Mongolia · Desert Adventure

6-Day Gobi Desert Adventure in Mongolia with Nomadic Family Stays

6 Days Round trip from Ulaanbaatar Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Experience riding camels through the iconic Khongoryn Els sand dunes
02 Explore stunning landscapes at Yol Valley in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains
03 Visit Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, famous for ancient dinosaur fossils
04 Immerse in Mongolian culture by meeting nomadic families and enjoying traditional meals
05 Stay in authentic Mongolian gers and learn to cook traditional dishes

Experience the stunning landscapes of Mongolia's Gobi Desert on this exciting adventure. Ride camels through the iconic Khongoryn Els sand dunes, explore the breathtaking Yolin Am Gorge, and visit the Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, home to ancient dinosaur fossils. Immerse yourself in Mongolian culture by meeting nomadic families, enjoying traditional meals, and learning about their way of life.

Ride camels through the iconic Khongoryn Els sand dunes, explore the breathtaking Yolin Am Gorge, and visit the Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, home to ancient dinosaur fossils.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Ulan Bator, Dalanzadgad, Yolyn Am

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad via Tsagaan Suvraga

Pick up from your hotel at 08:00 am.
Start the long drive to the South Gobi region.
Stop for lunch at a local canteen.
Visit Tsagaan Suvraga, a natural wonder with stunning cliff formations.
Continue the journey to Dalanzadgad town in the South Gobi.

Dinner and rest at a guesthouse.

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Dalanzadgad town, South Gobi

Meal: Lunch / Dinner

Day 02

Explore Yol Valley in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains

Breakfast at the guesthouse.
Explore Yol Valley, a deep gorge in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, famous for its stunning landscapes.
Ride horses deeper into the valley, then continue hiking for 2-3 hours.
Enjoy a boxed picnic lunch in the valley.
Return to the tourist camp for refreshments and dinner.

Accommodation: Tourist camp

Meal: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 03

Khongor Sand Dunes and Nomadic Family Stay

Travel to the Khongor Sand Dunes, one of the largest sand dune areas in Mongolia (200 km on a dirt road).
Visit a Gobi nomadic family to learn about their lifestyle.
Have lunch with the nomads.
Enjoy a camel riding experience on the Khongor Sand Dunes with the host family.

Optionally help with household tasks after dinner.

Spend the night in an authentic Mongolian ger.

Accommodation: Nomadic family

Meal: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 04

Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs and Dinosaur Fossils

After breakfast, depart for Bayanzag (150 km).
Visit the site where the first dinosaur skeleton was discovered.
Watch a documentary and visit the information center for a deeper understanding of the area.
Explore Bayanzag, the Flaming Cliffs, and the rich history of dinosaur fossils.
If the weather permits, visit the Flaming Cliffs in the evening for a beautiful sunset.

Spend the night in a tourist camp.

Accommodation: Tourist camp

Meal: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 05

Bagagazar Chuluu and Traditional Cooking

Travel to Bagagazar Chuluu, a stunning area known for its unique rock formations and ancient geological structures.
Visit another nomadic family and experience a different region and lifestyle.
Enjoy horse riding with a member of the host family.
Learn to cook a traditional Mongolian dish.

Spend the night in an authentic Mongolian ger.

Accommodation: Nomadic family

Meal: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 06

Return to Ulaanbaatar

After breakfast, return to Ulaanbaatar city.
Drop off at your hotel in the city.

Accommodation: Not included

Meal: Breakfast / Lunch

Where this trip takes you

Khongoryn Els sand dunes, Yol Valley in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Ulaanbaatar 3 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Full-time services of an excellent English-speaking local guide
Entrance fees and excursions as per the itinerary
Private transfers throughout the tour
Meals as specified (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
1 hour of horse riding with a horse guide
1 hour of camel riding with a camel guide
Nomadic family stay for an authentic experience
Drinking water provided throughout the tour

What's Not Included

International airfare/train tickets + taxes
Travel and health insurance
Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, and camera/video fees at sites
Tips for your guide and driver (optional)
Additional activities like horseback riding, archery, etc.

What to bring

Sturdy shoes - ideal for horseback riding, camel riding, and hiking.
Sunscreen - the sun can be strong, especially in the desert.
Water bottle - stay hydrated during the day's activities.
Camera - capture the beautiful landscapes and moments.
Light jacket or sweater - for cooler mornings and evenings.
Medication - if you have any personal medications, don't forget them.
Snacks - while meals are provided, having some extra snacks for the ride is always a good idea.
Insect repellent - especially if you're visiting areas with more greenery or near water.

Know before you go

Please note that there are no shower facilities at the nomadic family's home. Prepare for a more rustic, traditional experience where you will be embracing the nomadic lifestyle.

Logistics