Mongolia: Land of the Great Khan
Mongolia: Land of the Great Khan
15 Days
Visiting: Mongolia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
LGK1
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Interests:
From:
$4994 (USD)Tour Overview
On this epic trip across Mongolia we will experience the incredible diversity of scenery in which this country abounds. From the flaming cliffs at Bayanzag and the towering sand dunes at Khongoryn Els we’ll make for the remote western stretches of the Gobi before heading north, crossing mountain ranges and pine and lark forests, to finally reach the grasslands and wild horses for which the country is so rightly famed.
Wherever we travel we’ll be sure to encounter scattered families of Mongolians who – surprisingly perhaps for a land that gave birth to the likes of Genghis Khan – are incredibly hospitable and are usually more than happy to welcome passing travellers into their gers for a glass of airag (fermented mare’s milk).
This is an adventurous 4WD trip, with much of the journey being on dirt roads but it is also highly rewarding with spectacular scenery and memorable sights throughout. Offering plenty of good walks and cultural interactions, this comprehensive tour offers a variety of experiences that is hard to beat.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tour Starts In Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Starting this morning, we’ll have an introductory meeting at the hotel before paying a visit to Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important in Mongolia. Wander around this fascinating site as you explore the different temples, including that of the Mijig Janraisig with its huge golden buddha statue. In the old temple complex we can listen to the chanting ceremonies which happen mid-morning. This afternoon we then take a walk across the expansive Sukhbaatar Square to the National History Museum which is a great introduction to the country's past. In the early evening, we enjoy a music and dance performance by the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. The hour-long performance shows us traditional Mongolian dance, singing and music with various instruments including the horse fiddle and singers along with traditional throat singers.
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar – Mandalgobi
Accommodation: Gobi Oasis Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we start our journey down to the desert plains of the South - quite a long day to tonight's destination but only the last hour and a half is off-road. After leaving UB we'll drive to Baga Gazriin Chuluu for a gentle one hour hike to visit the Som Hoh Burd temple ruins. Afterwards, we will carry on our journey to Mandalgobi where we will be staying this evening. We will visit the Gobi Oasis tree-planting nursery, a conservation project that Byamba and her husband Radnaa have been running for the past 35 years. After a walk around the town we will head to Byamba's home where we will get the chance to learn how to make traditional Mongolian dumplings and sample our hard work for dinner.
Driving distance: Approx. 5-6hrs
Day 3: Mandalgobi - Tsagaan Suvarga
Accommodation: Tsagaan Suvarga Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we will head further south to the Omnogobi province to see the impressive rock formations of Tsagaan Suvarga. These beautiful formations can be explored on foot, and provide great photographic opportunities. After reaching our ger camp we can hike to see two famous caves known locally as the lie and stand caves, titled this way as some part of the caves are very small in which you need to crawl through and other large enough to stand up in. We will also get a chance to see the plethora of rock paintings here too. Tonight our ger camp will be near the formations.
Day 4: Tsagaan Suvarga - Dalanzadgad - Bayanzag
Accommodation: Gobi Mirage Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we drive down to Dalanzadgad, the provincial capital of Omnogobi. Here we can head into town to visit the interesting and recently renovated South Gobi Museum, stroll around the local market where we'll catch a glimpse of everyday life, and have lunch. This afternoon we then will get to spend some time with a nomadic family - step inside their ger and experience traditional local hospitality, including milk tea, before watching a demonstration of the nomadic skill of 'breaking in' horses. Later in the afternoon we head to Bayanzag for an exploratory walk around the spectacular sandstone formations, known as the Flaming Cliffs due to their deep red hue. Here we can soak up the sunset views before hopping back in the vehicles and back to our camp for dinner.
Driving distance: Approx. 5hrs
Day 5: Bayanzag - Yolyn Am - Moltsog Els - Bayanzag
Accommodation: Gobi Mirage Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
It’s an early start today as we explore Yolyn Am Canyon, known as the Vulture's Gorge. This gorge is nestled deep within the hills and is a haven from the desert heat. Some areas of the valley are continually sheltered from the hot sun and house huge blocks of ice that gradually melt away during the summer. This is a perfect area for hiking and if you are lucky enough you might spot ibex and wild
sheep grazing high on the rocky walls of the mountains. This afternoon those who wish can relax at the camp but we can also offer an opportunity to visit the nearby village of Bulgan and the Moltsog Els sand dunes. Here you can have the chance to visit a local family of camel herders, before heading back to our camp for the night.
