7-Day Snow Leopard Safari in Qinghai with Sanjiangyuan Tracking

7 Days Round trip from Yushu All-Season Hotel (Jiegu Avenue Branch) Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Track elusive snow leopards in the remote mountain valleys of Sanjiangyuan
02 Explore the Hashiu and Juela wildlife observation areas with experienced local trackers
03 Look for Eurasian lynx, Tibetan foxes, blue sheep and white-lipped deer on the Tibetan Plateau
04 Observe black-necked cranes and other high-altitude birdlife at Longbao Wetland
05 Experience breathtaking alpine landscapes, pristine grasslands and remote wilderness camps
06 Follow a flexible wildlife safari approach shaped by recent animal activity and field conditions

Explore the extraordinary wilderness of Sanjiangyuan in Qinghai on a 7-day wildlife expedition focused on tracking snow leopards in the remote habitats of the Tibetan Plateau. With experienced local wildlife trackers, you will search promising observation areas around Hashiu and Juela while also looking for Eurasian lynx, Tibetan foxes, blue sheep, wolves, musk deer, white-lipped deer and remarkable birdlife. The journey also includes Longbao Wetland, an important habitat for the endangered black-necked crane, along with breathtaking alpine grasslands, dramatic valleys and remote wilderness camps. Designed for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers and photographers, this small-group expedition follows a flexible tracking approach based on recent animal activity, weather and local conditions.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

City Yushu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Yushu and Tibetan Plateau Acclimatization

Morning / Afternoon - Arrival in Yushu

Arrive at Yushu Batang Airport in Qinghai Province and make your own way to the hotel in Yushu City.

Located on the Tibetan Plateau, Yushu is surrounded by beautiful alpine grasslands and mountains. After checking in, enjoy some free time to rest and gradually acclimatize to the high altitude.

Evening - Welcome Dinner & Expedition Briefing

Meet the expedition team for a welcome dinner and an introduction to the upcoming wildlife adventure.

Learn about the planned observation areas, local wildlife, safety considerations, and the flexible tracking approach used throughout the journey.

Accommodation: Yushu All-Season Hotel (Jiegu Avenue Branch) (or an equivalent property)

Meals: Welcome dinner included; breakfast and lunch at your own expense

Transportation: Airport to hotel transfer is self-arranged

Topographic Description: Alpine Grassland

Day 02

Longbao Wetland and First Safari in Hashiu

Morning - Longbao Wetland & Journey to Hashiu

After breakfast, depart Yushu by off-road vehicle and travel toward the remote Hashiu wildlife observation area, passing through Longbao Wetland.

Known for its rich biodiversity, Longbao Wetland is an important habitat for the endangered black-necked crane. Keep an eye out for these remarkable birds and other wildlife along the way.

Continue through spectacular high-altitude valleys, alpine meadows, and mountain landscapes.

Afternoon - First Wildlife Observation Session

Arrive in the Hashiu area and begin your first wildlife observation session with the expedition team.

Search the surrounding mountain slopes and valleys for snow leopards, blue sheep, Tibetan foxes, wolves, and other high-altitude species.

Our local wildlife trackers monitor recent animal activity and communicate with the expedition leader, allowing observation locations to be adjusted when necessary.

Wildlife observation follows the natural rhythms of the animals, with activities generally concentrated around early morning and late afternoon.

Evening - Return to Camp

Return to camp after the observation session and enjoy dinner surrounded by the remote wilderness of the Tibetan Plateau.

Accommodation: Cloud Tower Camp (or equivalent)

Meals: Breakfast (hotel); lunch (local light meal); dinner (campsite meal)

Transportation: Off-road vehicles (3.5-4 hours)

Wildlife Highlights: Wolves, Tibetan foxes, Rock sheep, Snow leopards, Black-necked Crane, Plateau Partridge

Topographic Description: Plateau valley

Day 03

Hashiu Snow Leopard Tracking and Mountain Wildlife Viewing

Early Morning - Snow Leopard Tracking

Begin the day early and head into the mountain valleys around Hashiu for a dedicated wildlife observation session.

The area features rugged high-altitude valleys and shrubland habitats where snow leopards and other fascinating mammals may be encountered.

With assistance from experienced local trackers, carefully scan the mountain slopes for snow leopards, blue sheep, musk deer, and white-lipped deer.

Bird enthusiasts may also look for golden eagles, bearded vultures, and other Himalayan bird species.

Midday - Lunch & Rest at Camp

Return to camp for lunch and a short rest.

Wildlife may occasionally be observed near the camp area, depending on animal movements and local conditions.

Afternoon - Continued Wildlife Observation

Head out again for another wildlife observation session.

The expedition team will select observation locations based on recent tracking information and wildlife activity.

Enjoy opportunities to observe and photograph animals in their natural habitat while appreciating the extraordinary mountain scenery.

Evening - Return to Camp

Return to camp for dinner and overnight rest.

