Mongolia · Desert Adventure

6-Day Gobi Desert Tour from Ulaanbaatar with Nomadic Family Stays

6 Days Round trip from Ulaanbaatar Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek the dramatic Khongor Sand Dunes
  • 02 Explore Bayanzag's Flaming Cliffs, where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered in the 1920s
  • 03 Hike through the natural beauty of Yol Valley in Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park
  • 04 Connect with nomadic communities through stays with local families in the Gobi steppe

Join this 6-day Gobi Desert tour from Ulaanbaatar to explore some of Mongolia's most striking landscapes, including Tsagaan Suvarga, Bayanzag's Flaming Cliffs, the Khongor Sand Dunes, and Yol Valley in Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park. Along the way, experience authentic Mongolian nomadic culture through stays with local families and a camel breeder family. The journey combines scenic drives, hikes through dramatic desert formations, a camel ride in the Gobi, and visits to important natural and archaeological sites.

Join this 6-day Gobi Desert tour from Ulaanbaatar to explore some of Mongolia's most striking landscapes, including Tsagaan Suvarga, Bayanzag's Flaming Cliffs, the Khongor Sand Dunes, and Yol Valley in Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Budget
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Ulan Bator, Dalanzadgad, Yolyn Am, Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Tsagaan Suvarga and Local Family Stay

  • Today's expedition leads us to Tsagaan Suvarga, a remarkable sedimentary formation that harks back to an ancient seabed.
  • Our journey spans approximately 6-7 hours, punctuated by a lunch stop in Mandalgovi town.
  • Upon our arrival, we will visit a local family in the area.
  • Then we'll embark on an excursion to the Tsagaan Suvarga scarps, where you can revel in a captivating hike amidst the vibrant cliffs, ascending toward the summit for breathtaking views.
  • After this invigorating exploration, we'll return to the local family and stay overnight with them.

Accommodation: Local family

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

2
Day 02

Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs and Nomadic Camel Breeder Family

  • Today, we embark on a picturesque journey to the famous Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs, with a drive that spans approximately four to five hours.
  • Our expedition includes a stop in Dalanzadgad, a charming Gobi town, where we'll explore the newly constructed Umnugovi Province Museum and savor a delightful lunch.
  • Following our visit to Dalanzadgad, we'll continue with a brief drive to the Flaming Cliffs, where a visit to the information center provides insights through exhibits and a documentary.
  • Immerse yourself in the wilderness by hiking along designated trails to explore the unique natural formations of the red cliffs, where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered in the 1920s.
  • Afterward, we will arrive at our host nomadic camel breeder family.
  • The rest of the day will be spent with the Gobi family, seeing them take care of their goats and camels.

Accommodation: Local family

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3
Day 03

Khongor Sand Dunes Camel Ride and Sunset

  • In the morning, we embark on a 4 to 5-hour drive to the Khongor Sand Dunes, traversing vast desert badlands that stretch out to the distant horizons, with remote mountains adorning the skyline.
  • Upon reaching our guest ger, we will have lunch.
  • Later in the afternoon, we partake in a serene 1-hour camel ride.
  • Climbing the dunes, we witness the mesmerizing sunset from their summit.
  • Returning to the ger, we enjoy dinner and settle in for the night.

Accommodation: Guest ger

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4
Day 04

Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park and Yol Valley

  • Today, we embark on a picturesque journey to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, a drive that spans approximately four to five hours and allows ample opportunities for scenic photography stops.
  • We continue the drive and reach the enchanting Yolyn Am.
  • Here, you'll have the opportunity to partake in a one-hour hike from our parking spot, immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Optional horse riding is available at the national park. Eventually, we'll transfer to a local hotel in Dalanzadgad.

Accommodation: Local hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

5
Day 05

Baga Gazaryn Chuluu and Surtiin Am

  • Today, our journey leads us to the picturesque and legendary granite mountain of Baga Gazaryn Chuluu on a 6-7-hour drive.
  • After lunch at Mandalgovi, we will head to Baga Gazaryn Chuluu to explore the area, taking a tour to visit Surtiin Am with its stone temple ruins, a 20-meter-long cave, and nearby ger stones.
  • We then return to Mandalgovi for dinner and an overnight stay at a local hostel.

