Canonical URL: https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/tibet/tibetan-wildlife/ # Tibetan Wildlife of the Qing-Zang Plateau [Photography Tour](https://natureslens.co.uk/join-a/wildlife-photography-tour/) 10th - 25th Nov 2027 - £9499 [Asia](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/) - Guided By [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) & [Pui Hang Miles](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) [![Tibetan Wildlife Photography Holiday with NaturesLens](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnails/large/tibetan-wildlife-photography-holiday-with-natureslens-23-1024x768.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/tibetan-wildlife-photography-holiday-with-natureslens-23.jpg) Limited Places Reserve with a deposit of £1900 No payment is taken at enquiry stage. We confirm availability first, then send booking forms and deposit payment details. Please read our [booking conditions](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/booking-condtions/) and [financial protection information](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/financial-protection/) before paying a deposit. ## Tibetan Wildlife of the Qing-Zang Plateau - 10th - 25th Nov 2027 - £9499 - Single occupancy [Make A Booking Enquiry](https://natureslens.co.uk/book/tibetan-wildlife) No payment is taken at enquiry stage. We confirm availability first, then send booking forms and deposit payment details. Please read our [booking conditions](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/booking-condtions/) and [financial protection information](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/financial-protection/) before paying a deposit. [Make A Booking Enquiry](https://natureslens.co.uk/book/tibetan-wildlife) Join [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) & [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) for a spellbinding adventure on our Tibetan Wildlife Photography Tour, an extraordinarily special experience tailor-made for enthusiastic wildlife photographers. Explore the stunning landscapes & diversity-rich Qing-Zang Plateau, capturing moments most beautifully through your lens. Experience the excitement of finding rare species, such as the Pallas Cat, Tibetan Wolf, regal Tibetan antelope, colourful [Himalayan blue sheep](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/himalayan-blue-sheep/), & possibly even the Snow Leopard in their natural habitat. Our experienced local guides, assisted by [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) & [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/), will lead you to the best locations for that ultimate photo & share knowledge about the wildlife & conservation of the region. Experience Tibet’s unique culture & traditions first-hand; get in touch with local communities. A journey of the wild to capture wildlife, this is a cultural immersion that will surely inspire & enlighten you. [![Tibetan Wildlife Photography Holiday With Natureslens 09](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-09.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-09.jpg) [![Tibetan Wildlife Photography Holiday With Natureslens 24](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-24.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-24.jpg) Join [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) & [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) on this unforgettable Tibetan Wildlife Photography Holiday & bring home a collection of awe-inspiring images that will be treasured forever. Seize the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Tibet through your lens! ## Where is the Qing-Zang Plateau? The Qing-Zang Plateau is a vast high-altitude region in Central Asia & it covers the [Qinghai province of China](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qinghai) & the [Tibet Autonomous Region](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tibet_Autonomous_Region). It is the highest & largest plateau in the world, with an average elevation of more than 4,500 meters above sea level. This vast plateau is acclaimed for its fragile & unique ecosystem, varied fauna, & notable freshwater resources. The [Qing-Zang Plateau](https://natureslens.co.uk/specific-location/qing-zang-plateau/) is a critical region in the regulation of the global climate & is sometimes called the “Third Pole” because it has huge ice fields & glaciers that give origin to a number of main rivers of Asia. ## What is the Qing-Zang Plateau particularly known for? The Qing-Zang Plateau, known also as the “Roof of the World,” is a vast elevated region of Central [Asia](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/) that covers areas of Tibet, Qinghai, & western Sichuan in China. Famous as the largest & highest plateau in the world, its average elevation exceeds 4,500 meters (14,800 feet) above sea level. This plateau is feted for its unique & fragile ecosystem, hosting a range of flora & fauna, including the [Tibetan antelope](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/tibetan-antelope/), the [Tibetan snowcock](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/tibetan-snowcock/), & the [Tibetan wolf](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/tibetan-wolf/). In addition, it serves as the source for many important rivers in Asia, including the Yangtze, the Yellow, the Mekong, & the Indus rivers, making it a vital place for global climate regulation & water supply. [![Tibetan Wildlife Photography Holiday With Natureslens 14](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-14.