Mongolia is an archeological hot spot. As we know many ancient cultures left behind many different artifacts, and written records providing information about their day to day lives. These fascinating discoveries also often help us conserve culture, ancient wealth, religion, hierarchy, important dates, property, ownership and etc.
Chinggis Khaan International Airport (Google Map)
3 Hours Before Flight Time
| Number of travellers | Price per traveller |
|---|---|
| 2 – 4 people | 2000$ |
| 5 – 6 people | 1800$ |
| 7 – 8 people | 1600$ |
Welcome to Mongolia! Today marks the beginning of your adventure as you meet your tour guide for the first time at the airport. We understand that you may be tired after your long flight, so rest assured, we’ll take you to a centrally located hotel where you can unwind and recharge.
As this is your first-ever experience in Mongolia, we want you to fully enjoy every moment of your stay. If you need any assistance with accommodation or anything else, please don’t hesitate to let us know at any time. Building a friendly rapport with your tour guide and driver will make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable.
After you’ve had some rest at the hotel, we’ll head out for lunch before embarking on a short city tour. Our first stop will be the Museum of National History, where you’ll discover thousands of historical artifacts ranging from petroglyphs of the Neolithic period to the present day, providing insights into Mongolian culture, customs, and the diverse ethnic heritage that defines Mongolia’s value.
Following our museum visit, we’ll take a leisurely walk downtown before continuing our journey to the Zaisan Monument, a World War II memorial, to catch the breathtaking view of the sunset over Ulaanbaatar.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 60km from Airport to hotel
Accommodation: Overnight at a 3-star hotel
Get ready to capture some breathtaking shots! Today, we embark on a hike through the Grand Canyon of Tsagaan Suvarga, a stunning location reminiscent of the American Wild West nestled in the heart of the Gobi Desert. As we traverse through this unique landscape, you’ll be awestruck by the mesmerizing vertical gradient of colors formed by layers of sediment deposited during the ancient times when the sea once covered this area.
Prepare to be amazed by the grandeur of these natural wonders as we explore the rugged beauty of the canyon. We’ll have the opportunity to hike for approximately 2 hours, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the spectacular scenery that surrounds us.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 450km
Accommodation: Overnight at a tourist camp
Today, we embark on an unforgettable journey to Gurvan Saikhan Park, also known as “Three Beauties Park,” the largest national park in Mongolia. Here, we will marvel at the breathtaking scenery of Yol Canyon, where we can explore its winding paths and discover the rich local fauna and flora. This magnificent place serves as the habitat for a variety of endangered species, including snow leopards, lammergeyers (bearded vultures), Gobi ibex, wild sheep, and monk vultures.
Upon entering the park, we will make a stop at the Natural Museum to view the fascinating displays of stuffed animals and taxidermy. Then, we’ll venture into the labyrinthine paths of Yol Canyon, where the mystery of ice awaits us. Despite being situated in the desert, the eternal snows of the canyon persist late into the summer, with temperatures reaching 25°C. However, it’s important to note that in recent years, the snow has been melting earlier due to global warming. Nevertheless, we will immerse ourselves in the beauty of this panoramic landscape and cherish every moment.
After enjoying a picnic lunch upon our return to the vehicle, we’ll continue our journey to Uujim Valley and Gurvan Saikhan Mountain, where we’ll explore the famous archaeological sites of the Gobi. Along the way, we’ll stumble upon the ancient rock paintings known as the “Khavtsgait Petroglyphs,” nestled in the wilderness beside the canyon. Here, we’ll embark on a small hike to explore these historic treasures for approximately an hour before heading to our campsite to unwind and relax.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 250km
Accommodation: Overnight at a tourist camp
Today, we embark on an exhilarating journey to the edge of Gurvansaikhan Gobi National Park, where we’ll encounter the magnificent Khongoryn Els, also known as the “Singing Dunes.” These towering sand dunes, reaching heights of over 300 meters, span 12 kilometers in width and extend over 100 kilometers. Though the climb to the top of the dune may be challenging, the reward is well worth it. As you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted with an extraordinary panorama of the desert, where your gaze will be lost in the vast expanse of hills while the wind whispers melodies through the sand.
