Great Gobi Desert and Ancient Mongolia 12 days

Mongolia’s vast wilderness and ancient sites come alive on this 12-day adventure. For around $3,500, you’ll explore Ulaanbaatar, the Gobi Desert, Kharkhorin’s historical ruins, and Hustai National Park, all with the comfort of private transportation and local flights. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a rich peek into Mongolia’s unique landscapes and nomadic traditions.

Two key highlights we love are the chance to see the famous Przewalski’s wild horses at Hustai National Park and the unparalleled views from the 13th-century complex with the giant Chinggis Khan statue. The opportunity to stay in traditional gers in remote areas adds an authentic touch.

A consideration? The travel is quite packed, with early mornings and long drives, which may not suit those craving a relaxed pace. It’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level who want to pack a lot into a short period and are eager to experience Mongolia’s highlights in depth.

Key Points

• Authentic Mongolian landscapes: From the towering Gurvan Saihan Mountains to the sweeping Khongor sand dunes.
• Cultural immersion: Visits to Erdenezuu Monastery, nomadic families, and the 13th-century complex with the Chinggis Khan statue.
• Wildlife encounters: See the rare Przewalski’s horses in Hustai National Park and wild antelope in the steppe.
• Unique experiences: Hiking in Eagle Valley, exploring dinosaur fossils, and enjoying traditional Mongolian hospitality.
• Efficient travel: The use of local flights and private vehicles makes the extensive itinerary manageable.
• Value for history and nature lovers: A thorough introduction to Mongolia’s past and present.

An In-Depth Look at the 12-Day Mongolia Tour

Starting in Ulaanbaatar, this tour promises a well-rounded experience that balances natural wonders with cultural insights. Priced at $3,500, it includes transportation, guided excursions, entrance fees, and some meals. While the cost might seem steep, the value lies in the seamless logistics, expert guides, and the chance to visit some of Mongolia’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Day 1-2: From Capital to the Gobi’s Heart

Your journey begins in Ulaanbaatar, where you’ll be picked up and briefed. Early on Day 2, the adventure truly kicks off with a short flight to the South Gobi, saving hours of drive time and allowing more exploration. The first stop, Yolin Am Ice Field, offers a surreal view of snow and ice amid the desert landscape—an unexpected, breathtaking contrast.

Next, you’ll visit Gurvan Saihan Mountain, a legendary oasis at the eastern end of the Altai range. The towering cliffs and sparse juniper trees create a dramatic backdrop for the Eagle Valley. This area is famous for its eagle hunting traditions—a spectacle you won’t forget. Although admission is free, the scenery itself is worth the early start, with stunning vistas and the chance to learn about local eagle hunters.

Day 3-4: The Flaming Cliffs and Sand Dunes

Driving roughly 260 km, you’ll arrive at Bayanzag, or the “Flaming Cliffs”—famous for dinosaur fossils excavated in the early 20th century. Dinosaur enthusiasts will appreciate the fossil sites, while others can simply marvel at the striking red sands and stark desert beauty. Fossilized bones and eggs are often visible, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in paleontology.

Continuing to Khongor Sand Dunes, you’ll see the impressive Khongoryn Els, towering 800 meters high and stretching for miles. Here, you can walk, climb, or simply relax amid the endless sands. The small Khongor River flows along the dunes, creating oases and adding to the area’s stark contrast of sand, water, and sky. The landscape’s enormity and silence evoke a real sense of Mongolia’s wilderness.

Day 5-6: Return, Museums, and Mountain Ruins

Returning to Ulaanbaatar, you’ll visit the Natural History Museum, home to dinosaur skeletons found in Mongolia. This makes for a perfect blend of natural history and modern city exploration. Then, a quick shopping stop at the State Department Store gives you a chance to pick up souvenirs and Mongolian handicrafts.

The next day, the focus shifts to Khogno Khaan mountain, with its ruins of 19th-century temples and monasteries. The landscape here is lush compared to the desert, with forests and mineral springs. Trekking and horseback riding are optional but offer great ways to connect with local nomadic life and the rolling steppe scenery.

