Selena Travel

Discover True Mongolia tour 2025

Discover True Mongolia tour | Khuvsgul lake | Mongolia tour | Travel to Mongolia | Discover Mongolia tour | Travel to Mongolia 2025

16days/15nights

Tour grade: Easy

Rare wildlife watching in MongoliaCamel riding in the Gobi Desert in MongoliaExplore dinosaur fossil sites in MongoliaStargazing at Mongolian ger campsBest group tours MongoliaExperience horse riding in MongoliaStaying ger camp in Mongolia Hiking and trekking in MongoliaMongolia travel photography experiences
From: US$ 3,050

Style: Join in Group Departure

  • Explore Karakorum, the historic capital of 13th century Mongol Empire.
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Orkhon Valley.
  • Adventure through the Gobi Desert, home to unique flora and fauna.
  • Discover the pristine beauty of Khuvsgul Lake and Khoridol Saridag Mountains.
  • Uncover the secrets of the Flaming Cliffs, the birthplace of dinosaurs
  • Enjoy staying in traditional Mongolian Gers/Yurts.

Tour Overview

Embark on an extraordinary journey that takes you through the highlights of Southern Mongolia. Explore the towering sand dunes of Khongoriin Els, venture into the breathtaking Yolyn Am glacial canyon, also knows as the Lammergeier Gorge, and marvel at the crimson cliffs of Bayanzag, home to the world’s richest trove of dinosaur fossils.

 

Your expedition will lead you across diverse landscapes, from the vast central Mongolian steppe to the lush northern alpine forests.

 

Each day promises new experience and adventures, from serene hikes in the wilderness to intimate encounters with local nomadic families. Feel the exhilaration of riding horses across the expansive steppe and camels in the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert as you journey deeper into the heart of Mongolia.

Tour map

Discover True Mongolia tour Map | Mongolia tour map | Map of Mongolia tour

Brief itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, private transfer to the hotel.
  • Day 2: Ulaanbaatar city tour
  • Day 3: Tsagaan Suvarga
  • Day 4: Yolyn Am aka Lammergeier Valley
  • Day 5: Khongor sand dunes
  • Day 6: Khavtsgait Petroglyph and Bayanzag, The Flaming Cliffs
  • Day 7: Ongi Monastery
  • Day 8: Karakorum
  • Day 9: Taikhar Rock via Tsetserleg
  • Day 10: Khorgo Terkh National Park
  • Day 11: Day in Khorgo Terkh National Park
  • Day 12: Tumurbulag, Khuvsgul
  • Day 13: Lake Khuvsgul
  • Day 14: Leisure Day in Lake Khuvsgul
  • Day 15: Murun - Ulaanbaatar
  • Day 16: Departure from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
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Tour images

Erdenezuu Monastery in Karakorum
Khongor Sand dunes in Gobi desert
Bayanzag - The Flaming Cliffs
Camel riding experience

Full Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, private transfer to the hotel.

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, our team will greet you at the airport after you’ve completed the necessary customs formalities. You’ll then be transported to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is dedicated to allowing you to recover from any jet lag and to enjoy a well-deserved rest in preparation for your exciting journey through Mongolia. 

 

Accommodation: Hotel booked by clients

Day 2:

Ulaanbaatar city tour

Meet your guide at 9:30 am to begin your city tour of Ulaanbaatar. Start at Gandan Monastery, home to the 26-meter statue of Janraisag, the deity of compassion, and attend the morning chanting at one of the old temples. Next, visit Sukhbaatar Square, where you’ll see statues of Chinggis Khaan and his descendants in front of the State House. Welcome lunch at a local restaurant. During this lunch, your guide will provide you with a comprehensive tour briefing, ensuring that you’re fully prepared and informed for the adventures that lie ahead. In the afternoon, explore the newly established Chinggis Khaan Museum, offering an overview of Mongolia's history, from the Hunnu Empire to the Great Mongol Empire. The evening is free for dinner at your leisure.

