Journeys: Discover Mongolia
From CAD $8,779
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Mongolia’s sublime beauty reveals itself in endless expanses of steppe and sky and an age-old nomadic culture that joins the people with the land. Journey through this remote, seldom-travelled region of Asia, from sprawling Ulaanbaatar to green, grassy plains where wild horses roam. Discover the country’s surviving Buddhist heritage on visits to historic temples and monasteries; walk across the rocks and sands of the sweeping Gobi, which conceal troves of dinosaur fossils; and get a taste of traditional Mongolian life at a farm.
Trip Details
Product Code: 6995
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicles, 4x4, walking, hiking.
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
National Geographic Journey, Extreme Adventures
Tour Operator:
G Adventures
Supplier Code: AMENG.B
Starts: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Finishes: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Duration: 16 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Activities
- Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Natural History Museum Visit, Ulaanbaatar Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Erdene Zhu Buddhist Monastery Entrance Visit, Kharkhorin Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Goat & Sheep Family Farm Experience, Orkhon Valley Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Nomadic Family Desert Experience, Khongoryn Els Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Archery Lesson & Show, Khongoryn Els Your G for Good Moment: Cafe No Limits Visit, Ulaanbaatar Your Wellness Moment: Tsenkher Hot Springs Visit, Tsenkher
- Arrival transfer
- Nadaam Festival Tickets
- Ulaanbaatar city tour
- Visit Khustai National Park
- Visit the archaeological museum
- Soak in hot springs
- Hike to Tuvkhun Monastery
- Orkhon waterfall hike
- Visit Hoshuu and Ongiin Khiid monasteries
- Flaming Cliffs excursion
- Gobi desert excursion and dune hike
- Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park excursion
- Folklore show with dinner
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Accommodation
- Hotels (3 nts), Ger camps (10 nts).
- 15 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners
Transport
- Private vehicles, 4x4, walking, hiking.
Group Leader
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $8,779 ($549 /day)
Itinerary
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar
Watch the thrilling opening ceremony of the Naadam festival, a Mongolian sports tradition that dates back to the time of Genghis Khan. Admire the colourful costumes of the participants, and observe demonstrations of the “three manly sports”—wrestling, archery, and horse racing. Afterwards, stop for a visit to No Limits Cafe and enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks prepared and served by local youth with Down Syndrome, and their mothers. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the festival grounds and take in the exciting atmosphere.
Day 3: Ulaanbaatar
Head out to see the finish line of the grueling Mongol Derby, the longest horse race on Earth according to the Guinness Book of World Records. During this annual race, competitors ride more than 1,000 kilometers across the steppe retracing the former mail routes of Genghis Khan. Spend the afternoon at leisure before attending the closing ceremony of the Naadam festival at the National Sports Stadium.
Day 4: Ulaanbaatar
Enjoy a morning tour of Mongolia's bustling capital. Visit Gandan Monastery, one of the country's most important Buddhist sanctuaries, and wander the rooms and temples of Bogd Khan's Winter Palace, the former home of Mongolia's last king. Climb up to the Zaisan Memorial, a Soviet Era monument which commemorates Russian soldiers killed in World War II, and take in sweeping views of the city from the hilltop. Later, admire the world-class collection of fossils at the Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs, dedicated to preserving Mongolia's paleontological heritage.
Day 5: ULAANBAATAR/KHUSTAI NATIONAL PARK
Travel by 4x4 to Khustai National Park, where some of the Earth's last wild horses roam. The takhi or Przewalski's horse native to these grasslands had nearly vanished from the wild, until the species was reintroduced here as a result of a successful captive breeding program. Meet with park staff to learn about the takhi reintroduction project, and keep an eye out for these stocky, coffee-coloured horses that have never been domesticated. Settle into a ger tonight, a round, felt-covered tent with basic furniture. We will stay in traditional Mongolian lodgings like gers through day 12 of the trip.
This trip covers a lot of ground and we will do so in 4x4 vehicles but there is a lot of driving on some very rough and unmaintained roads. A large part of Mongolia's appeal is its wild, untouched nature and, as such, accommodation and infrastructure can be very basic in nature. As such, hot water and electricity can be uncertain. Mongolia is a country which is very different to anything you will have experienced before and while this means it is not the easiest place to travel, this is also what makes it so special.