Day 7-8: Ancient Capitals and Wild Horses

A highlight of the tour is reaching Kharkhorin, the ancient Mongolian capital founded in 1220. The Erdene Zuu Monastery, built on the ruins of Kharkhorin, is a striking site with a 400-meter fortress wall and 108 stupas. It’s a place that echoes Mongolia’s spiritual history and Tibetan Buddhist influence.

From there, the trip takes you to Hustai National Park, where you’ll be thrilled to see the Przewalski’s horses—the last remaining wild horse species. The park’s efforts to reintroduce these horses make it a meaningful stop for wildlife lovers. Expect to see herds grazing peacefully as your guide shares stories of conservation work.

Day 9-10: Mountain Retreats and Museums

The journey continues to Gorkhi Terelj National Park, a favorite for its breathtaking mountain scenery and traditional Ovoo stone altars. The peaceful atmosphere is a welcome change from the desert, and the views of the Khan Khentii mountains are spectacular. You’ll have free time here to hike, relax, or explore local nomadic families to learn about their lifestyle.

Returning to Ulaanbaatar, you’ll visit the National History Museum again for a deeper look into Mongolia’s history and geography, rounding out your cultural education.

Day 11: The 13th Century and Chinggis Khan

The tour’s grand finale is a visit to the Genghis Khan Statue, an iconic 42-meter-high monument with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Nearby, the 13th-century complex offers a glimpse into the Mongolian empire’s core, with reconstructed sites and museums depicting the Mongolian Golden Age. The atmosphere here is both awe-inspiring and educational, ideal for history buffs.

Day 12: Farewell and Departure

Your Mongolian adventure concludes with a transfer to the airport, leaving you with memories of sweeping deserts, ancient ruins, and friendly nomads. The tour is designed to be comprehensive but efficient, packing the highlights into a manageable schedule.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This journey is best suited for adventure travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, historical sites, and authentic nomadic culture. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with long drives, early starts, and a moderately active pace. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the Przewalski’s horse sightings, and history lovers will appreciate the visits to Kharkhorin and the Genghis Khan monument.

If you’re looking for a well-organized introduction to Mongolia that balances nature, culture, and history, this tour offers a thorough, engaging experience. The use of local flights and private vehicles helps cover vast distances efficiently, making the most of your 12 days.

The Sum Up

This 12-day tour offers a deep dive into Mongolia’s diverse scenery and heritage. From the stark beauty of the Gobi Desert and dinosaur fossils to the ancient ruins of Kharkhorin and the rare sighting of Przewalski’s horses, it’s a well-rounded package. The experience of staying in traditional gers and engaging with local nomads adds authentic flavor that many travelers crave.

While the schedule is intense—covering mountains, deserts, and historical sites—the payoff is a rich tapestry of Mongolia’s wilderness and history in one trip. It’s especially valuable for those who want a guided, worry-free experience that emphasizes natural beauty and cultural authenticity.

For travelers with a moderate fitness level, a curiosity about Mongolian culture, and a desire to see the best of the country in 12 days, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just be prepared for the early mornings, long drives, and ample outdoor time.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $3,500 fee covers transportation, guided excursions, entrance fees, and some meals. It also includes the use of private vehicles and local flights, making the extensive itinerary manageable.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness. Expect some walking, hiking, and outdoor exploration, but it’s generally manageable if you’re comfortable with active travel.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay in gers—traditional Mongolian tents—in remote areas, which adds to the authentic experience. In Ulaanbaatar, accommodations are likely standard hotels.

Do I need to worry about language barriers?
Since the tour includes local guides, language should not be a major issue. Guides are there to facilitate communication and enrich your understanding.

How much time is spent traveling between sites?
Long drives are part of the experience—expect several hours on the road—especially when moving between desert, mountains, and city sites. The use of flights helps reduce travel time for distant locations.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, Mongolia’s best weather is generally late spring through early fall. The tour features snow and ice in early days, so plan accordingly.

This 12-day journey through Mongolia offers a rich blend of landscapes, history, and culture. Whether you’re drawn to the spectacle of the Gobi, the mystery of ancient ruins, or the grace of wild horses, it’s a trip that promises memorable sights and meaningful experiences.