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South Africa Big 5 Wildlife and Community
China Giant Panda Conservation
From £599 (was £749) Land Only (trip code: CHGP) Minimum 2 weeks
From £599 (was £749), 2 weeks, China
Trip Highlights
• Play a part in helping to save the Giant Panda from extinction
• Work closely with panda keepers and the pandas!
• Immerse yourself in the Chinese way of life
• Help staff at the centre and children at local schools to develop their English skills
• Explore nearby Xi'an with its world famous Terracotta Army
Trip Summary
See full itineraryWhat's included?
- Airport pick-up
- In-country orientation
- Transfer to programme after orientation
- All accommodation
- All meals during placement
What's not included?
- Flights
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Return airport transfer at the end of placement
The Giant Panda is one of the most endangered animals in the world, and this conservation project is a fantastic opportunity to observe and help these amazing creatures.
Volunteer here and your assistance will go a long way to helping prevent the extinction of this beautiful animal.
And as part of this project, you could also volunteer at a local school in nearby Lou Guan Tai, helping children learn basic English teaching. Not only will you be passing on valuable communication skills, but increasing the number of Chinese people that can get the panda conservation message across.
But it’s not all volunteer work – you have the weekends free. And they are a great opportunity for you to experience what the local area has to offer. You can travel to Xi’an to visit the amazing Terracotta Army Museum, Tang Theme Park and Goose Pagodas to name but a few.
Alternatively you can stay at the centre and visit the beautiful lakes and waterfalls nearby and take in some more of Asia's culture.
When do I want to go?
Showing all departures (63)
| Dates of Departures | Duration | Price (Land Only) | Trip Status | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sat, 18 Feb 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 18 Feb 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 18 Feb 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 3 Mar 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 3 Mar 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 3 Mar 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 17 Mar 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 17 Mar 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 17 Mar 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 7 Apr 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 7 Apr 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 7 Apr 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 21 Apr 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 21 Apr 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 21 Apr 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 5 May 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 5 May 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 5 May 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 19 May 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 19 May 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 19 May 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 2 Jun 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 2 Jun 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 2 Jun 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 16 Jun 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 16 Jun 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 16 Jun 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 7 Jul 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £719 Was £899 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 7 Jul 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £895 Was £1,119 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 7 Jul 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £1,047 Was £1,309 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 21 Jul 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £719 Was £899 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 21 Jul 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £895 Was £1,119 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 21 Jul 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £1,047 Was £1,309 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 4 Aug 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £687 Was £859 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 4 Aug 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £855 Was £1,069 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 4 Aug 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £999 Was £1,249 Save 20% | Limited Availability | Call Us 01892 882 737 | |
| Sat, 18 Aug 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 18 Aug 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 18 Aug 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 1 Sep 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 1 Sep 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 1 Sep 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 15 Sep 2012 | 2 weeks | Now £599 Was £749 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 15 Sep 2012 | 3 weeks | Now £743 Was £929 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 15 Sep 2012 | 4 weeks | Now £879 Was £1,099 Save 20% | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 6 Oct 2012 | 2 weeks | £749 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 6 Oct 2012 | 3 weeks | £929 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 6 Oct 2012 | 4 weeks | £1,099 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 20 Oct 2012 | 2 weeks | £749 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 20 Oct 2012 | 3 weeks | £929 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 20 Oct 2012 | 4 weeks | £1,099 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 3 Nov 2012 | 2 weeks | £749 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 3 Nov 2012 | 3 weeks | £929 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 3 Nov 2012 | 4 weeks | £1,099 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 17 Nov 2012 | 2 weeks | £749 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 17 Nov 2012 | 3 weeks | £929 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 17 Nov 2012 | 4 weeks | £1,099 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 1 Dec 2012 | 2 weeks | £749 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 1 Dec 2012 | 3 weeks | £929 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 1 Dec 2012 | 4 weeks | £1,099 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 15 Dec 2012 | 2 weeks | £749 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 15 Dec 2012 | 3 weeks | £929 | Available | Book now | |
| Sat, 15 Dec 2012 | 4 weeks | £1,099 | Available | Book now | |
What will I be doing?
