During this tour in Yunnan, you will be exposed to one of the best cuisines of South East Asia! Eating is one of the main social activities in China and the variety of way of preparation and consumption play an important role in everyday life.
With its lowest and highest point of 70 to 7000 meters, the land is amazing and offers us an assortment of color worn by ethnic tribes.
Yunnan food is full of fresh and wild foods. During this trip, we will take you to amazing kitchens for a true “field” experience.
Daily program: Culinary Adventure in West Yunnan
Day 1: Arrival in Mangshi
(D) 15 minutes transfer, elevation: 895m
Arrival in Mangshi on the flight booked by you (please specify the reference). Reception by your English-speaking guide who will lead you to your private car and driver for the transfer to your hotel. Along the way, you can enjoy the lush tropical scenery of Mangshi, the capital of Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, renowned for its rich ethnic culture and stunning natural landscapes. Your journey officially begins here. After a brief rest at the hotel, you will have the opportunity to savor the local specialty—Dai Ethnic Hand-Grasped Rice. This traditional dish reflects the deep connection of the Dai people with the land, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a pure and natural taste. Before you embark on your exciting journey, this authentic dinner will introduce you to the local culture, serving as the perfect starting point to immerse yourself in the unique charm of the Dai people.
Overnight at Mangshi Feihua Hotel.
Day 2: One village, two countries
(B, L, D) 120km, 2 hours’ drive. Elevation: 895m.
Morning: Depart from your hotel for a 1.5-hour drive to the “One Village, Two Countries” scenic spot. Explore the border village, experiencing the unique blend of Chinese and Myanmar cultures. Afterward, visit the Jie Gao Border Gate, a significant crossing point between the two countries, and learn about its cultural and historical importance.
Afternoon: Stroll along China-Myanmar Street, where you can browse local handicrafts, taste street food, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this border market.
Finish the day with a relaxing Burmese afternoon tea, enjoying traditional Myanmar snacks and tea.
Overnight at Mangshi Feihua Hotel.
Day 3: Heshun Ancient Town – Tengchong “Da Jiujia” cooking experience – Beihai Wetland
(B,L,D) 150km, 3h drive. Elevation: 1490m.
Morning: Explore the charming Heshun Ancient Town, known for its well-preserved architecture and rich historical significance. Stroll through its narrow streets and experience the cultural heritage of Tengchong.
Midday: Enjoy a hands-on “Da Jiujia” cooking experience in Heshun. Learn about the region’s culinary traditions while preparing authentic dishes, followed by a historical and cultural introduction to the local customs and lifestyle.
Afternoon: Visit the scenic Beihai Wetlands. Take in the tranquil beauty of this natural reserve, known for its unique ecosystem, floating meadows, and rich biodiversity. Explore the wetlands by boat or on foot to fully appreciate the serene environment.
Overnight at Tengchong Shichu cultural Aesthetic Hot Spring Inn
Day 4: Stay at Wang Nan Xiaoyuan.
(B,L,D) 30 minutes transfer. Elevation: 1490m
“Xiaoyuan” refers to a traditional courtyard-style residence, typically characterized by an enclosed layout with a private yard that often features plants, trees, or small water elements, creating a peaceful and cozy atmosphere. Staying in a “Xiaoyuan” offers guests a secluded, private space while allowing them to be close to nature. It is an ideal choice for experiencing local life and culture. The design combines traditional elements with modern comforts, offering guests a unique accommodation experience.
Spending a full day in the courtyard will be a wonderfully relaxing and healthy experience.
In the morning, you can choose to visit a local farmers’ market with the guidance of the staff, where you’ll pick the freshest seasonal vegetables and ingredients. The market offers a variety of locally grown organic produce and handmade spices, all carefully selected to ensure they are natural and free from pollutants.
If you prefer a more immersive experience with nature, the staff can also take you to an organic farm, where you can handpick fresh vegetables and fruits, experiencing the healthy and green way of life firsthand.
