PICTURESQUE CHINA

Tour Program

Day 1. Hello, Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the first stop on the route. The city was founded more than 2,200 years ago, in 214 BC, under the name Panyu. Its nickname is the “City of Rams”: according to legend, five immortals descended here riding five rams and brought rice to the people. From the mid-18th century until 1842, Guangzhou was the only Chinese port open to European merchants. Today more than 19 million people live here.

At Baiyun Airport you will be met and taken to the hotel in a private car.

The evening is free. You can stroll along Shangxiajiu, a pedestrian street more than a kilometer long with hundreds of shops; cars have been banned here since 1995. And for dinner, try authentic Cantonese dim sum, which is traditionally served with tea.

Meals: not included.

Day 2. High-Speed Train to Guilin

After breakfast, transfer to Guangzhou South Railway Station and a high-speed train to Guilin West Station, about 2.5 hours on the way. In Guilin you will be met and taken to the hotel, where you will spend two nights.

Guilin means “forest of sweet osmanthus”. The most famous line about it, “The mountains and waters of Guilin are the finest under heaven”, was written in 1201 by the Song official Wang Zhenggong, and the inscription with these verses carved into the rock was only found in 1983.

The symbol of the city is Elephant Trunk Hill, which appears on Guilin’s emblem. You will visit it with your guide tomorrow.

The evening is free for a walk through the Dongxixiang quarter, the “East and West Alleys”. Its streets have survived from the Ming and Qing dynasties, and this is where people try local Guilin snacks.

Meals: breakfast.

Day 3. The Longji Rice Terraces

First, Elephant Trunk Hill at the confluence of the Li River and the Taohua River. The rock with an arch right at the water’s edge looks like an elephant that has lowered its trunk into the river to drink.

Then, the Longji rice terraces in Longsheng County. “Longji” means “dragon’s backbone”: the tiers of fields on the slopes look like dragon scales, and the mountain ridge like a spine. The terraces are cultivated by the Zhuang and Yao peoples. According to the FAO, they are at least 2,300 years old, and in 2018 the FAO added them to its list of Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems.

A walk along the paths between the terraces, with panoramas of mountains and valleys. In the evening we return to Guilin.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Day 4. The Li River and Yangshuo

A classic cruise down the Li River, about four hours among karst peaks. The Guilin karst has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “South China Karst” since 2014.

On the way, the rock Nine Horses Fresco Hill, the “Mountain with a Painting of Nine Horses”: in the patterns on its stone wall, people make out nine horses. And at the Huangbutan shoal you will see the landscape that appears on the back of the 20-yuan banknote. The boat docks in Yangshuo, where you will spend two nights.

In the afternoon, the “Paradise Corner”: a picturesque village among karst mountains, with caves, channels and the customs of the local peoples.

In the evening, the large-scale theatrical show “Romance of Guilin”.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Day 5. Rural Yangshuo

In the morning, the surroundings of the Yulong River, whose name means “meeting the dragon”. The river winds among karst mountains and fields, and you will drift leisurely down it on a bamboo raft.

Another outing is by bicycle along the “Ten-Mile Gallery”, among limestone mountains and village fields.

In the afternoon, Xingping, a quiet old village on the bank of the Li River. The landscape from the 20-yuan banknote, which you saw the day before from the boat, is right in its surroundings.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Day 6. Flight to Shanghai

After breakfast, an individual transfer from the hotel in Yangshuo directly to Guilin Airport, about 1.5 hours on the way, and a flight to Shanghai. Hotel check-in.

Shanghai stands on the Huangpu River, which divides the city into two parts: Puxi, “west of the Huangpu”, and Pudong, “east of the Huangpu”.

The evening is free. You can have dinner on Nanjing Road. Its pedestrian section was opened in September 1999.

Meals: breakfast.

Day 7. Classic Shanghai

In the morning, the Jade Buddha Temple. It was founded in 1882, when the monk Huigen from Mount Putuo brought jade statues of the Buddha from Burma. The present temple was built over ten years, from 1918 to 1928.

Then Yu Garden. Construction began in 1559 by the official Pan Yunduan, so that his father, the minister Pan En, could spend his old age in peace. Hence the name: “Yuyuan” is a garden that delights aging parents.

In the second half of the day, the observation deck of the 468-meter Oriental Pearl Tower.

In the evening, a walk along the Bund waterfront. Its buildings once housed foreign banks and trading houses, and because of the variety of styles the waterfront is called an “exhibition of the architecture of all nations”. On the opposite bank are the skyscrapers of Pudong, including the 632-meter Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. The day ends with a cruise on the Huangpu River.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Day 8. See You Again, Shanghai

Breakfast at the hotel and an individual transfer to Pudong or Hongqiao Airport for your departure.

Shanghai is one of those cities you want to return to as soon as you leave. So this is not goodbye, but see you again.

Meals: breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about tours, bookings, or documents? We've gathered answers to the most common questions to make your trip as smooth and worry-free as possible.

• 1. What is included in the tour price, and what is extra?

  The price includes all transfers, accommodation in 3* hotels, as well as all excursions and entrance tickets listed in the program. Breakfast is usually included at the hotels. Other meals are paid separately, giving you the flexibility to choose restaurants and try local cuisine. The only exception is the dinner at a ranch in El Calafate, which is included.

