Enjoy a morning flight to Jiuzhaigou to maximize the time enjoyed in this scenic wonderland. Check-in at your hotel and enjoy some refreshments before embarking on an exploratory walk around the village to acclimatize and become familiar with your surroundings. A short drive up the valley will be arranged to visit the quaint Tibetan village of Zhangzha for views of the surrounding mountains and a sampling of barley beer. Returning to town, your guide will provide you with some orientation for the following day's adventure in the park over a Chinese dinner.
After an international breakfast buffet at your hotel, you'll enjoy an early start to the park to enjoy the morning air. Today you'll head to the furthest end of the park to begin your exploration of Zechawa Valley, beginning with stunning views of Jiuzhaigou's highest, largest, and deepest lake: Long Lake (3150m). The Seasonal Lakes and surrounding ridges will be viewed on the way back down to the intersection of the three valleys where you'll visit a Tibetan home and have opportunity to taste some yak jerky and some fresh highland yogurt. Continuing on to the Shuzheng valley provides a clearer sense of the overwhelming grandeur of these valleys as well as an opportunity to find a secluded spot for a lunch of bagels and cheese with wine. You'll return to the comfort of your hotel in the late afternoon for a well-deserved rest.
Today you'll explore the remainder of the park, riding the bus to the most secluded point: the head of Rize Valley. From here you'll enjoy a magical stroll through an old-growth forest surrounded by stunning cliffs, including the blade-shaped Sword Rock. On the descent from the forest back down toward the convergence of the valleys, the walk follows a meandering boardwalk with rushing creeks, turquoise lakes, and quiet pools. The surrounding beauty invites you to take your time, making it easy to spend most of the day in this valley alone. Lunch will be enjoyed at a scenic and quiet spot along the trail before returning to the Sheraton Resort in the afternoon for your complimentary spa treatment. Following a buffet dinner at the Sheraton, your guide will provide an optional stroll to experience the nightlife of the village and hunt for a souvenir or two.
