Imagine trading the bustling streets of Ulaanbaatar for a day in the semi-Gobi Desert — a landscape of rolling sand dunes, rugged mountains, and serene lakes. For around $130, we can spend about 11 hours exploring this mini-Gobi, riding camels across dunes, and observing vibrant birdlife. The tour offers a taste of Mongolia’s iconic desert scenery without the grueling 3-4 day trips to the Great Gobi, making it a great choice for those short on time but eager for authentic landscapes.
What really makes this experience shine are the camel rides through the dunes, offering a chance to connect with a traditional Mongolian mode of travel, and the birdwatching at a nearby lake, which adds a peaceful, natural element. We also appreciate the chance to hike the dunes, capturing their shifting shapes and textures, and to visit a mini Gobi that gives a compact, accessible taste of Mongolia’s famous desert.
A potential consideration is the lack of an English-speaking guide during the trip; you’ll be relying on your driver for explanations, which means clear communication beforehand is key. Also, since most of the driving happens in a long car ride, it’s best suited for those comfortable with lengthy road journeys.
This tour is ideal for adventurers craving scenic landscapes, bird enthusiasts, or travelers who want a taste of the desert without committing to multi-day excursions. If you’re okay with a bit of road time and prefer authentic experiences over luxury, this trip fits the bill.
Key Points
- Accessible Gobi Experience: Offers a mini Gobi adventure suitable for those unable to travel to the larger desert.
- Camel Riding: A traditional, memorable activity that provides great photo opportunities.
- Birdwatching & Nature: Combines scenic dune exploration with tranquil lake visits for bird lovers.
- Long but Scenic Drive: Expect a 4-5 hour drive each way with impressive steppe scenery.
- Authentic Local Encounters: Potential visits to nomadic families enrich the cultural experience.
- Value for Money: Includes transport, camel rides, lunch, and birdwatching at a competitive price.
Exploring the Experience in Detail
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The Journey from Ulaanbaatar
Starting early at about 8:00 AM, we meet our driver and set off for Elsen Tasarkhai, a 4-5 hour scenic drive from Ulaanbaatar. This road trip is where you get the first glimpse of Mongolia’s vast steppe landscape — endless grassy plains, occasional herds of livestock, and distant mountains. Several reviewers mention how the scenery alone is worth the journey. Matthias notes, “you can spend hours looking at the landscape,” which is true.
Since most drivers don’t speak English, your driver’s ability to answer questions is crucial. Many travelers mention how having a friendly, knowledgeable driver makes the experience much smoother. The drive can be long, but it’s an opportunity to relax, watch the horizon shift, and anticipate the adventures ahead.
Camel Riding in the Dunes
Upon arrival around midday, the highlight begins — riding camels through the rolling dunes. The sand dunes of Elsen Tasarkhai resemble a scaled-down version of the Great Gobi, but with the intimacy of a smaller, more manageable landscape. The camel ride lasts about 45 minutes according to reviews and provides memorable photo moments.
We loved the chance to experience a traditional Mongolian mode of travel, with the gentle sway of the camels and the vast open views. Stephan shares, “We rode on 2 beautiful camels, accompanied by the head of the nomad family,” which adds a personal touch to this activity. The dunes themselves are constantly changing, with patterns swirling in the sand, providing a fabulous backdrop for photos.
Exploring the Dunes & Photography
After the camel ride, there’s plenty of free time to explore. You can hike the dunes, which offer spectacular views and a chance to see how the landscape shifts with every gust of wind. The dunes aren’t just beautiful; they’re a canvas for your photography — capturing the shadows and textures is very rewarding.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the semi-Gobi’s unique landscape — a landscape that’s not as vast as the Great Gobi but still offers that quintessential desert feel. Several reviews mention how the scenery is breathtaking, and it’s easy to see why. Stephan describes the drive as “a great experience,” and the dunes as “impressive.”
More Great Tours NearbyBirdwatching at the Lake
Next, the trip takes us to a nearby lake — a peaceful spot where different bird species gather. Birdwatchers will appreciate the opportunity to observe local and migratory birds in their natural habitat. It’s a relaxing contrast to the dunes’ starkness and adds a layer of richness to the day.
