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  • Mongolia Highlights - The Gobi desert & Karakorum | Premium Travel Mongolia

10 Days - 9 Nights | from US$325 per day, per person

Mongolia Highlights - The Gobi desert & Karakorum

2023-08-01
Central & Southern Mongolia
2 ~ 8 people

VISIT THE GOBI DESERT, KARAKORUM AND MORE 

This overland journey will take you through the best of Central and Southern Mongolia as well as the essential sights and cultural performances in/around the capital city Ulaanbaatar. The first leg of the tour will guide you across Central Mongolia visiting Bayan Gobi small sand dunes, the ancient capital at Karakorum with the legendary Erdene Zuu Monastery, and the UNESCO world heritage Orkhon River Valley. On the second part of the journey, you will tour the highlights of the mysterious Gobi Desert such as visiting the Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs to explore for dinosaur remains, enjoying a sunset camel ride at the Khongor sand dunes and oasis, and hiking in the glacial Yoliin Am Gorge with glimpses of rare wildlife. And make sure you prepare your camera and batteries well as Mongolia’s a super photogenic country.

Besides, Mongolia is the home of hearty nomadic people, whose lifestyle has not changed a lot since the days of Genghis Khan and his empire. You might have heard many stories of travelers being dazed by the sincere hospitality of the nomads. However, if you look deeper into their spirit, you will witness how strong, stern nomadic men can be moved to tears by their racehorses rushing to a finish line. Their lifestyle, religion, and philosophy are shaped by the "Mother Nature" to a great degree; and nomadic customs, music, literature, and costumes have been passed through centuries. And in this hectic 21st century only Mongolian nomads welcome strangers with unlocked doors. There will be plenty of occasions you will meet real nomadic people and enjoy their heart-warming hospitality during the journey.

Premium Travel Mongolia tour guides are knowledgeable, experienced, and are happy to be the ambassadors of their country. Plus, travelling extensively in remote Mongolia and discovering the wonders doesn’t mean rough travel conditions all the time. We utilize comfortable 4×4 vehicles with AC, clean and comfy Ger camps (en-suite upgrade available) to complete your wonderful Mongolia stay with us. 

Tour map

Trip plan

Your international flight/train to Mongolia is on your own arrangement. After custom formalities and baggage claim, you will be met by a Premium Travel driver and taken to the centrally located hotel in Ulaanbaatar.

Accommodation: BW Tuushin Hotel 5*; Meals: No meals planned on this day

Meet with your tour guide and the rest of the group at 9 a.m in the morning and start the Ulaanbaatar city tour. Today, we will visit the principal sites of Ulaanbaatar including the Gandan monastery – home to the 26m gilded statue of Megjid Janraisag, and the National Museum of Mongolia, Chinggis Khan museum, and walk the Main Square.

After welcome lunch at an excellent Mongolian restaurant, we visit the fabled Bogd Khaan’s Palace Museum Return to Ulaanbaatar in the evening and transfer to your hotel.

Accommodation: BW Tuushin Hotel 5*; Meals: B, L

We will meet at 8.00 am to pack the vehicles and kick-start the tour. Our journey begins as we drive for approximately 3 hours to reach the stunning Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the tourist camp for a delightful lunch.

In the afternoon, we'll explore the Erdene Khamba monastery ruins nestled in the picturesque Khugnu Khaan Mountain, with the opportunity for some invigorating hiking. Our adventure then takes us to Karakorum, the ancient capital of Mongolian Empires. Here, we will check into a Ger camp and dedicate 1 to 2 hours to visit the Karakorum archaeological museum and get some knowledge about the UNESCO world heritage Orkhon River Valley and the ancient capital Karakorum. We'll return to the Ger camp to savor a delicious dinner before resting and spending the night.

Our accommodation for the night will be at the Silk Road Ger camp (standard Ger), where we'll rest and recharge for the adventures to come. Meals: B, L, D

In the morning, we will commence our day with a visit to the Erdene Zuu Monastery, a significant site as it is the oldest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, established in 1586. We'll have the unique opportunity to participate in the morning chants, immersing ourselves in the spiritual atmosphere.

Our journey continues as we visit a nomadic family, allowing us to gain insights into their daily culture, traditions, and the activities that shape their lives. You'll even have the chance to try your hand at making some traditional dairy products and sample them.

As the day winds down, we will savor a delicious "Khorkhog" dinner, a Mongolian specialty featuring roasted barbecue with tender mutton.

Silk Road Ger camp (standard Ger). Meals: B, L, D

Today, our journey takes us southwards, leading us toward the mesmerizing Gobi Desert. As we venture forth, the landscape gradually transforms into a semi-desert terrain, treating us to some scenic views along the way. By the afternoon, we will arrive at the Ongi Monastery Ruins, where we'll pause for a lunch en route. And we'll embark on a walking excursion to explore the fascinating monastery ruins, delving into the rich history they hold. Our adventure continues as we drive further into Southern Mongolia, reaching the renowned Gobi Desert. Upon arrival, we'll check into the Dream Gobi Lodge, where you can look forward to a special dinner at the camp.
Then drive to the Bayanzag Flaming – it’s the place where American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews found dinosaur eggs for the 1st time. We will visit the Bayanzag by foot or car. Enjoy the wilderness and unique natural formations. Explore around for dinosaur remains and walking in the saxaul forest. Watch the inspiring Gobi sunset over the Flaming Cliffs in the evening. Transfer to Ger camp and rest.

