Everything travellers ask us before booking. If your question is not here, the AI assistant at the bottom right will answer instantly — or message us on WhatsApp.
Booking & payment
How do I book a fixed departure?
Choose the tour, pick your date and number of travellers, and check out on the page. You pay a 30% deposit by card (Stripe) or PayPal; the balance is due 15 days before arrival.
Can I pay in my own currency?
Prices are in US dollars. Your card issuer converts at their rate; Stripe and PayPal both handle this automatically.
Is my money protected?
Payments are processed by Stripe and PayPal — we never see your card details. Deposits are held against your booking and refundable under the cancellation policy.
Cancellation
What if I need to cancel?
Free cancellation up to 30 days before departure, full deposit refund minus payment fees. 29–15 days: 50% of the deposit. Under 15 days: deposit is non-refundable. We always try to move your dates instead of cancelling.
What if you cancel?
Rare, but if we cannot operate a departure (road closure, permit refusal) you get a full refund or a free date change, your choice.
On the road
How big are the groups?
Private tours are your group only. The 4WD expeditions run with a maximum of six travellers per convoy.
What vehicles do you use?
Air-conditioned MPV or SUV for 2–4 travellers; 7–15 seat vans for larger groups; Land Cruiser or Prado for overland expeditions.
Are the guides English-speaking?
Yes — all guides are licensed, English-speaking, and locally born. We also work with French, German and Spanish guides on request.
Is altitude a problem?
The plateau sits at 3,000–3,800 m. We build in acclimatisation, keep the first nights lower, and carry oxygen. Travellers with heart conditions should check with a doctor first.
Practical
Do I need a visa?
Most Western passport holders need a Chinese tourist visa before travelling. We provide hotel confirmations and a day-by-day itinerary to support your application, and can issue an invitation letter.
When is the best time to visit?
May–June and September–October for Gansu and Qinghai. July–August are greenest but busiest. Hainan is best November–April.
What should I pack?
Layers. Even in July, nights on the plateau drop to 5°C. Sun hat, sunscreen, lip balm, a warm mid-layer, comfortable walking shoes, and a refillable water bottle.
Is food included?
Breakfast is included at all hotels. Lunches and dinners are not, so you can choose — your guide will take you to places they actually eat at. Budget $15–30 per person per day.