1 Day Puer Tea Horse Road Tourism Scenic Area Educational Study Tour
Tour Overview
Overview The Tea Horse Road (茶马古道) was an ancient trade route that traversed the mountainous regions of southwestern China, connecting the tea-producing regions of Yunnan with Tibet and beyond....
Code of Tour: YET0000066421
Length of Travel: 1 Day
Destinations of Tour:
Departure City: Puer
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour:
Features of Tour:
Overview
The Tea Horse Road (茶马古道) was an ancient trade route that traversed the mountainous regions of southwestern China, connecting the tea-producing regions of Yunnan with Tibet and beyond. This tour offers an immersive experience into the historical and cultural heritage of the Tea Horse Road, while also exploring the region’s lush rainforest, local wildlife, and traditional practices. The day includes a variety of outdoor activities such as rainforest hiking, stream trekking, stone painting, crab catching, bamboo rafting, and speedboat rides, making it an ideal choice for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those keen on learning about Yunnan’s rich biodiversity and ethnic traditions.
Tour Highlights
1. Tea Horse Road Scenic Area Exploration
Start the day with a visit to the Tea Horse Road Scenic Area (茶马古道景区), where you will explore historical sites and scenic beauty while traveling by electric car. This introduction to the area sets the stage for your deeper engagement with the environment, history, and culture.
2. Rainforest Hiking and Stream Trekking
Trek through a 3-kilometer stretch of lush rainforest, guided by a local expert who will provide insights into the region’s diverse plant and animal life. You’ll also have the opportunity to hike upstream, learning about local flora and fauna along the way.
3. Primitive Hunting and Archery Experience
Feel like an ancient hunter as you engage in a traditional archery session in the heart of the rainforest. This hands-on activity gives you a unique chance to experience one of the primal skills of the region’s indigenous people.
4. Stone Painting and Face Painting with Primitive Designs
Get creative by painting faces on natural stones in the style of traditional “wild man” faces. This unique form of art connects you with the area’s indigenous traditions.
5. Bamboo Rafting on Dingpo Lake
Enjoy a peaceful bamboo rafting experience on Dingpo Lake (定泼湖), where you can relax and soak in the picturesque surroundings. During the rafting, you will be treated to a special fish eagle performance (鱼鹰表演), showcasing the birds’ incredible hunting skills.
6. Crab Catching and Seasonal Wild Vegetable Harvesting
While hiking through streams and natural landscapes, try your hand at catching crabs and foraging for edible wild plants that are safe to consume. This interactive activity is both educational and fun, teaching you about local food sources and survival skills.
7. Speedboat Ride Across Dingpo Lake
Experience a thrilling speedboat ride across Dingpo Lake (定泼湖), heading toward the rainforest depths. This scenic transfer adds an element of excitement to your journey while providing stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Travel Tips
- Wear Comfortable Footwear: The day involves a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking through streams, and rafting. Comfortable, sturdy footwear that can handle wet and uneven terrain is essential.
- Bring Light Rain Gear: While the tour is designed to go on rain or shine, it’s always a good idea to bring a light rain jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy season.
- Pack Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: The rainforest environment can expose you to the sun and insects. Make sure to bring sunscreen and insect repellent for a more comfortable experience.
- Prepare for Physical Activity: The hiking and trekking portions of the tour may be moderately strenuous. Ensure that you are in good physical condition to enjoy the activities without discomfort.
- Respect Local Traditions: Many of the activities, such as stone painting and archery, have cultural significance. Be sure to follow the guide’s instructions and respect local traditions.
- Camera or Smartphone: This tour offers numerous opportunities for beautiful photos, from the rainforest landscapes to the fish eagle performance. Be sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the memorable moments.
- Book in Advance: As this is a premium small group tour, it’s important to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Availability of guides and transportation may be limited, so early booking is highly recommended.
Itinerary Introduction
08:30 – Gathering Point
Pickup service is available from hotels within Puer City (普洱市区), train stations, and other locations.
09:00 – Arrival at Tea Horse Road Scenic Area Visitor Center
Upon arrival at the Tea Horse Road Scenic Area (茶马古道景区), you will gather at the Visitor Center to prepare for the day’s activities.
09:15 – Electric Car Ride to the Hiking Starting Point
Under the guidance of your tour leader, you will take an electric car provided by the Tea Horse Road Scenic Area (electric car fees are included) to the starting point for the hike.
