Gobi desert | 12 days
Gobi desert | 12 days
The Gobi Desert, one of the last places on Earth barely touched by time. Join us for a special and fascinating journey into the heart of the Gobi, where vast dunes, rocky plains, and endless horizons define one of the most extreme and remote landscapes on the planet.
Throughout the journey, we’ll encounter nomadic herders living in harmony with the desert’s harsh rhythms, preserving a way of life shaped by survival, distance, and tradition.
Tour overview
- Duration: 12 days
- Group size: max. 12 people
- Travel season for this trip: may-sep (inc)
- Tour Type: desert journey
- Adventure type: moderate activity
Why travel with us?
- Airport pickup & drop-off included
- Private driver & local guide
- Authentic ger camp & nomadic stays
- Gobi Desert + Central Mongolia highlights
- Flexible meals (vegan / vegetarian / meat)
- Ideal for nature lovers, photographers & adventure travelers
Highlights
- Ride camels across the Singing Sand Dunes
- Explore the vast beauty of the Gobi Desert
- Flaming Cliffs
- Experience authentic nomadic life
Tour details:
Tour details:
Day 1
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Welcome to Mongolia.
As your plane touches down at Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our local team, ready to take care of every detail.
From the airport, you’ll be transferred comfortably to your hotel, where you can relax, refresh, and settle into the rhythm of Mongolia after your travels.
The rest of the day is yours. You may choose to rest, or step outside and take your first walk through Ulaanbaatar, a city where modern life and deep rooted traditions live side by side.
Day 1
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Welcome to Mongolia,
As your plane touches down at Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our local team, ready to take care of every detail.
From the airport, you’ll be transferred comfortably to your hotel, where you can relax, refresh, and settle into the rhythm of Mongolia after your travels.
The rest of the day is yours. You may choose to rest, or step outside and take your first walk through Ulaanbaatar, a city where modern life and deep rooted traditions live side by side.
Day 2
Journey into the heart of the Gobi desert
After a hearty breakfast in Ulaanbaatar, we set out on our adventure south towards the legendary Gobi Desert, where vast open spaces stretch as far as the eye can see. Along the way, the landscape transforms before you. The lush green grasslands gradually giving way to golden dunes, rugged cliffs, and the dramatic beauty of Mongolia’s desert terrain.
By late afternoon, we arrive at our first traditional ger camp, nestled in the heart of the Gobi.
Here, we’ll meet local nomadic families, whose warmth and hospitality will make you feel at home. As night falls, settle into your ger and look up the stars of the Gobi Desert shine brighter than anywhere else on Earth. This first night under the vast, silent sky is a moment you’ll carry with you long after your journey ends.
Day 2
Journey into the heart of the Gobi desert
Day 3
The flaming cliffs of Bayanzag
Today, the desert reveals its fiery heart at the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag.
These glowing red orange sandstone formations are not only breathtaking at sunset but also historically significant as this is where the world’s first dinosaur eggs were discovered. Wander through ancient Saxaul forests, trace fossils hidden in the cliffs, and feel the echoes of millions of years of history beneath your feet.
As the day winds down, enjoy a traditional Mongolian barbecue: the perfect end to an extraordinary desert adventure.
Day 4
Khongoryn Els, the singing sand dunes
Today, we arrive at the majestic Khongoryn Els, Mongolia’s largest and most iconic sand dunes. Stretching over 180 kilometers and rising up to 300 meters, these “Singing Dunes” create a living
landscape that seems to hum beneath your feet.
Climb to the summit for sweeping panoramic views, try sand boarding on the soft slopes, or enjoy a tranquil camel ride at sunset, feeling the rhythm of the desert beneath you.
Day 5
Yolyn Am, eagle valley
Hidden in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, Yolyn Am offers a surprising contrast to the desert: a deep, narrow ice canyon that stays cool even in summer.
Today, hike through the gorge, watch for soaring vultures and mountain sheep, and marvel at the dramatic contrast between frozen ice and surrounding desert rock. This hidden gem is a place of quiet wonder and photographic opportunity.
Day 6
Meeting a nomadic family
Today is dedicated to authentic cultural immersion. Spend the day with a nomadic herding family, learning about their way of life in the Gobi. Participate in daily activities such as milking animals, preparing traditional dairy products, and tending to livestock. Hear stories of desert life passed down through generations, play traditional games, and share a home-cooked Mongolian meal. This is an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the heart of Mongolian culture.
Day 7
Ongi monastery ruins
Today we will visit the Ongi Monastery ruins, once one of Mongolia’s largest and most important Buddhist monasteries.
Explore the atmospheric remains along the Ongi River, learn about the spiritual and historical significance of this sacred site, and visit the small temple that has been lovingly rebuilt.
It is a place of reflection, offering a serene connection to Mongolia’s spiritual heritage.
Day 8
Granite wonders at Baga Gazryn Chuluu
The desert surprises again at Baga Gazryn Chuluu, a striking formation of granite rocks rising from the plains. Explore caves once used by monks for meditation, climb the rugged rocks for panoramic views, and spot rare wildlife such as ibex and argali sheep. Ancient petroglyphs etched into the stones whisper stories of a bygone era, making this a landscape both wild and profoundly spiritual.
Day 9
Elsen Tasarkhai
On our journey back north, we stop at Elsen Tasarkhai, a unique area where sand dunes, rocky hills, and green valleys meet in harmony. Enjoy a final camel ride across this diverse terrain, taking in the breathtaking views of Mongolia’s natural contrasts.
In the evening, settle into a ger camp where local performers share music and stories, celebrating the traditions of the Gobi.
Day 10
Khustai national park and wild horses
Today we explore Khustai National Park, home to the endangered Przewalski’s wild horse “Takhi” the last truly wild horses on Earth.
Hike through rolling steppe, watch herds roam freely, and learn about Mongolia’s successful wildlife conservation efforts. This day is both an adventure and a lesson in the delicate balance of nature.
Day 12
Departure your flight back home
Your Mongolia adventure comes to a close. After breakfast, our driver will transfer you to Chinggis Khaan International Airport, giving you ample time to check in for your flight home. Carry with you memories of vast deserts, soaring mountains, nomadic traditions, and the enduring spirit of Mongolia.
What is included:
- English speaking guide
- Accommodation in the best available hotels (Ulaanbaatar )
- Transportation & private driver
- Full board meals
- Camel riding
- Traditional hospitality of the nomadic families
Not included:
- Flights
- Visas
- Alcoholic / soft drinks
- Gratuities
- Personal travel and equipment insurance
What is included:
- English speaking guide
- Accommodation in the best available hotels (Ulaanbaatar )
- Transportation & private driver
- Full board meals
- Camel riding
- Traditional hospitality of the nomadic families
Not included:
- Flights
- Visas
- Alcoholic / soft drinks
- Gratuities
- Personal travel and equipment insurance
Payment terms:
- Non refundable prepayment of 600 USD is required at the time of booking.
- 50% of the total cost will be paid 90 days prior to departure
- 100% of the total cost will be paid 60 days prior to departure
Cancellation terms:
- Up tp 91 days prior to departure 30% of the total tour cost is non refundable
- From 90 to 61 days prior to departure 60% of the total tour cost is non refundable
- From 60 days prior to departure 100% of the total tour cost is non refundable
Important information:
- Please note that the itinerary, route, locations, and schedule are subject to change based on weather conditions, terrain, and the discretion of the lead team.
- Please read our General Terms