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-14.jpg) [![Tibetan Wildlife Photography Holiday With Natureslens 25](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/tibetan-wildlife-photography-holiday-with-natureslens-25.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/tibetan-wildlife-photography-holiday-with-natureslens-25.jpg) ## What animals live on the Qing-Zang Plateau? Tibetan wildlife is enriched by a wide array of mammal species, each having its importance in the fragile balance of nature within the region. One of the most well-known mammals of this wilderness is the legendary Tibetan antelope, more commonly known as the chiru, with its remarkable spiral horns & thick fur, which is just perfect for surviving the rough conditions at high altitudes. The elusive [snow leopard](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/snow-leopard/), known for its stately appearance & stealthy hunting skills, roams the snowy mountain peaks, preying on Himalayan [blue sheep](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/blue-sheep/) & other smaller mammals. The endangered [Tibetan wild yak](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/tibetan-wild-yak/) is a true symbol of strength & resilience, roaming the remote grasslands & plateaus of [Tibet](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/tibet/). This rich tapestry of Tibetan wildlife is complemented by other spectacular species, such as the Himalayan [brown bear](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/brown-bear/), [Tibetan gazelle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/tibetan-gazelle/), & [Himalayan marmot](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/himalayan-marmot/), making this land a haven for nature enthusiasts & conservationists. This trip is one of our [wildlife photography holidays in Tibet](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/tibet/) & part of our programme of [Asian wildlife photography holidays](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/). [![A Pallas Cat - One Of The Species Featured During Our Tibetan Wildlife of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnails/1536x1536/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-02-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-02.jpg) [![A Pallas Cat - One Of The Species Featured During Our Tibetan Wildlife of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnails/1536x1536/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-08-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-08.jpg) [![A Pallas Cat - One Of The Species Featured During Our Tibetan Wildlife of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnails/1536x1536/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-17-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-17.jpg) ## Tibetan Wildlife Photography Holiday Itinerary The following is the proposed itinerary for this photography holiday, it should be considered provisional & subject to change. - Day 1 - Assemble Xining Airport - transfer to a local hotel in Xining - overnight Xining - Day 2 - Day 3 - Acclimatisation to altitude in Xining - overnight Xining - Day 4 - transfer to Dulan Reserve - overnight Dulan Reserve - Day 5 - Day 10 - Photography within the Dulan Reserve - overnight Dulan Reserve - Day 11 - transfer to Yushu - Day 12 - transfer to Budongquan - Day 13 - Day 14 - Photography in Budongquan area - overnight Budongquan - Day 15 - transfer to Golmud Airport then homeward from Xining Airport [![One Of The Species Featured During Our Tibetan Wildlife of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnails/1536x1536/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-22-1536x1023.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-22.jpg) ## Tibetan Wildlife Photography Holiday Highlights We have taken care to refine the itinerary for this wildlife photography holiday; as such, we consider the following to be amongst the highlights of this tour. - Find rare species such as the Pallas Cat, Tibetan Wolf, Tibetan antelope, Himalayan Blue Sheep - Possibility of viewing & photographing the Snow Leopard in it's natural habitat - Local guides will lead you to prime photo spots & share insights on wildlife & conservation - Immerse yourself in Tibet's culture & connect with local communities - Capture stunning images to treasure - Explore Tibet's hidden gems through your lens [![One Of The Species Featured During Our Tibetan Wildlife of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnails/1536x1536/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-06-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-06.jpg) ## What Do You Need To Bring With You? The items listed below are intended as guidance rather than requirements. They outline optional & recommended clothing & camera equipment to help you prepare for the conditions & photographic opportunities you may encounter. Clothing We Recommend Camera Equipment We Recommend Clothing suggestions for the conditions expected. - Clothing suitable for moderate temperatures - Lightweight, breathable clothing - Windproof & waterproof outer layers - Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots - Sunglasses Suggested camera equipment for the opportunities expected. [![One Of The Species Featured During Our Tibetan Wildlife of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnails/1536x1536/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-13-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-13.jpg) ## What's Included & What's Not Included On The Tibetan Wildlife of the Qing-Zang Plateau Photography Holiday Before booking