After returning to the courtyard, you can relax and unwind in the peaceful surroundings, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the tranquility of the countryside. The courtyard’s design allows you to fully embrace the sunlight and the beauty of nature. Whether you’re sitting in the garden savoring the organic ingredients you selected or harvested yourself, both your body and mind will feel nourished. You can prepare a healthy, delicious lunch with family or friends, or take a restful nap under the warm sunlight. Every corner of the courtyard exudes calmness and comfort, allowing you to feel completely at ease and relaxed.
Throughout the day, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city, fully immersing yourself in this healthy, natural environment, recharging your body and mind, and enjoying a rare opportunity to slow down and savor life.
Overnight at Tengchong Shichu cultural Aesthetic Hot Spring Inn
Day 5: Hiking in Gaoligong Mountain – Experience at Biton Coffee estate
(B,L,D) 230km 4 hours drive Elevation: 4000m
Morning: Start your day at Tengchong Shichu·Cultural Aesthetic Hot Spring Inn. After a refreshing morning, head to Gaoligong Mountain for a light hiking adventure. Enjoy the stunning views and the diverse flora and fauna as you explore this scenic highland.
Afternoon: After your hike, visit the Biton Coffee Estate. Learn about the coffee-growing process, stroll through the lush coffee plantations, and enjoy a hands-on experience with coffee cultivation. Conclude your visit with a tasting session, savoring freshly brewed local coffee amidst the beautiful surroundings of the estate.
Overnight at Biton Coffee Industrial and Cultural Park Inn
Day 6: Baoshan – Dali – Erhai lake
(B,L,D) 100km 2.5h drive. Altitude: 1980m.
Morning: Depart from Baoshan Railway Station to the train C342 Dali (09.05 – 10.33), a scenic city known for its cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Upon Arrival in Dali: After arriving, get ready for an exciting cycling adventure along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, where you can enjoy the stunning views of Erhai Lake, the surrounding mountains, and the fresh, crisp air. The ecological corridor offers a peaceful and scenic route, perfect for taking in the natural beauty of Dali while cycling at a relaxed pace.
Overnight at Dali Golden Years Inn.
Day 7: Xizhou Bai culture experience – Tea harvesting at Mo Cui Tea
(B,L,D) 45km/1h drive. Altitude: 1980m.
Morning: Start with a hands-on Bai ethnic tie-dyeing experience, learning traditional techniques from local artisans. Create your own unique piece of dyed fabric using natural dyes, a craft passed down through generations.
Midday: Participate in a Xi Zhou Baba (traditional flatbread) making session, where you’ll learn how to make this popular local snack from scratch. Enjoy the process of kneading, shaping, and baking, followed by tasting your freshly made flatbread.
Afternoon: Head to Mo Cui Tea for a tea-making experience, where you’ll learn about the intricate process of tea cultivation, processing, and brewing. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you immerse yourself in the art of tea-making and sample different types of tea.
Overnight at Dali Golden Years Inn.
Day 8: Cangshan Mountain – Jizhao Nunnery – Three Pagodas
(B,L,D) 6km/ 20 minutes drive. Elevation: 1980-3920
Morning: Take the Gantong Cable Car up to Cangshan Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Dali and Erhai Lake. As you ascend, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountain, including lush forests and scenic trails.
Midday: Visit the peaceful Jizhao Nunnery, a serene Buddhist retreat nestled on Cangshan Mountain. Explore the tranquil surroundings and admire the beautiful architecture, while taking in the spiritual atmosphere. After exploring the serene grounds, enjoy a vegetarian lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients in a traditional Buddhist style, reflecting purity and simplicity. This meal offers a calming and reflective experience in the peaceful atmosphere of the nunnery.
Afternoon: Conclude your day with a visit to the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, a symbol of Dali’s rich cultural and religious history. These ancient pagodas, set against the backdrop of Cangshan Mountain, offer stunning views and an opportunity to explore the historic temple grounds.
Overnight at Dali Golden Years Inn.
Day 9: Departure from Dali
(B) ~ 1h transfer
Free start of the day without a guide or driver, your driver will arrive at your hotel to pick you three hours before your flight departure and assist you with your luggage.
End of our services, we wish you a pleasant return home, beautiful memories in mind!














