This trip encompasses the many stunning highlights of the world- famous Gobi Desert and the lush, green surroundings of Central Mongolia. Driving south from Ulaanbaatar, you will pass through the Middle and Southern regions of the desert, allowing you to experience the vastness of this special landscape. 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, lime stone 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 freshwater Great White lake and waterfalls, as well as many famous cultural sites. Highlights include the ancient capital Khar Khorin, the Erdenezuu monastery, as well as visiting Khustai National Park to catch a glimpse of the Mongolian wild horses.
While exploring the countryside of Mongolia, we prefer to stay with local nomadic family ger camps. Gers are traditional Mongolian felt tents and are usually shared by 3–5 people from your group only. You will not share the ger with other travelers, hosts, guides, or drivers.
As a Mongolian company, we aim to support local families and their livelihoods, while giving travelers the chance to experience the authentic culture and daily life of herders on the steppe.
Some camps have basic Western-style facilities, so there will be a few nights with showers available during this tour. However, please note that travel in rural Mongolia can be remote and sometimes bumpy, as many roads are unpaved and Western-style comforts may not always be available.
For those who prefer more comfort, tourist ger camps with hot showers and Western-style facilities are available in some areas. These upgraded accommodations are not included in the current price, but we can adjust the itinerary and quotation if preferred.
Tour departure times can be flexible, however due to heavy traffic 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 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 will organize the meal preparation and lead the way here. Vegetarian/Vegan 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 sleeping bag, if your luggage is full), sleeping bag liner, sunscreen, a hat, long underwear, shorts, comfortable footwear, lip balm, sanitary hand wipes, sunglasses, prescription medications (if needed), rain gear, flashlight.
