Gobi Desert Trip & Northern Mongolia 19-Day Overland Adventure

19-Day Gobi Desert Trip & Northern Mongolia Overlanding Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable Gobi Desert trip and explore the wild beauty of Northern Mongolia on this 19-day overlanding journey. From the expansive sand dunes of the Gobi Desert to the lush forests and pristine lakes of Northern Mongolia, this adventure offers a rich cultural experience, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic encounters with Mongolia’s nomadic way of life.

Activity Highlights:

Visit the iconic Gobi Desert and explore the Khongoriyn Sand Dunes and Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs.
Experience the pristine beauty of Khovsgol Lake, known as Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl.”
Discover ancient monasteries such as Erdene-Zuu Monastery and Amarbayasgalant Monastery.
Encounter Mongolia’s wildlife, including rare species in the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park.
Hike volcanic craters at Khorgo Volcano and enjoy the view of Terkhiyn Tsagaan Lake.
Stay with nomadic families and enjoy their traditional dairy products and airag (fermented mare’s milk).

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar – Gateway to Mongolia

Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s vibrant capital, where your journey begins. After meeting your guide, take a short rest before heading out for a city tour. Visit the Gandan Monastery and the National Historical Museum, two key sites that offer a glimpse into Mongolia’s past. In the evening, enjoy a National Art Concert to experience the country’s traditional music and dance.

Accommodation: Hotel
Distance: 45 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours

Day 2: Baga Gazariyn Chuluu – Granite Peaks of the Gobi

Begin your Gobi Desert trip with a visit to Baga Gazariyn Chuluu, a stunning area of granite outcrops that rise dramatically from the flat plains. Surrounded by desert scenery, this place offers a perfect introduction to Mongolia’s vast wilderness. Spend the night in a ger camp, experiencing the peaceful solitude of the desert.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 300 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours

Day 3: Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa) – A Landscape of Beauty

Continue your Gobi Desert trip by traveling to Tsagaan Suvarga, also known as the White Stupa. The towering cliffs here stretch for over 400 meters and rise 60 meters above the surrounding landscape, creating a stunning natural monument. Spend the night in a ger camp, surrounded by this remarkable beauty.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 270 km
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Day 4: Yolyn Am & Vulture Valley – The Wild Heart of the Gobi

Today, travel to the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park to explore Yolyn Am (Vulture Valley), a stunning gorge home to some of Mongolia’s rarest wildlife. Keep an eye out for bearded vultures and snow leopards. This is a highlight of your Gobi Desert trip, where you’ll truly feel the raw, untamed energy of the Gobi Desert.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 235 km
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Day 5: Khongoriyn Sand Dunes – Mongolia’s Largest Sand Dunes

Next, head to Khongoriyn Sand Dunes, the largest dunes in Mongolia, where the towering sand peaks stretch endlessly across the horizon. The Singing Dune (Duut Mankhan) is a unique feature here, making music when the wind blows over the sand. Spend the night in a ger camp, enjoying the peaceful desert atmosphere.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 165 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours

Day 6: Rest Day at Khongoriyn Sand Dunes – Desert Serenity

Take a well-earned rest day at Khongoriyn Sand Dunes. You can climb the Singing Dune, meditate by the desert’s edge, or visit a camel herder’s family to learn about their traditional lifestyle. This day is designed to allow you to soak in the beauty of the desert and unwind in the quiet stillness.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 20 km
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour

Day 7: Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs) – The Land of Dinosaurs

Continue your journey to Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs, where the remains of ancient dinosaurs can still be found. The cliffs glow with fiery red hues during sunset, providing one of the most breathtaking views in the Gobi.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 140 km
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Day 8: Ongi Monastery – Spiritual Ruins in the Desert

Journey to Ongi Monastery, an ancient Buddhist site that once housed hundreds of monks. Today, it stands as a peaceful ruin in the Ongi River Valley, offering a glimpse into Mongolia’s spiritual past.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 170 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours

Day 9: Kharkhorin & Erdene-Zuu Monastery – The Ancient Mongol Capital

Explore Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, and visit the Erdene-Zuu Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monastery is surrounded by ruins that date back to the 13th century, providing a fascinating insight into Mongolia’s rich history.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 270 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5-6 hours

Day 10: Tsenkher Hot Springs – Rejuvenate in Nature

Relax at Tsenkher Hot Springs, known for its healing properties. The warm waters are perfect for soothing sore muscles and revitalizing your body. On the way, stop by a nomadic family to learn about their lifestyle and traditional dairy products.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 130 km
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours

Day 11: Terkhiyn Tsagaan Lake & Khorgo Volcano – Nature’s Wonders

Explore Terkhiyn Tsagaan Lake, surrounded by the Khorgo Volcano, which erupted over 8,000 years ago. The lake’s clear waters and the volcano’s dramatic crater make this an unforgettable stop on your adventure.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 150 km
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Day 12: Jargalant – The Untouched Wilderness

Venture to Jargalant Soum in Khovsgol Province, where rugged landscapes and a variety of flora and fauna await. Spend the night camping in this untouched wilderness and enjoy the tranquility of Mongolia’s remote landscapes.

Accommodation: Tent
Distance: 150 km
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Day 13: Moron City & Khovsgol Lake – The Blue Pearl of Mongolia

Arrive in Moron City, located near Khovsgol Lake, often referred to as the “Blue Pearl” of Mongolia. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are surrounded by pine forests and mountains, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. We’ll spend the night in a camp near the city.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 100 km
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours

Day 14: Khovsgol Lake – Exploring Mongolia’s Freshwater Paradise

Spend the day at Khovsgol Lake, one of the largest and most pristine lakes in the world. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and even meeting local reindeer herders.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 130 km
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours

Day 15: Rest Day at Khovsgol Lake – A Day of Leisure

Enjoy a day of rest at Khovsgol Lake, where you can relax, swim, or take part in various activities like horseback riding and hiking. You may also meet a local shaman for a spiritual ceremony, gaining insights into Mongolia’s ancient traditions.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Distance: 0 km
Estimated Travel Time: –

Day 16: Khutag-Undur – Mongolia’s Forested Heart

Travel to Khutag-Undur Soum in the Bulgan Province, known for its lush forests and the Selenge River. This area provides a refreshing change of scenery, with towering trees and fertile land.

Accommodation: Tent
Distance: 340 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours

Day 17: Amarbayasgalant Monastery – A Sacred Site of Peace

Visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery, an 18th-century Buddhist monastery surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The peaceful environment and historical significance make it one of the most important spiritual sites in Mongolia.

Accommodation: Tent
Distance: 305 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours

Day 18: Return to Ulaanbaatar – Final Stop on Your Gobi Desert Trip

Head back to Ulaanbaatar for your final evening in Mongolia. Enjoy a day of shopping for souvenirs, including famous Mongolian cashmere, before heading to your hotel for the night.