Day 1: Arrive Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia ~ City Tour
Welcome to Mongolia. On arrival at Ulaanbaatar International Airport, you will be met by the local team and transferred into the city.
After lunch, begin exploring Ulaanbaatar with a visit to Sukhbaatar Square, the city’s central plaza surrounded by important landmarks. Continue to the Chinggis Khaan National Museum, where you can discover Mongolia’s fascinating history and see the impressive golden statue of the Great Khan.
Your sightseeing continues at Gandan Monastery, Mongolia’s most important Buddhist monastery. Experience its peaceful atmosphere, traditional chanting and magnificent 26.5-metre Megjid Janraisig statue. Afterwards, enjoy dinner before transferring to your hotel for check-in and your first night in Mongolia.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 100km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 2–3 hours
MEALS: Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Bayangol Hotel, Ulaanbaatar
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar ~ Baga Gazariin Chuluu
After breakfast, depart Ulaanbaatar and travel south towards Baga Gazariin Chuluu in Mongolia’s Middle Gobi region.
Rising dramatically from the surrounding semi-desert plains, Baga Gazariin Chuluu is known for its striking granite formations, narrow canyons, ancient inscriptions and hidden spring. On arrival, explore the area on foot while discovering its unique geological features and local legends.
Enjoy a scenic trek through the rocky landscape, with panoramic views across the vast Middle Gobi plains. Later in the afternoon, continue to your nearby Ger Camp and settle in for a peaceful evening surrounded by Mongolia’s open countryside.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 280km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 5–6 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Erdene-Ukhaa Ger Camp, Baga Gazariin Chuluu
Day 3: Baga Gazariin Chuluu ~ Tsagaan Suvarga
After breakfast, continue your journey through Mongolia’s Middle Gobi region towards Tsagaan Suvarga, also known as the White Stupa.
This spectacular natural formation features towering limestone cliffs shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. Their white and colourful layers create a dramatic landscape resembling the ruins of an ancient city.
After lunch at the Ger Camp, head out to explore Tsagaan Suvarga on foot. Walk along the cliffs, enjoy sweeping views across the Gobi plains and learn about the area’s fascinating geological history. Later, return to the Ger Camp for dinner and a peaceful evening surrounded by the desert landscape.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 280km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 5–6 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Tsagaan Suvarga Ger Camp
Day 4: Tsagaan Suvarga ~ Yol Valley
After breakfast, travel south towards Yol Valley, located within Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. Also known as Eagle Valley, this spectacular gorge cuts through the surrounding mountains of the Gobi.
Arrive at your Ger Camp around lunchtime before continuing to Yol Valley. Here, enjoy a scenic trek through the narrow canyon, surrounded by towering rock walls and dramatic mountain scenery.
As you explore, keep watch for local wildlife including ibex, mountain sheep, marmots and lammergeier vultures. Depending on seasonal conditions, sections of the valley’s stream may remain frozen even during summer. Later, return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 250km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Khanbogd Ger Camp, Yol Valley
Day 5: Yol Valley ~ Khongor Sand Dunes
After breakfast, continue deeper into the Gobi Desert towards the magnificent Khongor Sand Dunes, Mongolia’s largest and most spectacular dune system.
Stretching for more than 180 kilometres and rising up to 300 metres, the dunes are often called the “Singing Dunes”. This name comes from the distinctive humming sound created as the sand shifts in the wind.
After arriving at your Ger Camp and enjoying lunch, head out to explore the dunes. Climb the towering sands for panoramic views across the Gobi Desert and the green Khongor River oasis below.
Later, visit a local camel-herding family to learn about their traditional lifestyle and the importance of camels in the region. Following safety instructions from your guide, enjoy a camel riding experience across the desert landscape. Return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 200km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Gobi-Erdene Ger Camp, Khongor Sand Dunes
Day 6: Khongor Sand Dunes ~ Flaming Cliffs
After breakfast, travel to the famous Flaming Cliffs, locally known as Bayanzag. This striking Gobi Desert landscape is renowned for its dramatic red sandstone formations.
The cliffs are especially impressive in the changing light, when the red rock appears to glow like flames. Bayanzag is also historically significant as the site where the world’s first dinosaur eggs were discovered during the 1920s.
After arriving at your Ger Camp and enjoying lunch, take a short drive to explore the Flaming Cliffs. Walk through the dramatic landscape, see distinctive saxaul trees and learn about the area’s geological and scientific importance. Later, return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 200km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Gobi Mirage Ger Camp, Flaming Cliffs
Day 7: Flaming Cliffs ~ Ongi Monastery
After breakfast, continue across the Gobi towards Ongi Monastery, once one of Mongolia’s largest and most important monastic complexes.
