Sichuan is an amazing place to explore, thanks to its rich natural beauty, iconic wildlife, and fascinating cultural sites. Unlike many other destinations in China, Sichuan offers a uniquely hands-on chance to interact with giant pandas—one of the most charming and endangered species on Earth. Whether you’re interested in volunteering at a panda reserve or relaxing in scenic mountain landscapes, Sichuan’s tours provide authentic, memorable experiences that go beyond just sightseeing. For example, the Big Panda Volunteer Day tour (link) gives you a chance to learn about panda conservation while actually caring for these gentle giants. That’s a level of connection most travelers won’t find elsewhere.
Sichuan also excels in showing off its historic and natural treasures. From exploring ancient temples in Beijing to wandering through the colorful lakes of Jiuzhaigou, the region offers a variety of tours suited to different travel styles. The region’s combination of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights makes it a top choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded adventure. Keep reading to find out which of these seven tours might be perfect for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a diverse range of Sichuan tours, including panda volunteer experiences, historic city walks in Beijing, multi-day explorations of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, scenic mountain drives, and cultural activities like tea picking. Each offers something unique—whether it’s the chance to work with pandas, hike scenic valleys, or learn about traditional tea culture. Read on for detailed descriptions of each tour to decide which fits your interests and schedule best.
1. Sichuan: Big Panda Volunteer Day tour
At number 1, the Big Panda Volunteer Day tour stands out for its firsthand involvement with one of the world’s most beloved endangered animals. For about $347 per person, you’ll spend a full day in Panda Valley, where you’ll learn about panda conservation and participate in caring for the animals. This experience is ideal for animal lovers and those eager to contribute to wildlife preservation while getting a true behind-the-scenes look at panda life.
The tour includes a 4-hour guided visit to the panda habitat, where you’ll assist with behavioral research and help feed the pandas. The highlight is definitely the chance to interact with pandas in their natural environment—albeit under strict supervision—and to learn about their diet, behavior, and conservation efforts directly from knowledgeable guides like Joseph. Many reviews highlight the emotional impact of meeting these gentle creatures—“I cried leaving,” one reviewer admits. It’s a rewarding experience that’s both physically engaging and deeply meaningful.
The tour starts with a pickup in Chengdu, making logistics straightforward, and includes a visit to the Panda Base, where you’ll also see red pandas. The opportunity to purchase a panda cub photo adds a memorable keepsake. While the cost is higher than most typical day trips, it’s a rare chance to contribute to panda conservation and create lifelong memories. This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with manual work and seeking an authentic, impactful experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for animal lovers who want direct contact with pandas and enjoy hands-on activities in a supported conservation setting.
2. Beijing: 2.5-Hour Walking Tour of Historic Landmarks
Though technically outside Sichuan, this tour is included because it offers a wonderful glimpse into historic Chinese architecture and city planning. For just $146 for a group of up to five, you’ll explore Beijing’s imperial past with stops at the White Pagoda Temple, the Imperial Temple, and the charming Gongmenkou Hutong.
During this short but rich walk, you’ll learn about the city’s evolution and the stories behind its iconic landmarks. The tour provides insights into urban challenges and successes, making it more than just sightseeing. The guide’s local knowledge helps you understand how Beijing balances its historic preservation with modern growth.
This tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who want a concise yet informative introduction to Beijing’s cultural highlights. If you’re interested in history, architecture, or urban development, this tour delivers a lot of value for a small investment. The review is glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating, highlighting how engaging and informative the experience is.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs or first-time visitors wanting a brief, richly informative walk through Beijing’s landmarks.
$146 per group up to 5
3. 2 Day Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou & Huanglong Self-Guided w/Transfer
At number 3, this self-guided tour allows you to explore the famous Jiuzhaigou Valley and Huanglong Scenic Area at your own pace. For $386 per person, it includes seamless transfers and pre-arranged high-speed train tickets—perfect for independent travelers who want flexibility without the hassle of planning every detail.
This option is unique because it offers significant savings compared to guided tours while still providing top-notch convenience. You’re free to set your schedule, linger in the colorful lakes, or hike the trails as long as you like. The scenic areas are renowned for crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and vibrant landscapes, making this a photographer’s dream.
While it’s less structured, travelers should be comfortable navigating on their own, using the provided transfer arrangements, and managing their time. Many reviews mention the value of having the logistics taken care of, especially the train tickets. This tour suits travelers who enjoy independent exploration and want to maximize scenery without guided commentary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking flexible, cost-effective access to Sichuan’s top natural sights.