Day 6: KHUSTAI NATIONAL PARK/KHARKHORIN
Drive to the city of Kharkhorin and onward to nearby Karakorum, Mongolia's ancient capital. Here, Genghis Khan established his headquarters in the early 13th century. Explore the remains of the Erdeni Dzu Monastery, considered Mongolia's earliest centre of Buddhism, and meet with the head monk to learn about the communist purges that decimated much of the country's Buddhist heritage. Later, visit the Karakorum Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the 13th and 14th centuries as well as a scale model of the ancient capital.
Day 7: Kharkhorin/Tsenkher
Arrive at Tsenkher in the afternoon, the site of natural hot springs surrounded by serene, forest-covered hills. Popular with tourists and locals alike, these springs have long been known for their therapeutic benefits. Take a soak in one of the outdoor pools, or choose the privacy of an indoor bath.
Day 8: Tsenkher/Orkhon Valley
Drive to the breathtaking Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses rolling hills and pastureland, traditional pastoral societies, and archaeological remains. Set out on a hike to the lofty Tuvkhun Monastery, founded by the Mongol Buddhist leader Zanabzar in the mid-17th century. Explore the monastery's wooden temples, integrated with a natural system of caves, and enjoy beautiful views of the Orkhon Valley and surrounding pine forests.
Day 9: Orkhon Valley
Immerse yourself in traditional Mongolian culture on a visit to a local family's goat and sheep farm. Learn about daily life from the family and see how they make some of their food. Then, sample some of their products, including curd and yogurt. Later, enjoy a hike to a picturesque waterfall before returning to your ger camp for a traditional Mongolian barbecue, prepared over hot stones.
Day 10: ORKHON VALLEY/ONGIIN KHIID
Today, we make our way to the Gobi, one of the world's largest deserts, which covers much of the southern part of Mongolia. Visit the ruins of Ongiin Khiid, a complex of Buddhist monasteries and universities which were tragically destroyed during the communist purges. Tour the site and learn about the monks who have returned here in recent years, bringing new life to the complex.
Day 11: ONGIIN KHIID/BAYANZAG
Venture to the Flaming Cliffs or Bayanzag, a rust-coloured sandstone landscape where a vast amount of dinosaur fossils have been found. Spend time exploring the dramatic crags and canyons.
Day 12: Bayanzag/Khongoryn Els
Today, the group will drive to the spectacular sand dunes of Khongoryn Els in the western Gobi, popularly known as the “singing sands.” In the afternoon, spend time with a desert nomadic family and gain a greater understanding of how they survive in the harsh environment of the Gobi. Witness their simple, and incredible way of life. Afterwards, clamber up the wave-like peaks for stunning views of the golden landscape, and Altai mountain range. Listen for the musical sound the dunes produce when the wind blows over them. In the evening the group will witness a demonstration of archery, one of Mongolia's national sports. Learn the basics of this time-honoured tradition during a hands-on lesson.
Day 13: Khongoryn Els/Yolyn Am
Drive through the magnificent gorges of the Altay Mountains to the Gurvan Saikhan National Park, a vast protected area that comprises canyons, sand dunes, and a steppe. Stop for a hike in rugged Yolyn Am, the “valley of the eagles,” keeping an eye out for ibex, gazelles, argali sheep, and countless species of birds. Later, pay a visit to the Yolyn Am museum, where the group can admire a collection of dinosaur bones and eggs.
Day 14: Yolyn Am/Baga Gadzrïn Chuluu
Continue onwards as the group drives to the Dungobi Aimag region—Middle Gobi—and witness the astonishing granitic formations of Baga Gazriin Chuluu. Arrive in the afternoon, set off on a hike around the national park, and visit the site of ruins of an old temple dating from the 17th century.
Day 15: Baga Gadzrïn Chuluu/Ulaanbaatar
Spend driving through the Mongolian countryside to Ulaanbaatar. The drive is long and the group will arrive by the early evening. Enjoy a farewell dinner accompanied by a memorable performance of traditional Mongolian song and dance.
Day 16: Ulaanbaatar
Depart at any time.
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Tour Operator
G Adventures
G Adventures is an operator of small-group escorted tours. It is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with 28 offices worldwide. It offers more than 700 itineraries in more than 100 countries, and carries 200,000 travelers from 160 countries each year.
