Ulaanbaatar City and Terelj National Park

Ulaanbaatar - Enjoy a morning tour of Mongolia’s bustling capital. Visit Gandan Monastery, one of the country’s most important Buddhist sanctuaries, and wander the rooms and temples of Bogd Khan’s Winter Palace, the former home of Mongolia’s last king. Climb up to the Zaisan Memorial, a Soviet-era monument commemorating Russian soldiers killed in World War II, and take in sweeping views of the city from the hilltop. Then, venture to Terelj National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Explore the picturesque surroundings and visit the iconic Genghis Khan Statue, a towering monument honoring Mongolia’s legendary leader. This comprehensive tour blends cultural heritage with natural beauty, offering an unforgettable experience.

Khustai Nuruu National Park

Khustain Nuruu National Park - Travel by 4x4 to Hustai National Park, where some of the Earth’s last wild horses roam. The takhi or Przewalski’s horse native to these grasslands had nearly vanished from the wild, until the species was reintroduced here as a result of a successful captive breeding program. Meet with park staff to learn about the takhi reintroduction project, and keep an eye out for these stocky, coffee-coloured horses that have never been domesticated. Settle into a ger tonight, a round, felt-covered tent with basic furniture. We will stay in traditional Mongolian lodgings like gers through day 12 of the trip.

Kharkhorin The Ancient City of Mongol Empire

Kharkhorin - Drive to the city of Kharkhorin and onward to nearby Karakorum, Mongolia’s ancient capital. Here, Genghis Khan established his headquarters in the early 13th century. Explore the remains of the Erdeni Dzu Monastery, considered Mongolia’s earliest centre of Buddhism, and meet with the head monk to learn about the communist purges that decimated much of the country’s Buddhist heritage. Later, visit the Karakorum Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the 13th and 14th centuries as well as a scale model of the ancient capital.

Tsenkher Hot Spring

Tsenkher Hot Spring - Arrive at Tsenkher in the afternoon, the site of natural hot springs surrounded by serene, forest-covered hills. Popular with tourists and locals alike, these springs have long been known for their therapeutic benefits. Take a soak in one of the outdoor pools, or choose the privacy of an indoor bath.

Orkhon Valley

Ongiin Khiid

Flaming Cliff

Gobi Desert

Gobi Desert

Yolyn Am - Drive through the magnificent gorges of the Altay Mountains to the Gurvan Saikhan National Park, a vast protected area that comprises canyons, sand dunes, and a steppe. Stop for a hike in rugged Yolyn Am, the “valley of the eagles,” keeping an eye out for ibex, gazelles, argali sheep, and countless species of birds. Later, pay a visit to the Yolyn Am museum, where the group can admire a collection of dinosaur bones and eggs.

Middle Gobi

Baga Gazriin Chuluu (Small Rock Formation) - Continue onwards as the group drives to the Dungobi Aimag region—Middle Gobi—and witness the astonishing granitic formations of Baga Gazriin Chuluu. Arrive in the afternoon, set off on a hike around the national park, and visit the site of ruins of an old temple dating from the 17th century.

Back to Ulaanbaatar city

Ulaanbaatar - Spend driving through the Mongolian countryside to Ulaanbaatar. The drive is long and the group will arrive by the early evening. Enjoy a farewell dinner accompanied by a memorable performance of traditional Mongolian song and dance.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Everything mentioned in the itinerary

• Airfare to and from destination
• Minimum medical and emergency evacuation insurance
• Visas
• Meals on your own
• Gratuities