This trip encompasses the many stunning highlights of the world famous Gobi Desert, as well as the lush, green surroundings of Central and Northern 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 the 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 the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, known for its iconic sand dunes, ice canyon, flaming cliffs, lime stone formations, as well as many geological and archeological sites.
After wandering around the Gobi, we will then head north to Central Mongolia. Here you will enjoy spectacular and lush greenery, swimming in freshwater lakes and waterfalls, as well as many famous cultural sites. Highlights include the ancient capital Khar Khorin, the Erdenezuu monastery.
Northern Mongolia is the perfect destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife. You will visit Lake Khuvsgul, which contains 65 percent of all the fresh water in Mongolia. The surrounding mountains and forests are perfectly suited for wildlife observation, as they provide a habitat for more than sixty species. The Khuvsgul Lake area is also a great place to observe the variety of bird life and mammals, as well as explore the various hiking trails. Northern Mongolia is also home to the famous Tsaatan Reindeer people, an ethnic group that has remained virtually unchanged since the Ice Age. The Tsaatan are reindeer herders who seemingly live on the edge of civilization. With snow-capped mountains on every side, it truly seems possible that no person has ever stepped foot in some areas of the Taiga region. The isolation is consuming and beautiful – no wonder the Tsaatan refuse to leave their home.
During your time in Ulaanbaatar you will stay in a centrally located hotel, walking distance from many attractions and amenities. Once you are in the countryside exploring Mongolia it is our preference to stay with local nomadic families if they have an extra Ger. Gers will be shared by 5 people when we stay with a local family. 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.
Accommodation will be comfortable but basic with little access to hot water and western style bathroom facilities.
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 including breakfast in the hotel in Ulaanbaatar. 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 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, sunscreen, a hat, gloves, long underwear for travel in the high mountains, comfortable footwear, lip balm, sanitary hand wipes, sunglasses, prescription medications (if needed), rain gear, flashlight.
