Travel from the White Stupa of Tsagaan Suvarga across the Gobi and central steppe to Khovsgol Lake and Mongolia’s northern monasteries. Day 1: explore Tsagaan Suvarga. Day 2: hike in Yol Valley. Day 3: climb the Khongor Sand Dunes and ride a camel near an oasis. Day 4: visit Bayanzag’s Flaming Cliffs. Day 5: explore Ongi Monastery and stay with a nomadic family. Day 6: visit Kharkhorin, Erdene Zuu Monastery and the museum. Day 7: hike around Khorgo crater and visit Great White Lake. Day 8: experience village life in Shine-Ider. Days 9–10: explore Khovsgol Lake, with a motorboat trip to Khadan Khui Island. Day 11: hike at Uran Togoo crater. Day 12: visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery. Day 13: return to Ulaanbaatar.
Drive to Tsagaan Suvarga, the White Stupa, and explore its wind-eroded rock formations. Hike and climb among the cliffs, then watch the sunset. Overnight at a ger camp near the site.
Drive via Dalanzadgad to Yol Valley and hike through its narrow canyon. The shaded valley floor can retain ice along the river through much of the year. Overnight at a ger camp.
Continue to the Khongor Sand Dunes. Climb part of the dunes for views across the desert and sunset, and take an approximately one-hour camel ride near an oasis. Overnight at a ger camp.
Visit Bayanzag, the Flaming Cliffs. Explore the red escarpment on foot and learn about the area’s paleontological significance. Overnight at a ger camp.
Visit Ongi Monastery, including the small active temple built among the historic monastery ruins. Hike and explore the Buddhist history of the site. Stay with a nomadic family.
Travel to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital. Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery and the museum, then stay overnight at a ger camp in town.
Travel to Khorgo Crater and Great White Lake. Hike around the crater and nearby cave and ice tunnel, then spend time beside the lake; swimming is possible. Stay at a ger camp by the lake.
Travel to Shine-Ider village. Visit the school, kindergarten and hospital, and meet local residents to learn about village life. Overnight at a motel.
Make the long drive to Khovsgol Lake and explore the lakeside area. Stay at a ger camp beside the lake.
Take a motorboat to Khadan Khui Island and explore the lake. Hiking and exploration are available; cycling is optional. Stay at a ger camp beside the lake.
Travel to Uran Togoo and take a short hike to the crater, which contains a lake and forest. Overnight at a motel beside the paved road.
Visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery, meet Buddhist monks and hike in the surrounding natural area. Overnight at a ger camp.
Drive back to Ulaanbaatar and return to your accommodation.
