Qinghai Wetlands and Birdlife
Explore plateau lakes and wetlands at a considered pace, allowing time for altitude adjustment and patient observation. Sightings of particular species are never promised.
- Length
- 5 days / 4 nights
- Best months
- May–Sep
- Price
- From $2,280 · Indicative starting price assumes two travellers, standard accommodation and the proposed route. Dates, party size, lodging and transport are confirmed in a written quotation.
- Group size
- Up to 6
- Highest altitude
- 4200 m
- Difficulty
- Moderate walking
Highlights
- Unhurried photography in morning and evening light
- Routes selected for the season and permitted access
- Respect for wildlife and local communities
Route
Xining → Qinghai Lake surroundings → Gangcha area → Qinghai Lake surroundings → Xining
Itinerary
Day 1 Meet and Rest in Xining
Arrive in Xining with time to rest and discuss equipment and transfers, without an intensive photography schedule.
Day 2 Morning Light at the Lake
Travel along confirmed routes to the Qinghai Lake surroundings and photograph light and distant birds from permitted lakeshore locations.
Day 3 Wetland Observation
Observe wetlands in the Gangcha area according to access conditions, keeping away from nests and avoiding surrounding birds.
Day 4 Plateau Meadows
Revisit the transition between lake and meadow in morning and evening light. Rest at midday and shorten outdoor activities when conditions are unsuitable.
Day 5 Image Review and Return
Review images and return to Xining, following the finish time and onward transfer arrangements agreed in advance.
What is included
Included
- The quotation itemises agreed local transport, guiding, accommodation and meals.
Not included
- Travel to and from the departure city, personal purchases and items outside the quotation.
Species you may meet
- Blue Eared PheasantCrossoptilon auritum
- Black-necked CraneGrus nigricollis