6-Day Mongolia Heartland Tour with Nomad Stay and Hot Springs

6 Days Round trip from Ulaanbaatar city Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery in the ancient capital of Kharkhorin
02 Journey to the sacred mountain retreat of Tuvkhun Monastery
03 Relax in the mineral-rich thermal waters of Tsenkher Hot Springs
04 Discover Elsen Tasarkhai, where sand dunes meet steppe and rocky mountains
05 Experience a dedicated nomad stay with a local family and their traditions

Experience a captivating 6-day journey through Mongolia's heartland, where diverse cultures intertwine harmoniously. Uncover the stories of historical landmarks, immerse yourself in nature's serene beauty, and engage in the authentic nomadic lifestyle. Enjoy horseback riding, discover spiritual tranquility, and relax in stunning landscapes shaped by monasteries, waterfalls, hot springs, and sand dunes. Conclude this unforgettable journey with a profound cultural immersion that embraces the essence of Mongolia's heartland.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Ulan Bator, Khogno khan national park, Kharkhorin

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Kharkhorin and Erdene Zuu Monastery

Our journey begins with a captivating exploration of Mongolia's illustrious history as we set foot in the historic capital of Kharkhorin. In this ancient city, we embark on a fascinating journey through time as we uncover the venerable Erdene Zuu Monastery. With its deep-rooted history and profound cultural significance, this monastery stands as a cornerstone of the region's rich heritage.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 350 km

Day 02

Orkhon Waterfall and Nomadic Landscapes

Travel to Orkhon Waterfall, a destination of great cultural significance in central Mongolia. Discover the valley's natural magnificence, including waterfalls and lush greenery. An excellent opportunity awaits to enjoy Mongolian horseback riding and embrace the authentic nomadic way of life.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 150 km

Day 03

Tuvkhun Monastery and Tsenkher Hot Springs

Journey to the sacred Tuvkhun Monastery, nestled in the Khangai Mountains. Experience spiritual tranquility and explore its rich history. Then indulge in the soothing mineral waters of Tsenkher Hot Springs, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, where you can unwind, relax, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Mongolia.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 150 km

Day 04

Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes

Embark on an extraordinary adventure to Elsen Tasarkhai, a stunning sand dune oasis in Mongolia. Traverse vast sand dunes, marvel at the contrasting landscapes, and soak in the serenity of this unique ecosystem. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Elsen Tasarkhai and create cherished memories of your journey through Mongolia's enchanting landscapes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 250 km

Day 05

Nomad Stay near Elsen Tasarkhai

Immerse yourself in a one-day nomad stay near Elsen Tasarkhai. Engage with hospitable locals, visit a nomadic family, and take part in traditional activities that offer a glimpse into Mongolia's rich nomadic heritage. Indulge in authentic Mongolian cuisine while surrounded by stunning landscapes, embracing the cultural traditions and ancestral heritage of the nomads.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 30 km

Day 06

Khugnu Khan Mountain and Return to Ulaanbaatar

Explore the Khugnu Khan Mountain region and visit the renowned Erdene Khamba Monastery ruin. Later, continue the journey back to Ulaanbaatar city, stopping for lunch at a small town along the way.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 280 km

The route

Where you'll travel

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

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

English-speaking guide
Professional driver
Tour accommodations (camps)
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
All meals during the tour
Petrol / fuel
Transportation (travel vehicle)
Entrance fees for attractions
National park fees
Camel riding fee
Horse riding fee
Daily bottle of water

What's Not Included

Travel insurance
Personal needs
Extra activities
Single room supplement
Gratuities for the tour guide, driver, etc.

Know before you go

Accommodation: Snuggle into cozy gers, traditional Mongolian dwellings, each night during your adventure. For one special evening, immerse yourself in nomadic culture by staying overnight in a ger within a welcoming family camp.
Transportation: Transportation will typically be in a 4x4 vehicle, driven by an experienced driver who is familiar with the terrain. The drive can be bumpy and dusty, so be prepared for an adventurous ride.
Road condition: Our tour takes you through a combination of paved and off-road routes that traverse the vast region of Mongolia. Expect to experience both smooth, paved roads and bumpy, dusty terrain.
Distance: Our daily travel distances will range from 150 to 400 km each day, allowing us to cover a vast area of the Gobi and visit some of its most stunning destinations. The overall tour distance is 2020 km.
Climate: The Gobi Desert can be hot during the day and cold at night, so make sure to pack appropriate clothing. Layers are recommended, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.
Food: Traditional Mongolian cuisine is heavily based on meat and dairy products, so vegetarians and vegans may have limited options, especially in rural areas.
Guides: The tour provides a local English-speaking guide who can offer insights into the local culture, history, and geography.

Logistics