Description

Discover the magic of Mongolia with an overland tour through the remote Gobi desert. Beginning in Ulaanbaatar, travel to Mongolia’s colourful towns, ancient ruins and stunning national parks. Learn about the conquests of Genghis Khan, bathe in effervescent hot springs and spot bountiful wildlife as you traverse Mongolia’s great plains. Tucked away between Russia and China, Mongolia remains one of the world’s true enigmas, a true Intrepid destination with a fascinating mix of cultures and landscapes. See ancient Karakorum, quirky Ulaanbaatar and the legendary Gobi Desert on an unforgettable overland journey in Mongolia.

Highlights

• Learn about Genghis Khan in Ulaanbaatar.
• Travel Overland through the legendary Gobi Desert.
• Camp under a blanket of desert stars.
• Relax in sensual hot springs.
• Visit Mongolia’s renowned national parks.
• Spend time with nomad tribes.
• See flaming cliffs of Yolyn Am.

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Ulaanbaatar

This surprising city combines tradition with modern day in a Soviet-style framework. Ulaanbaatar may look grey, but the city's inherent spirit and its colourful people make this a city to remember.

Day 3 Baga Gazryn Chuluu

Located in the heart of the Gobi Desert, Baga Gazryn Chuluu’s intriguing granite rocks are atmospheric and photogenic.

Day 4 South Gobi

A number of dinosaur fossils and eggs have been found in the South Gobi Desert, a place of immense beauty despite its harsh exterior.

Day 5 Yolin Am (Vulture Canyon)

The desert reveals a shock of ice in the narrow gorge of Yolin Am, named after an Old World vulture called the Lammergeier.

Day 6 Bayan Zag

Bayanzag is called the Flaming Cliffs for the intense orange colour of its rocks. Indescribably beautiful, it is also home to numerous dinosaur fossils.

Days 7-8 Khongorin Els

Stretching as far as the eye can see, the Khongorin Els sand dunes are extraordinary, especially when they sing in the wind.

Day 9 South Gobi

The seemingly endless open plains of the South Gobi Desert are anything but barren. Dramatic rocky outcrops, sweeping dunes, shy animals and spectacular sunsets await.

Day 10 Arvaikheer/Bush camp

Located in the centre of Mongolia, Arvaikheer is a small, traditional city home to friendly people well known for their crafts and love of horses.

Days 11-12 The Orkhon Valley

Because the Orkhon Valley was of strategic and divine importance to the Turks, it is now full of fascinating ruins, some dating back to the 8th century.

Days 13-14 Tsenkher Hot Springs

Tsenkher is renowned for its delightful hot springs and is set amongst remote yet beautiful open scenery.

Day 15 Karakorum

Built by Genghis Khan in the 13th century, the ancient capital of Karakorum houses Mongolia's first Buddhist centre and impressive ruins.

Day 16 Ugii Lake

Often so still that the clouds are mirrored as they roll across the sky, lovely Lake Ugii is home to a diverse range of birds and fish.

Day 17 Khustain National Park

The impressive Khustain Nuruu National Park is blessed with an incredible array of plant, bird and animal species.

Days 18-19 Terelj National Park

There is an abundance of activities to enjoy in Terelj National Park, with the Tuul River, rocky outcrops, walking trails and a glacial lake to enjoy.

Days 20-21 Ulaanbaatar

Called UB by locals, the endearing Ulaanbaatar is surrounded by green hills and is a curious mix of Soviet buildings and ger districts.

Group Size

Maximum of 19 travellers per group

Accommodation

Bush camp (no facilities), Hotel, Yurt

Transport

Overland vehicle

Important notes

Please note that this trip requires minimum numbers to depart, and may be cancelled up until 56 days prior to departure. The places showing on the dates and availability page are an indication only so please contact Intrepid to check if your preferred date will depart before making any final arrangements, such as booking non-changeable flights.