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Arrival and Orientation (3 Days)
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Start the volunteering and meet the pandas (2 - 4 weeks)
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Volunteer Activitie (2 - 4 weeks)
Arrival and Orientation: 3 Days
Next LegDestination info
The country we know today as China actually derives from a long line of smaller civilisations dating back six millennia. China’s influence on modern life is nothing short of remarkable having given the world a huge array of inventions such as paper, the compass, gunpowder and even pasta. The country is steeped in traditions and ancient practices and it is all just waiting to be discovered while you are in China teaching English.
China’s rapid development over the past 20 years has helped transform it into a global economic super power, but its historic roots are here to stay. You only have to visit one of the many temples, the Great Wall or the Terracotta Army to see that!
- Location: Xi’an
Saturday - Sunday
On arrival at Xi’an airport, you will be met by a project representative and taken to your accommodation in Xi’an to relax for your first 2 nights. On Sunday you will have your project orientation covering all the important aspects of the programme and preparing you for your volunteering in the weeks ahead. This is also a great opportunity to ask any last minute questions. You will then have the rest of Sunday to explore Xi’an, a great chance to try some of the local food and see some of the amazing sights in and around Xi’an. Don't forget to try the dumplings!
Monday
This morning you will be transferred by car/taxi from Xi’an to the programme, the journey is around 70km and takes approximately 1-1.5 hours giving you the chance to see some of China’s varied landscapes. Once you arrive you will be taken to your accommodation for during your project and shown around the centre and introduced to the panda keepers and the other project staff.
Destination info
The country we know today as China actually derives from a long line of smaller civilisations dating back six millennia. China’s influence on modern life is nothing short of remarkable having given the world a huge array of inventions such as paper, the compass, gunpowder and even pasta. The country is steeped in traditions and ancient practices and it is all just waiting to be discovered while you are in China teaching English.
China’s rapid development over the past 20 years has helped transform it into a global economic super power, but its historic roots are here to stay. You only have to visit one of the many temples, the Great Wall or the Terracotta Army to see that!
- Location: Lou Guan Tai town, which is 70km outside Xi’an, in the Shaanxi Province
Tuesday – Friday
You will start to get into the full swing of the project beginning work at 8.30am and generally finishing at around 5pm, with a few breaks during the day. This will vary depending on the feeding and cleaning times for each of the pandas. It will be your first chance to see all the valuable work that the panda keepers do and why your help is so vital to this project. In the evenings you will have free time to get to know your fellow volunteers or relax by watching a DVD, reading or using the internet at the accommodation.
Saturday - Sunday
Your weekends are free to explore or relax! For those who wish to explore, there is a wealth of sights and activities that you can enjoy. Head back to to Xi’an for the weekend and you'll experience China’s great city life. The transfer back is at your own cost however you will be able to stay at the same volunteer accommodation as on arrival which is included in the cost! Alternatively why not stay to relax or explore the mountains and lakes in the local area around the project.
Following weeks
Depending on how many weeks you choose to spend on this programme, you will continue with the great conservation work you've started and help to give the staff the language skills to educate tourists who visit the centre.
The centre is home not only to the Giant Panda but also to some other fascinating creatures including the Lesser Panda (Red Panda), the Golden Monkey, the Sika, the Takin and Crested Ibis.
Volunteer Activitie: 2 - 4 weeks
Destination info
The country we know today as China actually derives from a long line of smaller civilisations dating back six millennia. China’s influence on modern life is nothing short of remarkable having given the world a huge array of inventions such as paper, the compass, gunpowder and even pasta. The country is steeped in traditions and ancient practices and it is all just waiting to be discovered while you are in China teaching English.
China’s rapid development over the past 20 years has helped transform it into a global economic super power, but its historic roots are here to stay. You only have to visit one of the many temples, the Great Wall or the Terracotta Army to see that!
- Location: Lou Guan Tai town, which is 70km outside Xi’an, in the Shaanxi Province
As a panda conservation volunteer you will be working closely alongside the keepers at the centre. A great way not only to get close to the pandas, but also to immerse yourself in the Chinese way of life.
You can expect to help out on some of the following:
- Assisting the Panda Keepers in their daily duties and providing care and attention to the Pandas.
- Cleaning the enclosures of the animals.
- Preparing food and feeding the Pandas and other animals, this will include carrying Bamboo.
- General maintenance at the centre including fencing and planting.