 

Accommodation: Hotel booked by clients

Meals:

Lunch

 

Day 3:

Tsagaan Suvarga

Today’s expedition leads us to Tsagaan Suvarga, a remarkable sedimentary formation that harks back to an ancient seabed. Our journey spans approximately 6-7 hours, punctuated by a refreshing lunch break in Mandagovi town. Upon our afternoon arrival at the camp, you’ll check in and settle in for a rewarding adventure. We’ll embark on an excursion to the Tsagaan Suvarga scarps, where you can revel in a captivating hike amidst the vibrant cliffs, ascending toward the summit for breathtaking views. After this invigorating exploration, we’ll return to the ger camp to savor a delicious dinner and spend the night in comfort.   

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Lunch

Dinner

Day 4:

Yolyn Am aka Lammergeier Valley

Today, we embark on a picturesque journey to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, a drive that spans approximately four to five hours, allowing us ample opportunities for scenic photography stops. Our expedition includes a pit stop in Dalanzadgad, a charming Gobi town, where we’ll explore the newly constructed Umnugovi province museum and savor a delightful lunch. Following our visit to Dalanzadgad, we’ll embark on a brief drive to reach the enchanting Yolyn Am. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to partake in a one-hour hike from our parking spot, immersing yourself in the breath-taking natural beauty. Eventually, we’ll transfer to ger camp. 

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 5:

Khongor sand dunes

On this day, we will drive to Khongor sand dunes after breakfast. Our expedition continues as we make our way to the Khongor sand dunes, renowned as Mongolia's longest dunes. The drive to reach these dunes will span approximately 4 to 5 hours, traversing vast desert badlands that stretch as far as the eye can see. Along the way, remote mountains silhouette the horizon, and solitary gers dot the landscape as nomads travel on camelback or horseback, creating surreal mirages. The desert floor itself is adorned with an array of colorful rocks and rare minerals. It's the Gobi at its most rugged and striking, offering countless opportunities to pause and capture the stunning landscapes and the people who call this place home. Upon arrival, we'll explore the magnificent sand dunes nestled alongside the Khongor river, gracefully flowing through the sands. You'll even have the chance to experience a camel ride. As the day ends, settle in for a cozy dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 6:

Khavtsgait Petroglyph and Bayanzag, The Flaming Cliffs

This morning, we will drive towards Gobi Gurvan Saikhan park, and our journey takes us to the Khavtsgait Petroglyph, nestled within the Dund Saikhan Mountain. Here, we embark on a trek to the mountain, where a captivating natural gallery of rock paintings from the Bronze Age awaits. Continuing our northern journey, we head towards the renowned Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs. Upon arrival, we'll visit the information center, which features informative exhibits and a brief documentary to enhance your understanding of the area. Then, immerse yourself in the wilderness and explore the unique natural formations as you hike along a designated trail. As the day draws to a close, we'll settle at our camp in the evening, where a delicious dinner awaits, followed by a comfortable overnight stay.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 7:

Ongi Monastery

After enjoying breakfast, we embark on a northbound journey towards the Ongi Monastery ruins, situated by the scenic Ongi River. This picturesque drive spans approximately 4-5 hours, traversing the expansive and breathtaking Ongi steppe. Upon arrival at our ger camp, we gather for a satisfying lunch. In the afternoon, we explore the remnants of the historic Ongi Monastery, which dates to the 18th century. This excursion includes some brief hiking adventures amidst the ancient ruins. Later, we return to the ger camp to unwind and relax. As the day comes to a close, we come together for a delightful dinner at the ger camp, followed by a restful overnight stay in this tranquil setting.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 8:

Karakorum

Today, our journey takes us further north into central Mongolia. We'll embark on a scenic 4–5-hour drive, crossing the vast Gobi steppes before reaching the central Mongolian steppe. Along the way, we'll pause for lunch along the main highway leading to the western province. Afterward, we'll continue for another 1-2 hours, possibly making a stop to visit a nomadic family, before reaching Karakorum. In Karakorum, we'll explore the Museum of Karakorum, offering insights into Central Mongolia's history and introducing us to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Orkhon River Valley. Upon arrival at our ger camp, we'll check in and prepare for a satisfying dinner. The evening will conclude with a comfortable overnight stay, immersed in the rich cultural and historical heritage of this region.