Located beside the Ongi River, the monastery was founded in the 17th century and originally included two temple complexes. Hundreds of monks once lived here before much of the site was destroyed during the 1930s.
Arrive at your Ger Camp around lunchtime before visiting the monastery ruins. Learn about the site’s history and spiritual significance, then enjoy a light walk along the Ongi River. Later, return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 220km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Secret of Ongi Ger Camp, Ongi Monastery
Day 8: Ongi Monastery ~ Orkhon Waterfall
After breakfast, travel towards Orkhon Waterfall, located within the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley. This region is renowned for its volcanic landscapes and strong nomadic heritage.
Mongolia’s largest waterfall drops approximately 20 metres over dark basalt cliffs formed by ancient volcanic activity. Stop for lunch at a local diner along the way before continuing towards the waterfall.
On arrival, explore the surrounding area on a light hike, walking along the canyon edge and descending towards the base of the falls. Afterwards, visit a local yak-herding family to learn about their traditional lifestyle and the importance of yaks to everyday life. Later, continue to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 350km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 6–7 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Khurkhree Tour Ger Camp, Orkhon Waterfall
Day 9: Orkhon Waterfall ~ Kharkhorin
After breakfast, depart for Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire and one of Mongolia’s most important historical destinations.
On arrival, visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest surviving Buddhist monastery. Founded in the 16th century, the complex is surrounded by distinctive white walls featuring 108 stupas.
After checking into your Ger Camp and enjoying lunch, visit the Kharkhorin Museum. Discover archaeological finds and exhibits showcasing the history of the ancient capital and the powerful Mongol Empire. Later, return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 150km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 3–4 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Urgoo Ger Camp, Kharkhorin
Day 10: Kharkhorin ~ Tsenkher Hot Springs
After breakfast, depart Kharkhorin and travel towards Tsenkher Hot Springs, one of Mongolia’s best-known natural hot spring areas.
Surrounded by forested hills and peaceful countryside, the springs are fed by naturally heated, mineral-rich water flowing from deep underground.
Arrive at your Ger Camp around lunchtime and enjoy lunch before relaxing in the outdoor stone pool. Take time to unwind in the warm natural spring water and enjoy the surrounding scenery. Remember to pack your swimsuit for today’s experience.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 140km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 3–4 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Shiveet Mankhan Ger Camp, Tsenkher Hot Springs
Day 11: Tsenkher Hot Springs ~ Khorgo Volcano ~ Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake
After breakfast, travel towards Khorgo Volcano, an extinct volcano located within Khorgo-Terkh National Park.
On arrival, enjoy a scenic hike to the crater of Khorgo Volcano. From the top, take in sweeping views across the surrounding lava fields, mountains and nearby Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake.
After exploring the volcanic landscape, continue to your Ger Camp on the shores of Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake. Settle in and enjoy the peaceful lakeside surroundings before dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 220km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Maikhan Tolgoi Ger Camp, Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake
Day 12: Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake ~ Northern Mongolia
After breakfast, continue your journey north towards Mongolia’s remote northern frontier.
Today’s route involves a longer overland journey through increasingly rugged countryside and challenging off-road conditions. Along the way, enjoy changing landscapes as you travel deeper into northern Mongolia.
Arrive at your Ger Camp around lunchtime and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, visit a local nomadic family to learn about their traditional lifestyle, daily routines and life in this remote region. Later, return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 200km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Jargal Jiguur Ger Camp, Northern Mongolia
Day 13: Northern Mongolia ~ Murun ~ Uushigiin Uvur Deer Stones
After breakfast, continue north towards Murun, the provincial capital of Khuvsgul Province.
Arrive around lunchtime and check into your nearby Ger Camp before enjoying lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Uushigiin Uvur Deer Stone Site, one of Mongolia’s most important Bronze Age archaeological sites.
See ancient standing stones carved with stylised deer, weapons and symbolic motifs linked to early rituals and beliefs. Afterwards, explore Murun and visit the lively local bazaar for a glimpse of everyday life. You may also have the opportunity to sample the region’s famous smoked fish snacks.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 250km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Harganat Lodge Ger Camp, Murun
Day 14: Murun ~ Khuvsgul Lake
After breakfast, travel towards magnificent Khuvsgul Lake, often known as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia”.
Surrounded by forested mountains and pristine wilderness, Khuvsgul is Mongolia’s largest freshwater lake by volume. Its clear waters and spectacular alpine scenery make it one of the country’s most beautiful natural destinations.
