4 Days Lijiang Birding Tour
Tour Overview
During this exciting tour, we shall visit northern Yunnan, a region in the very heart of China that best reflects the astonishing avian diversity of this huge country (which...
Code of Tour: YET0000059637
Length of Travel: 4 Day
Destinations of Tour: Lijiang
Departure City: Lijiang
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour:
Features of Tour: Birding tours Wildlife tours
During this exciting tour, we shall visit northern Yunnan, a region in the very heart of China that best reflects the astonishing avian diversity of this huge country (which has an avifauna of over 1300 species). Sichuan and northern Yunnan lie at the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau and these superb provinces have the richest concentration of Chinese specialities, holding around two-thirds of the country’s endemic birds! Not only do Sichuan and northern Yunnan offer the best opportunities for seeing China’s prime specialities, but due to the great diversity of their habitats, ranging from the subtropical lowlands of the Red Basin and rich evergreen foothill forests to cool temperate zone forests, alpine meadows, dramatic snow-capped mountain peaks and vast grasslands at the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, there is a remarkable wealth of birds in general. Without a doubt, Sichuan and northern Yunnan are the very best of China!
The 4 Days Lijiang Birding Tour takes you to northern Yunnan, one of the most diverse and bird-rich regions of China, offering the opportunity to observe a wealth of Chinese endemic birds. This region, with its stunning scenery, provides some of the best opportunities to see rare and specialized species. The combination of spectacular natural landscapes—including snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and evergreen forests—along with diverse habitats such as temperate forests and grasslands, make this a prime birding destination. Lijiang, the tour’s base, is not only culturally fascinating but also home to many species, some of which are local or near-endemic.
In addition to birding, you’ll enjoy exploring the Naxi culture, visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and witness the charming old town of Lijiang, offering a unique blend of cultural and natural experiences.
Tour Highlights:
Endemic and Rare Bird Species:
Look for species like the White-speckled Laughingthrush, Rufous-tailed Babbler, Black-headed Sibia, and Brown-winged Parrotbill.
See other remarkable birds such as the Yunnan Nuthatch, Black-breasted Thrush, Yunnan Nuthatch, and Rusty-capped Fulvetta.
Dramatic Scenic Beauty:
Birding will take place in breathtaking landscapes, including Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and deep valleys filled with deciduous and coniferous forests.
Visit alpine meadows, enjoy views of snow-capped peaks, and explore areas where the Yangtze River forms a dramatic loop.
Cultural Exploration:
Experience the Naxi culture in Lijiang, a town that dates back to the 12th century. The Naxi people, a matriarchal society, have fascinating social customs, and their culture and architecture are integral to the region’s charm.
Birding Diversity:
Expect to encounter a mix of local endemic species, regional specialities, and more widespread bird species that will be familiar during the subsequent tour extension in Sichuan.
Access to Prime Birding Areas:
The tour visits areas that have been improved for birding accessibility in recent years, meaning more comfortable travel and greater chances for sightings.
Yunnan, China Extension: Day 1 Our tour starts in the evening at our hotel in the town of Lijiang, situated in northern Yunnan province in southwest China, where we will stay for three nights. Airport transfers will be provided.
Yunnan, China Extension: Days 2-3 Lijiang is the principal settlement of the Naxi people, a matriarchal society with some fascinating social customs and the old town, dating back to the 12th century, is well worth seeing. At this point the mighty Yangtze river makes a long loop to the north before resuming its flow towards the China Sea, forming a natural boundary to the spectacular, snow-capped peaks of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountains, rising to over 5500m (18000ft), that tower above the town. This ornithologically little known area offers a feast of dramatically beautiful scenery, with deep valleys clothed in deciduous and coniferous woodland giving way at higher altitudes to alpine meadows and icy peaks.
Some special birds can be found in the Lijiang area and in particular, we will be wanting to see the rare and localized endemic White-speckled (or Biet’s) Laughingthrush (though depressingly this species is becoming increasingly difficult to find due to trapping), the inquisitive near-endemic Rufous-tailed Babbler (or Rufous-tailed Moupinia), the smart Black-headed Sibia, the secretive Rusty-capped Fulvetta, the smart Black-breasted Thrush, the little-known, near-endemic Brown-winged Parrotbill, the near-endemic Black-bibbed and Black-browed Tits, the near-endemic Yunnan Nuthatch and Black-headed Greenfinch.
Other more widespread species that we may encounter include Asian Barred Owlet, Brown-breasted and Himalayan Black Bulbuls, Grey-winged Blackbird, Black-faced, Davison’s Leaf and Buff-throated Warblers, the localized Rosy Minivet, Blyth’s Shrike-Babbler, Green Shrike-Babbler, the endemic Spectacled Fulvetta (a different-looking subspecies compared to those we’ll see in Sichuan), Chestnut-tailed Minla, Buff-bellied Flowerpecker and Black Drongo. We will also have our first encounter with a number of species that will become very familiar in Sichuan.
Yunnan, China Extension: Day 4 We will spend much of the day birding around Lijiang. Afterwards, we will take a short flight to Chengdu in Sichuan province where we will join up with those arriving for the main tour.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Evening Tour Start in Lijiang
Evening Arrival in Lijiang:
Arrive in Lijiang, a picturesque town located in northern Yunnan, famous for its traditional Naxi culture and stunning natural surroundings. You will be transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Relax and Settle In:
After a day of travel, take some time to relax and acclimatize to the local environment.
