Your itinerary
Day 1
Adventure starts in Ulaanbaatar
Our adventure starts in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital city. There are no activities planned for today to allow for different arrival times. If you have time to explore some of the sites we recommend visiting Sukhbaatar Square, the National Museum and the landmark State Department Store.
Around 6pm, say hello to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. Your tour leader then ensures a big welcome by arranging a group dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Want more time in Ulaanbaatar? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2
Transfer to Terelj National Park via Gandan Monastery
This morning, we leave Ulaanbaatar, stopping at Gandan Monastery, Mongolia’s largest active Buddhist monastery. Here, we may see monks at prayer and visit the impressive gold-and-bronze statue of Migjid Janraisig.
We then drive to Terelj National Park. The protected landscapes here are characterised by green mountain meadows, striking granite rock formations and, in season, colourful wildflowers.
In the afternoon, we walk up to the Tibetan-style Aryabala Meditation Temple, set on a mountainside with sweeping views across the national park. Buddhist teachings line the route as we climb many steps towards the temple.
Tonight, we have our first stay in a traditional ger, a felt-covered dwelling that has long been central to Mongolia’s nomadic way of life.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 3
Drive to Little Gobi Desert; Khustain Nuruu N.P. trek to see wild horses
Today, we journey towards Mongol Els, or ‘Little Gobi Desert’ as it is known, where a striking belt of sand dunes meets the surrounding steppe. En route, we detour to Khustain Nuruu National Park, renowned for the successful reintroduction of the takhi, or Przewalski’s horse.
Once extinct in the wild, these remarkable horses were reintroduced to Mongolia and now roam freely across the protected steppe of Khustain Nuruu. We visit the park’s information centre before heading out with a guide in search of the takhi.
It is an incredible sight to witness the Bactrian camels wandering the desert dunes whilst horses graze on the green steppe nearby.
Total drive time: Five hours
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 4
Visit Khogno Khan Mountain; to Karakorum; visit Erdene Zuu Monastery
This morning we visit Mt Khogno Khan and the small temple at its base. This region is renowned for its birdlife, including steppe eagles.
Then we have a 56mi (90km) transfer to Karakorum – the 13th century capital of the Mongol Empire. Karakorum was established by Ogedei Khan and remained the Mongols power base until Khublai Khan established Beijing as the capital. After lunch we will visit the Erdene Zuu Monastery (meaning Hundred Treasures). This is the largest monastery in Mongolia, built in 1586 under the direction of Abtai Khan on the ruins of the ancient capital. Much of the monastery was destroyed during Stalin’s purges of the 1930’s but an impressive wall with 108 stupas and a number of temples still remain. We also visit the modern Karakorum Museum and the surrounding area, returning to our ger camp in the late afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 5
Transfer to Arvaikheer via Shankh Monastery and explore the museum
We drive on a paved road to Arvaikheer, the capital of Ovorkhangai Aimag and on the northern edge of the Gobi. On the way to Arvaikheer we visit Shankh Monastery, once the home of the great Mongolian theorist Zanabazar. We should arrive at Arvaikheer during the middle of the afternoon and check into our hotel. In the afternoon there will be time to visit the local museum, which contains nature collections, stone figures and Turkic scripts.
Total drive time: Three hours
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 6
Bayan Gobi via Mt Ikh Bogd
After an early breakfast we start towards Orog Lake via Bayanteegsoum, a coal-mining centre. Passing over Taats River, the majestic Ikh Bogd Mountain should be visible in the distance, the highest mountain in the Gobi Altai Mountain Range. We stop for a picnic lunch and then skirt the eastern edge of Mt Ikh Bogd, travelling a further 80km southwest to the Gobi Camels Ger Camp where we spend the night.
