Gobi Desert & Karakorum Tour
10 Days / 9 Nights
Tour Code: LT03
Tour Scope: Southern Mongolia and Central Mongolia
Tour Route: UB-Dalanzadgad-Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs)-Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes-Yol Valley-Dalanzadgad-UB-Karakorum-Terelj National Park-Tsonchinboldog (Giant Statue of Chinggis Khaan)-UB
Highlights: Khongoryn Els Sand Dune, Yolyn Am (Eagle Valley), Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs), Karakorum, Wild horses in Hustai, Chinggis Khan Statue and Terelj
Tour Season: 15 May- 15 September
Tour Level: Extreme
Day 2. Flight to Gobi and travel to Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs)
Day 3. Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes
Day 4. Yolyn Am (Eagle Valley)
Day 5. Flight to Ulaanbaatar
Day 6. Karakorum
Day 7. Hustai National Park
Day 8. Terelj National Park
Day 9. Chinggis Khan Statue-13th Century Complex-Ulaanbaatar
Day 10. Departure
Accommodations: 3 nights in hotel and 6 nights in ger camps
Meals: Inclusive meals are indicated in itinerary (B = breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Transport: 4WD Japanese Minivan or 4WD Japanese Jeep
Optional activities: Camel riding, Horse riding
Staffs: Visit Mongolia Team (Tour guide and driver)
GOBI DESERT AND KARAKORUM
Upon arrival at Chinggis Khan International Airport, you will meet the Visit Mongolia team and transfer to a 4-star or 4-star-plus hotel in downtown Ulaanbaatar. After settling in, we will begin our city tour at Gandan Monastery, Mongolia’s largest and most significant monastery. Next, we visit the National History Museum to learn about the rich history of Mongolia. We will then walk to Sukhbaatar Square, the city’s central hub, where you can see the Parliament House, National Opera, and City Hall. Later, we visit Zaisan Hill for a panoramic view of the city. In the evening, enjoy a performance of traditional Mongolian dancing and khoomii (throat singing).
Overnight: Hotel in Ulaanbaatar
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2
BAYANZAG (FLAMING CLIFFS)
Approximate distance covered: 100 km | Estimated travel time: 2-3 hours| 1.5-hours flight
Fly to Dalanzadgad, the center of South Gobi province, and start your journey into the Gobi Desert. We drive to Bayanzag, famously known as the “Flaming Cliffs,” a red rock formation shaped millions of years ago. The site became world-renowned after the discovery of dinosaur fossils by American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews in the 1920s.
Overnight: Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3
KHONGORIIN ELS SAND DUNES
Approximate distance covered: 180 km | Estimated travel time: 4-5 hours
Travel to the Khongoriin Els Sand Dunes, Mongolia’s largest sand dunes, some reaching heights of 800 meters. Known as the “Singing Dunes,” their name comes from the sound produced by wind sweeping over the sand. In the evening, visit a local camel breeder’s family and have the chance to go camel riding. Overnight: Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4
EAGLE VALLEY (YOLYN AM)
Approximate distance covered: 200 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
Today, we travel to Yolyn Am (Eagle Valley), located in the Altai Mountains. This beautiful valley has unique ice formations that remain well into the summer. The surrounding mountains are home to Argali wild sheep and Ibex, which can often be seen early in the morning. After visiting the Gobi Museum, we will trek through the valley.
Overnight: Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5
RETURN TO ULAANBAATAR
Approximate distance covered: 50 km | Estimated travel time: 1-1.5 hours| 1.5-hours flight
Fly back to Ulaanbaatar and, in the afternoon, explore notable museums such as the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan and the Choijin Lama Temple.
Overnight: Hotel in Ulaanbaatar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6
KARAKORUM – ANCIENT CAPITAL
Approximate distance covered: 360 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
Travel to Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongolian Empire, founded by Chinggis Khan. We will visit the Erdene Zuu Monastery, a sprawling complex surrounded by 108 stupas, built on the ruins of Karakorum in 1586. The site is renowned for its religious art and architecture. Later, explore the Karakorum Museum.
Overnight: Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7
HUSTAI HILL
Approximate distance covered: 280 km | Estimated travel time: 3-4 hours
Travel to Hustai National Park to see the Przewalski wild horses, reintroduced into their native habitat. Visit the park’s information center to learn more about the history of these horses and the area. In the evening, there will be an opportunity for horse riding.
Overnight: Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8
TERELJ NATIONAL PARK
Approximate distance covered: 170 km | Estimated travel time: 2-3 hours
Today, we drive to Terelj National Park, a popular and scenic destination known for its granite mountains and the beautiful Terelj River. After transferring to a tourist ger camp, we will visit Turtle Rock and the Aryabala Meditation Temple. You will also visit a local nomadic family, followed by an optional hike or one-hour horseback ride.
Overnight: Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9
CHINGGIS KHAN STATUE AND 13TH CENTURY COMPLEX
Approximate distance covered: 90 km | Estimated travel time: 2 hours
We begin the day with a visit to the Giant Statue of Chinggis Khan at Tsonchinboldog, followed by a short drive to the 13th Century Complex, a park dedicated to recreating life in 13th-century Mongolia, where modern amenities are absent. In the afternoon, we return to Ulaanbaatar for a farewell dinner.
