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Tibetan Trek in Sichuan: From Peaks to Prairies

China

Sichuan, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture

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General description

Discover a unique horseback riding adventure in Sichuan 's Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture , a journey that blends adventure, culture, and nature. From visiting giant pandas and UNESCO World Heritage sites to immersing yourself in the heart of the Tibetan mountains and endless grasslands , this trip is a true odyssey. Ride through spectacular landscapes, share authentic moments with Tibetan nomads, and delve into a rich, ancient culture steeped in tradition. An intense and rejuvenating adventure, bringing you closer to nature.

The highlights

  • Rides through exceptional landscapes : Cross majestic mountains, deep valleys, high plateaus and endless meadows, with unforgettable moments of galloping.

  • Immersion in Tibetan and Qiang culture : Share authentic moments of life with local communities: discover traditional villages, participate in the equestrian customs of Tibetan nomads, and taste regional culinary specialties.

  • Unique historical and natural exploration : Discover giant pandas in their natural sanctuary, admire UNESCO World Heritage monuments, and immerse yourself in the living history of the Tibetan Buddhist monastery nestled in the heart of the mountains.

  • A timeless experience under the stars : End your days with unforgettable evenings in the heart of nature, around a campfire, accompanied by your horses and the calm of the mountains.

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Itinerary

Horseback riding in Sichuan – Discovering Tibetan lands

Day 1

Europe - Chengdu

Takeoff for Chengdu.

Accommodation: by plane.

Day 2

Chengdu

Upon arrival at Chengdu Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide, who will accompany you throughout this adventure. After a transfer to your hotel, you will have the opportunity to relax before joining your guide for a convivial dinner, where you can discuss the upcoming program and discover the unique flavors of Szechuan cuisine. This is an excellent introduction to this region, renowned for its spicy dishes.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in a hotel in Chengdu. Meals included: dinner. Meals not included: breakfast and lunch.

       Jour 3

Meet the giant pandas and discover Dujiangyan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site - 1.5-hour drive

The day begins early for an unforgettable visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding . Morning is the ideal time to observe these adorable creatures, as they are very active. You will see giant pandas and red pandas in their natural habitat and learn about the conservation efforts underway to protect these iconic animals.

In the afternoon, we head to Dujiangyan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . This masterpiece of hydraulic engineering, built over 2,000 years ago, continues to regulate the waters of the Minjiang River. Beyond its historical significance, Dujiangyan is a true cultural treasure, home to magnificent Taoist temples nestled in a breathtaking natural setting. The verdant trails, mountain scenery, and sacred buildings offer a unique immersion into Taoist culture, allowing you to admire the perfect harmony between humanity and nature.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in a hotel in Dujiangyan. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

       Jour 4

Discover Qiang culture and meet the Tibetan equestrian team for the first time - 4.5-hour drive

Your morning begins with a short, approximately one-hour drive to Taoping Village, an iconic site of Qiang culture . This village, over 2,000 years old, is a veritable labyrinth of narrow streets and stone watchtowers, a testament to the ingenuity of this ethnic minority. Between tradition, history, and mountain scenery, this visit immerses you in the authenticity of a little-known heritage.

After this cultural immersion, you'll continue your journey for three and a half hours to the stables, nestled in the heart of the Heishui Mountains, located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by the Tibetans who will take care of you throughout your adventure. You'll meet your mount, choose your horse, and familiarize yourself with the unique environment of the highlands. This preparation is an essential step before embarking on the intense days of riding that await you.

Accommodation: Bed and breakfast in a private home. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

  Jours 5 à 7

Grand trek across the Aba mountains and nights under the stars - 5 hours on horseback per day

For three days, you will embark on a trekking adventure through the spectacular mountains of the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. Accompanied by packhorses carrying your belongings and provisions, you will explore the vast pastures where Tibetan herders graze their yak herds.

The landscapes offer an impressive diversity: dense forests clinging to mountain slopes, alpine meadows ideal for galloping, mountain passes offering breathtaking panoramas, and high-altitude lakes with vibrant colors. You will progress through this wild nature, trotting along mountain flanks, galloping across high plateaus, and stopping to admire the beauty of these unique places.

