Pandas and Pagodas - The Great China Adventure: June 22-July 3, 2026

Join Girl Scouts from across the country as we travel to Beijing to see the most iconic sights of China. Walk on the Great Wall of China, visit the Forbidden City, then visit the world famous Bifengxia Panda Base! You will visit tourist sights, experience cultural events and volunteer with some of the cutest creatures on Earth.

About the Trip

Travelers will land in San Francisco on Day 1 and choose their own adventure in “The City.” The group will come together that first evening and get to know each other a bit better before we leave for China on Day 2. Once we arrive in Beijing, we will start to explore the city, culture and history of the country. No trip to Beijing could be complete without amazing food, a visit to the forbidden City, an acrobatics show and of course a walk on the Great Wall!

Next we’ll fly to Chengdu and explore the sights and culture of the area including a trip up the mountain in a cable car for stunning views of the town below. On Day 8 we will travel to Ya’an and the world famous Bifengxia Panda Base. We will spend 2 days there, exploring the forests and volunteering at the base. Our last light in China will be a hot pot feast with time to reflect on the adventure and thank our wonderful tour guide before we head back to California.

When we return to California we will have time to fit in one more adventure of the groups’ choosing before we have our closing ceremony and heading home.

These twelve days will change your life forever. 

Who Should Apply?

• Age: Girl Scouts entering grades 9-12 in fall 2026.
• Interests: Travel, trying new things, passion for animals, service and culture.
• Requirements: Able to walk several miles per day in hot temperatures; function in crowded spaces, be supportive of fellow travelers and comfortable working in teams. Open to exploring new cultures and environments.
• Required equipment: Passport valid until Dec 24, 2026 A detailed packing list will be provided after acceptance.
• Ignite Your Passion! This trip is great for Girl Scouts who love animals, foreign cultures and new experiences.

The Cost

Program Fee: $5,750 ($5,250 due to WorldStrides and $500 to Girl Scouts NorCal)

The program fee includes round-trip airfare from San Francisco to China, program in China, activities and tips, plus lodging, transportation, and activities in San Francisco before and after the international flights.

Girls will need to arrange and pay for transportation to San Francisco, CA. The fee does not include travel insurance offered by WorldStrides but purchasing is strongly recommended.

Deposit due upon acceptance: $500. (This deposit is included in your trip Program Fee, not in addition to it.)

Final payment is due April 2026. Cancellations will follow Explorica's policies.

Financial aid may be available. Check with your local council. Explorica/ WorldStides also offers need-based financial aid; see website for details.

Host and Contact Info

Girl Scouts of Northern California | https://www.gsnorcal.org/

Meridith Forristal, norcalgstravel@gmail.com, 510-600-3947