Gobi center, Reindeer herders, Khuvsgul Lake, Ulgii Altai 5 Bogd Mountain

• 20 days, 19 nights
• 1–12 travellers

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About this tour

Gobi Center – Reindeer Herders – Khuvsgul Lake – Altai Tavan Bogd \| 20 Days

• Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Tsagaan Suvarga and the famous Bayanzag dinosaur fossil site. • Hike through the stunning Yol Valley and experience the towering Khongor Sand Dunes. • Discover Mongolia's ancient history at Karakorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery. • Visit the volcanic landscapes of Khorgo Volcano and the pristine Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake. • Relax beside the crystal-clear waters of Lake Khuvsgul, known as the Blue Pearl of Mongolia. • Ride horseback into the taiga and meet the unique Tsaatan Reindeer Herders, one of the world's last reindeer-herding communities. • Explore the remote western lakes of Khyargas Lake and Uvs Lake. • Experience authentic Kazakh culture and meet traditional eagle hunters in Bayan-Ölgii Province. • Trek through the spectacular Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, home to Mongolia's highest peaks and glaciers. • Visit the prehistoric rock art of Khoit Tsenkher Cave, one of Central Asia's most important archaeological sites.

Route, day by day

1. 1
   Day 1

   In the morning, we will drive towards to Tsagaan Suvarga. We will drive through endless steppes and wild life of the Middle Gobi province. Tsagaan Suvarga is big escarpment with 200m height and 400m. The eerie, eroded landscape was once beneath the sea and is rich in marine fossils and clam shells. Over 10 million years the wind has created this amazing structure. This area is an excellent site for hiking and taking photography of the beautiful panoramic views. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

2. 2
   Day 2

   We will go ahead to Yol valley (also called Yolyn Am & Eagle valley) situated in the “Three beauties of Gobi” Mt. National Park. This green valley is one of the main highlights in the Gobi Desert and sheltered by high cliff walls and covered with wild flowers and Gobi plants. In winter season, a narrow stream in the valley creates ice on the bottom of the valley that even lasts during the summer months.The walk through the valley is a lot of fun, about an hour walking there and an hour of walking back by walking the same route, where you climb over rocks and must jump over the small river. If this walking seems challenging, you can just walk until middle of the way or horseback through the valley. The high cliffs that flank the valley are very impressive. You may be lucky enough to spot wild sheep and goat, grazing high on the cliff walls. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

3. 3
   Day 3

   We will drive through the wilderness of the Gobi to the extraordinary of Khongor, which is one of the most scenic areas of the Gobi Desert. This impressive white sand dunes stretch more than 180km and highest point is around 300m known as Duut Mankhan. Upon arrival at the tourist camp near to the sand dunes, we will have lunch and time for relaxing at cozy Ger camp until Gobi hot temperature decrease. In the late afternoon, we will visit local camel herder family in their gear, and explore their unique nomadic lifestyle. Then, we will ride a camel and explore the area from the camel back. Around the area is the perfect place for camel riding. Mongolia is home to 2/3 of the two- humped Bactrian camels in the world. It is a gentle, calm and extraordinary patient animal. Afterwards, we will make a little excursion to a beautiful green oasis of Seruun Bulag near the Khongor River and sand dunes. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

4. 4
   Day 4

   • On this day, our trip will continue to Bayanzag (Flaming cliffs) which is a famous for containing exceptional dinosaur fossils in the heart of the Gobi Desert. Also, this area is well known for red tall hillocks formed as a result of wind and water erosion, which look like fire in the middle of the desert from a distance. Roy Chapman Andrews and American expedition discovered the first nests of dinosaur eggs from Bayanzag in the 1923. Their findings proved to the world that dinosaurs laid eggs. We will explore around significant area, including the saxual trees and wander on the red hillocks. Occasionally the pieces of fossilized bones and eggs are still found by visitors. If you found something, don’t touch it, because of removing fossils without a permit is illegal. • We will travel through the huge open landscape called Ongi steppe, which is over 80km wide steppe in the Gobi zone and come to around lunch time at Tourist camp, which is near to the ruined monastery of Ongi Temple. This small mountainous area along the Ongi River makes a good resting place to break a trip between the two major destinations. Ongi temple was established in 1660 and once composed of 30 temples, 4 big Buddhism universities. It was destroyed by the communist purges of the 1930s and is being restored by a number of monks. Nowadays that one temple serves as a small museum. When you reach Ger camp, you will have lunch and explore ruins of the monastery. The views of the ruins, river, Ger camps and the surrounding area are very impressive, you can see from any of the nearby hills. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