10:00 – Speedboat Ride Across Dingpo Lake (定泼湖) to the Rainforest Depths
Board the scenic area’s speedboat to cross Dingpo Lake (定泼湖) and head deep into the rainforest to begin your hiking adventure.
10:15 – Begin Rainforest Hiking with a Guide
Led by an experienced guide, you will start your journey through the rainforest, immersing yourself in the vibrant natural surroundings.
10:30 – Hiking and Stream Trekking with Plant Education
Along the hike, the guide will provide educational insights into the various plant species in the region, enriching your understanding of the local ecology.
11:00 – Swing in the Rainforest and Experience Primitive Hunting & Archery
Enjoy a unique experience by swinging through the rainforest, followed by a chance to try your hand at primitive hunting and archery, traditional skills once used by indigenous peoples.
11:30 – Climb the Ancient Rainforest Banyan Tree and Experience “Tree Descent”
Climb one of the massive banyan trees in the rainforest, then take part in a “tree descent” activity, which offers an exhilarating way to descend from the canopy.
11:30 – Stone Painting and Face Painting with Primitive Designs
You will have the opportunity to paint traditional “wild man” faces on natural stones, a form of primitive body art practiced by the indigenous people of the area.
11:45 – Catch Crabs and Harvest Safe Seasonal Wild Vegetables
As you hike, you will also have the chance to catch crabs in the streams and collect safe, seasonal wild vegetables that are edible, offering a hands-on exploration of local food sources.
12:00 – Bamboo Rafting on Dingpo Lake with Fish Eagle Performance
Enjoy a tranquil bamboo rafting experience on Dingpo Lake (定泼湖) while watching a spectacular performance by fish eagles (鱼鹰表演), showcasing their natural hunting abilities.
12:45 – Exit the Rainforest and Return to the Scenic Area
After completing the rainforest activities, you will return to the main scenic area for a brief rest and reflection.
13:30 – End of Hiking, Free Time for Leisure Exploration
Once the hiking segment is complete, you are free to explore the scenic area at your own pace or exit the site to end your tour.
15:00 – Return Trip
After finishing your adventure, you will be transported back to your hotel or the train station in Puer City (普洱市区).
Reservation Information
Departure Confirmation
The tour operator will confirm departure information with you by 10:00 PM the day before your scheduled trip. If you book after this time, the operator will send the departure notification within 5 minutes during working hours (06:00 AM – 07:59 PM). For bookings made outside of working hours (08:00 PM – 05:59 AM), the departure notice will be sent 5 minutes before the trip.
Booking Instructions
- Ticket Package Includes:
- Entrance ticket
- Electric car three-in-one ticket
- Dingpo Lake performance
- Fish eagle performance (canceled if it rains)
- One-way rainbow cable car ticket
- Tang Tea Palace (唐茶殿)
- Zhongyi Post Station Museum (忠义驿站博物馆) (including the horse-racing viewing area)
- This product is a premium small group tour (small groups do not include a guide; the driver acts as the main service provider, responsible for ticket handling and transportation. If a guide is needed, please contact customer service to upgrade. Guides are in limited supply, and last-minute requests may not be accommodated. Cancellations due to unavailable guides will not be refunded. Please confirm with customer service in advance if you need a guide). During peak season, due to high demand, please check availability of vehicles before booking. If no vehicle is available after a silent booking, a full refund will be provided.
Usage Instructions
The staff or driver will contact you by 10:00 PM the evening before the trip to confirm all details.
Pricing Information
Inclusions
- Ticket Package Includes:
- Entrance ticket
- Electric car three-in-one ticket
- Dingpo Lake performance
- Fish eagle performance (canceled if it rains)
- One-way rainbow cable car ticket
- Tang Tea Palace (唐茶殿)
- Zhongyi Post Station Museum (忠义驿站博物馆) (including the horse-racing viewing area)
- This product is a premium small group tour (small groups do not include a guide; the driver is responsible for ticket handling and transportation. If you require a guide, please contact customer service to upgrade. The availability of guides is limited, and last-minute requests may not be accommodated. Cancellations due to unavailable guides will not be refunded. Please confirm with customer service in advance if you need a guide). During peak seasons, please inquire about vehicle availability before booking. If no vehicles are available after a silent booking, a full refund will be given.
Transportation
Puer Train Station (普洱火车站) or Puer City (普洱市区) round-trip transportation to Tea Horse Road Scenic Area (茶马古道景区).
