Birding Tours in China: Top Companies to Explore Wildlife and Culture
Photos of birds in China from Adventures by Disney, Tropical Birding, and G Adventures.
The 7 BEST Birding Tours in China! (2023)
As a passionate bird photographer, I must say that it is amazing to hear that you have made the decision to go on a bird-watching trip to China. However, I completely understand that the real challenge lies in finding a reliable and trustworthy company that can offer you a comfortable travel experience.
Below, I did my best to find 7 highly-rated companies that offer birding trips in China.
Hey there fellow bird enthusiasts! As a seasoned traveller and photographer, I have some advice to share with you before you pick your next bird-watching trip – be sure to pay attention to the itinerary!
When it comes to birding tours in China, there are a wide range of options available, each offering a unique experience tailored to different preferences. Some tours are designed for the hardcore birders out there, where you can expect to be out birding from dawn till dusk. These tours are perfect for those who want to maximize their bird-watching experience and add as many species to their checklist as possible.
On the other hand, some excursions are more relaxed and offer a balanced itinerary that integrates other wildlife and cultural experiences. These tours are perfect for those who want to take a more laid-back approach to birding and enjoy the other amazing aspects of China.
It’s important to remember that each tour is unique, and none are better or worse than the others. It all depends on what you want to get out of your trip (or what your spouse wants – we all know the importance of compromise ��). So before you make a decision, take some time to think about your own preferences and priorities, and choose a tour that will best suit your needs.
Happy birding!
Lastly, please do your own independent research before selecting a birding trip in China!
As a fellow birding enthusiast, I have compiled a list to assist you in finding the right bird-watching trip. This list is designed to help you narrow down your options and steer you in the right direction. However, it’s important to note that before booking any trip, it’s crucial to contact the companies directly to ensure they meet your travel needs and preferences.
Please keep in mind that the companies mentioned in my list are not ranked in any particular order, and each one has its unique features and offerings. So take the time to explore each option and find the one that resonates best with your birding goals.
Happy birding, and I wish you an amazing trip filled with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sightings!
#1. Rockjumper Birding Tours
Rockjumper is one of the best birding tour companies in China.
- Check out the 19-day trip to the Sichuan Province, which is absolutely beautiful and features an array of different habitats. Some of the best birds include multiple types of pheasants, Temminck’s Tragopan, Tibetan & Snow Partridges, Black-necked Crane, and Saker Falcon. And a small chance to see Giant Pandas and Red Pandas!
- There is an incredible birding tour that explores southeast China, which is rarely visited by Western birders. Many very rare birds are targeted, such as Cabot’s Tragopan and Spoon-billed Sandpiper.
- Click HERE to see a schedule of all the upcoming trips to China.Includes adventures with different lengths and budget levels.
It’s crucial to carefully review the itinerary of any bird-watching trip you’re considering, as different tours are designed to meet various objectives. While some trips are planned to optimize the number of bird species observed, others provide a more leisurely pace and the opportunity to explore the unique cultural aspects of the region.
In case you cannot find a tour that suits your particular needs and preferences, Rockjumper offers the option to work with them to create a customized trip that meets your specific requirements. This is an excellent opportunity to design your ideal itinerary, ensuring that your trip is tailored to your interests and preferences.
So whether you’re looking for a birding-focused tour or a more relaxed and culturally immersive experience, be sure to check out the itinerary of your potential tours and work with Rockjumper if you need a more personalized trip. Happy birding!
It’s worth noting that Rockjumper, in addition to providing exceptional bird-watching tours, also supports bird conservation worldwide. For every scheduled tour, the company donates a minimum of $50 to a conservation fund, contributing to various bird projects worldwide. By choosing Rockjumper, not only can you enjoy a remarkable bird-watching experience, but you can also make a meaningful contribution to the conservation of these beautiful creatures.
#2. Victor Emanuel Nature Tours
With almost half a century of experience in leading birding trips, Victor Emanuel Nature Tours (VENT), established in 1976, is a highly respected and renowned birding tour company. VENT has built a reputation for providing some of the best birding tours in China and is well-respected in the bird-watching community. With their vast experience and expertise, VENT offers an exceptional birding experience that you won’t soon forget.
When you book a bird-watching trip with Victor Emanuel Nature Tours (VENT), you can be assured that every aspect of your journey will be well taken care of. The company is dedicated to ensuring that every part of your trip is a success. From providing knowledgeable and enjoyable tour leaders to a professional office staff that manages all logistical aspects of your trip, you can rest assured that you are in experienced and capable hands. With VENT, you can focus entirely on enjoying your birding adventure and leave the rest to their expert team.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting your bird-watching journey, Victor Emanuel Nature Tours (VENT) has a range of trips that cater to different preferences and interests. Regardless of the bird species you hope to spot during your trip to China, VENT’s comprehensive tours are designed to ensure that you have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. So no matter what your birding goals are, VENT has the expertise and resources to create a tour that will make you happy.
