DAY 1: Arrive in Kharkorhin, Sightseeing & Ger Camp

Visit the impressive Erdene Zuu Monastery in Kharkhorin

Welcome to Mongolia! Bordered by China and Russia, this vast country is renowned for its rugged mountains, expansive deserts, and rich nomadic culture. Upon your arrival, your driver will greet you and begin your journey into Mongolian history with a visit to the ancient city of Kharkhorin.

Also known as Karakorum, Kharkhorum, Qara Qorum, and Harhorum, Kharkhorin served as the capital of the Mongol Empire from 1235 to 1260. While none of the original structures remain above ground today, an on-site UNESCO museum explains the city's fascinating history and showcases some of the most significant archaeological discoveries.

Adjacent to the museum is the 16th-century white-walled Erdene Zuu Khiid Monastery, which continues to function as an active center for lamas and Buddhists worldwide. Today, Kharkhorin is a rather plain Soviet-style town, but visiting the museum and the monastery will transport you back in time. 

After your explorations, you will head to your ger (desert camp) to spend the night in traditional, well-equipped yurts. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the camp, then rest for tomorrow's adventures.

Day 2: Transfer to Saikhaan-Ovoo, Tour Ongi Monastery, Build a Yurt

Camp under the stars after you build your own yurt at a ger camp

The day begins early as you travel to Ongi Monastery in Saikhaan-Ovoo. Founded in 1600, this temple was once the most prominent Buddhist university in the world, featuring four separate colleges along the banks of the River Ongi. Today, the temple ruins serve as a haunting reminder of the anti-religious purges of the 1930s. Take a tour of the ruins by the river and in the surrounding hills, then visit the newly established temple to learn about the four lamas working to revive the ancient traditions of the site.

In the afternoon, proceed to your next ger camp, where you will have the opportunity to learn how to build your traditional yurt! For dinner, enjoy a hearty meal of khorkhog (roasted goat) under a starry night sky, all set within this beautifully wild and rugged landscape. The day begins early as you travel to Ongi Monastery in Saikhaan-Ovoo. Founded in 1600, this temple was once the most prominent Buddhist university in the world, featuring four separate colleges along the banks of the River Ongi. Today, the ruins of the temples serve as a haunting reminder of the anti-religious purges of the 1930s. Take a tour of the ruins by the river and in the surrounding hills, then visit the newly established temple to learn about the four lamas working to revive the ancient traditions of the site.

In the afternoon, proceed to your next ger camp, where you will learn how to build your own traditional yurt! For dinner, enjoy a hearty meal of khorhog (roasted goat/sheep) under a starry night sky, all set within this beautifully wild and rugged landscape.

Day 3: Transfer to Khongoryn Els, Camel Ride Across the Dunes

Trek the singing sand dunes of Khongoryn Els

After breakfast, embark on a journey with your guide, driving south across the desert steppes and the Altai Mountain range to reach the legendary Khongoryn (Hongorïn) sand dunes. These dunes stretch over 120 miles (200 km) through the arid Gobi desert and are the largest in Mongolia. Their towering peaks offer breathtaking views against the ever-shifting white sands, earning them the nickname "singing dunes" due to the melodic sounds produced by the wind blowing through the sand.

The drive takes you through the badlands, where you'll encounter solitary gers (traditional nomadic dwellings) and nomads riding camels, creating a mirage-like scene against the desert sky. Additionally, the desert floor is dotted with colorful rocks and minerals, contributing to the otherworldly atmosphere. Once you arrive at the dunes, meet and greet the local camels before mounting them for a ride through the shadows of the shifting dunes and the windswept landscape. After your ride, spend the evening with a local family, enjoying a homestay and a traditional Mongolian meal.

Day 4: Transfer to Yolyn Am Gorge, Hiking & Horseback Excursion

Explore the flora and fauna of Yolyn Am Gorge

Your next destination is the Yol Valley and Yolyn Am Gorge. Located in the Southern Gobi, this picturesque valley is renowned for its dramatic rock formations, crystal-clear streams, and plentiful flora and fauna. The gorge, whose name translates to "Vulture's Mouth," is a narrow canyon with walls that tower at more than 650 feet (200 m) and a deep ravine that stays frozen through most of the year. 

Here, you'll embark on a guided trek that takes you out to the gorge, traveling both on foot and by horseback. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as ibex and argali sheep, and learn about the geological and historical significance of the park and its importance for biodiversity conservation. You'll also stop at the park museum, which has information on the region's wildlife, as well as dinosaur fossils and remains found in the area. This evening, enjoy one last night at a ger camp before heading back to civilization the next day. 

Day 5: Transfer to Ulaanbaatar, Depart

Get in some last-minute sightseeing, then depart from the capital city of Ulaanbaatar 

Sadly, it's time to say goodbye to Mongolia. In the morning, your driver will transport you from camp to the capital city of Ulaanbaatar for your flight home. If you have time, you can squeeze in some sightseeing around the city, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping before you head to the airport. Safe travels!