Nights 5 and 6 will be spent camping in tents at an altitude of over 3,500 meters . Around a campfire, you'll share convivial meals, including yak meat, while enjoying exceptionally clear starry skies. This total immersion in Tibetan nature and culture will be an unforgettable experience.

On the evening of day 7, after your last stage of your journey, you will return to the comfort of the guest house for a well-deserved night, ideal for resting and reliving the highlights of your adventure.

Accommodation days 5 & 6: Bivouac. Accommodation day 7: Bed and breakfast with a local family.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

       Jour 8

Equestrian exploration and challenges with nomads - 5 hours on horseback

For this final day on horseback, you will explore a new direction in the Aba mountains. The varied landscapes will lead you through dense forests, open meadows, and ridges offering breathtaking panoramas, all within the unique atmosphere of the high-altitude wilderness.

This day will also be marked by authentic moments of sharing with Tibetan nomads. You will have the opportunity to participate in traditional activities such as yak chasing or horse races on the plateaus, where speed and agility combine in a friendly and dynamic atmosphere. These sporting challenges add an exhilarating dimension to this immersion in the heart of nomadic culture.

Depending on the weather and terrain conditions, these unique activities can also be organized during the long trek, transforming each stage of your adventure into an experience full of surprises and emotions. At the end of the day, you'll return to the lodge, your head filled with unforgettable memories, to conclude this incredible odyssey.

Accommodation: Bed and breakfast in a private home. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

       Jour 9

To the endless meadows of Ruoergai and immersion in Tibetan Buddhism - 4.5-hour drive

Early in the morning, you will depart Heishui for a new stable located in Hongyuan, still in the heart of the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. Along the way, you will stop to discover Tibetan cultural treasures. You will visit the majestic Maiwa Monastery , a spiritual place of great serenity, and the famous World Peace Tower, where colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze, imbuing the site with Buddhist symbolism. These visits will immerse you in the mystical and sacred atmosphere of Tibetan Buddhism.

Arriving in Ruoergai at the end of the day, you'll be struck by the contrast with the mountainous landscapes of Heishui. Here, vast grasslands stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a peaceful and majestic setting where nature and sky seem to merge on the horizon. Ruoergai is also famous for its horse racing festival, a vibrant event that reflects the importance of the horse in Tibetan culture.

At the stables, you'll meet the local team, choose your new horse, and take some time to familiarize yourself with the surroundings. This initial contact will allow you to calmly prepare for the equestrian adventure that will begin the following morning in this unique setting.

Accommodation: Equipped campsite. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Jour 10

Meet the nomads in the heart of the Ruoergai meadows - 5 hours on horseback per day

Early in the morning, you'll set off on the trail from base camp and enter the vast Ruoergai grasslands, where herds graze in pristine immensity. The scenery is unchanging: tall grass swaying in the wind, mountains on the horizon, and a feeling of infinite space.

In the late afternoon, you will reach the lands of Tibetan nomadic communities: this is the time to experience an authentic exchange, because after a day's work on their respective lands, families often gather to share a meal, music, or stories around the fire. You will experience a bivouac in the heart of nature, without infrastructure, completely integrated into the landscape.

Accommodation: Bivouac. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Jour 11

Exploring the Ruoergai marshes and observing wildlife - 5 hours on horseback per day

This morning, the horse will take you on a new route through the region's iconic wetlands: marshy expanses bathed in soft light at a high altitude of 3,600 m. These ecosystems are a refuge for many species, including the famous Red-crested Crane which nests on the plateau.

You might also spot plateau hares, Tibetan foxes, or even broad-winged birds of prey gliding above the marshes. At the end of the day, return to a more comfortable environment for a well-deserved rest after this immersion in wildlife.

Accommodation: Equipped campsite. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 12

Panoramic gallop across the meadows and discovery of the Tibetan village of Hongyuan - 4 hours on horseback per day

For this final day on horseback, we'll head towards the sandy highlands of Ruoergai, bathed in golden light. Late morning, a picnic lunch awaits you at a scenic viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding meadows and mountains. This peaceful setting will be perfect for savoring a final moment of contemplation amidst the vast open spaces.