According to reviews, this part of the tour is a highlight. Pobsin calls the panoramic views “amazing”, and the bird-watching experience is appreciated for its calm and natural setting. The visit offers a chance to relax, take photos, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Nomadic Families & Local Culture
While not part of the standard itinerary, some travelers have the chance to visit a nomadic family and learn about Mongolia’s traditional lifestyle. Stephan’s review mentions drinking tea and milk in a yurt, tasting homemade cookies, and riding camels with local nomads. Although this isn’t guaranteed on every trip, such cultural encounters enrich the experience and give a real sense of local life.
Practical Details & What to Expect
The entire trip wraps up with the return to Ulaanbaatar around 7:00 PM, giving you a long but rewarding day. It’s important to note that there’s no English-speaking guide during the trip, so your communication with the driver is reliant on their language skills. Many reviews emphasize the importance of clear pre-trip instructions and having a driver who can answer basic questions.
What’s Included & What’s Not
The tour costs $130 per person, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, camel riding, lunch, and the lake and bird observation activities. Not included are bottled water and travel insurance, so it’s wise to bring some water and appropriate coverage for your trip.
The Pros & Cons
The main advantage of this tour is the value for money and the chance to experience a mini Gobi with activities like camel riding and birdwatching — all in one day. The scenery and authentic landscape are definite highlights, as confirmed by multiple travelers.
However, the long car ride might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to lengthy road trips. Also, the lack of an English-speaking guide means you should prepare to rely on your driver for explanations. For those seeking a deep culture or multi-day adventure, this might feel a bit limited.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers who want a taste of Mongolia’s desert landscapes without the commitment of multi-day tours. It’s perfect for bird enthusiasts, photo lovers, and anyone eager to ride a camel in a scenic, less crowded environment. If you’re comfortable with a long drive and are okay with basic guided support, you’ll find this excursion rewarding.
It’s also a good choice if you’re short on time but still want to see the semi-Gobi and enjoy some authentic Mongolian scenery and local culture. If you’re looking for a calm, nature-based experience with a touch of adventure, this tour fits well.
The Sum Up
“Camel Trails and Bird Tales” offers a genuine glimpse into Mongolia’s semi-Gobi landscape, combining scenic dune riding, birdwatching, and the chance to see local nomadic life in a manageable one-day format. It strikes a good balance between the adventure of camel riding and the serenity of nature, making it an ideal trip for intrepid travelers seeking authentic experiences without the hefty time commitment.
While the long car ride might test your patience, the views and activities along the way make it worthwhile. The tour’s value for money is clear, especially considering the included activities, transport, and lunch.
This trip is best suited for those eager to see Mongolia’s iconic landscapes, photo enthusiasts, or nature lovers who want to experience the semi-Gobi’s charm firsthand. If you’re seeking a low-key, scenic, and authentic adventure, this tour will deliver.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable if I don’t speak Mongolian?
Yes, but since there’s no English-speaking guide during the trip, it’s important to communicate your itinerary clearly to your driver beforehand. Having some basic phrases or translation app can help.
How long is the drive from Ulaanbaatar?
It takes approximately 4-5 hours each way to reach Elsen Tasarkhai, so be prepared for a total of around 9-10 hours including stops.
What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy camel riding, visiting a lake for birdwatching, and exploring the dunes. There may also be an optional visit to a nomadic family, depending on the day.
Is the camel ride long enough?
Yes, reviews indicate the ride lasts about 45 minutes, offering a memorable experience without being overly tiring.
What should I bring?
Bring bottled water, sun protection, comfortable shoes for hiking, and any personal items you need for the day. Lunch is included, but snacks are not.
Can I see wildlife during this tour?
Yes, the lake stop offers opportunities for birdwatching, so bringing binoculars might enhance your experience.
Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The dunes, camels, and landscapes provide excellent photo opportunities, especially with the changing light and shadows.
This tour presents a balanced mix of adventure, nature, and culture, making it a fine choice for those eager to explore Mongolia’s semi-Gobi with minimal fuss but maximum authenticity.
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