From the pinnacle of the dune, you’ll witness the endless stretch of mountains on one side and the vast steppe on the other, offering a breathtaking view that’s bound to leave you in awe. Your efforts to reach this vantage point will be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as you immerse yourself in the silky sands and admire their timeless beauty.
Furthermore, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the nomadic way of life in the Gobi region. You can even join in on their daily chores and activities, soaking in the authentic cultural experience. Spend the day with a host family, riding camels, and marveling at the captivating views of the Gobi landscape. Camels, traditionally raised in Mongolia alongside horses, cows, and yaks, play an essential role in daily life, serving as a mode of transportation and providing their smooth, warm, and silky wool.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 150km
Activity: 1-hour camel riding
Accommodation: Overnight in a nomadic yurt
Today marks the beginning of our journey back from Khongoryn Els, the westernmost point of our Gobi tour. Our destination for tonight is Bayanzag, famously known as the “Flaming Cliffs.” Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to revisit the Western Beauty Mountains, where we’ll venture into a winding valley leading to a temple and meditation retreat established on a small rugged peak by the local community. The ongoing work of extending the temple complex high above the desert plains to the North showcases the dedication of the local community. A short climb up the stone stairways will reward us with yet another captivating view of the surrounding landscape, with the possibility of spotting ibex in the rugged mountains nearby.
After our visit to the temple, we’ll continue our journey towards the vicinity of Bayanzag.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 130 km
Activity: 1-hour walking
Accommodation: Overnight at a tourist camp
In the morning, we set out to explore the famous site of “Bayanzag,” also known as the “Flaming Cliffs.” This remarkable landscape features stunning red sediments, adorned with canyons, escarpments, and sand dunes below. Renowned as one of the most significant dinosaur sites globally, Bayanzag gained international acclaim through the expeditions led by the American Museum of Natural History in the 1920s, spearheaded by Roy Chapman Andrews. Mongolian and international scientists have conducted excavations here, unearthing remarkable discoveries such as dinosaur eggs, protoceratops specimens, bird-like dinosaurs, and the crocodile Shamosuchus. Plans for a modern visitor center at “Bayanzag Park” are underway to further enhance the visitor experience.
During our visit, we’ll embark on an extended walk amidst the canyons and cliff tops, taking in the breathtaking scenery. It’s essential to exercise caution and avoid venturing onto or below overhanging promontories. Amidst the red terrain, green desert plants provide a striking contrast, while living reptiles, including small lizards camouflaged among the rocks and sand, seek shelter around the vegetation. The Mongolian name “Bayanzag” translates to the abundance of Saxaul (zag) bushes in the surrounding plains of the Flaming Cliffs.
In the afternoon, we journey back to Dalanzadgad, the provincial capital of the South Gobi province, where we’ll spend the night in a hotel. If time permits, you’ll have the opportunity to visit one of the local museums, which showcase the rich history and natural wonders of the region, or explore the camel museum.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 100 km
Activity: 1-hour walking
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel
We begin our journey back to Ulaanbaatar bright and early. To make the drive more enjoyable, we make a detour about halfway to our destination to visit Baga Gazriin Chuluu, a captivating landscape adorned with granite rock formations. This local protected area is not only visually stunning but also serves as a habitat for Argali, the majestic mountain sheep. Nestled within this picturesque landscape is an old monastery, adding a touch of cultural richness to the natural beauty surrounding it.
Here, we’ll take a break for a delightful picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings before continuing our drive for the final stretch to Ulaanbaatar.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 550 km
Activity: 2 hours of walking
Accommodation: Overnight at a 3-star hotel
Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy more of what Ulaanbaatar city has to offer before we bid you farewell. Whether you choose to explore the city’s vibrant markets, visit cultural landmarks, or simply soak in the atmosphere of the bustling streets, there’s plenty to see and do.
When it’s time to depart, we’ll drive you to the airport, where we’ll say our goodbyes with a traditional Mongolian farewell, “Bayartai.”
Meal: Breakfast
Distance: 60 km