Accommodation: Local hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

6
Day 06

Return to Ulaanbaatar

  • Depart from the ger camp and journey to Ulaanbaatar, with a 5-hour drive culminating in your arrival in the city.
  • Transfer to your hotel, marking the end of our service.

Meals: Breakfast

Tsagaan Suvarga scarps, Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, Khongor Sand Dunes

Where this trip takes you

Tsagaan Suvarga scarps, Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, Khongor Sand Dunes

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Ulaanbaatar 4 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • English-speaking local guide
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees
  • Private transfers (comfortable van + experienced driver)
  • Twin/double share at good local hotels/hostel in Dalanzadgad and Mandalgovi - 2 nights
  • Twin/triple share at guest ger and local family (basic bathroom facility - not western style) in Tsagaan Suvarga, Bayanzag, and Khongor Sand Dunes - 3 nights
  • Meals as listed (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
  • 1-hour camel riding fee in the Gobi
  • 0.5 l x 3 bottled water per day
  • Visa support invitation letter where applicable

What's Not Included

  • International airfare/train tickets + tax
  • Travel insurance and visa fees
  • Accommodation in Ulaanbaatar
  • Airport transfers
  • Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, drinks, and camera or video fees at any sites
  • Tips for your guide and driver (discretionary)
  • Optional activities not covered in the package
  • 4% surcharge if you pay by credit card

What to bring

When traveling to the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, preparation is key due to its unique climate, remote location, and the activities you'll be undertaking. Here's a comprehensive packing list:

Clothing:

  1. Layered clothing:
    • Lightweight, breathable clothing for the daytime (it can get very hot).
    • Warm layers for the evenings (temperatures drop significantly at night).
    • A thermal base layer if traveling in spring, autumn, or winter.
  2. Outerwear:
    • A windproof and waterproof jacket to protect against desert winds.
  3. Comfortable pants: durable and suitable for hiking or camel rides.
  4. Headwear:
    • A wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
    • A scarf or buff to shield your face from sand and wind.
  5. Sturdy footwear:
    • Hiking boots for rough terrain.
    • Comfortable sandals or shoes for downtime.

Essentials:

  1. Daypack: for carrying daily necessities.
  2. Reusable water bottle: staying hydrated is crucial in the arid desert climate.
  3. Snacks: energy bars, trail mix, or other non-perishable snacks.
  4. Toiletries: travel-sized items, toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a small towel.
  5. Sun protection:
    • High-SPF sunscreen.
    • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  6. Personal medications: bring any essential medications and a small first-aid kit.

Outdoor and Adventure Gear:

  1. Camera: to capture the stunning desert landscapes and wildlife.
  2. Power bank or solar charger: electricity can be limited in remote areas.
  3. Flashlight or headlamp: essential for nighttime.
  4. Binoculars: for spotting wildlife and enjoying panoramic views.
  5. Insect repellent: especially in summer months.

Cultural and Practical Considerations:

  1. Small gifts, such as sweets or tea, for nomadic families you may visit.
  2. Local currency (MNT): for purchases and tips.
  3. Notebook/journal: to document your journey.
  4. Trash bags: to leave no trace behind in the pristine desert environment.

Optional Items:

  1. Sleeping bag: some tours provide them, but check in advance.
  2. Books or e-readers: for entertainment during long drives.
  3. Moisturizer and lip balm: to combat the dry desert air.
  4. Thermal flask: for keeping drinks hot or cold.

Pro Tips:

  • Check the season and weather forecast before packing.
  • Always bring extra layers for warmth, even in summer.
  • Pack light but prepare for various conditions, as the Gobi Desert can be unpredictable.

Know before you go

Tour Price:

  • 4190 USD per person for a private tour for a solo traveler
  • 2280 USD per person for a private tour with 2 participants, based on twin/double occupancy
  • 1760 USD per person for a private tour with 3-4 participants, based on twin/double occupancy
  • 1530 USD per person for a private tour with 5 participants, based on twin/double occupancy
  • 100 USD per person for a single supplement (2 nights at local hotels)

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Tour start
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 6 days finish where they began, in Ulaanbaatar.

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Starting from

USD 1,530 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $1,530.00 — $4,190.00
Double Sharing $1,530.00 — $2,280.00

When

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