5. 5
   Day 5

   In the morning, head to Kharkhorin, a small village, and one of the country’s major tourist destinations. Historically known as Karakorum, which was an ancient capital of Mongolia Empire founded by Genghis Khan in 1220. Also, Karakorum was one of the most important cities in the history of the Silk Road. After lunch, we will visit the museum of Karakorum and learn more about the beautiful ancient Karakorum city and Genghis Khan. Continue to visit the magnificent and the oldest Buddhist Monastery complex of Erdenezuu, built in the 16th century, with 108 buddhis stupas. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

6. 6
   Day 6

   The place also called "White Lake", is nestled in the mountains of Khangai to 2,060 m. It measures 16 km wide and 20 km long, and its waters are of exceptional purity. It is the heart of a protected area for its biodiversity, as diverse ecosystems cohabit: taiga (boreal forest), mountain steppe and wetlands supporting a rich fauna. East of Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur Lake is the extinct crater of the Khorgo volcano, which is responsible for the birth of the lake as the lava blocked the flow of a river, creating a natural dam. The Khorgo volcano is located at an altitude of 2200 meters, its slopes are covered with basalt and its crater forms an almost perfect cone of 200 meters in diameter and 100 meters deep. Its last eruption was 8000 years ago, it was the last active volcano in Mongolia Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

7. 7
   Day 7

   After breakfast drive to Lake Khuvsgul, 136km long and 36km wide at 1645m above sea level. It is second largest lake in Mongolia as well as the deepest. It is known as the blue pearl of Mongolia, because of its crystal and clear water. We will relax at khuvsgul lake for a half of day. There is an opportunity to hiking, taking a shower. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

8. 8
   Day 8

   Ulaan-Uul Soum is located in the northern part of Khuvsgul Province, Mongolia, and is one of the most scenic and culturally rich areas in the region. The soum is known for its vast forests, rolling mountains, open steppe landscapes, and pristine natural environment, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourism and cultural travel. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

9. 9
   Day 9

   , 10

   After breakfast we will prepare to settle horses and start a trip to the Reindeer tribes. Tsaatan reindeer herders-is one of the last remaining group of nomads lives in Northern Mongolia. A visit to the Tsaatan community of reindeer herders is a fascinating experience. It is a rare chance to learn about a unique traditional way of life and a highlight of any trip to Northern Mongolia. You can stay with community and have the opportunity to volunteer for activities. Such as: reindeer milking and churning milk to be made into cheese. You will come away with a great appreciation for the remoteness and selfsufficiency of this tiny community. We will start horseback riding to the West Taiga (South Edge of Siberia). We are planning to ride for 2-3 hours per day / a second day we have a full free day of stay at Tsaatan area. Riding in the Taiga is exciting and challenging. The scenery, mountains, streams, tundra area, is spectacular. There are many wild flowers, birds and if we are lucky, we will see wild red colored deer. When we arrive at the teepees of the reindeer families, you will be welcomed. Accommodation: Tent Meals: B, L, D

10. 10
    Day 10

    Murun City is the administrative, cultural, and transportation center of Khuvsgul Province in northern Mongolia. Located along the Delgermörön River, the city offers essential tourist services, local cultural attractions, and serves as the main gateway for travelers visiting Lake Khuvsgul and the surrounding natural areas. Accommodation: Hotel Meals: B, L, D