Day 6: Bayanzag - Khongoryn Els
Accommodation: Juulchin Gobi Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We head to the west today to visit the Khavtsgait petroglyphs where we will take a walk through the rocky outcrop and search the surrounding area for ancient engravings. We then continue on through the desert and take a road that winds its way through the rocky mountains and past herds of grazing goats and camels. This afternoon we can try some camel milk and take a ride along the dunes on a two-humped Bactrian camel. Around 30% of the world's camels are found in Mongolia, mostly in the Gobi Desert, and today we will get an insight into why these animals are so vital to nomadic communities. Our ger camp for this evening is located close to the impressive Khongoryn Els Dunes and an early evening climb to the top affords stunning views out across the rippling sands towards the desert beyond as the sun sets.
Driving Distance: Approx. 4-5 hrs
Day 7: Khongoryn Els - Gurvan Tes - Khermen Tsav
Accommodation: Bataariin Ulgii Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we have a long day of driving as we make our way towards Khermen Tsav. Arriving at Gurvan Tes soum (district) in time for lunch and to get some supplies, we then head for a hike amongst the rock formations and the Zulganai, a river that forms a beautiful oasis around it where forests of cane and willow grow. American scholar and palaeontologist Roy Chapman Andrews named this place "The End of the World." Khermen Tsav is known not only for its natural beauty but also by its treasure trove of dinosaur fossils; the first full skeleton of a dinosaur was found here and even nowadays, one can still find fossilized dinosaur bones and eggs lying on the surface of sandy land. The beauty of the cliffs is accentuated by small groves of native Gobi Saxaul tree. Before dinner we will also have the opportunity to visit the Narandaats rock formation which is located nearby.
Driving distance: Approx. 6-7hrs
Day 8: Khermen Tsav - Bayangobi
Accommodation: Liguun Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We continue our journey north back into the heart of Mongolia today, with another long journey but as always very scenic. We eventually reach Bayangobi, a village just south of Ikh Bogd Mountain, where we stay in a local ger camp.
Driving distance: Approx. 4-5hrs
Day 9: Bayangobi – Ikh Bogd – White Cave – Bayangobi
Accommodation: Liguun Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The first of today’s highlights will be a stop to admire Ikh Bogd or ‘Great Saint’, the highest of the Gobi-Altai mountains standing at 3,957m. The mountain spans 50km and has a network of 10 caves which historians believe was inhabited by people 700,000 years ago. The largest of the caves is the historical Tsagaan Agui (White Cave) at 38km long, 5m wide and 10m high at its core. Here we can marvel at its prehistoric petroglyphs and pictographs (c. the late bronze age),
Day 10: Bayangobi - Orog Lake - Bayankhongor
Accommodation: Mazaalai Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We begin the day with a visit to Orog Lake famed for its birdlife, after which we head north to reach Bayankhongor, the biggest soum in the province, where we’re staying in a hotel and can enjoy a well-earned hot shower and dinner.
Driving Distance: Approx. 7hrs
Day 11: Bayankhongor - Khujirt - Uurtin Tokhoi Canyon - Orkhon Valley
Accommodation: Talbiun Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
As we continue driving north we will see the flat, open plains give way to greener undulating, countryside dotted with rural family homes and livestock. There’ll be a pit stop for supplies and maybe some lunch as we pass through the village of Khujirt. The journey covers around 250 kilometres, taking around six hours, and after arriving at the ger camp by around 3pm, there will be an opportunity to go for a walk to see the Uurtiin Tokhoi Canyon and visit Temeen Chuluu – the ancient bronze age burial stones.
Driving distance: Approx. 5-6hrs
Day 12: Orkhon Valley
Accommodation: Talbiun Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Orkhon Valley holds a very special place in both the hearts of the Mongolians and in the culture of the world. Inscribed in 1992 by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, it is said to be the 'cradle of nomadic civilisation of the steppes' and held the seat of imperial power. It is easy to imagine such an empire unfolding beneath you as you stand on the edge overlooking the elbow of the Orkhon River. Hidden away on a hillside, surrounded by pine forests, lies the tiny and peaceful Tovkhon Khiid Monastery. After a leisurely morning we head north for a hike up to this stunning hilltop monastery which offers great views of the surrounding Arkhangai Hills as well as some interesting hilltop temple architecture. After lunch back at the camp, there will be a number of activities available, from more hiking to a spot of archery with our handmade bow and arrow set.