For serious birders seeking an unforgettable bird-watching adventure in China, Wings Birding Tours may be the perfect choice. Unlike some of the other companies on this list, Wings Birding Tours caters specifically to the birding market and does not include activities unrelated to birding. As such, almost all of their tours are designed with a focus on bird-watching, no matter the location or time of day. With this in mind, they highly recommend potential guests to reach out to them before booking to ensure the trip is a good fit. Expect early mornings, long days of birding, and plenty of walking through various terrains such as uneven ground, lush vegetation, and hilly landscapes. Wings Birding Tours offers multiple two-week tours to different ecosystems across China, with the option of visiting Snow Leopard habitat. So if you’re ready for a challenging and rewarding bird-watching experience in China, make sure to check out their trip list.
#4. Field Guides Birding Tours
Sichuan province in China boasts a unique and fascinating avifauna that promises to excite birders from all over the world. The province is home to a range of remarkable bird species, including the striking blue Grandala, the impressive apex scavenger, the Lammergeier or Bearded Vulture, the enigmatic Sichuan Wood-Owl, the alpine-dwelling Snow Pigeon, and the distinctive Przevalski’s Pinktail. These bird species are among the many fascinating and exciting avian residents of Sichuan province, making it a bird-watching paradise for enthusiasts looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Whether you are a serious birder or just starting, Sichuan province offers a birding adventure like no other. With a wealth of avian species to discover, it’s no wonder that Sichuan is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for birders worldwide. So pack your binoculars, grab your camera, and get ready to witness some of the most incredible and intriguing birds in the Far East.
Sichuan’s diverse range of habitats results in a rich variety of avian species, including more than 20 types of Old World Warblers, Rosefinches, and Redstarts, as well as eight species of Parrotbills. Whether you prefer large, colorful birds or small, unassuming ones, Sichuan’s avifauna has something for everyone. In addition to the birdlife, the province also offers a unique cultural experience and delicious cuisine.
#5. Adventures by Disney
While you may be enthusiastic about embarking on a birding excursion in China, your spouse, friends, or children may not share the same level of interest and may not want to spend the entire day looking for birds.
That’s why I’ve included Adventures by Disney in the list. Their fantastic vacation package is designed for families visiting China.
- View details HERE – Pandas, Hong Kong and Shanghai Disneyland, The Great Wall, and more!
Adventures by Disney is an excellent option for those who want to travel to China with their family and have a safe and well-planned adventure. While birding is not the focus of this trip, you will still have the opportunity to see a variety of bird species just by being in China.
This trip is all about experiencing Chinese culture to the fullest. You’ll visit iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, and have the opportunity to participate in traditional Chinese activities such as a dumpling-making class and a calligraphy lesson.
What sets Adventures by Disney apart is their attention to detail and the safety of their guests. They carefully select their guides and ensure that they are knowledgeable, experienced, and speak fluent English. Additionally, they take care of all the details, from arranging transportation to booking hotels and restaurants, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
This trip is perfect for families who want to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and create lasting memories. It’s an opportunity to learn and grow together while experiencing all the wonders that China has to offer. So if you’re looking for a family adventure that combines cultural experiences with the chance to see some amazing birdlife, Adventures by Disney is an excellent choice.
If you are interested in traveling to China, you should use an authorized Disney travel agent.
There are two reasons why using a Disney-authorized travel agent is beneficial. Firstly, they have ample experience planning trips similar to yours. Secondly, their services are free of cost. Moreover, such agents can often secure better deals, thereby saving you a considerable amount of money.
- *Click HERE to check out my recommended Disney vacation planner*.Make sure you get a quote and talk to them BEFORE booking on the Disney website.
If you’re traveling with children or companions who are not interested in birding every day, Adventures by Disney is the ideal way to explore the avian wonders of China.
#6. Tropical Birding
If you’re interested in birding in China, Tropical Birding is a company that offers different options for birdwatchers of varying levels of experience. Currently, they offer two different options for birding adventures in China.
The first option is a 10-day trip that takes you to the mountains of Sichuan. This area is known for its rich birdlife and stunning scenery. You’ll have the opportunity to see some of the most sought-after species, including the Grandala, Chinese Monal, and Lady Amherst’s Pheasant, among others. The trip also includes visits to cultural sites like the Leshan Giant Buddha and the ancient town of Huanglongxi.
The second option is a 15-day trip that covers more ground in China. This tour takes you to various birding hotspots across the country, including Sichuan, Yunnan, and Qinghai. You’ll visit a range of habitats, from alpine meadows to tropical forests, and see an incredible diversity of birdlife. The tour also includes cultural activities like visiting the Potala Palace in Lhasa and exploring the ancient city of Lijiang.
No matter which trip you choose, Tropical Birding provides experienced and knowledgeable guides who will help you make the most of your birding adventure. They also focus on responsible and sustainable tourism, ensuring that your trip has a minimal impact on the environment and local communities. So if you’re looking for a memorable birding experience in China, Tropical Birding is definitely worth considering.
- Sichuan and Tibetan Plateau– The best option if you are looking to do just one birding trip to China ever. You can expect staggering mountain scenery, regular cultural incursions, and a good sampling of Chinese endemics.
