National Geographic Journeys
Mongolia
Group / Max 14
Group Tour
Ulaanbaatar To Ulaanbaatar – 14 Days
Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through Mongolia, starting in Ulaanbaatar. Here, you'll delve into the capital's rich history and culture, visiting landmarks like Gandan Monastery and Bogd Khan's Winter Palace. The tour then takes you to the serene Hustai National Park, home to the rare Przewalski's horses, and on to the ancient capital of Karakorum, offering a glimpse into Mongolia's storied past.
The adventure continues with visits to the rejuvenating hot springs of Tsenkher, the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley, and the mystical Gobi Desert, where you'll explore the famous Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag. Experience traditional Mongolian life by staying in gers and interacting with local nomads. The tour culminates with a return to Ulaanbaatar for a farewell dinner complete with traditional performances, marking the end of a journey filled with unforgettable experiences across Mongolia's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
CULTURAL INSIGHTS AND HISTORICAL EXPLORATIONS: Begin your Mongolian adventure in Ulaanbaatar with visits to Gandan Monastery and Bogd Khan's Winter Palace. Journey to Hustai National Park to witness the remarkable takhi horses, and explore the ancient capital, Karakorum, immersing yourself in the country's rich history and Buddhist heritage. Encounter the Penan settlement and learn about their traditional lifestyle.
NATURAL WONDERS AND WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS: Discover the stunning Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and trek to the historic Tuvkhun Monastery. Experience rural life with a visit to a local family's farm and enjoy a traditional Mongolian barbecue. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes of the Gobi Desert, including the Flaming Cliffs at Bayanzag and the soaring Khongoryn Els sand dunes.
UNIQUE MONGOLIAN ACCOMMODATIONS AND AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES: Spend nights in traditional Mongolian gers, offering a unique and authentic lodging experience. Enjoy a farewell dinner in Ulaanbaatar featuring traditional Mongolian performances, encapsulating the rich cultural tapestry of this fascinating country.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition. a
National Geographic Journeys
Light Moderate
Casual
Explore Mongolia in 14 days: from Ulaanbaatar's urban vibrance to Terelj National Park's wilderness, historic Karakorum, and pastoral Orkhon Valley. Discover Ongiin Khiid's desert ruins, Bayanzag's dinosaur relics, Khongoryn Els' singing sands, Yolyn Am's wildlife, and Baga Gazriin Chuluu's rockscapes. The journey culminates with a return to Ulaanbaatar.
Your memorable journey in Mongolia begins as you touch down in Ulaanbaatar. No specific activities are planned, so feel free to arrive at your leisure. An included transfer takes you from the airport to your accommodations for the night.
Experience the vibrancy of Mongolia's capital as you embark on a morning tour. Explore the spiritually significant Gandan Monastery and marvel at Bogd Khan's Winter Palace, once home to Mongolia's last king. Ascend to the Zaisan Memorial, a tribute to Russian soldiers lost in WWII, and soak up panoramic views of Ulaanbaatar. Visit the No Limits Cafe, where local youth with Down Syndrome, alongside their mothers, serve delightful refreshments. Wrap up the day exploring the world-renowned fossils at the Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Venture to Hustai National Park, home to the takhi or Przewalski’s horse, one of the last wild horse species on Earth. Once on the brink of extinction, the takhi have been successfully reintroduced to these grasslands. Learn about their conservation journey, and look out for these unique creatures. Experience a night in a traditional Mongolian ger, a unique, round felt-covered tent with rudimentary furniture.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ger Camp Hustai (or similar)
Travel to Kharkhorin and onward to the ancient capital, Karakorum, once Genghis Khan's headquarters. Immerse yourself in the remnants of the Erdeni Dzu Monastery, Mongolia’s first Buddhist centre, engaging with the head monk about the devastating communist purges. Later, visit the Karakorum Museum to appreciate the array of artefacts from the 13th and 14th centuries and a model of the historic capital.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ger Camp Munkhtenger (or similar)
Arrive at Tsenkher, home to natural hot springs nestled amidst tranquil, forested hills. Revered for their therapeutic properties, enjoy the opportunity to unwind in these waters, either in an outdoor pool or a private indoor bath.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Duut Mankhan Ger Camp (or similar)
Venture to the stunning Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting undulating hills, pastoral societies, and archaeological remains. Embark on a hike to the historic Tuvkhun Monastery, founded by the Mongolian Buddhist leader, Zanabzar, and explore its unique cave-integrated wooden temples, all while enjoying the spectacular vistas of the Orkhon Valley and surrounding pine forests.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: UlaanTsutgalan Ger Camp (or similar)
Experience a taste of Mongolian rural life as you spend the day on a local family's goat and sheep farm in the Orkhon Valley. This immersive cultural encounter offers a first-hand look at the family's daily activities, traditional cooking methods, and food preservation techniques. Taste freshly made curd and yoghurt, staples of their diet. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic hike to a nearby waterfall, a perfect opportunity to appreciate Mongolia's untouched natural beauty. End the day on a culinary high note with a traditional Mongolian barbecue, cooked over hot stones in your ger camp.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: UlaanTsutgalan Ger Camp (or similar)
Depart from Orkhon Valley and venture into the heart of the Gobi, one of the world's largest deserts. Your destination for the day is the ruins of Ongiin Khiid, a complex of Buddhist monasteries and universities that were destroyed during the communist purges. As you tour the site, learn about the tragic history of these structures and the monks who have returned here in recent years, resurrecting the monasteries from their ashes, bringing new hope and life to the complex.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ger Camp Secret of Ongi (or similar)