Overnight: Hotel in Ulaanbaatar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10
DEPARTURE
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
Meals: Breakfast
Trip overview
Hotels in Ulaanbaatar offer a wide range of options, catering from luxurious international chains to budget-friendly guesthouses. Our package cost typically excludes accommodation in Ulaanbaatar (UB), allowing clients the flexibility to choose their preferred stay. We provide hotel rates for Visit Mongolia customers to select from, encouraging group travelers to opt for the same property. You can choose your desired hotel and room type and inform us accordingly. Alternatively, you are welcome to arrange your own booking.
- Luxury Hotels: Options include renowned establishments like the Shangri-La Hotel, Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace, and the Blue Sky Hotel & Tower. These hotels feature modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, fitness centers, spas, and international dining.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Reliable choices such as Ramada Ulaanbaatar and Bayangol Hotel offer comfort and convenience.
- Budget Hotels and Guesthouses: For budget-conscious travelers, we recommend hostels and guesthouses like UB Guesthouse and Zaya Hostel, providing clean and affordable accommodations.
- Ger Camps: During countryside exploration, you will stay in tourist ger camps, offering an authentic Mongolian experience. Ger camps vary, with some offering standard and deluxe gers. Standard gers provide access to shared public bathrooms located centrally within the camp, while deluxe gers feature private attached bathrooms. Each ger accommodates two people and includes wood stove heating and two wood-framed beds. Camp restaurants, as well as western-style toilet and shower facilities, are centrally located, ensuring a memorable cultural experience.
- Tented Camping: For adventures to remote areas, we use tented camps. Tents accommodate two or three persons and include a sleeping mat per person (clients are requested to bring their own sleeping bags). Our expedition staff sets up camps, prepares meals, and attends to all needs. Tented camps offer a close-to-nature experience and access to the most remote parts of the country.
- Elsen Tasarkhai: Known for its stunning sand dunes and picturesque landscapes, this area offers a unique blend of desert and steppe environments.
- Hustai National Park: Famous for being the home of the wild Przewalski's horses, the park also boasts beautiful natural scenery and opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife.
- Terelj National Park: Renowned for its dramatic rock formations, including the famous Turtle Rock, and its lush greenery, this park offers a scenic escape from urban life.
- Gobi Desert: Discover the vastness and striking beauty of the Gobi Desert, with its unique wildlife, dramatic sand dunes, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
- Khuvsgul Lake: Often referred to as the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," Khuvsgul Lake is known for its pristine, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking surrounding scenery.
- Altai Mountains: This mountain range is home to diverse wildlife and offers breathtaking views of Mongolia's rugged, untamed beauty.
For travelers seeking more authentic and budget-friendly accommodation, staying with a nomadic family is an enriching experience. You will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle, sharing in the customs, daily routines, and warm hospitality of Mongolian herders.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage in the daily activities of nomadic life, including herding livestock, milking animals, and preparing traditional Mongolian meals. This experience offers deep insights into their unique way of life, customs, and traditions, making for a truly immersive and memorable cultural exchange.
- Jeep Overland Adventure Tours: For these tours, we use reliable Japanese or Korean 4WD vans and SUVs, such as Mitsubishi, Toyota, and Nissan models. These vehicles are well-suited to Mongolia’s rugged terrain, providing a comfortable and safe ride.
- Group Tours within Ulaanbaatar: For larger groups touring Ulaanbaatar, we use modern buses or mini-buses. These vehicles are air-conditioned and equipped with comfortable seating to ensure a pleasant travel experience.
- Remote Areas: In some remote areas where flying is necessary, we arrange local transportation, typically using Russian 4WD jeeps or minivans. These vehicles are ideal for Mongolia's challenging landscapes, and the daily driving distance is typically around 200-250 km..
- Sightseeing in Ulaanbaatar: For city sightseeing, we offer deluxe coaches, vans, and sedans. These vehicles are selected for their comfort, ensuring an enjoyable tour of the city.
All Visit Mongolia drivers have extensive experience and are well-acquainted with the Mongolian countryside, including areas without marked roads. They are also skilled mechanics, which is particularly important when traveling through remote regions. Regular technical inspections are performed on all vehicles to ensure their safety and reliability.
Why Our Guides Stand Out:
- Cultural and Historical Expertise: Our guides are well-versed in Mongolian history, from the era of Genghis Khan to modern times. They offer detailed insights into Mongolia's nomadic civilization, including its customs, traditions, and lifestyle. Their stories and explanations help bridge the gap between visitors and the unique Mongolian culture, enriching your experience with meaningful context.
- Knowledge of Nature and Wildlife: Mongolia's vast wilderness is home to diverse ecosystems, and our guides have in-depth knowledge of the country’s flora, fauna, and geology. They are skilled in identifying the different plant and animal species you may encounter and can provide fascinating details about Mongolia's varied landscapes, from the Gobi Desert to the Altai Mountains.
