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Mongolian Portfolio Tour

25 Days / 24 Nights

Tour Code: CLT08
Tour Scope: Southern Mongolia, Central Mongolia, Northern and Western Mongolia
Tour Route: UB-Middle Gobi-South Gobi-Karakorum-Tsenkher Hot Spa-Khorgo/Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake-Huvsgul Lake-Khyargas Lake-Ulaangom-Uvs Lke-Olgii Town-Altai Tavan Bogd National Park-Olgii Town-UB
Highlights: Earth stone, Tsagaan Suvarga, Eagle Valley, Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes, Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs), Ongi Monastery, Karakorum, Erdenezee Monastery, Tsenkher Hot Spa, Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, Khorgo Volcano, Huvsgul Lake, Khyargas Lake, Uvs Lake, Altai Mountains
Tour Season: 01 June- 15 September
Tour Level: Moderate

Day 1. Ulaanbaatar
Day 2. Hustai Nature Reserve
Day 3. Karakorum
Day 4. Ongi Monastery
Day 5. Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs)
Day 6. Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes
Day 7. Yolyn Am (Eagle Valley)
Day 8. Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa)
Day 9. Baga Gazriin Chuluu (Earth Stone)
Day 10. Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake
Day 11. Shine-Ider Soum
Day 12. Huvsgul Lake
Day 13-14. Huvsgul Lake
Day 15. Tsetserleg Soum
Day 16. Songino Soum, Zavkhan Province
Day 17. Khyargas Lake
Day 18. Ulaangom, Uvs Province Center
Day 19. Turgen Mountains
Day 20. Olgii Town
Day 21-22. Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Day 23. Olgii Town
Day 24. Ulaanbaatar
Day 25. Departure

Accommodations: 2 nights in hotel and 8 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)
DAY 1
ULAANBAATAR
Upon arrival at Chinggis Khan International Airport, you will be greeted by the Visit Mongolia team and transferred to your hotel, conveniently located in downtown Ulaanbaatar. After freshening up, we begin our city tour with a visit to Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Mongolia, home to 500 monks. Next, we explore the National History Museum, where you will learn about Mongolia’s rich history. A short walk takes us to Sukhbaatar Square, the heart of Ulaanbaatar, where we will see the Parliament House, National Opera, and City Hall. We will then visit Zaisan Hill for panoramic views of the city. Overnight at the hotel. (L, D)

DAY 2
BAGA GAZRIIN CHULUU (EARTH STONE)
Approximate distance: 250 km | Estimated travel time: 3-4 hours
We travel to Baga Gazriin Chuluu, a sacred rocky mountain in Middle Gobi, 1,760 meters above sea level. Famous for its unique rock formations and natural beauty, it offers an incredible excursion experience. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 3
TSAGAAN SUVARGA
Approximate distance: 240 km | Estimated travel time: 3-4 hours
We continue our journey to Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa), a striking sand formation resembling a white stupa. Here, you can view ancient rock hieroglyphs dating back 3,000–5,000 years. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 4
YOLYN AM (EAGLE VALLEY)
Approximate distance: 220 km | Estimated travel time: 3-4 hours
We travel to Yolyn Am, located in the foothills of the Altai Mountains. Known for its ice formations, this valley is also home to wildlife such as Argali wild sheep and ibex, which may be spotted in the morning. We will visit the Gobi Museum and trek through the valley. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 5
KHONGORYN ELS SAND DUNES
Approximate distance: 180 km | Estimated travel time: 3.5-4 hours
Today, we explore Khongoriin Els, Mongolia’s largest sand dunes, reaching up to 800 meters in height. Known as the “Singing Dunes,” these dunes create a unique sound when the wind blows. In the evening, we visit a camel breeder's family and enjoy an opportunity to ride camels. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 6
BAYANZAG (FLAMING CLIFFS)
Approximate distance: 170 km | Estimated travel time: 3-4 hours
We travel to Bayanzag, famously known as the “Flaming Cliffs” for their red hue. Along the way, we will see the steppe landscape dotted with camel herds. Bayanzag is renowned for the discovery of dinosaur skeletons and eggs by Roy Chapman Andrews in the 1920s. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 7
ONGI MONASTERY
Approximate distance: 160 km | Estimated travel time: 3-4 hours
Today, we visit Ongi Monastery, a former major religious center built in the 18th century. We will hike through the surrounding Gobi Mountains and explore the monastery ruins. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 8
RUINS OF THE 12TH CENTURY CAPITAL CITY KARAKORUM
Approximate distance: 260 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
We journey to Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire founded by Chinggis Khan. Here, we will visit Erdenezuu Monastery, a vast Buddhist complex built in 1586 on the ruins of Karakorum. We will also tour the Karakorum Museum. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 9
TSENKHER HOT SPRINGS
Approximate distance: 150 km | Estimated travel time: 3-4 hours
We head to Tsenkher Hot Springs, famous for its 89°C sulphur springs. You can relax in the camp’s outdoor and indoor baths. In the afternoon, we visit a yak breeder's family to experience their traditional lifestyle. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 10
TERKHIIN TSAGAAN LAKE
Approximate distance: 250 km | Estimated travel time: 4-5 hours
We travel to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, a 20 km long lake formed by lava flows from an extinct volcano. Along the way, we will visit Taikhar Rock and the Chuluut River Gorge. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 11
SHINE-IDER SOUM
Approximate distance: 180 km | Estimated travel time: 4-5 hours
We journey through river basins and mountain passes to reach Shine-Ider Soum. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 12
HUVSGUL LAKE
Approximate distance: 220 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
We travel to Huvsgul Lake, the largest lake in Mongolia, known for its clear, fresh water. It is often frozen from January to April. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAYS 13-14
HUVSGUL LAKE
We spend two relaxing days at Huvsgul Lake, visiting a nomadic Tsaatan (reindeer herder) family. You may also go horse riding, swimming, or simply relaxing by the lake. Overnight in a ger camp. (B, L, D)

