This three-week adventure begins in the dramatic landscapes of the Gobi Desert, with its towering sand dunes and ancient canyons. From there we travel to the lush and culturally rich Orkhon Valley, the cradle of Mongolian civilization, then on to the forested mountains of Khangai. The journey continues to the deep blue waters of Lake Khovsgol, Mongolia’s most pristine lake, and ends at the serene and spiritual Amarbayasgalant Monastery. From desert to mountains, from steppe to sacred sites, this trip offers a vivid portrait of Mongolia’s natural beauty and nomadic soul.
Throughout the journey, accommodations are in comfortable ger camps except for two nights which are spent with a nomadic family. This is a special opportunity to experience and learn about traditional Mongolian nomadic life.
Upon arrival at Chinggis Khan International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and driver. Transfer to the Ulaanbaatar city center and check in at your hotel.
Visit the national museum of history, the largest museum in Mongolia, and discover the country's rich history.
Walk around the city center of Ulaanbaatar and visit Chinggis Khan Square.
The fabulous traditional Mongolian show of Tumen ekh will introduce you to Mongolian instruments, traditional dances, religious dances, traditional songs, overtone songs, and contortions in the evening.
Note: Our hotel is right in the city center, so we’ll enjoy walking around. With Ulaanbaatar’s busy traffic, walking is often the best way to explore.
Starting our adventure in the morning with a meeting with the Mongolian team, who will accompany us throughout the trip. A short stop at the supermarket before leaving the city.
Before leaving Ulaanbaatar, we visit Gandan Monastery, a major religious site in the city. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and a 25-meter-tall Buddha statue, it offers a glimpse into Mongolian Buddhist life.
Visit the granite mountains of Baga Gazariin Chuluu, known for their striking rock formations shaped by wind and time. In the 19th century, two revered lamas lived here, leaving inscriptions still visible today. Legend says Chinggis Khan once stayed in this scenic and peaceful place, ideal for a pleasant walk.
Holiday Inn Hotel
Local restaurant
Erdene Ukhaa camp
Arrival at Tsagaan Suvarga cliffs in the afternoon, where we take time to explore the striking white formations sculpted by wind and time. We enjoy panoramic views and take in the remarkable colors of this natural wonder, especially breathtaking at sunset.
Erdene Ukhaa camp
Tsagaan Suvarga Camp
Tsagaan Suvarga Camp
We pass through Dalanzadgad city — the capital of Umnugovi province and often called the capital of the Gobi. This city has grown rapidly in recent years, as the nearby Oyu Tolgoi mine, one of the world’s largest gold and copper deposits operated by Rio Tinto, has attracted many people to settle and work in the region.
We arrive at the stunning Yoliin am Canyon, a breathtaking destination for nature lovers. Also known as the Canyon of Eagles, it is home to wild birds such as eagles and vultures.
A two-hour walk deep in the canyon — a peaceful trail between high cliffs, with chances to see birds, wildlife, and patches of ice. A cool, mysterious atmosphere in the gorge."
Tsagaan Suvarga Camp
Local restaurant
Khan Bogd Camp
Visit the Khongor Sand Dunes, stretching 130 km across the Gobi — vast, golden, and breathtaking. In this area, nomadic families settle near oases and rivers, where water supports their livestock and way of life.
We will climb the highest dune of Khongor, which reaches about 300 meters in height — an unforgettable experience. From the top, we can enjoy breathtaking views of the endless sand dunes. When the sand moves with the wind or shifts in small avalanches, it creates a deep, echoing sound, which has earned these dunes the name “Singing Sands.”
Continuation to Dungenee Canyon — a remote and peaceful area, home to wild animals like ibex and gazelle. Rare appearances, cautious movements, and the quiet thrill of spotting them in their natural habitat.
Going on a camel ride is a fun and relaxing experience. The ride offers views of the surrounding landscape and leads to a quiet spot near the hills, where saxaul bushes grow.
Khan Bogd camp
Picnic prepared by the camp
Gobi Discovery camp
Visit Khavtsgait Petroglyphs , a rocky hill known for its ancient carvings. These prehistoric artworks show scenes of daily life, animals, and beliefs of early nomadic people in the Gobi region. The round-trip hike takes about one hour, with petroglyphs to discover along the way and open views across the desert.
Visit Bayanzag cliffs, also known as the Flaming Cliffs. These red formations are famous for their beauty at sunset and for the discovery of many dinosaur fossils. In 1922, Roy Chapman Andrews found the first fossilized dinosaur eggs at this site. Often called the Cemetery of Dragons, Bayanzag combines natural beauty, historical importance, and scientific value. It is one of the highlights of any journey through Mongolia.
Gobi Discovery Camp
Picnic prepared by the camp
Gobi Mirage Camp
This is our final day in the Gobi Desert. After breakfast, we head north to visit the ruins of the ancient Ongi Monastery.
Ongi Monastery is a remarkable historical site in southern Mongolia. Built in the 17th century, it was once one of the largest monasteries in the country and served as one of Mongolia’s first universities. At its peak, it housed up to 2,000 monks and played a major role as a religious and educational center. Today, only the ruins remain, offering visitors a glimpse into Mongolia’s cultural and spiritual past.
