Wolong Panda Base Volunteering Program From Chengdu

The Wolong Panda Base Volunteering Program offers a chance to get up close and personal with one of the world’s most beloved endangered species. Situated in the stunning Wolong National Nature Reserve, this immersive experience allows participants to work alongside professional panda keepers, caring for the animals’ daily needs. With hands-on activities, educational tours, and exclusive panda encounters, the program promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re a budding conservationist or simply seeking a unique way to support wildlife preservation, the Wolong Panda Base has something special in store.

Key Points

• The Wolong Panda Base Volunteering Program offers hands-on care and conservation for giant pandas in the Wolong National Nature Reserve near Chengdu, China.
• Participants work alongside professional panda keepers, engaging in activities like cleaning enclosures and preparing food, and receive a special certificate upon completion.
• The program includes a guided tour of the panda base, a panda documentary, and a complimentary lunch, with a total duration of 9 hours.
• Participants can optionally pay an additional fee to have a photo session with the pandas, which serves as a memento of the experience.
• The program is open to ages 12-65, with free participation for children 0-12 and seniors 66-80, and includes travel insurance and private hotel transfers.

Overview of the Volunteering Program

The Wolong Panda Base Volunteering Program offers a unique opportunity for visitors to engage in hands-on care and conservation efforts for giant pandas.

Located in the Wolong National Nature Reserve near Chengdu, China, the program provides a private tour experience where participants can work alongside professional panda keepers.

Volunteers will have the chance to clean panda enclosures, prepare their food, and learn about the specific needs of these endangered animals.

The program culminates in the issuance of a special certificate, commemorating the participant’s involvement in this meaningful conservation initiative.

Itinerary and Daily Activities

The Wolong Panda Base Volunteering Program offers a jam-packed itinerary filled with hands-on experiences.

After an early 6:30 am pickup from Chengdu, volunteers arrive at the panda base by 7 am. They then spend the morning cleaning panda enclosures and preparing food for the bears.

From 10 am to 11 am, volunteers enjoy a tour of the panda base. Following a midday lunch and rest, the group watches a 40-minute panda documentary.

Throughout the 9-hour experience, volunteers have the chance to learn about pandas’ unique dietary needs and provide care alongside professional keepers.

Inclusions and Age Restrictions

The Wolong Panda Base Volunteering Program includes various amenities to enhance the experience. The package includes travel insurance, private hotel transfers, and even a waived volunteering fee for children aged 0-12 and seniors aged 66-80.

Participants can also enjoy a complimentary lunch and gratuities during the program. However, there are some age restrictions to keep in mind. The program is open to individuals aged 12-65, and children under 12 can attend, but they must be accompanied by a supervising adult.

Plus, there’s an extra fee of RMB1800 for those who wish to take pictures with the pandas.

Photography and Panda Interaction

Participants have the option to take pictures with the pandas, but it comes with an additional fee of RMB1800. This fee allows for a special photo session with the pandas, providing a unique and memorable experience.

While the standard volunteering program doesn’t include this photo opportunity, it’s available for those interested in capturing their interactions with the pandas. It’s important to notify the organizers in advance if you wish to take advantage of this option, as it requires special arrangements.

The program’s focus remains on the hands-on panda care and educational activities, with the photo session as an optional add-on for those seeking an extra special memento.

Pricing and Booking Details

The program’s pricing starts at $358.98 per person, though the exact cost may vary depending on the size of the group.

Booking requires a non-refundable confirmation at the time of reservation, including passport details for travel insurance and dietary requirements.

Children under 12 and seniors aged 66-80 can attend for the volunteering fee, while the age restriction for participants is 12-65 years old.

An additional fee of RMB1800 is charged for those who wish to take photos with the pandas.

The program has a no-refund policy, so cancellations aren’t eligible for a refund.

Feedback and Reviews

Reviewers have overwhelmingly praised the Wolong Panda Base Volunteering Program, with an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 3 reviews.

Participants emphasized the program’s well-organized activities, which provided them with memorable experiences, including close interactions with the pandas.

One reviewer noted the structured nature of the program, highlighting its ability to deliver a fulfilling volunteering experience.

The reviewers’ feedback underscores the program’s effectiveness in offering participants a unique opportunity to care for and learn about the iconic giant pandas while exploring the Wolong National Nature Reserve.

Getting to the Wolong Panda Base

To reach the Wolong Panda Base, you will be picked up from their hotel within the 3rd ring of Chengdu at 6:30 AM. The scenic 1-hour drive through the mountainous terrain offers a glimpse of the stunning Sichuan countryside. Upon arrival, you will check-in at the panda base before beginning their volunteer duties.

Activities	Duration	Schedule
Arrive at Wolong	7:00 AM	Check-in
Clean Panda Enclosures	8:30 – 10:00 AM	Prepare Food
Break & Tour	10:00 – 11:00 AM	Rest

The engaging program allows participants to enjoy the daily care and preservation of these beloved giant pandas.

What to Expect as a Volunteer

As a volunteer at the Wolong Panda Base, participants can expect to be hands-on with the daily care and feeding of the giant pandas.

The itinerary includes cleaning panda enclosures and preparing their specialized bamboo-based diet. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to watch a panda documentary and tour the facility.

The program is well-structured, allowing for both hands-on work and educational experiences. Between the activities, volunteers can enjoy a break and lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks to the Panda Base?

Participants can’t bring their own food and snacks to the panda base. Lunch is provided as part of the program, and visitors are not allowed to feed the pandas directly. Bringing outside food is not permitted.

Is It Possible to Extend My Volunteering Experience Beyond a Day?

It’s possible to extend the volunteering experience beyond a day, but it’s not directly offered through the standard day-long program. Participants would need to make separate arrangements directly with the Wolong Panda Base for an extended stay and additional activities.

How Is the Medical Support and Emergency Assistance During the Program?

The program provides on-site medical support and emergency assistance. Volunteers have access to first-aid kits, and the staff are trained to handle any medical emergencies that may arise during the activities.

Can I Interact With the Pandas Without Additional Fees?

Interacting directly with the pandas requires an additional fee of RMB1800. The standard program includes observing the pandas and learning about their care, but does not offer the opportunity for hands-on interaction without paying the supplementary charge.

Is There Any Special Attire or Equipment Required for the Volunteering Activities?

The program requires volunteers to wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and comfortable clothing. Gloves, face masks, and other necessary equipment are provided by the panda base to ensure the safety and comfort of participants during the volunteering activities.

Recap

The Wolong Panda Base Volunteering Program offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for panda enthusiasts to contribute to the conservation efforts of these iconic creatures. Participants can enjoy the daily care and feeding of the pandas, while also enjoying an educational and memorable experience at the scenic Wolong National Nature Reserve. With age restrictions, photo opportunities, and positive feedback from past volunteers, this program is a must-visit for anyone passionate about protecting the world’s giant pandas.