11. 11
    Day 11

    Tosontsengel Soum is located in Zavkhan Province, western Mongolia, and is one of the largest and most developed soums in the region. Situated along the Ider River, Tosontsengel is known for its strategic importance and is home to a hydropower station, which plays a key role in supplying renewable electricity to the surrounding areas. The soum is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and steppe landscapes, making it an attractive destination for travelers interested in nature, local life, and regional infrastructure. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

12. 12
    Day 12

    Khyargas Lake is one of the largest saltwater lakes in western Mongolia, located in Uvs Province. The lake is approximately 80 kilometers long and 20–30 kilometers wide, covering an area of about 1,400 square kilometers. It lies at an elevation of around 1,028 meters above sea level and reaches a maximum depth of 70–80 meters. Khyargas Lake is known for its highly saline water and its importance as a habitat for migratory birds, making it a unique natural destination for ecotourism. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

13. 13
    Day 13

    Uvs Lake is the largest lake in Mongolia by surface area and is located in the Uvs Province of western Mongolia. The lake stretches approximately 84 kilometers in length and 79 kilometers in width, covering an area of about 3,350 square kilometers. It is a saltwater lake situated at an elevation of around 759 meters above sea level. Uvs Lake is part of the Uvs Lake Basin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is internationally recognized for its rich biodiversity, especially migratory birds. The lake and its surrounding landscapes make it an important destination for nature lovers and eco-tourism. Accommodation: Hotel Meals: B, L, D

14. 14
    Day 14

    Bayan-Ölgii Province is located in western Mongolia and is known for its beautiful mountain landscapes and unique Kazakh culture. The province is famous for traditional eagle hunting and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can also visit local markets and shopping centers to buy traditional clothing, handmade souvenirs, and local products, making it a convenient place for cultural experiences and shopping. Accommodation: Guest house Meals: B, L, D

15. 15
    Day 15

    , 17

    • Altai Tavan Bogd is a majestic mountain range located in western Mongolia, near the border with Russia and China. The range includes five sacred peaks, with the highest being Khüiten Peak, which rises to 4,374 meters above sea level. Altai Tavan Bogd is famous for its glaciers, alpine lakes, and rich biodiversity, attracting hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. It is also a cultural and spiritual site for local communities, with many traditional beliefs and legends associated with the mountains. • Kazakh People in Mongolia primarily live in Bayan-Ölgii Province in western Mongolia. They have their unique culture, language, and traditions over centuries. Kazakh culture is wellknown for eagle hunting, horseback riding, traditional music, and yurt (ger) living. Visitors can experience local festivals, traditional foods, handicrafts, and folk performances, which offer a deep insight into Kazakh heritage. Accommodation: Kazakh family Meals: B, L, D

16. 16
    Day 16

    Khoit Tsenkher (Three Blue) Cave is a remarkable archaeological site located in Mankhan District, Khovd Province, western Mongolia, near the North Tsenkher River. The cave is famous for its ancient rock paintings, some of which are believed to be over 40,000 years old, making it one of the oldest known artistic sites in Mongolia and Central Asia. The paintings depict a variety of animals, including deer, oxen, camels, lions, and argali sheep, along with trees and symbolic figures, offering a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life and beliefs. Visitors can explore the cave and see the layered compositions on walls and ceilings, which reflect both artistic skill and cultural significance of early humans. The site is considered an important cultural and historical monument, and it is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, attracting archaeologists, historians, and tourists interested in ancient art and Mongolian heritage. Accommodation: Ger Meals: B, L, D

17. 17
    Day 17

    Bayan-Khongor Province is located in centralsouthern Mongolia and features mountains, steppes, and deserts. It is known for natural attractions like the Gobi Altai Mountains, Ongi River, and sand dunes, as well as traditional nomadic culture and local festivals. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, camel trekking, and exploring historical sites, making it a great destination for nature and culture lovers. Accommodation: Hotel Meals: B, L, D

18. 18
    Day 18

    On the last day of the tour, visitors will arrive in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia. Accommodation: Meals: B, L

What’s included

Changes and refunds

The same terms apply to every tour on Mongolia Guide.

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