Mongolia

The journey begins in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital and cultural gateway. After arrival, we ease into the country with visits to Gandan Monastery, Sukhbaatar Square and the National Museum, offering context on Mongolia’s Buddhist traditions, political history and nomadic heritage before heading into the remote landscapes beyond the city.

These days take us deep into Mongolia’s far west, home to the Kazakh communities of the Altai Mountains. From Ulgii, we travel through vast valleys, high-altitude terrain, rivers and stark mountain landscapes toward Lake Khoton and Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. A highlight is spending time with a Kazakh eagle hunter’s family, learning about daily life, traditional handicrafts and the centuries-old relationship between hunter and bird

After returning briefly to Ulaanbaatar, the journey shifts north to Khuvsgul Lake, often called Mongolia’s “blue pearl.” This region brings a striking change of scenery, with forested hills, clear water and a cooler climate. Time here is relaxed, with opportunities for kayaking, horse riding along the lakeshore, and a possible visit to reindeer herders living in the nearby Taiga forest.

Travelling through the Murun region and across open steppe, these days focus on Mongolia’s ancient history and pastoral life. We visit carved deer stones dating back thousands of years, pass through herding country, and pause at Jargalant and Tsenkher hot springs. The rhythm is slower here, with time to rest, soak in mineral waters, and absorb the vast rural landscapes

The route continues through central Mongolia’s volcanic landscapes to White Lake and Khorgo Volcano, where lava fields, crater views and lakeside scenery create one of the itinerary’s most varied natural settings. From there, we travel to Karakorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire, and visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most important religious and historical sites

At Khustai National Park, the focus turns to wildlife and living traditions. The park is home to the reintroduced Przewalski’s horse, the world’s last remaining wild horse species, which we look for in its natural steppe habitat. The following day brings a local Mini Naadam festival, with wrestling, archery and horse racing in a smaller, more intimate setting than the national festival.

Flying south, we enter the dramatic landscapes of the Gobi Desert. Highlights include Yolyn Am, or Eagle Valley, a narrow canyon with striking rock formations; the Khongor Sand Dunes, known as the “singing dunes,” where we experience the desert by camel; and Bayanzag, the Flaming Cliffs, famous for dinosaur fossil discoveries and glowing red sandstone formations

The journey turns north through Baga Gazariin Chuluu, where dramatic granite formations rise from the steppe, before continuing to Terelj National Park. En route, we visit the Chinggis Khan statue complex, then explore Terelj’s distinctive rock formations, open valleys and softer mountain scenery, providing a final contrast to the desert and steppe landscapes.

Accommodation
Hotels in Ulaanbaatar, traditional ger camps, remote family stays, and expedition camping throughout rural Mongolia.

Transport
All expedition transport throughout Mongolia including overland vehicles, regional drivers, fuel, and support crew.

Guiding
Personally guided throughout with local support teams and experienced regional drivers.

Meals
Most meals during the overland expedition outside Ulaanbaatar are included.

Camping Equipment
Shared expedition camping equipment and camp setup throughout remote regions.

Airport Transfers
Arrival and departure airport transfers in Ulaanbaatar.

International Flights
Flights to and from Mongolia are not included.

Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and not included.

Personal Expenses
Snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, and personal purchases are not included.

Some Meals in Ulaanbaatar
Some meals before and after the expedition in Ulaanbaatar are not included.

Visa Costs
Any required visa fees or entry documentation costs are not included.