Accommodation: Cloud Tower Camp (or equivalent)

Meals: Breakfast (campsite meal); Lunch (campsite meal); Dinner (campsite meal)

Transportation: Off-road vehicle (2.5-3 hours)

Wildlife Highlights: Argali, Snow leopard, Musk deer, White-lipped deer, White-spotted chicken

Topographic Description: Plateau and mountainous terrain

Day 04

Full-Day Snow Leopard Safari in Hashiu

Early Morning - Exploring Snow Leopard Habitat

Set out early for another exciting day of wildlife observation in the Hashiu area.

Spend the morning exploring high-altitude valleys, mountain slopes, and shrubland habitats in search of snow leopards and other elusive wildlife.

Our experienced local trackers continue monitoring animal movements and sharing information with the expedition leader.

Observation locations may change depending on recent wildlife activity, weather, and local conditions.

Midday - Lunch & Rest

Return to camp for lunch and a short break.

Take time to enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings and prepare for the afternoon observation session.

Afternoon - Wildlife Photography & Observation

Continue searching for snow leopards, blue sheep, musk deer, and white-lipped deer.

The surrounding landscapes also provide opportunities to observe high-altitude birds, including golden eagles and Himalayan vultures.

This flexible observation schedule allows the group to spend more time in promising wildlife areas rather than following a fixed sightseeing route.

Evening - Camp Dinner

Return to camp after the day's wildlife observation activities.

Enjoy dinner and rest before continuing the expedition toward Juela the following day.

Accommodation: Cloud Tower Camp (or equivalent)

Meals: Breakfast (campsite meal); Lunch (campsite meal); Dinner (campsite meal)

Transportation: Off-road vehicle (2.5-3 hours)

Wildlife Highlights: Rocky goat, Snow leopard, Musk deer, White-lipped deer

Topographic Description: Plateau valley

Day 05

Journey to Juela and Eurasian Lynx Search

Morning - Journey Through Xialaxiu to Juela

After breakfast, leave Hashiu and travel by off-road vehicle toward Juela, passing through the Xialaxiu wildlife observation area.

The journey takes you through diverse high-altitude landscapes, including mountain valleys, shrublands, and forest habitats.

Keep watch for wildlife along the route, including Tibetan foxes, blue sheep, wolves, and various high-altitude birds.

Afternoon - Eurasian Lynx Tracking

Arrive in the Juela area and begin exploring habitats known for Eurasian lynx activity.

With the assistance of local wildlife trackers, search for signs of lynx and other animals in the surrounding valleys and mountain habitats.

Other possible wildlife encounters include Tibetan foxes, plateau hares, musk deer, white-lipped deer, and blue sheep.

The observation schedule will be adjusted according to current wildlife information and local conditions.

Evening - Overnight in Juela

Return to the local guesthouse after the wildlife observation session.

Enjoy dinner and prepare for the following morning's wildlife exploration.

Accommodation: Juelar Guest House (or equivalent)

Meals: Breakfast (campsite meal); Lunch (local light meal); Dinner (campsite meal)

Transportation: Off-road vehicle (5-6 hours)

Wildlife Highlights: Rocky goat, Plateau rabbit, Lynx, Musk deer, White-lipped deer

Day 06

Final Juela Safari and Return to Yushu

Morning - Final Wildlife Observation in Juela

Begin the morning with a final wildlife observation session in the remote habitats surrounding Juela.

Using information shared by local trackers and herders, search for Eurasian lynx, snow leopards, and other rare high-altitude mammals.

The Juela area offers opportunities to look for Tibetan foxes, blue sheep, and white-lipped deer.

Enjoy the last opportunity to observe wildlife in the natural landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau.

Afternoon - Scenic Drive Back to Yushu

After the morning observation session, begin the return journey to Yushu City.

Travel through spectacular alpine valleys and high-altitude landscapes, keeping an eye out for wildlife along the way.

Arrive in Yushu and check in to the hotel.

Evening - Farewell Dinner

Gather with the expedition team for a farewell dinner.

Share memorable wildlife encounters, photographs, and experiences from the past several days.

Accommodation: Yushu All-Season Hotel (Jiegu Avenue Branch) (or an equivalent property)

Meals: Breakfast (campsite meal); Lunch (local light meal); Dinner (farewell banquet)

Transportation: Off-road vehicle (4-5 hours)

Wildlife Highlights: Tibetan fox, Rock goat, Lynx, White-lipped deer

Topographic Description: Plateau Gobi

Day 07

Departure from Yushu

Morning - Breakfast & Departure

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out.

Your 7-day Sanjiangyuan wildlife expedition comes to an end today.

Make your own way to Yushu Batang Airport for your onward flight, or continue exploring Qinghai and other destinations in China independently.

Take home unforgettable memories of the Tibetan Plateau's extraordinary landscapes, rare wildlife, and remote wilderness.