DAY 15
TSETSERLEG SOUM
Approximate distance: 320 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
We travel west through the Khangai Mountains, passing alpine landscapes, to reach Tsetserleg Soum. Overnight in a tent. (B, L, D)

DAY 16
SONGINO SOUM, ZAVKHAN PROVINCE
Approximate distance: 220 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
We continue our journey to Songino Soum, where we visit a nomadic family and learn about the unique culture and lifestyle of western Mongolian ethnic groups. Overnight in a tent. (B, L, D)

DAY 17
KHYARGAS LAKE
Approximate distance: 200 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
We explore Khyargas Lake, one of Mongolia’s largest lakes, with brackish water and rare fish species. Overnight in a tent. (B, L, D)

DAY 18
ULAANGOM, UVS PROVINCE CENTER
Approximate distance: 140 km | Estimated travel time: 2-3 hours
We visit the Uvs Lake Basin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its diverse ecosystems. After lunch, we explore Chandmani Mountain. Overnight at a local hotel. (B, L, D)

DAY 19
TURGEN MOUNTAINS
Approximate distance: 160 km | Estimated travel time: 4-5 hours
We travel to Yamaat Valley in the Turgen Strictly Protected Area, a region of great scientific and cultural significance. Overnight in a tent. (B, L, D)

DAY 20
OLGII TOWN
Approximate distance: 150 km | Estimated travel time: 4-5 hours
We travel to Bayan-Olgii Province, reaching Olgii town, the provincial capital, known for its Kazakh culture and scenic mountains. Overnight at a local hotel. (B, L, D)

DAY 21-22
ALTAI TAVAN BOGD NATIONAL PARK
Approximate distance: 200 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
We visit the Altai Tavan Bogd Mountains, where Mongolia, China, and Russia meet. These peaks rise over 4,000 meters and offer stunning views. Overnight in a tent. (B, L, D)

DAY 23
OLGII TOWN
Approximate distance: 200 km | Estimated travel time: 5-6 hours
We visit a Kazakh family in Sagsai village to learn about their traditional lifestyle and eagle hunting. In the evening, we return to Olgii town. Overnight at a local hotel. (B, L, D)

DAY 24
ULAANBAATAR
We fly back to Ulaanbaatar and visit local museums, including the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan. The afternoon is free for shopping or independent sightseeing. In the evening, we attend a traditional Mongolian folk performance. Overnight at the hotel. (B, L, D)

DAY 25
DEPARTURE
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport or train station for your departure. (B)

Visit Mongolia’s policy is to provide top quality service to our customers at reasonable prices. We will be pleased to provide detailed price quotes for those interested in specific tours.

Trip overview

IN ULAANBAATAR:
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.
In the Countryside:

  • 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.
Experience Highlights

  • 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.
Staying with a Nomadic Family
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.

We use different types of vehicles depending on the nature of the tour, the destination, and the number of travelers. Our selection ensures comfort, safety, and suitability for the terrain.

  • 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.
Driver Expertise:

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.

Throughout your journey, you will be accompanied by a professional, English-speaking Mongolian guide, dedicated to making your trip both enjoyable and educational. Our guides are highly experienced and possess a deep understanding of Mongolia’s rich history, nomadic culture, and diverse natural landscapes. They are among the best in the industry, and many of our clients consistently praise their knowledge, helpfulness, and enthusiasm. Whether you are exploring historical sites, interacting with nomadic families, or trekking through Mongolia’s stunning landscapes, your guide will be there to provide insight and assistance at every step.

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.
Consistent Positive Feedback:

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.

Meals are included in the cost of your tour, and we strive to provide you with the best dining experiences available at each destination. Visit Mongolia carefully selects reputable local restaurants in cities and popular tourist areas, ensuring a variety of delicious and high-quality meals throughout your journey.

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.
In Tourist Ger Camps:

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.
Whether you are enjoying a traditional meal or sampling international cuisine, we aim to provide a mix of flavors that reflects both the local culture and your personal preferences. Special arrangements can be made for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience throughout your trip.

Mongolia has a continental climate with extreme seasonal variations, known for its long, sunny days. With over 200 days of sunshine each year, it has rightfully earned the nickname "the Land of Blue Skies." The weather can vary significantly depending on the region and time of year, which adds to the diversity of experiences travelers can enjoy.

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.