Gobi Mirage Camp
Picnic prepared by the camp
Secret of Ongi - Camp
We leave the dry and rough land of the Gobi and enter the green mountains of Khangai. The big change in the landscape shows how different nature can be in Mongolia.
Arrival at Kharkhorin city , the ancient capital of Mongolia. Once the heart of the Mongol Empire, now a place of historical landmarks, wide steppe views, and cultural heritage.
Visit to the Kharkhorin museum, the ancient capital of Mongolia. In 1235, Ögedei Khan, son of Chinggis Khan, built the city in the Orkhon Valley to honor his father’s vision.
Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in 1586 by Abtai Khan, a descendant of Chinggis Khan. Following the advice of the 3rd Dalai Lama, he chose the site of the ancient Mongol capital for its construction.
Secret of Ongi
Local restaurant
Secret of Torgonii zam camp
We head into the heart of the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich nomadic traditions. Each summer, herders settle here with their animals, offering a glimpse into Mongolia’s timeless way of life. Surrounded by rivers, mountains, and wide green steppes, we will spend the next two days in this beautiful valley.
We will arrive at a nomadic family, where we will stay for two nights. During our stay, we take part in daily chores such as milking cows, making traditional dairy products, and gathering firewood. This hands-on experience offers a unique insight into the nomadic way of life and helps us appreciate the simplicity and beauty of living close to nature.
Secret of Torgonii zam camp
Local restaurant
Prepared by the family
Today is a quiet day with time to rest and enjoy the peaceful life in the valley. We can relax or join the family in some activities like milking animals cooking or collecting firewood. A calm day close to nature.
Horseback ride to the famous Orkhon Waterfall, a 24-meter drop surrounded by nature. Peaceful riding across the open steppe, with wide grasslands and beautiful views along the way.
In the evening, our generous host will prepare a traditional Mongolian dish called Khorkhog , also known as “Mongolian barbecue made with hot stones.” This unique culinary experience involves cooking meat and vegetables on heated stones inside a sealed container, resulting in a rich, smoky, and flavorful meal.
Prepared by the team
Prepared by the family
It is time to say goodbye to our nomadic family. After two meaningful days together, we leave with warm memories and deep appreciation for their way of life.
We will visit Tovkhon Monastery, founded by Öndör Gegeen Zanabazar in 1648. Located at 2,312 meters, the site includes temples, a meditation cave, and a sacred footprint. Further up is Ekhiin Khevlii, or “Mother’s Womb,” where pilgrims crawl inside for symbolic rebirth. At the top, an ovoo and a flat rock mark the place where Zanabazar created famous works. The round-trip hike takes about 1.5 hours through quiet forest paths.
We arrive at Tsenkher Hot Spring in the afternoon and settle into a traditional ger camp. Natural hot spring water at 86.5°C fills outdoor pools, offering a peaceful and relaxing experience surrounded by nature.
Prepared by the team
Prepared by team
Duut Resort
Arrival at Tsetserleg City , capital of Arkhangai province. A short stop at a large supermarket for supplies such as food, water, and essentials before continuing the journey.
Visit Zayan Gegeen Monastery , a historic Buddhist site in Tsetserleg. Built in the 18th century, the monastery features Tibetan-style architecture and once served as an important religious center in central Mongolia. Its peaceful setting and restored temple offer insight into Mongolia’s spiritual heritage.
Arrival at Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, a beautiful area shaped by ancient volcanic activity. The 16 km long freshwater lake, surrounded by forested hills and lava fields, offers a peaceful setting for two days of rest and nature.
Duut Resort
Local restaurant
Maikhan Tolgoi Camp
Today, we’ll take a short hike to Khorgo volcano, which will take about 2 to 3 hours. Khorgo is an extinct volcano located in Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, known for its rugged lava fields and striking rock formations. The crater rises around 200 meters and offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. At the top, traces of ancient eruptions and the natural beauty of the White Lake area create a memorable scene. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful shore of White Lake.
Maikhan Tolgoi Camp
Maikhan Tolgoi Camp
Maikhan Tolgoi Camp
We will be heading towards Khovsgol National Park, one of the most beautiful regions in Mongolia. Since the route covers a long distance, we split the journey into two days. The drive is scenic and rewarding, with stunning landscapes throughout. Along the way, we can make a stop at Zuun lake, which is well known for its natural salt. Local nomads collect this salt and feed it to their herd animals.
Maikhan Tolgoi Camp
Local restaurant
Ulziit Khishig Camp
We arrive at Moron city, the capital of Khovsgol province. A small but lively city with paved streets, shops, and a local market where we stop to buy water, petrol, and other supplies before continuing our journey.
We will visit Uushigiin Uvur Deer Stone Complex, a Bronze Age archaeological site featuring intricately carved standing stones with deer and human motifs, believed to be part of ancient ritual practices.
Arrival at Khovsgol lake, home to a 136 km-long freshwater lake surrounded by forested mountains and alpine meadows. We will stay here for the next three days, enjoying the calm nature and beautiful scenery.