Arrive before lunchtime and check into your traditional Ger Camp, located directly on the lakeshore. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic horseback ride along the lake, taking in the peaceful surroundings and sweeping mountain views. Afterwards, return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 150km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 3–4 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Toilogt Ger Camp, Khuvsgul Lake
Day 15: Khuvsgul Lake ~ Reindeer Herder Family ~ Scenic Boat Trip ~ Khuvsgul Lake
After breakfast, enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Khuvsgul Lake before lunch at your camp.
After lunch, board a boat for a scenic one-hour journey to the northern side of Khuvsgul Lake. Here, visit a Tsaatan reindeer-herding family, part of one of Mongolia’s smallest ethnic communities.
Learn about the Tsaatan people’s traditional way of life and their close relationship with their reindeer and surrounding environment. After your visit, return across Khuvsgul Lake by boat and settle in for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: Nil
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL TIME: Approximately 2 hours by boat in total
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Toilogt Ger Camp – Traditional Teepee, Khuvsgul Lake
Day 16: Khuvsgul Lake ~ Uran Togoo Volcano
After breakfast, depart Khuvsgul Lake and travel south towards Uran Togoo, an extinct volcano in northern Mongolia.
Formed thousands of years ago, Uran Togoo features a well-preserved crater, solidified lava fields and gentle forested slopes. On arrival, enjoy a scenic hike up the volcano and take in panoramic views across the surrounding valleys and countryside.
After exploring the volcanic landscape, continue to your Ger Camp in the late afternoon. Settle in and enjoy dinner before your overnight stay.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 420km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 7–8 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Unnit Ger Camp, Uran Togoo
Day 17: Uran Togoo ~ Amarbayasgalant Monastery
After breakfast, travel towards Amarbayasgalant Monastery, also known as the “Monastery of Tranquil Felicity”.
Built between 1727 and 1736, Amarbayasgalant was once one of Mongolia’s three major Buddhist centres. The monastery was dedicated to Undur Gegeen Zanabazar, an important spiritual leader in Mongolian history.
On arrival, explore the peaceful monastery grounds and admire its elegant architecture and tranquil setting. Afterwards, continue to your nearby Ger Camp and settle in for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 260km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 5–6 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: I.F. Tour Ger Camp, Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Day 18: Amarbayasgalant ~ Aglag Buteel Monastery
After breakfast, depart for the area surrounding Aglag Buteel Monastery, a peaceful Buddhist retreat set among forested mountains and granite rock formations.
Arrive at your nearby Ger Camp around lunchtime and enjoy lunch before taking a short drive to the monastery. Founded by a renowned Buddhist artist monk, the complex is known for its temples, intricate artwork and meditation spaces.
Spend time exploring the monastery and its scenic walking trails, where naturally shaped rocks and Buddhist sculptures blend into the surrounding landscape. Afterwards, return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 260km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 5–6 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Mongolian Secret History Ger Camp, Aglag Buteel Monastery
Day 19: Aglag Buteel ~ Terelj National Park
After breakfast, travel towards Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia’s most scenic natural areas.
Known for its dramatic granite rock formations, green valleys and alpine scenery, the national park offers a beautiful contrast to the landscapes experienced earlier in your journey. Arrive at your Ger Camp around lunchtime and enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, visit Turtle Rock, one of Terelj National Park’s most recognisable natural landmarks. Afterwards, hike to Aryapala Meditation Temple, where panoramic views stretch across the surrounding valleys and mountains. Return to your Ger Camp for dinner and overnight.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 200km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4–5 hours
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Terelj Lodge Ger Camp, Terelj National Park
Day 20: Terelj National Park ~ Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue ~ Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, depart Terelj National Park and travel to the impressive Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue.
Standing 40 metres high, this remarkable monument is the world’s tallest equestrian statue. Take the elevator towards the horse’s head for panoramic views across the surrounding steppe and learn about the legendary founder of the Mongol Empire.
Afterwards, return to Ulaanbaatar and arrive around lunchtime. Enjoy some free time for shopping, with opportunities to browse for cashmere, souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.
In the early evening, enjoy a traditional Mongolian folklore performance featuring throat singing, horse-head fiddle music, traditional dancing and contortion. Afterwards, enjoy dinner before returning to your hotel for your final night in Mongolia.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 150km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 3–4 hours in total, depending on traffic, road and weather conditions
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Bayangol Hotel, Ulaanbaatar
Day 21: Depart Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, your Mongolia adventure comes to an end.
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Ulaanbaatar International Airport for your onward flight. Bid farewell to Mongolia after an unforgettable journey through the Gobi Desert, central Mongolia and the remote northern wilderness.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 50km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions
MEALS: Breakfast