The Best of Mongolia
The Gobi Desert & Karakorum Beyond Tour
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Embark on an unforgettable journey through Southern Mongolia’s highlights. Discover the towering Khongor sand dunes, the stunning Yolyn Am glacial canyon, and the crimson Bayanzag cliffs, renowned for their rich trove of dinosaur fossils. Traverse diverse landscapes, from the arid Gobi Desert to the central Mongolian steppe, forging connections with Gobi camel herders and central Mongolian nomads. Each day brings new experiences, from serene wilderness hikes to immersive encounters with nomadic families. Feel the thrill of camel riding across the Gobi’s vast expanse as you explore the heart of Mongolia.
Upon arrival Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. You are met at the airport and transferred to check in your hotel.
In the morning start at Gandan Monastery, home to the 26-meter statue of Janraisag, the deity of compassion, and attend the morning chanting at one of the old temples. Next, visit Sukhbaatar Square, where you’ll see statues of Chinggis Khaan and his descendants in front of the State House. In the afternoon, explore the newly established Chinggis Khaan Museum, offering an overview of Mongolia's history, from the Hunnu Empire to the Great Mongol Empire.
Today’s expedition leads us to Tsagaan Suvarga, a remarkable sedimentary formation that harks back to an ancient seabed. Our journey spans approximately 6-7 hours, punctuated by a refreshing lunch break in Mandagovi town. Upon arrival at the camp, you’ll check in and settle in for a rewarding adventure. We’ll embark on an excursion to the Tsagaan Suvarga scarps, where you can revel in a captivating hike amidst the vibrant cliffs, ascending toward the summit for breathtaking views. Stay at Tsagaan Suvarga Camp or similar.
Today, we embark on a picturesque journey to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, a drive that spans approximately four to five hours, allowing us ample opportunities for scenic photography stops. Our expedition includes a pit stop in Dalanzadgad, a charming Gobi town, where we’ll explore the newly constructed Umnugovi province museum and savor a delightful lunch. Following our visit to Dalanzadgad, we’ll embark on a brief drive to reach the enchanting Yolyn Am. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to partake in a one-hour hike from our parking spot, immersing yourself in the breath-taking natural beauty. Eventually, we’ll transfer to ger camp - stay at Gobi Mirage Camp or similar.
After breakfast, we'll drive 4-5 hours to Mongolia's Khongor sand dunes, the longest in the country. The journey through vast desert badlands is lined with remote mountains, scattered gers, and nomads traveling by camel or horseback. The rugged Gobi landscape, dotted with colorful rocks and minerals, offers countless photo opportunities. On arrival, we'll explore the stunning dunes by the Khongor river, with an optional camel ride. The day concludes with a cozy dinner and stay at Gobi Erdene.
This morning, we’ll drive to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan park, stopping at the Khavtsgait Petroglyph in Dund Saikhan Mountain to explore Bronze Age rock paintings. Continuing north, we reach Bayanzag, the famous Flaming Cliffs. At the information center, we’ll enjoy exhibits and a short documentary before hiking along a scenic trail through unique formations. We’ll return to camp in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay at Gobi Tour Camp or similar
After breakfast, we’ll drive north for about 4-5 hours across the vast Ongi steppe to the scenic Ongi Monastery ruins by the Ongi River. Upon arrival at our ger camp, we’ll have lunch, followed by an afternoon exploring the 18th-century monastery ruins with a short hike. We’ll then return to the camp to relax, enjoy dinner, and spend a peaceful night in this tranquil setting. Stay at Secret of Ongi camp.
Today, we journey north into central Mongolia with a scenic 4–5-hour drive across the Gobi steppes, stopping for lunch along the highway to the western province. After lunch, we’ll continue for another 1–2 hours, possibly visiting a nomadic family en route, before arriving in Karakorum. Here, we’ll explore the Karakorum Museum and learn about the history of Central Mongolia and the UNESCO-listed Orkhon River Valley. We’ll check into Urguu Camp, enjoy dinner, and settle in for a restful overnight stay.
After breakfast, we’ll visit the historic Erdene Zuu Monastery, founded in 1586 as Central Mongolia's first Buddhist monastery. Next, we’ll head to Hustai National Park, stopping at Elsen Tasarkhai and having lunch at a roadside restaurant. Upon arrival in Hustai, we’ll explore the park, looking out for Takhi wild horses and other wildlife in their natural habitat. We’ll then head to our ger camp Mongol Nomadic for a hearty dinner and an overnight stay.
Check out from our camp and travel to Ulaanbaatar with 2–3-hour drive. Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and start our city sightseeing tour. Your journey begins with a visit to the Natural History Museum for the natural insight of Mongolia. Transfer to the hotel for check in followed by a lunch at local restaurant. If time permits, you can engage in some optional shopping for cashmere and souvenirs. As the day draws to a close, immerse yourself in Mongolia's rich cultural heritage with a traditional folklore concert at the Tumen Ekh ensemble. The day concludes with a heartfelt farewell dinner, a fitting way to celebrate the end of your journey.
Transfer to the airport for your flight home bound.
The Best of Mongolia
Start in Ulaanbaatar:
Tue 10/06/2025
Finish in Ulaanbaatar:
Fri 20/06/2025
AVAILABLE
Tour code: MB250610
| Airline | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Land Only | $4180 | Book |
The Best of Mongolia
Start in Ulaanbaatar:
Sun 27/07/2025
Finish in Ulaanbaatar:
Wed 06/08/2025
AVAILABLE
Tour code: MB250719
| Airline | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Land Only | $4180 | Book |
Remarks
- This tour is a guaranteed departure based on a minimum of 2 participants.
- Land Only: Tour starts from the Arrival transfer in Ulaanbaatar to Departure transfer in Ulaanbaatar, excludes any International air tickets.
- China visa free for stay up to 15 days if go via China.
- Mongolian Visa: Australia and other 34 countries do not need a visa to visit Mongolia for up to 30 days until Dec 2025.
- Flight from Australia to Mongolia mainly fly via Beijing, Hong Kong or Seoul. CBT Holidays can assist for your flight upon request.
- Any optional activities pay on spot if needed.
- Travel insurance high recommended so please arrnage well in advance. CBT can assist any travel insurance at additional cost.
- Tipping to your guide and driver at your discretionary.
- En-Suite Ger Upgrade: $350 per person twin share extra for grading to en-suite ger for 5 nights at Bayanzag, Khongo, Yol, Karakorum & Khustai. . Subject to availability
- Exclusions: Any Air tickets; personal expenses; travel insurance; tips for guides and drivers; optional activities etc
- Single supplement: $980 (plus ger upgrade if there is any)
- flight options: Air China fly to Ulaan Baatar 4 times a week from Sydney or daily from Beijing. Korean Airlines flies to Ulaan Baatar daily.
Inclusions
- Sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary
- Full-time service from your English-speaking local tour guide
- 7 nights Twin share ger at tourist ger camps with shared western style bathroom/toilet facility
- 3 nights Twin share centrally located 4* Holiday Inn
- All transfers (Comfortable vehicle with AC + Experienced driver).
- 1 hour camel ride in the Gobi.
- Meals as listed (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
- Airport transfers
- 0.5 l x 3 bottled water per day
- CBT Holidays travel wallet and travel kits.