Total drive time: Five hours
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 7
Explore the region of Bayan Gobi
We start our journey southwards with a short drive (2-3 hours) to the Bayan Mountain Range to view petroglyphs (Rock Art), called Bichigt Khad. The rock inscriptions and pictures here date back to 3000 BC; we will see paintings including depictions of ibex, argali and men riding horses. It is possible to see some of these from the vehicles (better so with binoculars) but for those who wish, it is also possible to hike up to the cliffs for closer inspection of these Bronze Age works of art (the main cliff is a steep climb for 50-60m and walking poles are required so we usually visit the smaller cliff, which is more accessible). Our journey then continues through classic Gobi desert scenery of flat stony plains mixed with small rocky outcrops and patches of sand across the Khatan Suudal Steppe. We stop for a picnic lunch on the way, with views of the Bogd Mountain to the north. After lunch we head off to our ger camp in the Kongoriin Els sand dunes and should arrive there in the late afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 8
Visit the singing sand dunes, the largest dunes in Mongolia
Today we have a full day to explore the sand dunes and surrounding area. The Khongoriin Els stretch for 200km and reach heights of 300 meters in places. They are known as the ‘Singing Dunes’ because of the beautiful sound that resonates through the dunes on a windy day. The South Gobi has 100,000 camels, typically used by herders to transport their gers. We will take the opportunity today to visit a camel breeding family and get a glimpse of the way of life of the nomadic herders of these parts.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 9
Travel through rocky plains of Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
This morning we drive through the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. Gobi Gurvansaikhan means ‘Three Beauties of the Gobi’ and this range marks the eastern end of the Gobi Altai mountain range. The park’s landscape is extremely varied, with rocky and sandy desert plains, precipitous cliffs, ravines, salt pans and oases. We visit a spectacular natural sight of this region – Yolyn Am. Yolyn Am means Vulture’s Mouth and is a canyon so deep and narrow that even in the height of summer winter ice can remain on the valley floor. This region is also renowned for the diversity of its wildlife and many endangered species can be found here, including Khulan, Ibex, Argali and Snow Leopard. We explore the canyon before transferring to a nearby ger camp for dinner and overnight.
Total drive time: Four hours
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 10
Hiking around the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag
Today we make a short drive to Bayanzag 44mi (70km) known as the Flaming cliffs and hike amongst colourful sands of red, yellow and orange. Bayanzag is a world-renowned dinosaur fossil exploration site, discovered in the 1920s by Mongolian and American Palaeontologists. We are free to explore the region and may even be lucky enough to spot dinosaur fossils. After a picnic lunch we head to our camp for the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 11
To Baga Gazryn Chuluu
This morning, we begin our journey back towards Ulaanbaatar, stopping overnight at Baga Gazryn Chuluu, where striking granite rock formations rise from the open steppe. Here, we explore the ruins of Lovonchombo Monastery and visit a natural spring traditionally believed to have healing properties for the eyes. Tonight, we spend our final night in a traditional Mongolian ger.
Total drive time: Four hours
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 12
Ulaanbaatar via Genghis Khaan Statue
After breakfast we drive to the giant Genghis Khan Statue, standing at 40 meters tall and made of stainless steel it is quite a sight! Here we have some time to fully explore the statue and surrounding area before having lunch. After, we make our way back to Ulaanbaatar where we have the option to go and see a live performance of traditional Mongolian song and dance. Performed by the world famous Tumen Ekh dance troupe, we will see throat singers, contortionists and Tsam dancers.
Total drive time: 3hr 30min
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 13
Fly to Olgii; visit a nomadic Kazakh village
In the morning we fly to Olgii in western Mongolia, from where we drive off-road for about an hour to Sagsai village. Here we visit the home of the Kazakh people; there will be plenty to see and do. We spend the day seeing how they go about daily life. We will also be able to sample their traditional food and taste home-made yak cheese and yogurt. This is a great opportunity to explore the real way of living like a nomadic family and to personally experience their friendliness and hospitality. In the afternoon we return to Olgii and stay overnight at Ger Camp.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 14
Eagle festival
Today we attend the Eagle festival. For the first day of the festival, we will see the competition for the best Kazakh costume, horse racing and archery. In the evening we will see a cultural performance in the local theatre.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 15
Another day at the Eagle Festival
Today we have another chance to witness the competitions and events of the Eagle festival. We will be able to see a demonstration from the eagles and their hunters, a camel race and the lively competition of Kukhbar. Kukhbar is essentially a fighting match on horseback where two riders have to fight over a goat skin each trying to claim possession of it. After enjoying the festivities we return to camp for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 16
Fly to Ulaanbaatar; free time in the city
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for the mid-morning flight to Ulaanbaatar, arriving in the nation’s capital at midday. We transfer to the hotel and freshen up before a light lunch. This afternoon is free for last minute sightseeing or souvenir shopping around UB – cashmere, leather goods and traditional handicrafts are all good options and the guide will recommend the best places to go for these. Night owls may want to sample the nightlife of Ulaanbaatar!
Meals: Breakfast
Day 17
Adventure ends in Ulaanbaatar
The tour ends after breakfast today. If you aren’t ready for the adventure to end, speak to your sales representative about our range of extension options.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s included
What’s not included
Additional information
Gandan Monastery & Migjid Janraisig Statue
Explore Gandan Monastery, Mongolia’s largest active Buddhist complex, where the scent of incense mingles with the low murmur of chanting. Step inside to view the Migjid Janraisig statue, a gleaming gold-and-bronze figure that towers above pilgrims and visitors alike.
