Trekking & Climbing in the Southern Clouds
Imagine two weeks of adventure traveling through one of the
world’s oldest civilizations, where adrenaline is never in short
supply and each new destination gives you a chance to gain
real leadership experience. Now stop imagining and start living
by joining our newly created and highly energized Trekking
and Climbing in the Southern Clouds program. It will take you
to the top of breathtaking mountain ranges, down undiscovered
pathways, and deep into the heart of China’s beautiful
landscape. You will climb, hike, paddle, and mountain bike your
way through this immense Asian wonderland.
Magnificent, Mythological Mountains
The trip starts in Northwestern Yunnan Province, an area
with strong physical and social ties to Burma and Tibet. Here you will explore the Lijiang Mountain Rages during a series of treks across grass plateaus and rural hamlets. Each night you will have a warm bed to fall asleep on and wake up to a series of exciting hikes that allow you to explore the rarely traversed path.
Led by professional and local guides, these excursions will
introduce you to orienteering skills and leave you with the
leadership skills and knowledge necessary to lead your own
hikes. You will often be the first person to lay tracks in this
rugged area of snow-capped mountains – perfect for those
who want to get off the beaten path.
After a few days of hiking, trade your boots in for harnesses and
carabiners. You are now headed to Shuanglang, a 1,000-year-old
fishing village that is home to Chicken Foot Mountain and the best
climbing in Yunnan Province. Whether you are a total beginner or
have been climbing for years, there will be enough routes to
satisfy. High above town, you will feel like you are climbing into
the clouds. Our expert staff will help hone your skills and keep
you safe as you push yourself to reach the top. After a full day of
climbing above Shuanglang, you will head to its shimmering blue
lake, where you can go for a refreshing swim, explore the area by
kayak, or help out the local fishermen. Finally, you will fall fast
asleep after a hardy meal with the local Bai people, who will be
happy to share stories of their rich history and folklore.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
The next stop on your journey will take you to one of China’s
most famous natural attractions. Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of
the deepest canyons in the world and is sure to satisfy your
need for adventure. The gorge is nestled in the Jade Snow
Dragon Mountain Range, and the surrounding terraced hillsides
are scattered with Naxi family homes. The hike through the
gorge is breathtaking, and as you settle into a traditional Naxi
guesthouse for the evening, you will be in awe of the natural
beauty you have seen throughout the trek.
After more than ten days of trekking and climbing in the
southern clouds of Yunnan, you will head off to Macau, where
you will again rise high into the air for an optional bungee
jump or sky walk. At more than 700 feet, this is the highest
bungee jump in the world and is run by one of the most
reputable names in adventure sports. Whether you choose
to fly down at 125 mph, control your own descent, or hook
onto the edge of the Sky Tower, feet dangling off the side,
and watch your new friends make the jump of a lifetime, this
will be the perfect end to an adventure-packed odyssey.
Walk on the Wild Side
After Macau, you are off to Hong Kong – the New York of the East! Don’t get confused by all the big lights and busy streets because Hong Kong is also home to some of the world’s best parks and beaches. Here you will spend one more day hiking and rock climbing on the peaks that tower above the city’s skyline. There is no other trip that will take you into the Southern Clouds and above city skylines into the world’s hidden mountains and gorges. So grab your packs, adrenaline and thirst for life – welcome to life in the clouds!
This trip easily connects with all of our other Asian programs.
For more information please e-mail china@rusticpathways.com.































