From Baotou: 3-Day Tour to Ordos and Yulin offers a fascinating glimpse into Inner Mongolia’s diverse scenery and rich heritage. At $875 per person, this three-day journey takes you through vast deserts, historic sites, and lively cultural performances. You’ll visit the Xiangshawan Desert, enjoy a camel ride, explore the Ordos Museum, and witness a traditional Mongolian wedding at Genghis Khan’s Tomb.
What we love most is how authentic and immersive the experience feels — riding a camel through the sands and learning about local history firsthand. The chance to see a Mongolian wedding performance is also a highlight, giving you a glimpse into living traditions. On the downside, the itinerary is quite packed, and some travelers might find the long drives between sites a bit tiring.
This tour suits those who enjoy cultural insights, outdoor adventures, and desert scenery but are comfortable with a fairly full schedule. It’s perfect for travelers looking to combine history, nature, and local customs into a compact trip through Inner Mongolia.
Key Points
- Authentic Cultural Encounters: Experience a traditional Mongolian wedding performance and local cuisine.
- Desert Adventure: Ride camels through the Xiangshawan Desert and explore stunning sand dunes.
- Historical Insight: Visit the Genghis Khan Mausoleum and learn about regional history.
- Scenic Landscapes: See remarkable formations at Jingtai Wave Valley and enjoy sunset views at Yulin North Tower.
- Comfortable Transport: Travel in air-conditioned vehicles with a professional driver.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
Day 1: From Baotou to Xiangshawan and Ordos
Starting in Baotou, your day kicks off with a pickup at your hotel, giving you a comfortable start to this adventure. Your first destination is the Xiangshawan Desert, known as the Resonant Sand Bay. As you step into this vast, golden landscape, you’ll get to ride a camel — a quintessential desert activity that’s both fun and photogenic. The gentle sway of the camel and the wide-open dunes make for memorable moments. Plus, the experience isn’t just about riding; some reviews mention off-road driving, adding a dash of excitement to this part of your trip.
After the desert, you’ll enjoy a Mongolian-style lunch at a local restaurant. This is a real highlight, offering a taste of regional cuisine — hearty, flavorful, and authentic. It’s a good chance to relax and recharge before heading to the Ordos Museum. Here, you’ll learn about the region’s history, from the Xiongnu culture to Mongolian costumes, with exhibits that serve as a window into local life. Some travelers appreciated the museum’s well-curated displays, noting how it added depth to their understanding of Inner Mongolia.
The evening wraps up with a stay at the Ordos Holiday Inn, situated near Ulan Mulun Lake. A leisurely stroll to the Music Fountain Square reveals a lively fountain show, a relaxing way to end the day. Many travelers mention the hotel’s comfort and convenient location as a plus.
Day 2: From Ordos to Yulin and Cultural Highlights
Day two begins with a visit to the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan — a must-see for history buffs and those interested in Mongolian heritage. The mausoleum’s serene environment offers a chance to reflect on the legendary figure’s enduring influence. Watching a Mongolian wedding performance here adds a cultural layer, showcasing traditional music, dress, and rituals that remain vital today. Reviewers often highlight how these performances are lively and meaningful, providing an authentic glimpse into Mongolian customs.
Next, you’ll visit the Sulede Altar, further enriching your understanding of regional traditions. After a local lunch, the tour travels to Yulin, where you check into your hotel. In the late afternoon, the journey continues to the Yulin North Tower — a scenic spot to watch the sunset, with expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Many guests find this a peaceful and photogenic end to a busy day.
Day 3: Exploring Jingtai Wave Valley and Return
The final day starts early with a trip to the Jingtai Wave Valley, an area renowned for its stunning geological formations. You’ll explore Flame Danxia, Water Danxia, and Earth Danxia, each offering unique visuals of layered sandstone formations and vibrant colors. Exploring this undeveloped valley provides a sense of untouched nature, a contrast to the more cultivated cultural sites. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to walk through such striking scenery, often commenting on how it’s a photographer’s paradise.
Enjoy a local lunch before heading back towards Baotou, with a possible stop at other sites depending on your schedule. The long drives can be tiring but are part of the adventure, as they offer glimpses into rural Inner Mongolia and Shaanxi.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat You Need to Know
Transportation and Comfort
The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, making the long drives more bearable. The group size isn’t specified but expect a comfortable, guided experience with a professional driver.
What to Pack
Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing suitable for desert conditions. Wear sturdy shoes for walking and be ready for temperature swings — mornings and evenings can be cooler, while daytime desert temperatures get quite warm.
Accessibility and Suitability
This tour isn’t ideal for pregnant women, those with back problems, wheelchair users, or travelers over 70 due to the physical and logistical demands. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Pricing and Value
At $875, this trip covers entrance fees, camel rides, local lunches, and transportation, presenting good value for a comprehensive Inner Mongolia experience. The inclusion of authentic performances and museum visits adds depth beyond just sightseeing.
Booking Flexibility
You can reserve with the option to pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance, making this a flexible choice if your plans are still in flux.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This 3-day trip is ideal for curious travelers eager to experience Inner Mongolia beyond the tourist hotspots. If you enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and scenic landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here. The camel ride alone makes it worth considering, especially if you want that quintessential desert experience. History buffs will appreciate the Genghis Khan mausoleum and museum visits, while those seeking authentic local performances will find the Mongolian wedding showcase especially captivating.
Just keep in mind that the schedule is quite full, and some may find the long travel distances between sites somewhat tiring. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a packed itinerary and enjoy exploring both nature and culture in a short time.
FAQ
Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver, covering all scheduled sites.
Are entrance fees included?
Absolutely, all entrance fees to sites visited are included in the price.
Can I join the tour without paying upfront?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later. You can also cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
What should I bring on the tour?
Be sure to pack sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and sturdy shoes suitable for desert conditions.
Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour offers lots of outdoor and cultural activities, the long drives and physical demands suggest it’s better suited for older children and active travelers.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it isn’t recommended for travelers over 70, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the nature of the activities involved.
In summary, this 3-day journey from Baotou offers a compelling blend of scenic desert landscapes, cultural experiences, and historical sites. It’s a great choice for travelers eager to get a taste of what Inner Mongolia has to offer, especially if you’re looking for an immersive adventure that combines outdoor fun with authentic local traditions.
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