$386 per person
4. 6 Day Tour Including Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou And Dagu Glacier
Number 4 on our list, the 6-day tour offers an extensive look at Sichuan’s highlights with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. For $1,899 per person, this fully supported trip covers Chengdu’s attractions, Jiuzhaigou’s lakes, and the Dagu Glacier.
This tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience without the stress of planning logistics. The itinerary includes airport transfers, scenic drives in air-conditioned vehicles, and carefully curated stops that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural sites. The key is the tailor-made itinerary that balances guided exploration with free time.
Guests rave about the quality of the guide and the convenience of having all transportation and accommodations arranged. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a curated experience and are willing to invest in a longer trip that covers multiple must-see destinations in Sichuan.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a detailed, guided experience of Sichuan’s top sights over an extended period.
$1,899 per person
5. Chengdu: Tea-Picking in the Birthplace of Tea Culture
Coming in at number 5, this tour combines culture with a relaxing outdoor activity. For $139 per person, you visit the pristine Bifengxia Panda Base and Mengding Mountain, famous for its centuries-old tea terraces.
What sets this experience apart is the chance to experience traditional tea picking amid lush mountain scenery, learning about the ancient process of tea-making. The tour also includes a walk through the waterfalls and forests of Bifengxia, where you can observe wild pandas in their natural habitat.
Based on available reviews, this tour is highly recommended for those interested in cultural traditions and nature. It’s a quieter, more relaxed experience suited for travelers who enjoy learning traditional crafts and appreciating scenic landscapes. The combination of wild pandas and old tea terraces offers a unique perspective on Sichuan’s rural heritage.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, culturally rich day combining wildlife and tea culture.
$139 per person
6. Jiuzhaigou: 3-Day Tour with Bullet Train Transfers
Number 6 features a three-day journey through Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, with bullet train transfers for $915 per person. This tour offers a detailed exploration of the three main valleys of Jiuzhaigou: Shuzheng, Rize, and Zechawa.
Participants enjoy cable car rides over Huanglong Valley and plenty of time to photograph the famous emerald lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. The multi-day format allows for a deeper immersion into the scenery without feeling rushed. The inclusion of bullet train travel makes it a more comfortable journey.
Rated highly for its comprehensive itinerary and scenic highlights, this tour appeals to travelers who want to combine comfort and extensive sightseeing. The only potential downside is that it requires more days, so it’s best suited for those with flexible schedules.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers wanting a full, multi-day, scenic adventure in Sichuan’s best mountain scenery.
$915 per person
7. Private 3-Day Jiuzhaigou/Huanglong Tour
Rounding out our list, the Private 3-Day Jiuzhaigou/Huanglong Tour offers a personalized experience with the flexibility to explore the “Emerald Lakes” of Jiuzhaigou and the “Fairies’ Pools” of Huanglong at your own pace. Costing $1,142 per person, this trip is ideal for travelers seeking privacy and tailored scheduling.
The tour emphasizes the distinct beauty of different seasons and allows for customized itineraries, making it suitable for travelers who want to avoid crowded group tours. It features close encounters with pandas (if coincidentally visiting Bifengxia), and the trip covers both Jiuzhaigou’s colorful lakes and Huanglong’s stunning pools.
Guests appreciate the attention to detail and flexibility, though the higher price reflects the personalized service. It’s best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, curated experience and are comfortable with a more private journey.
Bottom Line: A top pick for those seeking exclusive, customizable sightseeing with a focus on natural beauty.
$1,142 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Sichuan tour, consider your budget, time availability, and personal interests. If caring for pandas is your dream, the Big Panda Volunteer Day (link) offers a rare, meaningful experience. For those with limited time, the Beijing historic walk is a quick cultural fix, while travelers craving scenic landscapes should look at the Jiuzhaigou multi-day tours.
If you prefer independent travel, the self-guided Jiuzhaigou (link) provides flexible exploration, whereas luxury travelers will enjoy the private Huanglong experience (link). Budget-conscious travelers should weigh the value of guided versus self-guided options, especially with transportation and entry fees included.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular spots like Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, which can get crowded during peak seasons. Think about the seasonality of Sichuan’s landscapes—spring and fall often offer the best scenery and fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
Sichuan offers a rich variety of tours—from up-close wildlife interactions to scenic mountain vistas and cultural experiences. For families and animal lovers, the Panda Volunteer Day is hard to beat. Nature enthusiasts might prefer the multi-day Jiuzhaigou trips, while those after a culture will appreciate tea picking and city walks.
No matter which tour you choose, early planning and booking will ensure a smooth, memorable experience. Sichuan’s diverse offerings mean there’s something for every traveler—just pick your adventure and enjoy this incredible part of China.