Hotel Check-in: The group will stay in a comfortable hotel in Lijiang, with easy access to the town and surrounding birding sites.
Introduction and Briefing: In the evening, the tour guide will provide an overview of the itinerary and what to expect. You’ll also receive a briefing on the specific bird species to watch for in the coming days.
Optional Evening Birding:
Depending on your arrival time and energy levels, you may have the opportunity to do some light birding around the hotel or nearby areas in Lijiang. This is a great time to spot some of the more common species that are active in the evening, such as Brown-breasted Bulbuls or Black Drongos.
Overnight in Lijiang:
Rest for the night in preparation for an exciting birding adventure ahead.
Day 2: Birding in Lijiang Region
Morning Birding in the Lijiang Area:
After breakfast, we will head out early to bird in the Lijiang region, which offers a blend of different habitats. We will start by exploring lower elevations, with a focus on the forests and alpine meadows around Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain area, with its high-altitude habitats, is known for a rich diversity of bird species. Here, we’ll look for specialties like the White-speckled Laughingthrush and Rufous-tailed Babbler.
Birding will also include areas with deciduous and coniferous trees, ideal for spotting Black-headed Sibia and Rusty-capped Fulvetta.
Afternoon Birding in Higher Elevations:
As we ascend to higher altitudes, we will explore alpine meadows and mountain slopes, areas where birds like Yunnan Nuthatch, Black-breasted Thrush, and Black-headed Greenfinch can be found.
You will also have the chance to spot more rare species such as Brown-winged Parrotbill and the Yunnan Nuthatch.
At higher altitudes, we may encounter other forest birds such as Grey-winged Blackbird, Rosy Minivet, and Blyth’s Shrike-Babbler.
Evening Exploration:
After a day of birding, we may head back towards Lijiang’s old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a brief cultural tour, walking through ancient alleys and learning about the local Naxi culture.
Explore local markets, temples, and perhaps enjoy a cup of local tea.
Overnight in Lijiang:
Return to your hotel for a restful night.
Day 3: Birding and Cultural Exploration in Lijiang
Early Morning Birding:
Start the day with another early morning birding session around the outskirts of Lijiang, where we’ll focus on spotting endemic and rare species.
We’ll look for birds like the Black-bibbed Tit, Spectacled Fulvetta, Chestnut-tailed Minla, and the Yellow-bellied Fantail.
As the day begins, we may catch glimpses of the elusive Black-faced Warbler or other forest species as they emerge from the wooded areas.
Birding in Various Habitats:
Continue birding at various locations throughout the day, including both lowland forests and higher alpine meadows. We’ll look for additional endemic species, including the Green Shrike-Babbler and Himalayan Black Bulbul.
As we move into different elevations, there will be opportunities to spot the Buff-bellied Flowerpecker, Blyth’s Leaf-Warbler, and Buff-throated Warbler.
Cultural Exploration and Lunch:
In the afternoon, take a break from birding to explore the cultural side of Lijiang.
Visit the old town to learn about the Naxi people, a fascinating matriarchal society.
Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit traditional homes, and enjoy local Naxi art and music.
Afterward, enjoy a traditional Naxi meal, which includes dishes like grilled pork and mushroom hot pot.
Late Afternoon Birding:
In the late afternoon, we’ll take another birding excursion around the highland areas, focusing on endemic birds that are active during the cooler parts of the day.
Overnight in Lijiang:
Return to your hotel for the evening and relax.
Day 4: Final Birding and Departure to Chengdu
Early Morning Birding in Lijiang:
On the final day of the tour, we’ll head out early to the birding hotspots around Lijiang. Here we’ll focus on finding any species that we may have missed during the previous days, while also seeking out new migrants.
Rosy Minivets, Spectacled Fulvetta, and Green Shrike-Babbler are just a few of the species we may spot as we wrap up our birding adventure.
Birding until Late Morning:
We’ll spend the morning birding at key locations near Lijiang, making the most of the bird-rich habitats before lunch.
Flight to Chengdu:
After lunch, we’ll transfer to the Lijiang airport for a short flight to Chengdu in Sichuan province. Here, you will join up with the main tour group for the next leg of the birding journey.
End of Lijiang Birding Extension.
Additional Notes:
- Weather and Altitude:
Lijiang is located at an altitude of about 2,400 meters (7,900 feet). Although the weather is generally mild, it’s important to bring layers for the cooler mornings and evenings, especially when birding at higher altitudes. - Birding Gear:
- Binoculars (8×40 or 10×42 recommended) for close-up bird observations.
- Field guides to help identify birds.
- Camera with a telephoto lens (if you wish to capture birds).
- Group Size:
The tour is designed for small groups to allow for a more intimate and personalized birding experience.
Service Included:
- Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
- Meals as listed in the itinerary;
- Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
- Private English-speaking tour guide;
- Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
- Service charge & government taxes;
- Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
- Domestic train tickets of soft sleeper.
Service Excluded:
- Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
- Chinese visa fees;
- Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
- Single room supplement;
- Tips to guides and drivers;
- Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
- Personal travel accident insurance;
- All optional programs.
