Gobi Desert Explorer

Day 1

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar

Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by your driver and guide and escorted to your hotel in the city.

After a quick refresh, you’ll meet your guide for a walk across Sukhbaatar Square past the giant statue of Chinggis Khaan to the National Museum, where you’ll gain an overview of this fascinating country.

End the day with a traditional Mongolian meal in a local restaurant.

Day 2

Ulaanbaatar – Dalanzadgad – Yolyn Am

It’s an early start today as you’re transferred back to the airport for the flight to Dalanzadgad. Your guide and driver will meet you and transport you to Yolyn Am in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains.

Check into your ger camp and set off for the walk to Eagle Canyon, where you can see ibex and Argali sheep. You may also spot massive Lammergeiers soaring overhead.

Day 3

Yolyn Am – Khongoryn Els

Today you’ll travel west through the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, where you’ll have another opportunity to spot ibex and gazelles.

Settle into your ger camp close to the Khongoryn Els, then head out to explore the famous ‘singing sands’. You’ll be driven to the foothills of the dunes then have the opportunity to trek to the top for sublime views.  

Day 4

Khongoryn Els

Start your day with a visit to a local camel breeder, where you’ll learn about their daily lives and gain an understanding of the importance of camels to desert life. Your visit ends with a camel trek across the desert.

Later, you’ll have another opportunity to climb up the dunes on foot for more wonderful desert landscapes.

Day 5

Khongoryn Els – Bayanzag

Today’s journey takes you to Bayanzag, known as the ‘Flaming Cliffs’ thanks to the reddish tinge of the desert rock. Enjoy a walk around the eerie landscape.

If you have time, you can visit the Khavtsgait Petroglyphs - rock art dating back to 8000 BC.

In the evening, enjoy uninterrupted views of the night sky.  

Day 6

Bayanzag – Dalanzadgad – Ulaanbaatar

This morning, you’ll return to Dalanzadgad for your flight to Ulaanbaatar.

Once you’ve checked into your hotel, your guide will take you on a shopping trip to the State Department Store, Gobi Cashmere and the Naran Tuul Market, where you’ll need good haggling skills and a watchful eye!

Day 7

Ulaanbaatar

Your final day begins with a trip to the majestic Gandantegchinlen Monastery, a Mongolian Buddhist monastery where you may experience the atmospheric sounds of monks chanting.

Next, head east to the gigantic Chinggis Khan equestrian monument at Tsonjin Boldog, where you can climb to the top of the horse’s head for panoramic views.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional performance of Mongolian music and dancing including throat singing, and tuck into a farewell meal at a local restaurant.

Day 8

Departure

Today you’ll be escorted to the airport for your onward journey.