Ulaanbaatar - Gobi Desert – Chinggis Khan Statue - 8 Days 7 Nights

Step into one of the most barren and breathtaking landscapes on earth – the Gobi, Asia's largest desert, on one of our Mongolia Tours. Are you ready to explore vast tracks that have been barely touched by man? Nomads call the Gobi home, where survival means staying one step ahead of nature. It's about learning to live in harmony with a landscape that seems forbidding. These resilient and resourceful nomads have developed unique cultures and deep spiritual bonds in these arid lands.

Supplement price:

Single Supplement: US $357

BRIEF ITINERARY

Day 1 (May 12): Arrival in Ulaanbaatar - Airport transfer is an additional price (-)
Day 2 (May 13): Ulaanbaatar – Tsagaan Suvarga (B, L, D)
Day 3 (May 14): Tsagaan Suvarga – Yol Valley (B, L, D)
Day 4 (May 15): Yol Valley – Khongor Sand Dunes (B, L, D)
Day 5 (May 16): Khongor Sand Dunes – Flaming Cliffs (B, L, D)
Day 6 (May 17): Flaming Cliffs – Baga Gazariin Chuluu (B, L, D)
Day 7 (May 18): Baga Gazariin Chuluu – Chinggis Khan Statue & Ulaanbaatar (B, L, D)
Day 8 (May 19): Departure – Airport transfer is an additional price (B)

FULL ITINERARY

Day 1 (May 12): Arrival in Ulaanbaatar - Airport transfer is an additional price (-)

Welcome to Mongolia! Upon arrival at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, make your way to your hotel in the city center (airport transfer can be arranged at an additional cost).

After check-in, you will have time to relax after your journey or explore the nearby streets of Ulaanbaatar at your own pace. The capital city blends modern development with deep-rooted nomadic traditions, offering your first glimpse of Mongolia’s unique culture.

Overnight at Holiday Inn Ulaanbaatar

Meal: None

Day 2 (May 13): Ulaanbaatar – Tsagaan Suvarga (B, L, D)

After breakfast at the hotel, the real adventure begins as we leave the capital behind and head south toward the legendary Gobi Desert. The drive reveals Mongolia’s vast open landscapes, with rolling steppe stretching endlessly to the horizon.

Our destination today is Tsagaan Suvarga, meaning “White Stupa.” These striking cliffs resemble ancient Buddhist stupas rising from the desert. Millions of years ago, this area was the floor of a prehistoric ocean, and fossilized marine remains can still occasionally be found in the surrounding terrain.

The cliffs themselves are about 30 meters high and stretch nearly 400 meters long, composed of colorful limestone layers shaped by erosion over time. The unique formations create a surreal landscape that changes color throughout the day as sunlight shifts across the rocks.

In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing hike around the cliffs, taking in panoramic views of the desert and photographing the dramatic scenery. As evening falls, the Gobi offers one of the most unforgettable experiences: stargazing under an incredibly clear night sky. With almost no light pollution, the Milky Way appears brilliantly overhead.

Vehicle trip: 400 km paved road + 50 km off road

Hiking: 1 – 2 hours.

Overnight in a tourist camp – outdoor restroom

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 (May 14): Tsagaan Suvarga – Yol Valley (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we continue deeper into the Gobi Desert toward Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, Mongolia’s largest national park and home to some of the region’s most spectacular natural scenery.

Within the park lies Yoliin Am, also known as Eagle Valley. Despite being located in the middle of the desert, this narrow canyon surprises visitors with its cool climate and dramatic rock formations.

The valley is surrounded by towering cliffs and receives very little direct sunlight. Because of this, thick ice can remain on the valley floor until late June, even when the surrounding desert is warm.

We will take a guided walk through the canyon, following a path that winds deeper between the steep rock walls. The hike offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as golden eagles, ibex, wild sheep, and small desert mammals that inhabit this unique ecosystem.

The contrast between icy canyon shadows and the surrounding desert landscapes makes this one of the most fascinating natural sites in the Gobi.

Vehicle trip: 200 km (150 km paved road, 50 km off-road)

Walking: 1 - 2 hours.

Overnight in a tourist camp – outdoor restroom

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 (May 15): Yol Valley – Khongor Sand Dunes (B, L, D)

Today we journey toward one of the most iconic destinations in the Gobi Desert: the magnificent Khongor Sand Dunes. These dunes are the largest and most impressive in Mongolia, stretching over 180 kilometers in length and rising up to 300 meters high.

