Welcome to Mongolia! After landing at the airport, make your way to downtown Ulaanbaatar to start your adventure. Take some time to explore the capital city, its markets, museums and experience the local cuisine.
Located not too far from the city, Terelj National Park is a great starting point for a Mongolian adventure. Spend a couple of days trekking and horse riding through the mountains, staying in traditional Mongolian gers (yurts), and experiencing the nomadic lifestyle. Don't forget to explore the Turtle Rock formation and visit the Aglag Buteel Monastery for a spiritual journey.
Along the way, take a break to witness the incredible Amarbayasgalant Monastery en-route to Lake Khuvsgul. The journey is long but scenic, and the destination is remarkable. Boasting crystal-clear water, and surrounded by mountains, forests and wildlife, Lake Khuvsgul is Mongolia's answer to Switzerland's Lake Geneva. Stay in comfortable ger camps, and take part in activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking through Taiga forests.
Off-road to reach the north of Mongolia and the country's last nomads, the Tsaatan Tribes. Meet the reindeer herders and learn about their culture, their unique style of living, and participate in their daily activities. Afterward, take an adventurous trek around the boreal forest to experience the wild beauty of this region.
Leave the tundras of the north and travel to the arid desert in the south for an entirely different adventure. In the Gobi, spend three days exploring the vast sand dunes, canyons, and grasslands. Visit the Vulture Gorge and experience a camel ride, as well as attending a cultural performance from the throat singers. Conclude your Gobi experience with a visit to the Flaming Cliffs to witness the legendary dinosaur fossils.
After the desert, you'll arrive at Bayanzag, a world-famous location filled with magical red rock formations that draw visitors from all over the world. Bayanzag is also known as the "Land of the Dinosaurs", home to rare and astonishing dinosaur fossils. On the final day, travel to the Ongi Monastery and explore the Mongolian ruins, which consist of two temples on the banks of the Ongi River. Camp overnight in another scenic location and take one last deep breath of Mongolia's mesmerizing nature.
With so many memories and life-changing experiences packed into the last two weeks, it's now time to bid farewell to Mongolia. We hope you leave with a piece of the country in your heart and memories.
While traveling through Mongolia, transport is mainly by car or jeep, and travel time can vary significantly depending on road conditions. The roads in Mongolia are not well-paved, and some regions are quite isolated. Expect long car rides and some off-road driving. Domestic flights are available for those short on time or willing to spend a little more money.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Orkhon Valley, where you can explore the ancient Mongolian Empire ruins or participate in horseback riding tours. Also, allow some extra time to explore the modern capital of Ulaanbaatar. If you have less time, focus on either the North or the South to complete a shorter loop.
Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) is the primary airport of Mongolia, located 18.5 miles from Ulaanbaatar city center.