The afternoon will be marked by a highlight: a free gallop along the Huang He (or Yellow River), the second largest river in China. A mythical river and the cradle of Chinese civilization, it rises on the Tibetan Plateau before winding its way for thousands of kilometers to the sea. Galloping to the rhythm of this legendary river provides a unique feeling of freedom and power.

The day's horseback riding ends around 3:30 pm, allowing you time to relax in Hongyuan, a charming Tibetan village where monks in saffron robes mingle with travelers in the streets. You can stroll through the alleyways, explore the shops selling local Tibetan crafts, or simply soak up the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere before a convivial dinner.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in a hotel in Hongyuan. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

      Jour 13

Return to Chengdu through grassland landscapes - 6-hour drive

This day is dedicated to the return journey to Chengdu, but the trip itself is an unforgettable experience. You will travel along the magnificent Grassland Road, winding through breathtaking landscapes where vast expanses stretch as far as the eye can see. Along the way, several stops at panoramic viewpoints will allow you to admire the beauty of this unique region one last time and capture lasting memories.

In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Chengdu, where you will have free time to relax, shop, or stroll through the city's vibrant neighborhoods. A wonderful way to conclude your adventure before returning to the comfort of your hotel for the night.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in a hotel in Chengdu. Meals included: breakfast and lunch. Dinner not included.

      Jour 14

Transfer to the airport

For those whose flight is scheduled for the end of the day, we recommend a morning of relaxation and immersion in the daily life of Chengdu.

People's Park is the perfect place to experience the city's vibrant energy and enjoy a peaceful setting before your departure. You can participate in a Chinese tea ceremony, a cultural experience where you'll learn about the art of tea preparation, before relaxing in the park's serenity. It's also an ideal spot to observe locals going about their daily lives: some playing sports outdoors, others writing with Chinese brushes on the ground, while in one corner of the park, the singles' meeting place offers a fascinating glimpse into local social life. People's Park is a true urban leisure hub, a vibrant place where you can stroll, observe local customs, and enjoy a final, tranquil morning before your flight.

Meals included: breakfast. Meals not included: lunch and dinner.

Dates and prices

Départ
Retour
Prix Hors Vol
Disponibilité
24 Mai 2026
06 Juin 2026
2386 euros
Disponible
14 Juin 2026
27 Juin 2026
2386 euros
Disponible
05 Juillet 2026
18 Juillet 2026
2386 euros
Disponible
26 Juillet 2026
08 Août 2026
2386 euros
Disponible
16 Août 2026
29 Août 2026
2386 euros
Disponible
06 Septembre 2026
19 Septembre 2026
2386 euros
Disponible

The price includes

  • The day is spent on horseback with a Tibetan nomadic guide.

  • Accompaniment by a local French and English speaking guide-interpreter.

  • One horse per rider.

  • The meals mentioned in the program.

  • Accommodation for the entire duration of the stay.

    • 3-star hotel (Chinese standard): Accommodation in double or twin rooms (separate beds), equivalent to good local comfort with private bathrooms. Chinese standards differ slightly from European standards, but offer clean, comfortable, and well-located accommodation.

    • Tibetan guesthouses: Accommodation in traditional rural dwellings, offering simple but welcoming comfort. Double or twin rooms (separate beds), with shared bathrooms.

    • Equipped campsite: Tent pitches with access to electricity, dry toilets, and a large covered communal area used as a dining and relaxation room. Tents are designed for 2 people and come with inflatable mattresses.

    • Wilderness camping: A total immersion experience in the heart of the meadows, without infrastructure or electricity. The tents are pitched in a completely natural environment for a night in communion with nature.

    • Showers are only available in hotels and guesthouses.

  • Entrance fees to temples, monuments, monasteries and UNESCO tourist sites included in the program.

  • Land transfers as described.

  • Airport (ShuangLiu CTU) to hotel transfers are included for the entire group. (+€30 one-way per person from TianFu TFU airport for groups of two or more.)

  • Rider protection insurance during days spent in the saddle.

Optional

  • Supplement for a single room when staying in fixed accommodation – hotels and guesthouses. (+€200)

  • Supplement for individual accommodation throughout the stay, including camping and bivouacking. (+€320)

  • International flights with departure from a city of your choice.

