Mongolia: Gobi Desert & Steppe Odyssey

Arrive in Ulaanbaatar where you are warmly welcomed and transferred to your elegant hotel. The day unfolds at your pace—perhaps a gentle introduction to the city with a visit to Gandan Monastery or a stroll across Sukhbaatar Square. As evening falls, enjoy an intimate performance of traditional music and dance, followed by a carefully curated welcome dinner.

Travel Details: Airport to city transfer (1hr 15mins / 54km); light city touring.

Accommodation: Tuushin Hotel (Deluxe Double Room).

Meals Included: Dinner.

Take a short flight into the heart of the Gobi Desert, where your private driver awaits. Journey to the dramatic Yolyn Am gorge, a hidden oasis framed by towering rock walls. Wander through its cool, shaded valley, alive with wildlife and seasonal ice formations, before arriving at your beautifully appointed ger camp for your first night beneath Mongolia’s vast skies.

Travel Details: Flight (~1hr); scenic drives and guided walk.

Accommodation: Gobi Mirage (Deluxe En-Suite Ger).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Travel across sweeping desert plains to the majestic Khongoryn Els—Mongolia’s largest and most awe-inspiring dunes. Settle into your lodge before visiting a nomadic camel-herding family, where you are welcomed with genuine hospitality. Later, ride camels along the dunes and climb their golden ridges for breathtaking sunset views over the silent desert.

Travel Details: ~4hrs / 200km drive; local excursions.

Accommodation: Gobi Erdene (En-suite Wooden Lodge).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Discover the petroglyphs of Khavtsgait, where ancient carvings whisper stories of early life on the steppe. Continue to the iconic Flaming Cliffs, their deep red hues illuminated by the changing light. Explore this remarkable palaeontological site at leisure, soaking in both its natural beauty and its extraordinary history.

Travel Details: ~4hrs / 190km drive.

Accommodation: Gobi Tour (Ensuite Lodge).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Journey north through ever-changing landscapes to the atmospheric ruins of Ongiin Khiid. Once one of Mongolia’s largest monastic complexes, it now offers a serene and reflective setting. Wander among the temples and stupas as the steppe stretches endlessly around you.

Travel Details: Up to 5hrs / 180km drive.

Accommodation: Ongiin Nuuts (Standard Ger).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Continue into the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley, where the arid desert gives way to rolling green pastures. Arrive at your ger camp nestled within this historic landscape and take a gentle walk to the striking Uurtiin Tokhoi Canyon and ancient burial sites.

Travel Details: ~5.5hrs / 250km drive.

Accommodation: Talbiun Camp (Superior Ger).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Hike through forested hills to reach the hilltop Tovkhon Monastery, a place of quiet spirituality with sweeping views across the valley. Return to camp for a relaxed afternoon—perhaps kayaking along the Orkhon River or simply soaking in the tranquillity of your surroundings.

Travel Details: Short drive; 2–3hrs hiking; optional kayaking.

Accommodation: Talbiun Camp (Superior Ger).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Travel to Kharkhorin, once the centre of the Mongol Empire. Visit the magnificent Erdene Zuu Monastery, enclosed by its iconic walls of stupas. Continue with visits to local markets and artisan communities, offering insight into both Mongolia’s past and present.

Travel Details: ~2hrs / 70km drive.

Accommodation: Secret of Silk Road Camp (Deluxe Ensuite Ger).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Visit the ancient Turkic monuments at Khoshoo Tsaidam before continuing to the peaceful shores of Ogii Lake. Spend the afternoon at leisure—walk along the water’s edge, watch migratory birds, or enjoy optional boating in this tranquil setting.

Travel Details: ~1.5hrs / 65km drive.

Accommodation: Ugii Khishig (Standard Ger).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Journey back to Ulaanbaatar, arriving in time for a relaxed afternoon of shopping—perhaps fine cashmere or handcrafted souvenirs. In the evening, gather for a memorable farewell dinner, reflecting on your journey across Mongolia’s vast and varied landscapes.

Travel Details: Up to 6hrs / 350km drive.

Accommodation: Tuushin Hotel (Deluxe Double Room).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you memories of Mongolia’s sweeping steppe, warm hospitality, and extraordinary landscapes.

Travel Details: ~1hr 15mins / 54km transfer

Meals Included: Breakfast