Accommodation: Not included

Meals: Breakfast (hotel); Lunch (self-catered); Dinner (self-catered)

Transportation: Airport transfer is self-arranged

Topographic Description: Alpine Grassland

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Yushu All-Season Hotel (Jiegu Avenue Branch) 1 city · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation: 6 nights of accommodation, including 2 nights at Ji Hotel Yushu (or similar), 3 nights at Yunta Wildlife Camp (or similar), and 1 night at Juela Guesthouse (or similar).
Meals: 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 6 dinners, including a welcome dinner on Day 1 and a farewell dinner on Day 6.
Private Transportation: Two off-road vehicles for a standard group of 4 travelers, covering scheduled transfers and wildlife observation activities from Day 2 to Day 6.
Professional Wildlife Tracking Services: Assistance from experienced local wildlife trackers in the Hashiu and Juela observation areas.
Wildlife Safari Activities: Scheduled wildlife observation sessions in the Hashiu, Xialaxiu, and Juela areas, focusing on snow leopards, Eurasian lynx, and other native wildlife.
Local Wildlife Observation Network: Access to local tracking information, allowing the expedition team to adjust observation locations according to recent wildlife activity and field conditions.
Longbao Wetland Visit: A scheduled visit to the Longbao Wetland area to observe black-necked cranes and other high-altitude wildlife.
Expedition Briefing: A pre-expedition briefing covering the itinerary, wildlife observation arrangements, and high-altitude travel considerations.

What's Not Included

International and Domestic Flights: Airfare to and from Yushu, Qinghai, China.
Airport Transfers: Transfers between Yushu Batang Airport and the hotel on Day 1 and Day 7.
Visa and Travel Documents: Chinese visa application fees and any personal travel document expenses.
Meals Not Specified: Breakfast and lunch on Day 1, and lunch and dinner on Day 7.
Personal Expenses: Laundry, shopping, telephone charges, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and other personal purchases.
Single Room Supplement: Additional charges for single occupancy, subject to availability and accommodation arrangements.
Optional Activities: Activities, excursions, or services not specifically mentioned in the confirmed itinerary.
Additional Costs for Smaller Groups: Private customized tours for 1-3 travelers are available at an additional charge, quoted separately.
Additional Expenses Due to Unforeseen Circumstances: Extra expenses arising from flight delays, cancellations, severe weather, road closures, or other circumstances beyond the tour operator's control, subject to the booking terms.

What to bring

Warm Clothing: Down jacket, fleece layers, thermal underwear, and a windproof/waterproof outer jacket.
Comfortable Outdoor Pants: Warm, wind-resistant hiking pants and thermal base layers.
Hiking Shoes: Comfortable mid- or high-cut hiking boots with good grip.
Hat and Gloves: A warm hat and lightweight fleece gloves for cold mornings and evenings.
Binoculars: Highly recommended for observing distant wildlife.
Camera Equipment: Camera, telephoto lens, spare batteries, and sufficient memory cards for wildlife photography.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and SPF lip balm to protect against strong high-altitude sunlight.
Reusable Water Bottle: An insulated water bottle or thermos.
Personal Medication: Any prescription medication and personal medical supplies you may need.
Personal Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other essential toiletries, especially for remote camp stays.
Travel Documents: Valid passport, Chinese visa if required, and any necessary travel permits.

Know before you go

High Altitude: This expedition takes place on the Tibetan Plateau, with overnight locations approximately 3,800-4,200 meters above sea level. Travelers should be physically suitable for high-altitude travel and aware of the risks of altitude sickness.
Physical Requirements: The walking difficulty is relatively low, but the journey involves high-altitude conditions, uneven terrain, long drives, and extended periods of wildlife observation.
Minimum Age: Participants must be at least 10 years old.
Group Size: The standard tour requires a minimum of 4 travelers and includes 2 off-road vehicles. Private arrangements for 1-3 travelers are available at an additional cost.
Wildlife Sightings: Snow leopards, Eurasian lynx, and other wild animals live freely in their natural habitats. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Flexible Itinerary: Daily observation locations and schedules may change according to wildlife movements, weather, road conditions, and local regulations.
Accommodation: The tour includes a combination of city hotels, remote wildlife camps, and basic local guesthouses. Some accommodation may have shared bathrooms and limited facilities.
Weather Conditions: Mountain weather can change quickly. Temperatures may be cold, particularly during early-morning and evening wildlife observation sessions.
Airport Transfers: Transfers between Yushu Batang Airport and the hotel are not included. Travelers should arrange their own transportation on arrival and departure.
Foreign Travelers: Access to certain remote wildlife observation areas may be subject to local restrictions and permit requirements. All necessary access arrangements must be confirmed before departure.
Responsible Wildlife Watching: Travelers must follow the expedition team's instructions, maintain a respectful distance from wildlife, and avoid disturbing animals or their habitats.