Often referred to as the “Singing Sands,” the dunes produce a deep humming sound when strong winds move the sand across their slopes.

Upon arrival, we will walk along the lush river valley that runs beside the dunes. This surprising ribbon of greenery supports local nomadic families who herd camels, goats, and sheep in the surrounding area.

You will have the opportunity to visit a traditional nomadic family, gaining insight into Mongolia’s centuries-old pastoral lifestyle. Afterwards, enjoy an unforgettable camel riding experience across the dunes, guided by local herders.

For those feeling adventurous, climb to the top of one of the tallest dunes. From the summit, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of golden sands stretching across the desert landscape.

Vehicle trip: 100 km paved road + 60 km off road,

Hiking: 1 – 2 hours,

Camel riding: 1 – 2 hours

Overnight in a tourist camp – outdoor restroom

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 (May 16): Khongor Sand Dunes – Flaming Cliffs (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we travel to one of the most famous paleontological sites in the world: Bayanzag, better known as the Flaming Cliffs.

This remarkable area gained international recognition in the 1920s when American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews made groundbreaking discoveries here, including the first-ever fossilized dinosaur eggs known to science.

The cliffs are made of vivid red sandstone formations that glow brilliantly in shades of orange and crimson when illuminated by the setting sun—hence the name “Flaming Cliffs.”

During our exploration, you will walk through the rugged terrain, imagining the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this landscape millions of years ago. The area is also notable for its saxaul trees, a hardy desert plant that grows only in the harsh conditions of Central Asia.

The evening provides an excellent opportunity to watch the sunset transform the cliffs into a fiery red spectacle.

Vehicle trip:150 km off road

Hiking: 1 – 2 hours

Overnight in a tourist camp – outdoor restroom

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 (May 17): Flaming Cliffs – Baga Gazariin Chuluu (B, L, D)

Today we begin our return journey toward central Mongolia, heading to Baga Gazariin Chuluu, a fascinating granite rock formation located in Dundgovi Province.

Unlike the sandy landscapes of the Gobi, this region features massive granite outcrops rising dramatically from the open steppe. The formations create a mysterious landscape of natural caves, balancing rocks, and hidden springs.

Historically, the area was also an important spiritual site. Here you can find ancient stone inscriptions and the remains of a small monastery, which add a cultural dimension to the visit.

Enjoy a relaxing walk through the rock formations, exploring the caves and enjoying sweeping views across Mongolia’s endless plains.

Acc: Tourist ger camp – outdoor restroom & have a shower

Meal: (B+L+D)

Driving: 250km paved road + 150 km off-road / please be aware it will be 7-8 hours driving/

Activity: short walking in Baga Gazariin Chuluu – granite stone mountain

Overnight in a tourist camp – outdoor restroom

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 (May 18): Baga Gazariin Chuluu – Chinggis Khan Statue & Ulaanbaatar (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we drive back toward the capital city. On the way, we stop at one of Mongolia’s most impressive landmarks: the Chinggis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex.

Standing 40 meters tall, this stainless-steel monument represents the legendary founder of the Mongol Empire riding his horse across the steppe. Visitors can take an elevator to a viewing platform located on the horse’s head, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Inside the complex, we will also visit the underground museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits about the history of the Great Mongol Empire.

After lunch near the complex, we continue the journey back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, check in again at the Holiday Inn Ulaanbaatar. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the unforgettable experiences and friendships formed during this adventure across Mongolia.

Vehicle trip:250 km paved road

Overnight at Holiday Inn Ulaanbaatar

Meal: Dinner

Day 8 (May 19): Departure – Airport transfer is an additional price (B)

Enjoy your final breakfast in Mongolia before checking out of the hotel in the morning.

You will then transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your departure flight (airport transfer can be arranged at an additional cost). It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your scheduled departure.

We hope you leave Mongolia with unforgettable memories of its vast landscapes, nomadic culture, and the magical beauty of the Gobi Desert.

Have a safe flight and see you soon in Mongolia!

Meal: Breakfast

Notes:  

• Please be aware that hotels and all other logistics, services and days of travel are subject to availability. Where flights are cancelled or delayed Go Mongolia Tours will endeavour to secure alternative arrangements of similar value as noted in our booking conditions.  

• The travelling times mentioned within this dossier are approximations only. These times will vary according to weather, road, traffic or any other prevailing conditions.  

• This itinerary and supplementary information has been complied in good faith and was accurate at time of writing. However, it DOES NOT form part of a contract between the client and Go Mongolia Tours.