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Helping staff at the centre develop their English skills.
Trip Notes Download
Trip Notes include a full itinerary, country guides and travel advice on visas, money, insurance and the local weather. By filling in your details you'll also be kept updated on all the latest news, offers and stories on this particular trip. Happy reading!
Additional Information & FAQs
Minimum age
Minimum age 17 years old, maximum decided on potential participant's health. Please be prepared that you may be working with volunteers of all ages.
Accommodation
For your first two nights in Xi’an you will be staying in a volunteer apartment or local guesthouse. You will then be transferred to your accommodation at the panda centre. While you are at the project you will be staying on site at the panda centre, which means you won't have to go far each day.
The bedrooms at the volunteer accommodation are mainly based on a twin share, although there is one triple share room. There are also two shared bathrooms with western toilets. You will also have the use of the other great facilities in the house that include; a free washing machine, TV, DVD player, a computer with internet access, telephone, fridge, oven and even a toaster.
Meals
You will be provided with 3 meals per day during your stay, these will be taken in the local restaurant close to your accommodation. Please let us know before you depart if you have any special dietary requirements.
Advice & Safety
Throughout your programmes you will have the support and guidance of the programme co-ordinator and team. You will be provided with competent assistance and help with any questions or advice you may need during your stay.
You will be assigned a personal travel adviser who will co-ordinate your programme with you. Feel free to contact them at any time before you go, or when you are on your travels.
In addition, you will have access to a 24-hour emergency contact number so you can contact one of our staff at any time should you need to.
FAQ
1. Will I be able to have hands on contact with the Pandas?
No, you work closely with the Pandas but there is no hands on contact with them or the other animals at the centre.
2. How much extra money should I take for the departure transfer and extra activities?
The transfer will cost around £20 per person and between £60 - £80 per week for extra activities should be plenty.
3. Is there a chance to travel, do you work every day?
You'll be working at the centre from Monday to Friday and at the weekends you can have free time to explore the local area. You can travel back to Xi'an (approximately 1.5 hours drive away) and stay in our volunteer apartment for free, the transfer to the city! There are lots of things to do and visit including the amazing Terracotta Army Museum, Tang Theme Park and Goose Pagodas to name but a few.
4. When is the best time to go?
Weather wise the best times to visit China tends to be in the spring, March and April and in the Autumn, September and October. However take both summer clothes and waterproofs - the weather can be unpredictable.
5. Are the visas difficult to obtain?
No, but you should allow up to a month for your application to be processed. You should need to contact the your nearest Chinese Embassy for full details on the visa application process.
What will I see at the Sanctuary?
16 photos
What other travellers thought
I've done this trip
Write reviewHanna Neville, 5th Aug 2011 - 26th Aug 2011
Waking up every morning and knowing that you would be working face to face with pandas! Experiencing new food, culture and ways of life. Feeling satisfied that I could help both people and animals :)
1. Don't have to high aspectations of accommodation as things such as running water may not be so accessable in other countries. 2. Try everything even if you think you may not enjoy it, atleast you can say you've done it! 3. ENJOY!!! There are things (such as the panda conservation programme) some people will never be able to do, count yourself lucky.
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Yes
Charlotte Foreman, 5th Aug 2011 - 26th Aug 2011
Working with the baby panda's. Around the edge of their outdoor enclosure were lots of weeds, and during my time at the panda centre I weeded all around the side of it so that the panda's could be well exercised. Doing this, as well as watching the baby pandas improve during training every day, really made me feel like I was helping.
- Bring a torch as the light in the bathroom often doesn't work and you have to shower/go to the toilet in the dark. - Bring very strong mosquito repellant and a mosquito net as the mosquito are horrendous. -Bring wet wipes as the water supply is very unreliable.
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Yes
Benjamin Martin, 15th Jul 2011 - 5th Aug 2011
Working with every single animal at the enclosure. Meeting some of the most incredible and interesting people I have ever come across. Discovering that there is a bigger world out there!
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Danielle Kenneally, 1st Oct 2010 - 29th Oct 2010
The rich culture and the pandas.
1. prepare to explore independently 2. take both summer clothes and waterproofs - the weather is as unpredictable as it is at home 3. take a torch
Great people, rich culture, safe and beautiful environment, unmissable animals!
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Yes