Learn how Buddhism endured suppression in the 20th century before reviving in the 1990s. Pause to admire the soaring statue and spinning prayer wheels as your guide interprets monastic life and the symbolism that animates this living place of worship.
Terelj National Park: Aryabala Meditation Temple Walk
Walk uphill to the Tibetan-style Aryabala Meditation Temple, perched on a rocky slope above rolling meadows and granite tors. The climb rewards you with sweeping views across Terelj National Park, where wildflowers spangle the grasslands in season and larks spiral overhead.
Trace pathways lined with Buddhist teachings and prayer wheels that gently chime in the breeze. The temple’s calm setting invites quiet reflection, while your guide explains the blend of Tibetan and Mongolian practices that shaped this serene retreat.
Khustain Nuruu National Park: Tracking the Wild Takhi
Venture with a local ranger into Khustain Nuruu National Park to search for the takhi (Przewalski’s horse), the only true wild horse left on Earth. Scan sage-green hills and steppe valleys through binoculars for family bands, keeping a respectful distance as they graze and move.
Hear how conservationists reintroduced the species in the 1990s after extinction in the wild. Learn to read signs—fresh tracks, cropped grasses—and appreciate the takhi’s sturdy build and dun coats adapted to the steppe’s demanding climate.
Khogno Khan Mountain Temple & Steppe Birdlife
Walk among the granitic folds of Khogno Khan Mountain to a modest temple tucked below wind-sculpted cliffs. The open steppe surrounding the massif draws raptors; keep watch for the silhouette of steppe eagles riding thermals overhead.
Your guide explains the area’s sacred status, visible in stone cairns (ovoos) draped with blue khadag scarves. The quiet of the hills, flecked with juniper and lichen, frames a contemplative visit where nature and belief intertwine.
Karakorum & Erdene Zuu Monastery with Karakorum Museum
Discover the former imperial capital of Karakorum and enter Erdene Zuu Monastery, encircled by a wall crowned with 108 stupas. Within the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley, the complex reveals a fusion of Tibetan and Mongolian Buddhist art amid carved pillars and painted interiors.
Visit the Karakorum Museum to see artefacts from the Mongol Empire, stone turtles, and inscriptions that anchor the city’s turbulent history—from Ogedei Khan’s court to its later decline—within a grand steppe narrative.
Shankh Monastery & Arvaikheer Local Museum
Visit Shankh Monastery, once associated with scholar-artist Zanabazar, to glimpse monastic life in a remote Gobi-edge setting. Painted beams, sutra rooms, and the hum of ritual create an atmosphere of continuity and devotion.
Continue to Arvaikheer’s small museum to see stone figures, ethnographic displays, and Turkic inscriptions that trace local lifeways from Bronze Age steppe cultures to modern herding traditions. The exhibits provide clear context for the landscapes you traverse.
Bayan Mountains: Bichigt Khad Petroglyphs
View the ancient Bichigt Khad petroglyphs, etched high on cliff faces in the Bayan Mountains. Figures of ibex, argali, hunters, and horsemen emerge from sun-warmed rock, their outlines sharpening as light shifts across the stone.
Your guide helps decode Bronze Age imagery and the likely seasonal rhythms of the people who carved it. Those who prefer can use binoculars from below, while keen hikers may tackle short, steep paths for a closer look.
Khongoriin Els: Singing Dunes & Camel-Herder Family Visit
Climb the tawny ridge of Khongoriin Els, where wind sets the sands humming—the famed Singing Dunes. From the crest, gaze over a desert ribbon that undulates for nearly 200km, bordered by distant ranges and narrow green ribbons of life at the base.
Call at a camel-breeding family to learn how two-humped Bactrian camels support nomadic life—from moving gers to hauling supplies. Expect warm welcomes, practical demonstrations, and tea shared in felt-lined interiors.
Yolyn Am Gorge, Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
Hike into Yolyn Am, a narrow chasm carved into the Three Beauties of the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. Sheer walls funnel cool air so effectively that patches of ice can linger in summer, a startling contrast to the surrounding desert.
Scan ledges for lammergeiers (bearded vultures) and listen for distant water beneath the stones. The walk blends crisp mountain shade with intimate rock textures, revealing the Gobi’s surprising ecological range.
Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag Hike
Walk among the russet bluffs of the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag, where the desert glows red, orange, and ochre in shifting light. This is the site where explorers first uncovered the first dinosaur eggs known to science, igniting global fascination in the 1920s.
