Visit the Giant Panda

One of the most famous icons of China, writings about the Giant Panda can be traced back 3000 years, and they were once believed to have magical powers that could ward off evil spirits. It is estimated that there are between just 700 and 1000 pandas left in the wild, and it is therefore extremely difficult to see them in the wild nowadays. The breeding station in Chengdu has been in operation since 1990 and offers visitors a chance to see these amazing creatures and learn more about how they are being protected in China. The best time to visit is in the morning around feeding time when they are at their most active. For the rest of the day, the panda's main activity is sleeping.

For those looking for a more in depth experience, then we can arrange a full day's volunteering work at the Dujiangyan Panda Base, around 1 hour outside Chengdu. The reserve has taken in the pandas whose home at Wolong was badly damaged by the earthquake in 2008 and it does a wonderful job in preserving the panda from extinction. You will be able to get close to the pandas and help the keepers in their daily tasks. Volunteer work may include activities such as cleaning the panda enclosures and preparing food for the pandas, whilst having the chance to learn more about these rare creatures at the same time.