Step out of your comfort zone and into the adventure of a lifetime when you take off on this 13 day adventure This trip encompasses the many stunning highlights of the world famous Gobi Desert and the lush, green surroundings of Central Mongolia. Driving southeast from Ulaanbaatar, you will pass through the Southeastern regions of the desert, allowing you to experience the vastness of this special landscape. Experience the unique beauty at the Ikh Nartiin Chuluu Nature Reserve, where you will witness locals living in harmony with nature. Among the rolling sand dunes and hills, activities include riding two humped Bactrian camels through the desert, visiting a Nomadic family, as well as enjoying the spectacular sunrises and sunsets that are on offer each day. Included is a trip to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, known for its iconic sand dunes, ice canyon, flaming cliffs, limestone formations, as well as many geological & archeological sites.
After wandering around Gobi, we will then head north to Central Mongolia. Here you will enjoy spectacular and lush greenery, swimming in waterfalls, as well as many famous cultural sites. Highlights include the ancient capital Khar Khorin and the Erdenezuu monastery.
The richly historic Orkhon river basin is the cradle of Central Asia’s unique nomadic Culture which has developed in harmony with the natural landscape and social environment since prehistoric times. There are a variety of historic sites and ruins, including monuments, monasteries and temples which are outstanding in universal value within this cultural landscape. The Orkhon Valley bears an exceptional testimony of the existence of human beings in Central Asia.
Once you are in the countryside exploring Mongolia it is our preference to stay with local nomadic family run ger camps. Gers will be shared by 4-5 travellers when we stay with a local family ger camps (only your group of travellers). As a Mongolian company we prefer to support these families financially, and help support their livelihood. We are sure this resonates with our travelers who enjoy engaging with their culture and way of life on the steppe. As well as directly supporting local herders, you can experience this rich traditional way of life first hand.
Please consider that travelling in the countryside of Mongolia can be quite remote. There are often no paved roads so driving can be bumpy and can take a little longer than you might be used to. Also, given the remoteness, western style comforts may not be available.
Western style and luxury options are available in some parts of Mongolia in the form of Tourist ger camps. Ger camps have comfortable beds, hot showers and western style amenities. These are not included in the price quoted in this itinerary. However, if you think that you would prefer to have access to these western style comforts then please let us know and we can adjust the quote for your itinerary.
Tour departure times can be flexible, however, 7 am on the morning of departure is recommended. The driver and guide can pick you up from the airport, train station, or your accommodation to suit your requirements.
Most of the meals on this tour are included in the tour price. All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. The majority of the shopping for food will be done before the trip departs, and fresh goods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, will be bought en-route during the trip from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and there will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads or local restaurants. All evening meals will be freshly prepared hot meals and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. Our GUIDE/COOK will organize the meal preparation and lead the way here. Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements can be catered for but need to be specified prior to arrival.
Summer months in Mongolia are from early June to mid September. Although the Mongolian summers are hot and dry with occasional rain, the temperature can fluctuate as much 14-20 degrees centigrade between day and night. So be prepared for all weather conditions.
Sleeping bag (we can provide one if you prefer), sunscreen, a hat, long underwear, shorts, comfortable footwear, lip balm, sanitary hand wipes, sunglasses, prescription medications (if needed), rain gear, flashlight & First Aid kit.