Follow sandy trails along eroded gullies and wind-carved platforms while your guide shares paleontological lore. Take only photos; the fragile formations and any visible fossils are protected by law.
Baga Gazryn Chuluu: Granite Outcrops, Monastery Ruins & Sacred Spring
Explore the low, weathered granite of Baga Gazryn Chuluu, where boulders rise from the steppe like ancient citadels. Amid the rocks lie the remains of Lovonchombo Monastery, its scattered stones hinting at centuries of devotion and retreat.
Visit a nearby spring, long believed to soothe eye ailments, and learn how such sites anchor spiritual life for herding communities. The quiet landscape invites slow wandering and time for reflection.
Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue Complex
Visit the gleaming Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue, a 40m stainless-steel colossus that commands the plains east of the capital. Ride the elevator and steps up to the observation deck on the horse’s head for panoramic views over the steppe.
Explore the museum beneath the monument, viewing exhibits on Mongol-era armour, maps, and steppe culture. The site ties heroic imagery to the real landscapes that fueled the Mongol Empire’s mobility and power.
Nomadic Kazakh Village Visit in Sagsai
Spend a day immersed in nomadic Kazakh hospitality in Sagsai, near Olgii. Share tea, sample homemade yogurts and cheeses, and learn how families organize seasonal life between pastures, livestock, and richly decorated gers hung with embroidered textiles.
Hear stories of eagle hunting traditions and see the fine leatherwork and tack that support this practice. Music and crafts reflect a distinct Turkic heritage, adding color and cadence to Mongolia’s far west.
Golden Eagle Festival: Costume Pageant, Horse Racing & Archery
Join the crowds at the Golden Eagle Festival to witness a joyous Kazakh costume pageant, where fur-trimmed coats, silver jewelry, and embroidered hats dazzle against the Altai skyline. Cheer local riders in horse racing and archery events that display skill, speed, and tradition.
As dusk falls in Olgii, take your seat for a cultural performance featuring throat singing, folk dance, and dombra music. Costumes, choreography, and song bring the steppe’s epics to life on stage.
Golden Eagle Festival: Flight Trials, Camel Race & Kukhbar
Watch eagle hunters test their birds in dramatic eagle flight trials, recalling raptors from a ridge to the glove and chasing a fox-skin lure at speed. The partnership between hunter and bird is precise, athletic, and steeped in generations of knowledge.
Feel the ground tremble during the camel race, then thrill to kukhbar (kokpar), a high-energy tug over a goat skin played on horseback. Dust, drumbeats, and cheers make this a photographer’s dream.
Tumen Ekh Ensemble: Traditional Song & Dance Performance (Ulaanbaatar)
Experience the acclaimed Tumen Ekh Ensemble in Ulaanbaatar, where virtuoso musicians, dancers, and throat singing soloists present Mongolia’s rich performing arts. Expect morin khuur (horse-head fiddle) melodies, tsam masks, and athletic contortionists in a polished, theatre setting.
This evening performance is at additional cost and bookable on tour. It’s an engaging way to deepen your understanding of regional traditions before or after time spent in the countryside.
Welcome Dinner in Ulaanbaatar with Tour Briefing
Begin your journey by gathering to meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers over a convivial dinner in Ulaanbaatar. Savor a first taste of Mongolia with dishes such as steamed buuz dumplings, crisp khuushuur, and simple salads while your leader outlines the days ahead and shares practical tips for the steppe, desert, and mountain regions you’ll visit.
Discover the roots of nomadic hospitality, where guests are welcomed with warmth and curiosity. Expect a relaxed mood, generous portions, and conversation that sets the tone for the adventure to come, typically early in the tour.
Food
Traditional Mongolian diets are very meat and dairy heavy. Whilst there will be opportunities to try some of these products such as dry-curd and fermented mare’s milk, the meals provided in the ger camps are generally western meals, at times with an Asian influence. There will normally be some form of soup and salad as well as a main course and desert. Vegetarians are generally well catered for, if you are vegetarian or have other dietary requirements please make sure to inform us in advance. Breakfasts can vary from place to place, some are buffet style whilst others are set, normally cereal, bread and possibly a hot dish will be provided. On some days a pack lunch will be provided, this is often still a proper meal (though without the soup). Water is provided and will generally be from 5L water-containers so make sure to bring a water bottle to decant into. Tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer, vodka and (most of the time) wine are available to buy at the ger camps. There is opportunity to buy snacks in Ulaanbaatar and on a couple other occasions along the way when we drive through towns or villages.