- A TIBETAN birding trip:Journey through immense ice-clad mountains, rolling golden-green plains, and vast aquamarine lakes
Are you looking for a birding adventure in China but can’t find a tour that perfectly suits your interests and needs? Look no further than Tropical Birding! This company offers birding adventures at various levels of intensity in China. Whether you’re an experienced birder looking for a challenging trip or a beginner hoping to see some of China’s unique avifauna, Tropical Birding has a tour for you.
But what if you can’t find a tour that perfectly fits your preferences? No problem! Tropical Birding’s logistics team can also create a custom tour just for you and your group. Whether you want to combine birding with cultural activities, add a few days to a scheduled tour, or venture to a less-traveled area, Tropical Birding can make it happen.
With Tropical Birding, you’ll have access to knowledgeable and experienced guides who are passionate about birds and wildlife. They’ll help you spot and identify some of China’s most fascinating bird species, from the elusive Sichuan Jay to the stunning Golden Pheasant. And if you’re interested in bird photography, Tropical Birding can also provide tips and guidance to help you capture amazing shots.
So whether you’re a hardcore birder or just looking to add some birding to your China trip, consider Tropical Birding for your next adventure. With their variety of tours and ability to customize, they can help you have a truly unforgettable birding experience in China.
Tropical Birding is a birding tour company that offers exciting birding adventures in China. One of the most critical factors in making or breaking a birding trip is the guide, and Tropical Birding understands that. That is why they take pride in their full-time professional tour leaders. Their guides are experienced and knowledgeable, promising to bring as much joy as possible to every trip.
Tropical Birding’s tour leaders have a unique approach to birding, focusing not only on seeing as many birds and wildlife as possible but also having fun in the process. They understand that birding is not just about ticking off species from a list, but it is also about enjoying the journey and having a good time with fellow birders.
Moreover, Tropical Birding’s logistics team can organize a custom tour in China that caters to everyone’s interest in your group. So, whether you’re a serious birder or just want to see some birds while enjoying a family vacation, Tropical Birding can create a tour that suits your needs.
If you’re interested in booking a trip with Tropical Birding, be sure to check out their current list of guides. These guides are passionate and knowledgeable about birds and wildlife, and they will go above and beyond to make your trip a success.
Their website features their current China trip schedule, and Tropical Birding has received positive reviews from many of their customers who have traveled with them.
#7. G Adventures
If you haven’t found any birding trips in China that excite you, then G Adventures could be the ideal choice.
If you’re looking for adventure travel in China but haven’t found a birding trip that excites you, consider G Adventures. While they don’t offer tours specifically focused on birding, their trips offer a unique way to explore the country while having an unforgettable experience.
With G Adventures, you can explore China’s stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in the local culture, and try new and exciting activities. From trekking the Great Wall and cycling through ancient villages to camping under the stars in the Gobi Desert, there’s something for every adventurer.
Their trips are led by knowledgeable and experienced guides who will provide insight into the local culture and history. You’ll also have the chance to meet locals and learn about their daily lives, adding a unique cultural element to your journey.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, traveling with friends or family, G Adventures has a variety of trip options to suit different interests and activity levels. So, if you’re ready for an adventure in China that goes beyond birding, check out G Adventures and see what they have to offer.
G Adventures is a great option for those looking for adventure travel in China. While they do not offer specific birding trips, they have a wide variety of itineraries that include opportunities to see wildlife while also exploring Chinese culture. At the time of writing, there are 8 different trips available to choose from in China, each with its own unique itinerary and activities.
What sets G Adventures apart is their focus on sustainable and responsible travel. They work closely with local communities to ensure that their trips benefit both travelers and locals alike. You can feel good about your adventure knowing that you are supporting responsible tourism.
In terms of activities, G Adventures offers a range of options, from hiking through the mountains of Yunnan to exploring the ancient city of Xi’an. Most itineraries include opportunities to see wildlife such as pandas, monkeys, and various bird species. You can also expect to experience authentic Chinese culture through activities such as cooking classes, visits to local markets, and cultural performances.
Overall, G Adventures provides a unique and exciting way to experience China while also supporting responsible travel. With a variety of itineraries to choose from and a focus on adventure and cultural immersion, G Adventures is a great choice for those looking for a different kind of travel experience.
If you are interested in exploring China and are not particularly focused on birdwatching, G Adventures can be a suitable option. However, it is recommended that you are physically active as most of their trips involve outdoor activities. Also, please note that their trips usually have a minimum age requirement of 12 years for children.
Final Thoughts About Birding Tour Companies in China:
I trust that you have come across a birding excursion in China that sparks your interest. The following course of action would be to contact the company directly and determine the most suitable alternative for your journey.
- RELATED: 27 COMMON Birds That Are Found in China!
Please feel free to share your experience if you have previously taken a birding trip in China by leaving a comment below. Your feedback and insights can help other readers who are considering embarking on a similar adventure.
Please feel free to share your experience if you have previously taken a birding trip in China by leaving a comment below. Your feedback and insights can help other readers who are considering embarking on a similar adventure.