Ulziit Khishig Camp
Local restaurant
Alag Tsar Camp
Today, we will ride on horseback while our luggage, ger, and beds are carried by yak carts. Upon reaching our campsite, we’ll build our own ger together with the Mongolian team and spend the night inside the traditional home we’ve assembled ourselves — an unforgettable nomadic experience.
Alag Tsar Camp
Alag Tsar Baaz
Prepared by the team
We return to the ger camp with our ger and luggage transported by yak. Arrival is expected around noon. The rest of the day is free for relaxation by the lake shore.
On the way back to the ger camp through the forest, we may have the chance to spot Tsaatan reindeer herders with their animals among the trees. While not guaranteed, encountering these rare reindeer in their natural setting is a special and memorable experience unique to northern Mongolia.
Prepared by the team
Alag Tsar Camp
Alag Tsar Camp
We continue our journey toward Uran Togoo volcanic mountain. This extinct volcano rises gently from the surrounding plains and is known for its perfect crater shape covered in forest. The area offers peaceful scenery and is a nice contrast to the lake region.
Hiking along the lake shore followed by a route heading southeast toward Khorgo Volcano reaching 2240 meters. An easy ascent to the summit with panoramic views of the lake and nearby hills. In the surrounding area ancient lava flows forming a striking and unusual landscape different from previous scenery.
Alag Tsar Camp
Local restaurant
Unit Camp
Arrival in Erdenet, a major industrial and cultural center in northern Mongolia known as the second largest city in the country. Surrounded by green hills and wide valleys the city developed around one of the world’s largest copper mines. Erdenet offers a mix of Soviet-era architecture local markets and quiet residential areas reflecting both Mongolia’s modern history and everyday life.
Exploration of Amarbayasgalant Monastery, one of the most important and best-preserved Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia. Located in a peaceful valley the site reflects classical Buddhist architecture and spiritual tradition with symmetrically aligned temples and surrounding hills.
Unit Camp
Local restaurant
Amarbayasgalant Urguu Camp
Final day of the journey marking the end of an unforgettable exploration through the landscapes culture and daily life of Mongolia. A time for reflection moments of rest and preparation for the return.
Free time in the afternoon. For those interested the guide may accompany the group to a local shopping center offering souvenirs crafts and small gifts to take home.
Amarbayasgalant Urguu Camp
Local restaurant
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport or train station will be arranged according to each traveler’s departure schedule.
Holiday Inn Hotel
I want to privatise this tour for me and my friends / family
Participant(s) | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 - 6 | 7 - 10 |
Price per person | 5,590 $ | 4,330 $ | 3,690 $ | 3,090 $ | 2,890 $ |
Participant(s) | Price per person |
2 | 5,590 $ |
3 | 4,330 $ |
4 | 3,690 $ |
5 - 6 | 3,090 $ |
7 - 10 | 2,890 $ |
Included
Local guide
Driver
Vehicle + Gasoline
Cook for group of 5 or more travelers
Equestrian guide + saddle + bomb
Transfer + airport + hotel + airport
2 nights in Holiday Inn Hotel - 5 star
15 night in comfortable ger camp
2 nights in Nomad family, in guest yurt
1 night in a ger built by us
Horse riding fee
Camel riding fee
National park entrance fees
Tickets of the monasteries and museums mentioned in the itinerary
Traditional show in Ulaanbaatar
Mineral water during a trip
All the meals (except in Ulaanbaatar)
Equipments for camping
Not included
International trasport
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Meals and drinks in Ulaanbaatar
Extra drinks / alcohol
Any excursion that is not indicated in the program
Phone calls
A ger camp is like a comfortable countryside hotel, but with a unique Mongolian touch. Located near natural wonders and historic sites, it offers an ideal blend of comfort and authenticity.
Each ger is a traditional round felt tent, furnished like a hotel room with cozy beds, fresh linens, a table, chairs, and sometimes a small stove for warmth. Most gers accommodate two to four people, making them perfect for couples, families, or friends.
Guests enjoy hotel-like amenities including hot showers, clean toilets, electricity (usually available during set hours), and an on-site restaurant serving Mongolian and international meals. Many ger camps also have a bar or lounge area to relax after a day of exploring.
Some premium ger camps offer luxury gers with private bathrooms and en-suite showers — providing the comfort of a hotel room in the heart of the Mongolian countryside.
Whether in the steppe, desert, or mountains, ger camps offer a comfortable and memorable way to experience the nomadic lifestyle, without giving up modern conveniences.
The Holiday Inn is a modern international hotel located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, offering high-standard comfort for both business and leisure travelers. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring the city’s major sights like Sukhbaatar Square, national museums, and top restaurants.
When travelers stay with a nomadic family, they enjoy a unique and immersive accommodation experience. Guests are hosted in individual gers (traditional yurts), each suitable for up to 4 people and equipped with beds, chairs, and tables. The agency provides shower facilities and a dry toilet, ensuring a comfortable yet authentic stay.
This stay offers more than just a place to sleep—it’s a deep cultural exchange that allows guests to witness and take part in Mongolia’s living traditions. The connection with nature, the simplicity of daily life, and the warm hospitality make it a truly memorable part of any journey.