Granite Formations of Baga Gazriin Chuluu

Mandalgovi - Ulaanbaatar– Baga Gazriin Chuluu 250km
• Explore one of the rare rocky mountains in the Gobi, Baga Gazriin Chuluu, where stunning granite rock formations have been sculpted into various shapes by the wind and other powerful elements of the Gobi. In the mid-18th century, esteemed Buddhist monks resided in this area, leaving behind temple ruins and rock inscriptions as evidence of their presence. Historical sources suggest that Chinggis Khaan also lived here. It’s an excellent spot for an enjoyable hike.

Great White Stupa in the Desert

Three Beautiful Mountains - Gobi Gurvan Saikhan

Khongor Sand Dunes

Khongor Sand Dunes

Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag and Ongi Monastery Ruins

Mandalgovi - Khongor Sand Dunes – Bayanzag- Ongi Monastery – 300km
• Arrive at the Bayanzag cliffs, famously known as the “Flaming Cliffs” due to their reddish-brown hue, which is the birthplace of dinosaurs. A Saxaul forest near the cliffs and the cliffs themselves are tangible evidence of the era when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. American explorer Roy Andrews Chapman first discovered dinosaur fossils and eggs in 1922 at Bayanzag and nearby areas, which are now displayed in Mongolian dinosaur museums in Ulaanbaatar and other museums worldwide.
• Continue driving to Saikhan Ovoo village in the Middle Gobi province. Smaller rocky mountains are beautifully situated along the Ongi River, where the ruins of Ongi Monastery can be found. It’s an ideal place to pause before entering the Khangai regions. Upon arrival, explore the site of Ongi Lamasery, which was unfortunately heavily damaged in 1937. In 2002, some local lamas returned to the once-renowned Ongi Monastery and began restoration with limited resources and great enthusiasm.

Reaching the Khangai Mountains

Ovorkhangai - • A day of transition between desert and green mountain steppe natural zones. The journey will gradually shift from the Gobi desert to the lush steppe with endless rolling hills and plains leading to Khujirt village before entering the majestic Orkhon Valley. Here, supplies will be gathered at the local market.
• Continue driving off-road through the captivating landscape, home to yak breeders and swift horses, who will host visitors in the heart of the Orkhon Valley.

Horse Trekking to Eight Lakes

Ovorkhangai - Orkhon Waterfall- Eight Lakes approx. 4-5 hours horse ride
• Embark on a horseback journey to the remote Eight Lakes. The horse trail is quite rugged and notably challenging due to the lava stones, adding to its beauty. Upon reaching the area, several lakes, as the name suggests, surrounded by larch forests and lush green meadows, will be visited. Due to the higher altitude, the area is quite cool, and snow in August or September is not uncommon.

Hiking to Shireet Lake

Ovorkhangai - • A leisurely day with a gentle hike to the largest of the Eight Lakes, Shireet. Dismount the horses and continue hiking in the area to discover its wonders and arrive at Lake Shireet, arguably the most beautiful of all. Explore the surroundings.
• Return to the host family to enjoy the simple pleasures of nomadic life in nature, such as drinking yak milk tea, playing anklebones, enjoying the sunset, or stargazing.

Horse Trekking Back to Bodon Pass

Ovorkhangai - • Ride the horses and gradually return to Bodon Pass, where the vans will be waiting. Drive to the waterfall area.

Tsenkher Hot Spring

The Great White Lake of Mongolia

Arkhangai Province - Hot spring – Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park 190km
• Travel to Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, located in Arkhangai province and formed by a volcanic eruption. The lake is referred to as White Lake by locals as a symbol of respect for nature and water. Several types of fish have been found in the lake.

The Great White Lake of Mongolia

Arkhangai Province - • Hike along the lake’s shore. Visit the extinct volcano Khorgo, which stands at a height of 2240 meters. From the top of the volcano, enjoy the breathtaking lava flows covered with forest and the splendid view of the lake. The ancient lava flow, thousands of years old, creates a unique scene not seen elsewhere in Mongolia.

Former Capital of the Great Mongolian Empire, Kharhorin

Ovorkhangai - Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur– Kharhorin 220km
• A morning drive will lead to Kharhorin, the former capital of the Great Mongolian Empire in the 13th century. Although considered an ancient capital, few remnants remain from this historic site. Visit one of the largest and oldest Buddhist monasteries, “Erdene Zuu,” built on the ruins and foundations of Kharhorin in 1586. Fortunately, it survived the communist purges of 1937 and was reopened as a museum. Present-day Kharhorin is a small village-like settlement with over 3000 residents.
• Excursion to the local museum of Kharhorin city to explore traces of Mongolian history dating from the early Stone Age to the Great Mongolian Empire. The museum offers an impressive collection of items discovered from various excavations and expeditions around Kharhorin and the Orkhon Valley. Following the museum visit, stop by other sites such as the phallic rock and Turtle rocks.

On the Way to Mini-Gobi

Bulgan Province - Kharhorin - Khugnu Khan 100 km
● Arrive at Khugnu Khaan Nature Reserve, a unique combination of diverse natural settings, including mountains, forest, steppe, desert, a small lake, and a mineral water spring, all in one location, forming a unique scenery and representation of different natural zones. The area is perfect for hiking, climbing, and horse riding.
• Hike to the ruins of Erdene Khamba Monastery, dating from the 17th century, perfectly located to shield from the wind and cold of the steppe in the granite mountain.
• Visit the dunes of Elsen Tasarkhai.

Back to Ulaanbaatar

Töv - Khugnu Khaan - Ulaanbaatar 280km
• On the way, observe herds of horses crossing the roads, the smoke from gers fading away, and the endless hills and steppe.
• Return to Ulaanbaatar. Transfer to accommodation.

• Horse and Camel ride
• Lunch
• Park entrance fees
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Countryside lodging in ger camps, nomadic family’s Ger, or tents
• Transfers upon arrival and departure
• Guide service at all times

• • Accommodation in a hotel or hostel in Ulaanbaatar
• • Travel insurance, medical insurance
• • Alcoholic beverages

Mongolia warmly invites all who wish to discover and immerse themselves in the nomadic lifestyle of its homeland. This journey will take you from one family to another, across various destinations, and from desert to steppe. Start by traveling south to the magnificent Gobi Desert, renowned for its stunning beauty and unique features. The Mongolian Desert offers its famous lunar landscapes, towering rocky formations, frozen canyons, and sand dunes. Following this, the adventure continues to the Khangai Mountains, where a horse trek will lead you to the secluded Eight Lakes through the historic Orkhon Valley, providing an authentic horse-riding experience akin to that of a Mongolian rider.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.