Embark on a journey to Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs. The area, characterised by its rust-coloured sandstone, is a renowned archaeological site where a significant amount of dinosaur fossils have been unearthed. This expedition provides an opportunity to explore the dramatic crags and canyons, giving you a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. Stand in awe of the geographical wonders as you trace the footsteps of dinosaurs that once roamed these lands.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ger Camp Bayan Zag (or similar)
The day begins with a drive to Khongoryn Els in the western Gobi, home to the phenomenal sand dunes known as the singing sands. Engage in an enriching encounter with a desert nomadic family, learning about their resilient way of life amidst the harsh desert conditions. The day culminates in a mesmerising climb up the sand dunes, presenting panoramic views of the golden landscape and the Altai mountain range. As evening falls, participate in a demonstration and hands-on lesson in archery, a significant aspect of Mongolian culture.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ger Camp Gobi Anar (or similar)
Embark on a scenic drive through the Altay Mountains' grand gorges to Gurvan Saikhan National Park. This diverse protected area comprises canyons, sand dunes, and steppes, each ecosystem offering its unique allure. Hike through the rugged Yolyn Am, the valley of the eagles, home to a variety of wildlife such as ibex, gazelles, argali sheep, and numerous bird species. Complete the day's adventures with a visit to the Yolyn Am museum, housing a fascinating collection of dinosaur bones and eggs.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ger Camp Gobi Anar (or similar)
Continue the exploration by driving to the Dungobi Aimag region, also known as Middle Gobi. Here, witness the striking granitic formations of Baga Gazriin Chuluu, a testament to Mongolia's unique geological history. Arriving in the afternoon, enjoy a hike around the national park, immersing yourself in the region's splendid natural beauty. A visit to the ruins of an old 17th-century temple adds a historical dimension to the day's adventure.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ger Camp Khan Bogd (or similar)
Spend the day driving through the magnificent Mongolian countryside, heading back to Ulaanbaatar. This journey offers an opportunity to witness the country's diverse landscapes in all their glory. Arriving in the capital by early evening, enjoy a farewell dinner, the highlight of which is a traditional performance featuring Mongolian songs and dances, a fitting finale to an unforgettable journey through Mongolia's cultural and natural wonders.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
As your epic journey through Mongolia concludes, take time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you've made. Depart from Ulaanbaatar at your leisure, carrying with you the spirit of Mongolia and the warm memories of its landscapes and people.
Meals Included: Breakfast
This tour is provided through a partnership between National Geographic Expedition and G Adventures, merging enjoyable, interactive exploration with significant interactions with diverse cultures and individuals. It offers a blend of leisure, options, and activities, all while ensuring the organized and safe experience of traveling in a small group.
Age Requirement: 12+
All travelers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
What can you expect when you travel on this tour?
A dedicated Chief Experience Officer and knowledgeable local guides
A group of usually 16 or fewer Travelers
Comfortable and convenient accommodations in each destination
Included activities as indicated in itineraries
Optional activities may be available for an additional cost as indicated in itineraries
Opportunities for on-your-own exploration as indicated in itineraries
Included meals as per itineraries
100% guaranteed departures
Roommate match for Solo Travelers at no additional fee
My Own Room option for Solo Travelers wanting their own room (additional fee applies)
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
EXPERIENCES
TRAVEL INSURANCE
A minimum level of medical and emergency travel insurance is required in order to travel with National Geographic Journeys. Details are outlined in our Terms and Conditions and you will not be permitted to join the group until you have provided evidence of adequate travel insurance. Please read the trip details to learn more about recommended policy options.
MY OWN ROOM
During your trip, sometimes it's just more convenient and comfortable to have your own room. That's why we offer the My Own Room option - a single room all to yourself.
My Own Room Option: From £4,470
Experience the thrill of Mongolia's Naadam Festival and the majestic Altai Mountains on this 13-day adventure. From traditional sports and eagle hunting to exploring nomadic cultures and ancient archaeological sites, this tour offers an unparalleled journey into Mongolia's heart and history.
Nature & Wildlife, History & Archaeology
Mongolia
PRIVATE
Explore Mongolia's untouched wilderness and rich cultural tapestry. This 9-day tour combines Ulaanbaatar's historical sites, the Gobi Desert's vast landscapes, Hustai's wildlife, and Terelj's natural beauty, offering adventurers a unique blend of exploration, culture, and luxury accommodation.
Nature & Wildlife, Off Grid, AONB
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Embark on a 13-day Mongolian adventure through the East Gobi Desert, merging nomadic lifestyles with the region's stark beauty. Experience traditional ger camps, cultural encounters, and the vast wilderness, gaining a deep appreciation for the nomadic spirit.
Nature & Wildlife, Glamping, AONB
Mongolia
PRIVATE
Experience the thrill of Mongolia's Naadam Festival and the majestic Altai Mountains on this 13-day adventure. From traditional sports and eagle hunting to exploring nomadic cultures and ancient archaeological sites, this tour offers an unparalleled journey into Mongolia's heart and history.
Nature & Wildlife, History & Archaeology
Mongolia
PRIVATE
Explore Mongolia's untouched wilderness and rich cultural tapestry. This 9-day tour combines Ulaanbaatar's historical sites, the Gobi Desert's vast landscapes, Hustai's wildlife, and Terelj's natural beauty, offering adventurers a unique blend of exploration, culture, and luxury accommodation.
Nature & Wildlife, Off Grid, AONB
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Embark on a 13-day Mongolian adventure through the East Gobi Desert, merging nomadic lifestyles with the region's stark beauty. Experience traditional ger camps, cultural encounters, and the vast wilderness, gaining a deep appreciation for the nomadic spirit.
Nature & Wildlife, Glamping, AONB
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The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