the Tibetan Wildlife of the Qing-Zang Plateau Photography Holiday, we recommend reviewing what is included in the trip price, along with any items that are not. This helps ensure you have a clear understanding of what is covered, allowing you to focus fully on the photographic experience. Included In The Trip Price Not Included In The Trip Price Most services & experiences are included in the trip price. - Guidance from our experienced team members - Accommodation on a Single occupancy basis - Internal transfers - Permits - Meals on a half board basis Some items & services are not included in the trip price. - International flights - Internal flights - Camera equipment - Travel insurance - Visas - Gratuities - Personal expenses - All drinks [![A Snow Leopard - One Of The Species We Hope To Encounter During Our Tibetan Wildlife of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/thumbnails/1536x1536/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-18-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tibetan-Wildlife-Photography-Holiday-with-NaturesLens-18.jpg) ## Travel Insurance Travel Insurance – it is a requirement when booking on any wildlife photography holiday scheduled by NaturesLens that you have adequate travel insurance, we suggest a policy from [TrailFinders](https://www.trailfinders.com/insurance) or [Campbell Irvine](https://www.campbellirvinedirect.com). ## Note Regarding The Accommodation Please be advised that the quality of the lodging on this tour varies widely, from comfortable in large cities to rustic in rural locations. There aren’t many three or four star places to stay because the Tibetan Plateau isn’t yet built for tourists – this is truly a final frontier for wildlife photography in the wilderness. Additional Information Similar Photography Tours NaturesLens photography holidays **do not include flights** unless it is explicitly stated on the event page. When it is time to book your flights, we will send you the details in plenty of time to allow for bookings at the best available price. The photography holiday itinerary is subject to change & is to be considered provisional. NaturesLens photography holidays require **a minimum number of participants in order to be viable**. If this minimum number is not met, the photography holiday may not go ahead. In the event that the minimum number for a photography holiday to go ahead is not reached, NaturesLens reserves the right to cancel any given photography holiday. In that event 100% of monies received will be returned. However, NaturesLens is not responsible for expenses incurred by its customers. **Not all mentioned wildlife can be observed & photographed at all times of the year**, thus some activities may be considered seasonal & not available. Please note **the cuisine on many of the NaturesLens photography holidays is authentic & typical of the region** in which you are travelling. International or western cuisine is often NOT available. If you have any concerns over the food arrangements or have any special dietary requirements, please contact us prior to making a booking. All personal luggage are the responsibility of the owner & we request that photography holiday participants limit their luggage to the equivalent of one suitcase, one flight bag, one camera bag & tripod. We do not wish to appear dictatorial in this matter & the request is made to ensure space & comfort for everyone in our vehicles. NaturesLens & its agents act only as agents for the passenger in all matters relating to travel arrangements, & as such, do not assume responsibility for injury, accident, damage, loss, delay or irregularity which may occur via defect of transportation or any other cause. NaturesLens reserves the right to substitute hotels, & other previously outlined arrangements as necessary, to either improve or equal the travel experience. NaturesLens reserves the right to pass on to photography holiday participants any additional & unplanned expenditure incurred during a photography holiday, via events beyond the control of NaturesLens. NaturesLens reserves the right to accept or decline any person as a member of any photography holiday. Payment of a deposit by photography holiday participants or their representative constitutes their acceptance of all conditions contained herein. All bookings are made subject to our terms & conditions. - Tibetan Wildlife of the Qing-Zang Plateau - 10th - 25th Nov 2027 - £9499 Join us for a exceptional wildlife photography holiday in Tibet, during November 2027, focused on high-altitude wildlife photography on the Qing-Zang Plateau. [View More Information](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/tibet/tibetan-wildlife/) Difficulty Medium Group size 4 guests Photography style Vehicle Based & On Foot Activity period Daytime Itinerary type Photography Tour We explore wildlife photography in Tibet in greater depth in [Why Photographers Are Drawn to Tibet](https://natureslens.co.uk/why-photographers-are-drawn-to/why-photographers-are-drawn-to-tibet/). ## Related Trips If this photography holiday appeals to you, you may also be interested in the trips below. They feature similar species, photographic opportunities or wildlife experiences, offering alternative destinations & complementary subjects for your future adventures. - [Majestic Bengal Tigers of India - India - Mar 2027 - 7 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/india/tigers-of-india/) More time with birds & mammals, with Pui Hang guiding again. - [Majestic Bengal Tigers of India - India - Mar 2028 - 7 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/india/majestic-bengal-tigers-of-india-2028/) More time with birds & mammals, with Pui Hang guiding again. - [Breathtaking Bubble-Netting Whales - United States - Mar 2028 - 7 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/united-states/bubble-netting-whales-of-alaska/) More time with birds & mammals, with David guiding again. - [Winter Wildlife of Yellowstone - United States - Feb 2029 - 9 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/united-states/wildlife-of-yellowstone/) More time with birds & mammals, with David guiding again. ## Frequently Asked Questions We’ve compiled answers to the questions we are most commonly asked about this photography tour, covering everything from accommodation, transport & group size through to photography opportunities, fitness requirements & what to expect in the field. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re always happy to discuss any aspect of the trip before you book. ## Wildlife Photography ### What wildlife can I expect to photograph? Species regularly photographed include Pallas Cat, Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Black-necked Crane, Himalayan Blue Sheep, Brown Bear, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Marmot, Lammergeier & Himalayan Griffon. Additional plateau species may also be encountered throughout the expedition. As with all wildlife photography, sightings can never be guaranteed. ## Pallas Cat Photography ### Why is the Qing-Zang Plateau particularly good for Pallas Cat photography? The Qing-Zang Plateau offers some of the best opportunities to photograph Pallas Cats in their natural habitat. The high-altitude steppe provides ideal hunting grounds where these elusive cats pursue pikas, creating opportunities to capture hunting behaviours across the frozen plateau landscape. ## Snow Leopard Photography ### What makes this location special for Snow Leopard photography? The rocky ridgelines above the treeline on the Qing-Zang Plateau provide natural corridors where Snow Leopards traverse between territories. The high-altitude terrain & open sightlines offer photographers opportunities to capture these cats against the dramatic mountain backdrop of the world's highest plateau. ## Photography Schedule ### How much time do we spend on wildlife photography? This is a dedicated wildlife photography expedition lasting 15 days with photography focused on the Dulan Reserve (6 nights) & Budongquan area (3 nights). The structure prioritises time in key wildlife areas, adapting to conditions & opportunities throughout the high-altitude plateau. ## Vehicle-Based Photography ### How does the vehicle-based photography approach work? Photography is conducted from specialised vehicles suitable for high-altitude terrain, allowing access to remote areas of the Qing-Zang Plateau where wildlife congregates. This approach enables coverage of vast distances while maintaining comfortable positioning for telephoto photography in the challenging plateau conditions. ## Group Size Benefits ### What are the benefits of a 4-photographer group? The 4-photographer limit ensures everyone has sufficient space in vehicles for equipment & optimal positioning, receives personalised guidance from David Miles & Pui Hang Miles along with local guides, & enjoys a more focused photographic experience across the remote plateau locations. ## High-Altitude Conditions ### What makes the high-altitude conditions special for photography? The Qing-Zang Plateau's average elevation of over 4,500 meters creates unique photographic conditions with crystal-clear air & dramatic lighting. The thin atmosphere enhances contrast while the vast open landscapes provide unobstructed views of wildlife against snow-capped peaks. ## Autumn Season ### Why is autumn the optimal time for this expedition? Autumn on the Qing-Zang Plateau offers cool, dry conditions ideal for wildlife activity & photography. The season provides excellent visibility across the plateau's vast landscapes while wildlife remains active before the harsh winter, creating optimal opportunities for photographing species like Pallas Cats & Himalayan Blue Sheep. ## Accommodation ### What is the accommodation like? Accommodation varies widely from comfortable lodging in larger cities to rustic facilities in remote plateau locations. Single occupancy accommodation is included as standard. The Tibetan Plateau isn't yet developed for tourism, so this represents authentic wilderness accommodation supporting access to pristine wildlife areas. ## Photography Equipment ### What equipment should I bring? Bring a camera capable of high-altitude performance, telephoto lenses suitable for wildlife photography, spare batteries & memory cards. The extreme cold & altitude can affect equipment performance, so extra batteries are particularly important. Detailed equipment recommendations will be provided before departure. ## Physical Requirements ### What fitness level is required for this expedition? This expedition involves travel at very high altitudes with an average elevation over 4,500 meters. Participants should be in good health & prepared for potential altitude effects. The itinerary includes acclimatisation time in Xining during days 2-3 to help adjust to the altitude before proceeding to higher elevations. ## Cultural Experience ### What cultural experiences are included? The expedition includes opportunities to experience Tibet's unique culture & traditions first-hand through connections with local communities. Local guides share knowledge about both wildlife conservation & regional culture, providing cultural immersion alongside the wildlife photography experience.