In Business Since 1990
Reviews
Solange - Traveled, July 2024
Amazing country, best tour itinerary out there to go see it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/08/2024
Kelli - Traveled, July 2024
People back home keep asking me why I went to Mongolia. My answer has been: "because it's Mongolia." G provided a spectacular adventure with spectacular people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/25/2024
Daniela - Traveled, July 2024
People made this a fantastic trip overall, the country is one of a kind, so beautiful. We shared ger camps with the Classic tour in a few instances, and this is a first, we did other Nat Geo trips and there was a clear difference in the level of accommodation. The high cost of this trip needs to reflect in better wages for local people, as the accommodation is basic, my hope is that the guide and the drivers can have a better and more competitive income. I understand that previous travelers have given feedback about the Gobi Anar camp in the past and no changes have been implemented. Our local experience was frustrating and disappointing and I would love to chat with a manager about it, please feel free to give me a call at your convenience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/19/2024
Cheryl - Traveled, July 2024
My experience with National Geographic and G Adventures in Mongolia was literally life-changing. From the capital city to the Gobi desert to the nomadic ger camps, I was able to experience first-hand the many wonderful facets of this gorgeous country. By sharing with our group their deep love of Mongolia, the guides ensured that each of us carried home our own love of the country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/03/2024
Mackenzie - Traveled, June 2024
Its hard to put into few words how amazing this trip was but as I've said it all started with Ganaa, who proceeded to make an already beautiful country even more amazing. I couldn't be happier I chose to go to Mongolia
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/26/2024
Susan - Traveled, June 2024
This trip was exceptional. I'll never forget the people I met or our guide, Ganaa, the landscape, culture and history. Our guide gave us the best experience of Mongolia.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/23/2024
Gilead - Traveled, June 2024
A truly unique experience with great group and a wonderful guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/05/2024
Michaela-Dorothee - Traveled, June 2024
wonderful landscape, great experience, nice group, excellent guide, was really worth the trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/14/2024
Marco Francesco - Traveled, September 2024
A real adventure through the infinite landscapes of Mongolia. Overall trip - Organization - Guide
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/20/2024
Debra - Traveled, August 2024
This was a great way to see a fascinating part of the world! The trip was well organized, and was as described. The CEO and drivers did a fantastic job of managing the group. We did not have to worry about anything, just enjoy seeing a new country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2024
Michael - Traveled, August 2024
We got to explore the wilds of Mongolia, a-lace hard to get to but worth it. Good drivers with safety a priority from what we saw. Getting to visit the nomads was an experience I will never forget Great value, small groups, and interesting trips to far away places
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2024
Tamara - Traveled, August 2024
The Mongolia trip was great. The scenery was gorgeous, our leader and drivers were all skilled and helpful. Everyone in the group got along well. Fantastic trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2024
Boon Hong - Traveled, September 2024
I notice the drivers do not communicate with the other drivers while driving. It would be convenient for them to each have a walkie talkie. Good and knowledgeable tour guides. The accommodation and itinerary were good and well planned.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2024
Gareth - Traveled, August 2024
A unique insight onto a wonderful country, with amazing staff along the way Seamless organisation, wonderful guide and drivers, great vehicles and wonderful itinerary
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2024
Rebecca - Traveled, August 2024
A wonderful experience, great tour leader. Gave me a good understanding of Mongolia and I met a great group of people from all over the world. Well organized, saw lots of the country
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2024
Christopher - Traveled, August 2024
Good experience. Some areas of improvement are needed
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/08/2024
Camilla - Traveled, August 2024
Mongolia is a wonderful place where I will return! Well organized
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2024
Vicci - Traveled, August 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed the journey but would recommend that we stay at camps longer and not see quite so many museums or temples Since having to travel on unsealed roads it would be better to stay at camps 2 nights. One day is taken with travel and having to leave so early in the next morning is tiring
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2024
Vicki - Traveled, August 2024
Mongolia was beautiful. Our CEO outstanding as well as the drivers. The camps were fine, but could be better. Because I enjoyed the experience very much. If someone is interested in visiting a more remote destination, this is the way to go.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2024
Amy - Traveled, July 2024
I am already ?slow traveling? across the globe but because Mongolia is extensive and lacks public transportation, I ended up selecting G Adventures due to the Naadam Games which was included and the fact that it was a small group tour. And Nat Geo's Discover Mongolia was everything they said it would be and so much more. Apart from the vast landscapes of the green steppe and arid desert, we got to also meet the people and learn something of their culture. What's more the meals served were delicious. Even vegetarians and folks with allergies were well catered for. Overall, the Nat Geo experience of comfort and access was worth the price of the tour. The whole experience of the country and its landscapes to our wonderful guide and drivers who made everything memorable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/12/2024
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