If you’re dreaming of holding a baby panda, there are a few places in China where this is possible, though it’s typically part of exclusive programs designed to allow tourists to interact with pandas in a controlled, ethical environment. Here are the top locations where you can hold a baby panda:
1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Chengdu, Sichuan)
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is by far the most popular destination for panda lovers. While you can’t cuddle an adult panda, they do offer an opportunity to hold a baby panda for photos.
- Program: The “Panda Encounter” experience allows visitors to hold a baby panda for a brief period while a professional photographer captures the moment.
- Cost: This experience typically costs between $150 to $300 USD depending on the time of year.
- Booking: It’s recommended to book in advance as these sessions can be limited and in high demand.
2. Dujiangyan Panda Base (Dujiangyan, Sichuan)
Another great place to hold a baby panda is the Dujiangyan Panda Base, which is also located near Chengdu. This center focuses on panda conservation, and visitors can engage in activities like feeding pandas and cleaning enclosures. They also offer opportunities to hold baby pandas.
- Program: Similar to Chengdu, you can take part in a panda encounter program where you’ll hold a baby panda for a short time.
- Cost: $200–$350 USD, and it’s advisable to book early due to limited spots.
3. Bifengxia Panda Base (Ya’an, Sichuan)
The Bifengxia Panda Base is part of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuary, and they offer a range of programs for tourists who want to get closer to pandas. You can hold a baby panda as part of a panda volunteer program or paid photo session.
- Program: You can hold a baby panda for a photo opportunity, and in some cases, participate in volunteer activities like cleaning panda enclosures.
- Cost: The program fees range from $150 to $400 USD, depending on the type of interaction and duration.
4. Wolong Panda Reserve (Wolong, Sichuan)
The Wolong Panda Reserve is one of the oldest panda reserves in China, and while direct interaction with adult pandas is limited, you can hold baby pandas as part of their volunteer programs or paid experiences.
- Program: You may participate in volunteer work, feeding and cleaning pandas, and in some cases, holding a baby panda for short periods.
- Cost: Similar to other centers, expect to pay anywhere from $200–$500 USD for a week-long experience that includes holding a baby panda.
5. Qinling Panda Center (Shaanxi Province)
The Qinling Panda Center in Shaanxi Province is focused on the Qinling panda subspecies, and it’s one of the places you can visit to see pandas in a natural setting. Some programs allow for photo opportunities with pandas, including baby pandas.
- Program: Visitors can take part in volunteer work and get a chance to hold a baby panda.
- Cost: Volunteer programs start around $150 USD and can go up to $400 USD for more exclusive experiences.
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