At ButterflyBus we believe in the power of travel. To broaden the mind, to stimulate the senses; the perfect antidote to the stresses of the modern world. A slower pace of travel that allows an appreciation of landscape, of people and of culture, and one that enables a gradual acclimatisation as we cross from West to East, and back again.

ButterflyBus is for those that love to travel. Those that love the experience of travel - experience which is lost in the sterile predictability of flying from one airport to another.

For various reasons more and more people are choosing not to fly. A recent survey by the Lonely Planet guide found that 93% of respondents would consider switching to a more sustainable means of transport for future trips.

Recent years have seen an increasing awareness of the damaging effects of air travel on the environment. The impact of climate change - largely ignored by governments and corporations - compels travellers themselves to lead the way towards more efficient solutions. At present ButterflyBus is the most efficient means of travel between Europe and Asia. Some alternative means of travel from the UK to China are listed below:

  Duration (days) Distance (km) Passengers C02 Emissions (kg per capita)
Flight 1 7000 300 1430
Trans-Siberian* 14 11000 300 663
Middle Eastern** 12 8000 300 482
Car*** 14 8400 4 623
ButterflyBus 14 8400 50 335

SOURCE:
1 Department for Transport/National Atmospheric Emission Inventory 2004
2 www.co2balance.uk.com

*Figures shown are for a modern diesel train.
**Middle Eastern route included for comparison only. The Foreign Office currently do not recommend travel on this route.
***Based on an average 2.0litre car with full occupancy.

One return journey with ButterflyBus saves at least 2 tonnes of carbon when compared to a flight. This is equivalent to 300 trees’ carbon conversion over a 100 year period, or a total of 100,000 trees for one return flight.

Train travel is currently at least 25% less efficient than coach travel, making ButterflyBus the most environmentally responsible means of travel between Europe and Asia currently available.

Whether inspired by environmental concerns, or simply by a wish to rediscover the adventure and excitement of overland travel, ButterflyBus offers an itinerary to suit all travellers.