Ulaanbaatar to Elsen Tasarkhai

Ulaanbaatar - Morning: Start your adventure with an early departure from Ulaanbaatar, heading west towards Elsen Tasarkhai. This region is renowned for its intriguing blend of ecosystems, featuring desert, mountains, and steppe. The approximately 4-hour drive offers a chance to experience Mongolia’s expansive landscapes and observe local nomadic herders with their animals. You’ll pass through small towns, providing a glimpse of rural Mongolian life in contrast to the urban environment of Ulaanbaatar.

Elsen Tasarkhai - Upon arrival at Elsen Tasarkhai, settle into your ger camp, a traditional Mongolian tent made from felt and wood. After lunch, embark on a camel ride across the sand dunes. Elsen Tasarkhai, a stretch of the Mongol Els sand dunes, offers a unique opportunity to explore the desert environment without venturing deep into the Gobi. The ride will introduce you to the nomadic lifestyle and the significance of camels in this region. For the adventurous, a short hike up the nearby hills will provide a contrasting view of the desert.

Elsen Tasarkhai - Return to camp for a traditional Mongolian dinner, prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Spend the evening around a campfire, learning about the nomadic way of life from your hosts. If interested, you can try horseback riding, an essential part of Mongolian culture. For those who prefer to relax, simply enjoy the serene environment around the camp.

Elsen Tasarkhai to Kharkhorum

Kharkhorin - Morning: After breakfast at the camp, depart for Kharkhorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. The journey takes about 2 hours, passing through plains and rolling hills. Kharkhorum, located in the Orkhon Valley, played a pivotal role in the history of the Mongol Empire, especially during the reign of Genghis Khan and his successors.

Erdene Zuu Monastery - Upon arrival in Kharkhorum, explore the Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in 1585 on the ruins of Kharkhorum. The monastery is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist sites in Mongolia. Surrounded by 108 stupas, it houses beautiful temples with ancient artifacts and Buddhist relics.

Kharakhorum Museum - Visit the Kharkhorum Museum, which provides insight into the city’s rich past and its importance in Mongolian history. The museum exhibits artifacts from the Mongol Empire, including ancient tools, pottery, and religious items.

Orkhon Valley Exploration

Kharkhorin - Return to Kharkhorum for the evening. As the day winds down, enjoy more interaction with local nomads or explore additional ruins in the area. Dinner will be served at the ger camp, offering another chance to sample authentic Mongolian cuisine.

Kharkhorum to Khustai National Park

Kharkhorin - Morning: After breakfast, depart Kharkhorum and begin your journey back east towards Khustai National Park. This park is renowned for its successful reintroduction of Przewalski’s horses (known locally as “takhi”), the last wild horse species in the world. The drive will take you through rural Mongolia, with opportunities to stop along the way and interact with locals.

Khustain Nuruu National Park - Arrive at Khustai National Park in the early afternoon. Upon arrival, head out into the park with a guide to track the wild horses. These animals, once nearly extinct, have been reintroduced to the wild thanks to conservation efforts. Besides the horses, the park is also home to other wildlife such as deer, gazelles, and various birds. Visit the park’s information center to learn more about the ecology and ongoing conservation work.

Khustain Nuruu National Park - After a day spent exploring the park, head to your ger camp nearby for dinner and relaxation. The camp provides a cozy and comfortable stay, allowing you to rest after a full day of activities.

Khustai to Ulaanbaatar

Khustain Nuruu National Park - Wake up early for a final excursion into the park to spot more wildlife. Khustai’s landscape offers gentle hills and meadows, ideal for a relaxed morning walk or a more adventurous trek to explore further. After breakfast, begin the journey back to Ulaanbaatar.

Ulaanbaatar - A farewell dinner will be arranged at a traditional Mongolian restaurant. This is an opportunity to enjoy dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings) and khorkhog (meat cooked with hot stones). Reflect on your experiences and share stories with fellow travelers.

Ulaanbaatar City Tour

Gandantegchenling Monastery - On your final day, enjoy a guided tour of Ulaanbaatar. Start with a visit to Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important active Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, home to a massive statue of Avalokitesvara, the Buddhist god of compassion.

Genghis Khan Museum - Continue with a visit to the Chinggis Khan Museum, which showcases the life and legacy of Genghis Khan and his empire. The museum includes artifacts, multimedia displays, and historical exhibits.

Naran Tuul Market - After lunch, enjoy some free time to explore Narantuul Market (the Black Market).

• All Inclusive
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Vegetarian Meal Option Available Upon Request
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• In-person guide is licensed or certified

• Gratuities
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Travel Insurance