VIVID CHINA · QUESTIONS

Good to know.

The things travellers ask us most — pace, altitude, permits, seasons and payments. Anything else, just ask.

Are your journeys suitable for older or relaxed travellers?

Yes — our routes are designed for a gentle pace. On the G318 Overland you sleep low at first, cross the highest pass mid-trip and rest three nights in Lhasa; in Shanghai and Zhangjiajie, cable cars and easy trails keep every day comfortable. Walking is optional almost everywhere, and we shorten any day that feels long — your comfort sets the pace.

How do payments work?

After you approve a written quotation, we confirm your booking with a deposit; the balance is due before departure by a date stated in your booking contract. Payment methods and currency are set out in your quotation. Every price we send is written out line by line — no surprises after you arrive.

What about the altitude on the G318 Overland?

Lhasa, the highest night, sits at 3,650 m, where the air holds about 70% of the oxygen you are used to — mild breathlessness is normal and passes. The route sleeps low at first, the highest point of the road (Dongda Pass, 5,130 m) is a short photo stop, and oxygen is on board. If you have heart or lung conditions, please check with your doctor before booking.

Do I need permits for Tibet, and who arranges them?

Yes — foreign travellers need a Tibet Travel Permit and supporting documents, issued through a licensed agency. We handle all the paperwork as part of the journey. Permits need at least 20 days, so it is best to enquire a month or more ahead of your preferred dates.

When is the best time to travel?

The G318 Overland runs April to October — spring and autumn give the clearest mountain views. Shanghai and Zhangjiajie travel well in spring and autumn too; our March 2027 departure is timed for clear, comfortable days. We do not run the high plateau route in winter.

How much walking is there each day?

Very little is compulsory. Notable walks are gentle and mostly flat, can be shortened or skipped, and your guide walks at your pace. Viewpoints, lakes and monasteries are generally reached within a few minutes' walk of the vehicle, and cable cars replace the steep climbs.

What is included, and what is not?

Included: hotels as listed, main meals as per plan, your private vehicle and crew, guide, first-entry tickets, and permits where needed. Not included: long-distance flights or trains to the start and from the end of the journey, scenic-area shuttle buses, tips, single-room supplement, personal expenses, and international travel insurance — which is required for all travellers.

Can a journey be tailored, or combined?

Yes — every day, every stay and every date can be tailored. Many travellers add days in Chengdu, Xi'an or Beijing before or after a journey. Tell us what you would change and we will re-plan around it, with a written quotation within two working days.

What if the weather turns?

Mountain weather always gets a vote. The order of sights may adjust for conditions, road works or permit time slots — safety always outranks the schedule, and the content of your journey is protected wherever possible. Genuine closures are re-routed or refunded per your booking contract.

Still curious?

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