automatically by the establishment,

  • if staying with a private individual, the traveler must visit the local police station to complete this registration.

Health and vaccinations

No vaccines are mandatory to enter China for travelers from the EEA, Switzerland, or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are recommended depending on the regions visited and length of stay:

  • hepatitis A and B,

  • typhoid,

  • Japanese encephalitis (for stays in rural areas),

  • rabies (for extended or adventure stays).

It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination center at least four to six weeks before departure.

Traveling with children

Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.

In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.

Other nationalities

Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should inquire at the Chinese embassy or consulate of their country of residence.

To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage.

Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.

CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!

Choose the plan that suits you best:

  • Explorer'Multirisque

  • Explorer'Annulation

  • Explorer'Assistance

  • Explorer'Complémentaire Carte Bancaire

Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the detailed policy outlining all coverage and claims procedures is available on the insurer's website.

Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claims declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.

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Travel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.

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Frequently asked questions

Visitors benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays, provided they hold a valid passport for at least 6 months after entry. Beyond exemption periods, a standard tourist visa can be obtained from the consulate. Conditions change regularly: check with your country's consular authorities for the rules applicable to your nationality before departure.

Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.

You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.

For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 160 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. Chinese high-speed trains are an experience in their own right.

Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.

Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to suit our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.

It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.

In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.

Payment is generally made in two installments.

Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage that protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.

Paul, Explorer of a Plural China
20years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Imperial North

Explorer of a Plural China, based in Kunming, Yunnan

“
China impresses with its vastness, but it's often the details that leave the deepest mark: a forgotten village, an encounter, a market, a light over the mountains of Yunnan.

— Paul

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Assistance★ 4.91/5