Dream Gobi lodge (standard Ger). Meals: B, L, D

Enjoy watching the Gobi sunrise and after having breakfast at the Ger camp, we drive to the glacial Yoliin Am Gorge in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, the eastern end of the majestic Altai Mountains. Visit the national park museum that informs guests about the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National park, its’ flora, and fauna as well as dinosaur remains.

Then take walking to the beautiful narrow Yoliin Am Gorge with occasional views of rare wildlife. Visit the Khavtsgait petroglyph in the afternoon. Drive back to Ger camp, have dinner, and rest.

Dream Gobi lodge (standard Ger). Meals: B, L, D

Today, we will take a day excursion to Khongor sand dunes – Mongolia’s largest and most beautiful sand dunes that stretch over 180km in the arid Gobi Desert. The drive to the dunes at Khongoriin takes about 3 hours one way, passing through vast desert badlands that span out into the furthest distances, where remote mountains line the horizon. Arrive at the Ger camp by the sand dunes and have lunch.

Afterward, visit the Khongor sand dunes and visit camel breeder nomadic family and try camel yogurt and camel riding. You also may want to climb the beautiful sand dunes, some are as high as 300m. Lone Gers and nomads on camelback hang suspended in the mirages, whilst the desert floor is strewn with a range of colorful rocks and unusual minerals. This is the Gobi at its stark best – there are many opportunities to take photographs of the landscapes and people. In the evening drive back to the camp.

Dream Gobi Lodge (standar Ger). Meals: B, L, D

Have early breakfast and then drive to the small Gobi Desert airport (~60min drive) and take the flight to Ulaanbaatar. Transfer to the hotel and rest and optional shopping for cashmere/souvenir. Then see a folklore concert by the magnificent Tumen Ekh ensemble featuring Khoomei – Mongolian throat singing and contortion performance.

Accommodation: BW Tuushin Hotel 5*; Meals: B, L

A day excursion, we drive onward to witness the awe-inspiring Giant Genghis Monument. Standing tall at an impressive 46 meters, this monumental equestrian statue of Genghis Khan on horseback stands as the largest of its kind in the world, a testament to the indomitable spirit of Mongolia's history.

Our exploration continues as we set out for the renowned Terelj National Park. Our journey unfolds with a visit to the iconic Turtle Rock, a natural wonder that evokes the imagination. To truly immerse ourselves in the park's beauty, we'll visit the Temple of Meditation. Optional horseback riding. As our day's adventures draw to a close, we make our way back to Ulaanbaatar, enjoy farerwell dinner.

Accommodation: BW Tuushin Hotel 5*; Meals: B, L, D

Extend your tour with another tour or transfer to the airport for flight home.

Meals: B.

Price details

2 PAX

US$3250

Departures 2025: June 16-25; July 01-10; July 13-22; July 25-Aug 03; Aug 08-17; Aug 24-Sept 03; Sept 07-16;

NAADAM ADD - ON is available: 11 - 12 Jul

Single supplement: US$TBA

4 PAX

US$2900

Departures 2025: June 16-25; July 01-10; July 13-22; July 25-Aug 03; Aug 08-17; Aug 24-Sept 03; Sept 07-16;

NAADAM ADD - ON is available: 11 - 12 Jul

Single supplement: US$TBA

FOR MORE PEOPLE

US$ASK

Departures 2025: June 16-25; July 01-10; July 13-22; July 25-Aug 03; Aug 08-17; Aug 24-Sept 03; Sept 07-16;

NAADAM ADD - ON is available: 11 - 12 Jul

Single supplement: US$550

What's included

Included services:

    Full-time services of your excellent English-speaking local guide (Day 2-9)
    Sightseeing admissions and excursion according to the program
    Private transfers (Land Cruisers: 3 passengers + 1 driver I each vehicle) + fuel, road taxes
    Airport transfers & transportation in Ulaanbaatar & around (minivan/saloon car)
    Twin/double share accommodation throughout the tour: (4 nights in Ulaanbaatar at 5* hotel; 5 nights in a standard Ger camp)
    Meals as listed (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
    The Gobi to Ulaanbaatar flight + Tax (15+5kg free luggage included)
    2-times nomadic family visit
    0.5 l x 3 bottled water per day/pax
    Visa support invitation letter where applicable
    Exclusive Mongolia tour souvenir!

Not Included in the price:

  • International Airfare/train ticket + Tax
  • Travel and health insurance.
  • Visa fees if applicable
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, camera or video fees at any sites etc.
  • Tips for your guide and driver (discretionary).
  • Optional activities such as horseback riding, archery, fishing etc

A trusted local expert for your MONGOLIAN TRAVELS here!

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WhatsApp: +976-9909-0087

What to expect?

Discover Mongolia at its Finest!

  • Tailored experiential Mongolia tours for your small group of 2 to 8 people!
  • Stay in good hotels and en-suite Gers!
  • Enjoy the comfort and convenience in Air-Conditioned 4x4 Jeeps on dirt tracks!
  • Create unforgettable memories together with our experienced Guides!
  • Embark on a flavorful journey with our exhilarating Mongolian cooking classes!
  • There is no other experience like Mongolia!

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Suite 19, level 1. New Dream 24/5. Khan-Uul district, Ulaanbaatar 17041, MONGOLIA

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Suite 19, level 1. New Dream 24/5. Khan-Uul district, Ulaanbaatar 17041, MONGOLIA

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Suite 19, level 1. New Dream 24/5. Khan-Uul district, Ulaanbaatar 17041, MONGOLIA