• 2. Is the international flight to Buenos Aires included in the tour price?

  No, international flights to and from Buenos Aires are not included. You can choose the most convenient route and airline for yourself.

• 3. How will we travel between cities?

  Our route balances comfort and experience. Between Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, Mendoza, and Iguazú we’ll take domestic flights to cover long distances. For the desert regions of the north, we’ll use modern, comfortable ground transport.

• 4. What kind of hotels will we stay in?

  We’ll stay in cozy 3* hotels carefully selected for your comfort, conveniently located near attractions and restaurants. In remote regions, such as the high-altitude Puna, we’ll overnight in local guesthouses that let you experience the authentic atmosphere of the area.

• 5. Can I choose other hotels or room types along the route?

  Yes, you may request single accommodation or upgraded rooms for an additional fee. Please let us know your preferences in advance so we can arrange it for you.

• 6. What is the group size?

  Our tours are designed for small groups of 10–15 travelers, ensuring a personal and comfortable experience.

• 7. What is the travel pace like, and will there be long transfers?

  The tour is fast-paced to give you the maximum impressions. Some days include long transfers, but they’re balanced with breathtaking landscapes to enjoy along the way.

• 8. Can children join the tour? What age is suitable?

  The tour is suitable for children aged 12 and up, provided they are physically fit and able to handle long journeys and walks.

• 9. Is this tour accessible for people with disabilities?

  Unfortunately, no. The itinerary involves significant walking and long transfers, which makes it unsuitable for travelers with mobility limitations.

• 10. Do I need special training for the hikes?

  The hikes are moderately difficult and accessible to anyone in good physical condition. No mountaineering experience is required, but stamina is necessary, as hikes may last 8–9 hours.

• 11. What gear is needed for hiking?

  We strongly recommend waterproof trekking shoes, layered clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a small backpack, and a supply of water and snacks.

• 12. What can we expect in terms of food and drinks?

  Argentina is world-famous for its cuisine. In the south, you’ll try Patagonian lamb and traditional asado. In the north, indigenous specialties such as empanadas and locro stew await you. And of course, you’ll enjoy Argentina’s excellent wines, especially Malbec.

• 13. Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?

  Yes, most restaurants in Argentina offer vegetarian dishes and other options.

• 14. How flexible is the itinerary, and how much free time will we have?

  The tour is rich in experiences, but in some evenings you’ll have free time to rest or explore independently without disrupting the schedule.

• 15. What are the baggage rules for domestic flights?

  Typically, one checked bag of 15–23 kg and one carry-on up to 8 kg are allowed. Limits vary by airline, but we’ll provide all details in advance.

• 16. What is the role of the guide?

  You’ll be accompanied by a tour leader responsible for organization and logistics. In each city or national park, local professional guides will provide in-depth knowledge and unique insights.

• 17. Are there opportunities for photography, and can I use drones?

  Yes, there will be countless photo opportunities, and guides will recommend the best spots. However, drones are prohibited in most national parks, including Iguazú and Los Glaciares.

• 18. What climate should we expect, and what clothing should we bring?

  Your trip takes place in Argentine spring/fall, but climates vary greatly along the route. Dress in layers: warm clothes and windbreakers for Patagonia, light breathable clothing for the hot, humid Iguazú tropics, and warm, sun-protective gear for the high-altitude Puna.

• 19. What’s the best way to exchange money?

  The local currency is the Argentine peso (ARS). We recommend bringing cash in USD or EUR to exchange at the favorable “blue” rate. In remote regions, especially in the north, cash may be the only payment option. We’ll help with exchanges upon arrival.

• 20. What are the main safety rules?

  Argentina, like much of Latin America, has higher crime rates than Europe, mostly petty theft. By following simple precautions, you’ll stay safe:
  • Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
  • Always keep an eye on your bag, especially in crowds and on public transport.
  • Use hotel safes for valuables.
  • Avoid visiting unsafe neighborhoods (“villas”) or walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

• 21. In what language will the tour be conducted?

  Local guides speak English and Spanish. The tour leader speaks Russian, Spanish, and English, and will provide translation into Russian if needed.

• 22. Do I need a visa for Argentina?

  Visa requirements depend on your nationality. For citizens of the USA, EU, and most CIS countries (including Russia), a tourist visa is not required for stays up to 90 days. Please always check the latest requirements for your country.

• 23. What are the tipping rules in Argentina?

  Tipping is expected but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10% is customary. In cafés, small change is fine. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but rounding up is common.

• 24. Do I need any vaccines?

  No vaccines are mandatory for entry. However, since the trip includes the tropical Iguazú region, the WHO recommends vaccination against yellow fever.

• 25. Is travel insurance mandatory?

  It is not required for entry into Argentina, but we strongly recommend purchasing it for your safety and peace of mind.

• 26. What about electricity and connectivity?

  Argentina uses 220V and Type I plugs (three flat prongs). Bring a universal adapter. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though coverage may be weak in remote areas (Puna, El Chaltén). A local SIM card is recommended for reliable mobile connection.

• 27. What souvenirs can I bring back from Argentina?

  Argentina is famous for leather goods, wine, mate sets, and sweets such as dulce de leche. In the highlands, you’ll also find beautiful wool products.