The price does not include

  • International flights Europe-Chengdu round trip.

  • Security deposits in hotels if needed.

  • Free meals as described in the program.

  • The drinks.

  • Activities on days 2 and 14 in Chengdu.

  • Tips. (Recommended amount: €25 per participant per week.)

  • Visa fees.

  • Cancellation/interruption of stay/lost luggage insurance and assistance.

Cavalry

Discover the Hequ horse, an iconic local breed raised by Tibetan nomads and herders in Sichuan. These robust and energetic horses are perfectly suited to the region's diverse terrain. They embody the strength and agility needed to explore the mountains and vast steppes.

  • In Heishui, where the terrain is rugged, the horses are used to going up and down steep slopes. Their exceptional stamina allows them to trot with ease on the mountain ridges and to gallop on the high plateaus.

  • In Ruoergai, you will meet horses adapted to the endless steppes of the prairies. Their endurance and agility make them ideal companions for traversing these majestic landscapes.

This unique experience offers you the opportunity to ride different horses, each adapted to its natural environment.

Regarding equipment, we offer traditional local leather saddles, as well as western and all-purpose saddles to suit your preferences. The organization will be adjusted according to the number of participants to ensure comfort and the best possible experience for everyone.

Equestrian guide & local team

Throughout the trip, the group will be accompanied by a French and English-speaking guide/interpreter. This guide will play a key role, both in guiding visitors through tourist sites and in facilitating communication with Tibetan nomads and herders during the days spent on horseback.

During the treks, a local nomadic guide, an expert on the terrain and horses of the region, will be present each day to ensure the group's safety. Their in-depth knowledge of the landscapes and local culture will enrich every stage of this adventure.

During nights spent camping, packhorses or mules will carry the group's belongings throughout the day, allowing for a lighter and more enjoyable trekking experience. The group will also participate in preparing the horses each morning, as well as unsaddling them at the end of each day – an experience that strengthens the bond with these invaluable companions.

In Heishui, nights are spent in a guesthouse run by a local Tibetan family. The group will be warmly welcomed into an authentic setting, where hosts will share their daily lives and prepare traditional dishes, offering a unique cultural immersion.

Riding level & physical fitness

This adventure is designed for riders comfortable at all three gaits – walk, trot, and canter. The vast high-altitude plateaus of Heishui and the endless meadows of Hongyuan offer magnificent opportunities for independent cantering in a breathtaking natural setting.

The nomadic guide always adapts the pace of the hikes to the abilities and comfort of the participants, alternating between walking and trotting to ensure a pleasant progression throughout the route.

Good physical condition is essential to fully enjoy this experience. Indeed, consecutive days in the saddle, combined with life at high altitude (approximately 3500 meters), require a certain level of endurance, both for equestrian activities and for moments of rest and exploration.

About the stay

Passport and visa

Your passport must be valid and have at least 6 months of validity remaining after the visa expiry date.

 

From November 10, 2025 to December 31, 2026 , holders of an ordinary passport from the following countries may enter mainland China without a visa for a stay of up to 30 days , for tourist, business, visiting or exchange purposes:

France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Andorra, South Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain.

For stays longer than 30 days or for other nationalities, we are available to assist you with your administrative procedures.

Additional information

For up-to-date information specific to your nationality, you can consult your country's official websites:

👉 Consult the “Travel Advice / Conseils aux voyageurs – China / Chine” page of your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Health

No vaccinations are required to enter China, but it is recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and hepatitis A and B. Depending on the length and type of stay, vaccinations against typhoid and Japanese encephalitis may also be advised.

 

It is best to use sealed bottled water to avoid contamination. A suitable personal first-aid kit is essential for your trip (see our recommended equipment list). If you have a specific medical condition, we recommend consulting a doctor before departure.

Travel extension

Want to extend your exploration of China after your horseback riding holiday? We offer tailor-made extensions to explore the country's iconic sites. Whether you're looking to enrich your trip with a cultural touch or discover natural wonders, we can adapt your itinerary to your preferences. Contact us to create a personalized extension that suits your desires and pace!

Contact us!

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