Whether you need a visa depends on your country. Some travelers can enter China visa-free or with simplified procedures, while others still need a standard tourist visa. If a visa is required, we can provide an invitation letter to make the process easier.

Want to know the rules for your country? Click here to read our guide on visa requirements.

Yunnan means ‘South of the Clouds’ and the capital Kunming is often called ‘The City of Eternal Spring’, because of its pleasant weather in every season.

However, keep in mind that Yunnan contains different climate zones, from the lush tropical South to the high-altitude snow-capped Himalayan foothills in the Northeast.

Yunnan offers mild weather year-round, with different atmospheres throughout the year. It just depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for!

• Spring (Mar-May) is especially pleasant, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
• Summer (Jun-Aug) brings lush landscapes and occasional rain.
• Autumn (Sep – Nov) is similar to spring, dry and pleasant with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
• Winter (Dec-Feb) brings clear blue skies on crisp days. You can view snowy mountains in the Northeast or enjoy the pleasant temperatures and less humid atmosphere in the South.

If you’d like to learn more about Yunnan’s climates and seasons, here is a blog post that dives deep into the pleasant days and months that can be found in the land South of the Clouds.

Yes! We customize itineraries for all ages and abilities, with a relaxed pace and family-friendly activities.

For seniors and differently abled people, we recommend visiting places like Kunming and Dali, where walking can be leisurely or assisted with electric carts.

For children, we include engaging, low-impact experiences that are enjoyable for the whole family.

You can read more about accessibility in this guide.

We keep travel times efficient to make your journey comfortable. A drive offers a chance to sit back, enjoy the landscapes and rest.

Distances are manageable, as we design routes that minimize long travel days. You’ll spend more time exploring and less time on the road, with each journey carefully paced.

Travel times and distances are clearly outlined in every itinerary. Have a look at our 8-Day Yunnan Classic Tour for an example.

Vehicles are arranged based on group size: from cars to business vans to larger coaches.

All vehicles are regularly cleaned and maintained and suitable for long drives with our professional drivers.

In this article, you’ll find an overview of the types of cars we use, which size is suitable for different group compositions, and pictures of the different vehicles.

High-speed rail in China uses paperless tickets, and you’ll present your passport for boarding. We will explain the process in detail in advance, but rest assured it’s very straightforward.

For stations with multiple exits, we confirm the exact meeting point to avoid confusion.

We are dedicated to bringing good to the communities around us, and that includes the fragile biodiversity hotspots of Yunnan.

We aim to reduce plastic waste, do not encourage shopping and work with local minority tour guides who have a strong attachment to their homelands.

We discourage the use of disposable oxygen bottles at altitudes where a healthy person can manage without. Read more about the use of oxygen bottles here.

Our tours are 100% free of shopping outings. We do not receive commissions on shopping purchases and do not encourage this mode of travel.

Any shopping is entirely your choice. We believe travel should feel relaxed, not rushed or pressured, and built around authentic experiences.

Shangri-La is is situated at 3,300m. The Glacier Park Viewing Platform at Jade Dragon Snow Mountains clocks in at 4,680 m. Some people may experience mild symptoms related to high altitude at some of these iconic high-altitude destinations.

We suggest beginning your trip in lower regions, for instance Kunming or Dali (2000m – 2100m) to get used to the altitude before you venture higher. Hydrate well, take it easy, and consider preventive medication if you’re concerned.

Please mention any concerns you may have to your Travel Consultant. During your trip, if you feel unwell, please tell your guide.

In this guide you find more detailed information on what to expect and how to prepare for visits to high-altitude destinations.

There are three cable cars at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, each going to a different area.

Glacier Park reaches the highest point, while Yak Meadow and Spruce Meadow are gentler options.

There is no single “best” choice; it depends on fitness level, comfort with altitude, and scenery preferences.

We explain the differences clearly and help you decide in advance, which avoids confusion on the day.

Yunnan is a peaceful and safe destination for travellers. We work with reliable drivers, hotels, and local partners, and our team remains available throughout your trip. Support is always close at hand if you need it.

Read more in this blog post about safety in Yunnan and China in general.

While Chinese law requires that we purchase a local accident and injury insurance policy for you, we require that our travellers purchase additional personal international travel insurance.

This will ensure that you will receive an adequate level of care, a private room in an international hospital, and the option of evacuation or repatriation in case of injury or illness.