Info

Get involved with a unique conservation project and help save one of the world’s most endangered and fascinating creatures; the Giant Panda. You’ll play a key role in preventing the extinction of this amazing animal.

Days 1 -3

After settling in to Xi’an and taking in the best of the local sights, sounds and dumplings, you’ll head to your project. Based over an hour from the city, you’ll get to see China’s stunning landscapes on your way to meet the pandas and the other residents of the centre; the Lesser Panda (Red Panda), the Golden Monkey, the Sika, the Takin and Crested Ibis.

Days 4 – 7

Time to get stuck in! Your days at the project will generally begin around 8.30am and end around 5pm, working in close proximity to the pandas you will lend a hand with a range of tasks from feeding and enclosure maintenance to assisting with observation and research.

Day 8 and 9

Your weekends will be free to chill out and explore! The incredible lakes and mountains near to the project are certainly worth a look or you can head back to Xi’an for a taste of city life and urban China.

Day 10 and beyond...

You can choose to stay at the project for up to 4 weeks, so if you fall in love with the pandas you’ll be able to spend a lot more time learning about what makes them tick and helping to make sure the species survives!


What's included?

* Airport pick-up
* In-country orientation
* Transfer to programme after orientation
* All accommodation
* All meals during placement

What's not included?

* Flights
* Visas
* Travel Insurance
* Return airport transfer at the end of placement

Duration

2 - 4 weeks

Start Dates

Real Gap Experience offer gap years, career breaks and adventure travel from 2 weeks to 2 years with weekly/monthly departures for most trips that aren’t dependant on seasons or weather to operate. Set departure dates means you’re always together with other young like-minded travellers and making new friends is guaranteed.

Costs / Benefits

For all Volunteer, Adventure Travel, Sports and Learning New Skills trips, no salary is paid and participants will need to pay a fee that covers food, accommodation, transfers and 24/7 back-up and support. For our Paid Work Abroad options a salary is paid and varies depending on the trip and location.

Requirements

There are no specific qualifications or requirements needed to take part on this trip. We do however require that all travellers have a sense responsibility for other travellers, project staff and local community and most importantly... a sense of fun and adventure!