- Local Folklore and Mythology: Our guides don’t just give you facts; they bring Mongolia’s rich oral tradition to life. Through engaging stories, legends, and myths passed down through generations, they help you connect with the spiritual and historical significance of the sites you visit. Whether it’s tales of ancient warriors or the beliefs tied to sacred mountains, their storytelling adds a deeper layer to your journey.
- Tailored Experiences: Every traveler has unique interests, and our guides excel at tailoring the tour to your preferences. Whether you want to learn more about local crafts, focus on wildlife, or dive deep into Mongolia’s history, they will adapt to ensure your experience is both personalized and unforgettable.
- Expert Navigation of Diverse Terrain: With a country as vast and varied as Mongolia, it's essential to have a guide who is skilled in navigating both urban and remote areas. Our guides are experienced in managing all types of terrain, from city streets to the most rugged, off-the-beaten-path locations. Their expertise ensures that your journey is safe, smooth, and comfortable, even in Mongolia’s most remote regions.
- Exceptional Client Care: Beyond their knowledge, our guides are known for their warm hospitality and personal attention. They are passionate about sharing their love for Mongolia with travelers and go above and beyond to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. Many of our past clients have praised their guides for being approachable, friendly, and always willing to assist with any needs or questions.
We are proud of the overwhelmingly positive feedback we receive from clients regarding our guides. After each tour, many travelers highlight the role their guide played in making their trip memorable. From their professionalism to their storytelling skills, our guides consistently earn high praise, contributing to a rewarding and meaningful Mongolian adventure.
In Ulaanbaatar:
Ulaanbaatar offers a diverse range of dining options, with restaurants serving cuisines from around the world. You can enjoy international dishes from Indian, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Italian, English, French, German, Russian, and Latin American restaurants, as well as traditional Mongolian cuisine. The staple foods in Mongolia include beef, mutton, noodles, and dairy products, but many restaurants cater to various dietary preferences.
Popular Restaurants in Ulaanbaatar:
- Hazara: Famous for its authentic Indian cuisine, Hazara is a top choice for those seeking flavorful and well-prepared Indian dishes.
- Namaste: Specializing in Nepalese cuisine, Namaste offers a delightful selection of aromatic and hearty meals.
- Veranda: Known for its Mediterranean cuisine and stunning views of the city, Veranda offers a relaxing atmosphere with a varied menu.
- BD's Mongolian Barbeque: A unique, interactive dining experience where guests can create their own stir-fry, choosing from a wide range of ingredients.
Most ger camps serve Western-style meals, providing a familiar dining experience while you explore Mongolia's beautiful countryside. For excursions to remote areas, we arrange for professional chefs to accompany the group, ensuring fresh, nutritious, and satisfying meals even in the most remote locations. With advance notice, we can accommodate vegetarians and those with special dietary requirements.
Specialty Meals:
As part of your cultural experience, you will have the opportunity to try traditional Mongolian dishes, including:
- Khorkhog: Mongolian barbecue, made with mutton or goat, slow-cooked with hot stones for a unique flavor.
- Buuz: Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, typically mutton or beef, and flavored with spices.
- Airag: Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional drink with a mildly tangy flavor.
Tourist Season:
The primary tourist season in Mongolia runs from May to September, offering favorable weather conditions for outdoor activities and exploration. However, Mongolia’s climate is highly variable, so it's important to be prepared for different conditions depending on the region and time of your visit.
Weather Highlights:
- July and August: These are the warmest months of the year, but they also bring the highest amount of rainfall. Even so, there are many sunny days, especially in central and northern Mongolia, where lush green landscapes come to life. These months are ideal for hiking, trekking, and experiencing Mongolia’s vibrant natural beauty.
- Gobi Desert: The Gobi is one of the hottest regions in Mongolia, with daytime temperatures reaching their peak in the summer months. Despite the heat, summer evenings can be cool due to the region’s high altitude. The best times to visit the Gobi Desert are June and September, when temperatures are more moderate, and the desert offers stunning views with fewer visitors.
- Spring: Springtime in Mongolia brings strong winds, particularly in the Gobi Desert, making the sandy areas more challenging to navigate. However, it’s a season of renewal, with blooming flowers and milder weather across many regions, offering a unique and beautiful experience.
- National Naadam Festival: One of the highlights of Mongolia's summer is the National Naadam Festival, held annually in mid-July. This cultural event attracts many travelers and features traditional sports such as wrestling, horse racing, and archery. It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage.
- Winter Season: For travelers seeking an extreme weather adventure, Mongolia’s winter offers unique experiences. From November to February, temperatures can plunge to -30°C (-22°F) or lower. Despite the cold, winter offers exciting activities such as ice festivals, dog sledding, and winter horse riding, allowing you to experience the serene beauty of Mongolia's frozen landscapes.
- Shoulder Seasons (Spring and Autumn): Spring (May and early June) and autumn (September and October) are excellent times to visit Mongolia if you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and gentle breezes, while autumn showcases the country’s golden landscapes and harvest festivals. The cooler temperatures and quiet atmosphere make these seasons perfect for a more relaxed and intimate exploration of the country.