A breathtaking 10-day loop taking you from the dramatic sedimentary cliffs, canyons, and massive singing sand dunes of the South Gobi Desert directly into the volcanic valleys, alpine lakes, and ancient historical capitals of Central Mongolia.
Drive south to Dundgobi province to explore the towering sedimentary clay cliffs of Tsagaan Suvarga, an ancient seabed carved by wind into spectacular formations resembling a ruined city. Enjoy sunset over the Gobi.
Travel to Dalanzadgad for lunch before heading deep into Yol Valley (Eagle Valley) in the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. Enjoy a 2-hour hike through narrow, dramatic volcanic canyons where ice remains frozen for much of the year.
Journey to the massive Khongor Sand Dunes (Singing Dunes). Visit a local camel-breeding nomadic family, ride a camel along the oasis, and climb to the top of the dunes for a legendary desert sunset. Cap off the night with pristine stargazing.
Head to the glowing red sandstone cliffs of Bayanzag, widely known as the "Flaming Cliffs," where Roy Chapman Andrews famously discovered the world's first fossilized dinosaur eggs. Explore the cliffs and stay with a local Gobi nomad family.
Drive north to the ruins of Ongi Monastery along the Ongi River. Once one of the largest Buddhist centers in Mongolia, explore its remaining temple, scenic ruins, and a small ger-style museum showcasing its historical artifacts.
Leave the arid Gobi behind as you cross into the lush, green grasslands of the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley. Explore the hidden volcanic canyons and beautiful waterfalls of the region before settling into a guest ger built by a nomadic host family.
Spend a dedicated day horseback riding through the volcanic river valley and past ancient tombs. Visit local nomadic neighbors to observe the ancient horse-bonding culture and try traditional homemade dairy products.
Travel north to the pristine alpine lake Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur (Great White Lake). Hike up to the rim of the extinct Khorgo Volcano, walk past frozen basalt lava formations like the "Yellow Dog Hell" cave, and relax along the lakeside beach.
Head to Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. Visit the comprehensive Karakorum Museum and tour the grand grounds of Erdene Zuu, the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in the country. Celebrate your final evening with a legendary Mongolian barbecue.
Make the final drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Along the way, take a final stretch and enjoy a quick walk or camel ride at the Elsen Tasarhai (Mini-Gobi) sand dunes before your tour concludes in the city.