Day 13: Orkhon Valley - Sea Buckthorn Farm & Erdenesiin Khuree - Kharkorin
Accommodation: Anja Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we continue through the high passes to Kharkhorin, built on the site of Karakorum, briefly the capital of the Mongol Empire during the 16th century. Here we can visit the local market, the small but interesting museum, the Monument of the 3 Kings overlooking the Orkhon River, and the fertility stone on the edge of town. We shall also plan a visit to Purevnambar's family, who grow sea buckthorn and blueberries on a small commercial scale. We’ll have the chance to walk around their plantation and sample the superfood berry in one of its many formats - most common is to have it as a hot reviving beverage. Purev is also an artist renowned for Buddha painting, sculpture and felt making. Depending on timing, we'll plan for a traditional homecooked lunch at the family's homestead. In the afternoon, we visit the Erdenesiin Khuree Mongolian script and calligraphy centre and art exhibition gers before settling into our camp nearby.
Day 14: Kharkhorin - Erdene Zuu Monastery – Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we drive the short distance to Erdene Zuu Monastery in time to hear the monks’ mid-morning chanting. We’ll then have a guided tour around the main temples and the grounds. We then head back to Ulaanbaatar this morning and transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon there will be an opportunity for some free time to wander around the city, or head to the main street for some shopping before our farewell dinner.
Driving distance: Approx 5-6 hours
Day 15: Tour Ends In Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast
The tour officially ends after breakfast those on the suggested group flights will have an early breakfast and will then be transferred to the airport.
What's Included
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MEALS
14 x Breakfasts14 x Lunches14 x Dinners
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TRANSPORT
On this tour we will use sturdy UAZ 4WD minibuses for the whole of the journey.
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GROUP SIZE
Maximum: 12
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CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to climate and community projects for all bookings
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EXPERT TEAM
The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate
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ACCOMMODATION
All accommodation as outlined in the itinerary
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ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary
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FITNESS RATING
Low / Moderate
What's Not Included
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Visas
VISAS
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Mongolia if staying for up to 30 days.
Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to Mongolia.
For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.
For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.
If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Key Aspects to Consider
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as all the walks are optional.
There are some long drives to be taken but that is part of the Mongolian experience, and there will always be time for walks, photos and local encounters. Some of the areas visited are remote and see few foreign visitors so be prepared for the unexpected and be aware that changes to local conditions can dramatically affect envisaged timings and exact routings.
Please be advised that on this trip vegetarians can be catered for but the selection and variety may be very limited, therefore we recommend packing a few extra bits to fill the gaps!
Travelling Solo and single supplements
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour including all nights in the ger camps.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
Insurance
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
Check out our Q&As
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
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Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from Travellers on this Tour
Dates & Availability
Tuesday - Tuesday
Aug 12, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Wild Frontiers allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wild frontiers charges.
Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 51 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Wild Frontiers' COVID Promise
You will have the right to transfer without any transfer fee, from any of our trips at ANY time if your trip is not Covid Viable (see below).*
We will not ask you to pay your final balance if your trip is not yet Covid Viable.
If your trip is not Covid Viable, by 30 days prior to departure at the latest, we will cancel your holiday and you can either transfer your funds to another departure or have a refund.**
We will only consider a trip Covid Viable*** if pre-departure it meets all of the following criteria:
There is no national lockdown or ban on foreign travel for the period when your trip is due to depart.
Destinations on the tour must not be on the UK’s Red List. ****
No destinations visited on the tour have in place any significant COVID-19 restrictions for travellers.
Tourist visas (if required) are available.
There is reliable airline access to/from the start/end of the trip.
Following an assessment by both Wild Frontiers and our local partners we are confident that your trip is able to run in both a safe and enjoyable manner.*****
** If you were originally booked to travel before 30 April 2020 and transferred to a later date, or if you have a tailor-made booking, there may be some irrecoverable costs which we cannot refund. Please speak to us and we will be able to advise you if this is the case for your booking.
***Since our HQ is in London, Covid Viable status for our Group Tours will be assessed on UK-based travellers. However we are fully aware that many of our clients live in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. As such, when we deem a trip to now be Covid Viable, everyone booked will have a chance to review their own personal situation before deciding whether or not to remain booked on the trip. Anyone wishing to, will have the option to transfer without fees to another trip at this time. For tailor made bookings, we may also able to consider additional countries’ travel advice when deciding if a trip is Viable. Please discuss this with us at the time of booking.
**** This relates to bookings from UK clients only. We may operate trips to destinations which the British FCDO advise against travel for Covid reasons. If this is the case, anyone wishing to will have the option to cancel with a refund or transfer to another trip. In some cases we may choose to offer a tour to a Red destination but these will be at both clients’ and Wild Frontiers’ discretion and will be subject to alternative conditions to be discussed on an ad hoc basis.
*****If a destination, that we have deemed to be Covid Viable, subsequently fails any aspect of the criteria for two consecutive weeks, you will have the right under our Covid Promise to transfer without any fees.