Ulaanbaatar is a surprising city when it comes to lunch options. Unlike many capital cities that mainly focus on restaurant dining, Mongolia’s capital offers unique ways to enjoy a meal amid stunning landscapes and cultural sites. Whether you want to combine a delicious traditional Mongolian lunch with a visit to a monumental statue or explore the desert dunes on horseback, Ulaanbaatar has something for every taste. We especially appreciate tours that blend culture with authentic cuisine, like the 1 Day Coach Tour of Genghis Khan Statue Complex and Terelj National Park, which offers both historical highlights and a taste of Mongolia’s natural beauty.
For a more adventurous day with camel rides and nomadic encounters, the 1 Day Semi-Gobi Tour with Lunch stands out. And if you’re pressed for time but still want a scenic escape, the 1 Day Coach Tour of Terelj National Park including Lunch provides a compact yet rich experience. Below, we detail each of these options to help you find the perfect lunch outing in Ulaanbaatar.
1. 1 Day Coach Tour of Genghis Khan Statue Complex and Terelj National Park Including Lunch
This tour combines iconic Mongolian landmarks with a hearty traditional lunch in a ger. For about $124, you’ll spend 6 to 8 hours exploring the largest equestrian statue in the world and the spectacular Terelj National Park. The tour kicks off with a visit to the Genghis Khan Statue Complex, a must-see for anyone interested in Mongolia’s history. The 40-meter stainless steel figure on horseback is a striking sight, and the tour guide will enrich your visit with stories about Genghis Khan’s legacy. During the day, you’ll also hike up to Aryabal Monastery and meet a local nomad family to learn about traditional lifestyles.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of cultural, historical, and natural highlights, all bundled into a single day. The included lunch is typically served in a traditional ger, giving you a taste of authentic Mongolian hospitality. This experience is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see the country’s top sights while enjoying a rural-style meal. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and punctuality, making it a very well-rounded outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a comprehensive day with sights, stories, and authentic food—a good choice for first-timers or those interested in Mongolia’s history and landscapes.
2. 1 Day Semi-Gobi Tour with Lunch And Enjoying Camel or Horseback
This tour is a standout for adventure lovers seeking a close-up experience of Mongolia’s semi-desert landscape. For around $138, you get a full day exploring the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes, often called the “Little Gobi,” only about four hours from Ulaanbaatar. The tour is totally private, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility. You’ll ride camels or horses to explore the dunes, soaking in the vast, open scenery that resembles the famous Gobi Desert.
What makes this tour unique is the chance to interact with a nomadic family, offering a rare glimpse into traditional Mongolian life. The included lunch, served at a scenic spot, is hearty and satisfying, giving you energy for the afternoon’s activities. The reviews highlight the friendly guide and the memorable opportunity to ride camels, which many find to be a highlight. It’s particularly suitable for those who want an active day and enjoy rural landscapes.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers craving outdoor adventure and authentic cultural exchanges without the long drive to the Gobi Desert. It’s especially good for those who want a mix of nature, culture, and hands-on experiences.
3. 1 Day Coach Tour of Terelj National Park Including Lunch And Free Camel Ride
This relaxed, well-organized tour is a great way to see Terelj National Park without spending too much time on logistics. For $92, you’ll get round-trip transportation from Ulaanbaatar, making it ideal for travelers who prefer door-to-door convenience. The highlights include iconic Turtle Rock, a striking natural formation, and a Buddhist temple. The tour also includes a stop at the Genghis Khan Statue Complex, a must-see site with panoramic views and a chance to learn about Mongolia’s legendary leader.
What sets this tour apart is the free camel ride and the opportunity to meet a nomadic family—a chance to connect with traditional Mongolian lifestyle. The lunch is served near the Genghis Khan statue, giving a scenic and cultural context to your meal. While some reviews mention the shortness of the camel ride, most agree it’s a fun addition to the day. This tour is great for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and culture with minimal planning.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive and hassle-free day trip combining natural beauty, cultural insights, and authentic food.
4. 1 Day Semi-Gobi Tour Including Lunch And Free Camel +Bonus Khustai National Park
This longer, more immersive tour offers a full day of exploring semi-desert landscapes and wildlife. For about $169, you’ll visit the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes and have a chance to hike or ride camels, with lunch served along the way. An extra bonus is the visit to Khustai National Park, home to the endangered Przewalski’s horse, making it a standout for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The tour’s multi-stop itinerary gives a broader view of Mongolia’s diverse landscapes, from dunes to mountain forests. Reviews mention the informative guide and the variety of activities, including hiking, camel riding, and observing wildlife. The longer duration makes it more suitable for travelers who enjoy a fuller day and want to dive deeper into Mongolia’s semi-desert environment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who appreciate nature, wildlife, and comprehensive landscapes. It’s a good option if you want a mix of adventure and educational experiences.
5. Terelj Day Tour with Lunch, Horse Riding & More…
This tour offers a full-day exploration of Terelj National Park with a focus on horse riding, visiting the iconic Turtle Rock, and learning about Mongolia’s legend of Genghis Khan. For $207, it’s the most expensive option here, but it includes multiple activities and a traditional lunch in a ger camp.
What makes this tour appealing is the active component—you’ll ride horses through scenic valleys, which is perfect if you want to experience Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle firsthand. The visit to the Ariyabal Meditation Temple provides a peaceful break, and the stops are designed for photo opportunities and cultural insight. Reviewers note that the full itinerary offers a rich, engaging experience, though some mention the price is higher compared to other outings.
Bottom Line: A strong pick for adventure travelers who want horse riding, cultural insights, and a full day of activity. It’s best for those comfortable with physical activity and looking for a comprehensive experience.
$207 per person
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Ulaanbaatar
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a mix of history, culture, and scenery, the Terelj National Park tour with lunch offers great value with door-to-door convenience. For adventure seekers, the Semi-Gobi Tour provides camel rides and nomadic encounters in a more remote setting. Budget travelers who want a full-day exploration combined with wildlife observation might prefer the Khustai National Park option.
Finally, if you’re after an active, engaging day with horseback riding and multiple stops, the Terelj Day Tour with Horse Riding might be worth the splurge. Whichever you choose, booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience.
In summary, Ulaanbaatar offers a surprising array of lunch experiences that go beyond just eating—blending culture, outdoor adventure, and spectacular scenery. For a balanced day, the Genghis Khan and Terelj tour delivers a well-rounded experience. For adventure lovers, the Semi-Gobi Tour is hard to beat. If you want a comprehensive, active day, the horse riding tour offers the most variety. Whichever you pick, these tours will enrich your visit and give you plenty of stories to tell back home.