The Great Nomadic Trail: 14 Days in Mongolia

(B, L, D - 4-star hotel: Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace, Blue Sky Hotel, or similar)

Spend the day exploring Ulaanbaatar’s rich history and cultural landmarks. Begin at Gandan Monastery, Mongolia’s most significant Buddhist sanctuary, where you can observe monks in prayer. Then, visit the Winter Palace of Bogd Khan, the last king of Mongolia, where you can see his elaborate costumes and artifacts.

Next, hike to the Zaisan Memorial, a Soviet-era monument with panoramic views of the city. Enjoy refreshments at No Limits Cafe, a social enterprise supporting young people with Down Syndrome. In the afternoon, visit the Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs, home to well-preserved dinosaur fossils, including the world-famous Tarbosaurus bataar.

B, L, D - Tourist camp: Khustai Ger Camp or similar)

After breakfast, set out in a 4x4 to Khustai National Park, home to the world’s last truly wild horse, the Przewalski’s horse (takhi). Visit the park’s research center to learn about conservation efforts, then head into the grasslands to observe these remarkable horses. Spend the night in a traditional ger camp, enjoying a warm Mongolian meal under the stars.

(B, L, D - Tourist camp: Anja Ger Camp or similar)

Drive to Kharkhorin, a historically significant city established by Genghis Khan. Explore Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist center, with its intricate temples and massive white stupas. Meet with the head monk to learn about the history of Buddhism in Mongolia and its suppression during the communist era. Visit the Karakorum Museum, which showcases artifacts from the Mongol Empire and a model of the ancient capital.

(B, L, D - Tourist camp: Tsenkher Hot Springs Camp or similar)

Journey to Tsenkher Hot Springs, known for its natural geothermal pools. Take a soothing dip in the mineral-rich waters, renowned for their therapeutic properties. Choose between an outdoor soaking pool with scenic views or a private indoor bath. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Mongolian meal by the campfire.

(B, L, D - Tourist camp: Ulaan Tsutgalan Camp or similar)

Head to the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in nomadic traditions. Hike up to Tuvkhun Monastery, perched on a mountaintop at 2,312 meters. Explore the wooden temples and caves used by monks for meditation, while enjoying panoramic views of the valley.

(B, L, D - Tourist camp: Ulaan Tsutgalan Camp or similar)

Spend the day with a traditional nomadic family, learning about daily life, including livestock herding and dairy production. Try homemade yogurt, curd, and fermented mare’s milk (airag). In the afternoon, take a scenic hike to Orkhon Waterfall before returning to camp for a Mongolian barbecue, cooked over hot stones.

(B, L, D - Tourist camp: Secret of Ongi Camp or similar)

Travel south to the Ongi River, the natural divide between central and southern Mongolia. Explore the Ongiin Khiid Monastery ruins, once a thriving Buddhist center before its destruction in the communist purges. Meet with monks who have returned to restore the monastery and enjoy a peaceful evening in a riverside ger camp.

 (B, L, D - Tourist camp: Gobi Mirage Camp or similar)

Drive to Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs, where American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews discovered the world’s first dinosaur eggs. Explore the red sandstone formations and hunt for fossilized dinosaur bones.

(B, L, D - Tourist camp: Gobi Erdene Camp or similar)

Journey to Khongoryn Els, Mongolia’s largest sand dunes, which rise up to 300 meters. Meet a desert nomadic familyand experience their unique way of life. Climb to the top of the dunes for breathtaking sunset views and listen to the sand “sing” as the wind shifts over the dunes. End the evening with an archery demonstration and lesson.

(B, L, D - Tourist camp: Gobi Oasis Camp or similar)

Explore the Altai Mountains as you travel to Gurvan Saikhan National Park. Hike through the Yolyn Am Canyon, a deep gorge that retains ice well into the summer. Keep an eye out for rare wildlife like ibex, gazelles, and eagles. Visit the Yolyn Am Museum, showcasing fossilized dinosaur remains.

(B, L, D - Tourist camp: Baga Gazriin Chuluu Camp or similar)

Drive north to the Middle Gobi and explore the granite formations of Baga Gazriin Chuluu. Hike among the ancient rock formations and visit the ruins of a 17th-century monastery. Spend the night in a tranquil ger camp.

(B, L, D - 4-star hotel: The Corporate Hotel, Ulaanbaatar Hotel, or similar)

Embark on a full-day drive back to Ulaanbaatar, stopping for scenic breaks along the way. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring traditional Mongolian cuisine, accompanied by a cultural performance with throat singing, folk music, and traditional dance.

(B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Safe travels!