Walk the dunes of Elsen Tasarkhai, meet a local herding family where arrangements allow, then continue to Kharkhorin, the 13th-century Mongol Empire capital. Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery and the local museum before returning to Ulaanbaatar. Optional camel or horse riding can be arranged locally for an additional fee.
Drive west from Ulaanbaatar across the central steppe to Elsen Tasarkhai. Enjoy an easy walk over the dunes and, where available, visit a local herding family. Optional camel or horse riding can be arranged locally. Dinner and overnight at a ger camp near the dunes.
After breakfast, drive to Kharkhorin. Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery and the museum, with time to explore the historic town. Stay overnight at a ger camp in Kharkhorin.
Return to Ulaanbaatar. An optional visit to a small monastery with historic temple ruins is available on the way. The day also includes hiking and a barbecue.
