BEIJING & THE GREAT WALL
Start in the megacity of Beijing—China’s capital. See its Forbidden City—once the grand home of the Emperor—which today still holds great significance in the national consciousness. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll be able to access restricted gardens and other private areas within the ornate walls. That evening, experience incredible fine dining beneath the Forbidden City, under the curved ceiling of a former wine cellar once the preserve of Chinese society’s higher echelons.
Journey north to see the Great Wall of China. You’ll soar above this remarkable Wonder of the World, following its snaking progress through the landscape and past reservoirs. Alight on the wall’s ‘wild’ section for a rustic picnic lunch with superb views. To round off your visit, arrive at the Temple of Heaven and engage in a private Tai Chi lesson.
GOBI DESERT & XIAN
Journey to the Gobi Desert next, for a striking contrast from the urban bustle of Beijing. You’ll travel through its sand dunes and sculpted rock formations until you arrive at the ‘Dinosaur Ground Zero’. Here, accompanied by paleontologists and using technology that NASA employed on Mars, you can embark on a world-first: searching for dinosaur remains yet to be discovered.
Dial up the thrills with a journey across the dunes in ATVs and on fat bikes. Through Pelorus, gain exclusive access to the Caves of the Thousand Buddhas. Discover the stories hidden within this labyrinth of treasures, and gain special permission to usually inaccessible areas.