 

PS: Please kindly note that some travellers who’ve chosen to join with Northern Mongolia part will join today, and some of the group members who joined for Southern Mongolia will leave next day. 

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 9:

Taikhar Rock via Tsetserleg

Following breakfast, our day begins with a visit to the renowned Erdene Zuu Monastery, a historic landmark founded in 1586 and Central Mongolia's very first Buddhist monastery. From there, we proceed on our journey to Tsetserleg town, the heart of Arkhangai province, boasting over 300 years of history dating back to the establishment of Zayiin Gegeen Monastery in 1680s. Upon reaching Tsetserleg, we'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, our exploration continues with a visit to Zayiin Gegeen Monastery /currently operates as a museum/. Afterward, we'll explore the town's bustling Bazaar, a gathering place for both residents and nomads stocking up on supplies. Our journey then takes us to the Tamir River valley, where we'll find our next tourist ger camp, situated near the historic Taikhar Rock. Here, you'll even have the opportunity to try yak riding. The day concludes with a hearty dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at the camp.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 10:

Khorgo Terkh National Park

Today, we kick off our northbound expedition with an early start. Our route will take us across a distance of just over 200 kilometers, primarily on well-paved roads. One of the highlights of our journey will be a visit to the Jargalantyn Am Natural Deer Stone complex, also known as the Natural Museum. This incredible site dates back to the early Bronze Age period, offering a captivating glimpse into ancient history. It's worth noting that the Jargalantyn Am deer stone complex has been listed on UNESCO's cultural heritage list. On our route to the park, we'll take a brief break near the Chuluut River Canyon to capture some stunning photographs. Our day's travels will eventually lead us to our camp, situated beside the serene Terkiin Tsagaan Lake. Here, we'll enjoy a delectable dinner and settle in for a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the natural beauty.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 11:

Day in Khorgo Terkh National Park

In the morning, our day begins with an invigorating hike around the volcanic landscape that encircles Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan, often referred to as the 'Great White Lake'. This tranquil lake rests serenely within the embrace of towering hills, boasting remarkably clear water and expansive stretches of sandy beaches. Our route follows a winding road along the lake's shoreline, passing by eerie Shamanic formations of black lava, before veering slightly inland toward the Khorgo Volcano. This volcano is now dormant but remains deeply revered by the nomadic communities of the region. A brief walk will lead us to the rim of the volcano's crater, where crimson-stained rock descends into a profound chasm, surrounded by sacred Ovoo mounds. As you gaze back towards Lake Terkh Tsagaan, you'll be treated to a splendid view of the lake framed by a small hill pass. The afternoon offers free time for relaxation or the opportunity to engage in optional activities such as boating or fishing. As evening falls, we gather for a delicious dinner at the ger camp located along the lake's tranquil shore, where we'll spend a restful night.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

 

Day 12:

Tumurbulag, Khuvsgul

Today, we embark on a northern journey, charting a course that leads us through the breathtaking Khuvsgul Mountains, passing through the majestic Orookh Pass along the way. The Khuvsgul Mountains exhibit a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged outcrops of earth-toned rock to steep, verdant slopes that tower above the winding river valleys and isolated ger encampments. This picturesque drive spans approximately 6-7 hours, and we'll pause for a delightful picnic lunch en route. Our next destination is the Ulziit Khishig camp, nestled within the Tumurbulag soum territory. As we reach our ger camp, we'll have the opportunity to savor a Mongolian culinary delight known as Khorkhog – an authentic barbecue preparation featuring mutton cooked with heated stones. It's a delicious taste of Mongolian tradition that we'll enjoy before coming together for a satisfying dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at the ger camp.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 13:

Lake Khuvsgul

After enjoying breakfast, we set out on our journey towards the enchanting Lake Khuvsgul. Before reaching the lake, we make a noteworthy stop to explore the Uushig Deer Stones, a UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage Site. Following this intriguing visit, we proceed to Lake Khuvsgul, where we'll have our lunch at a cozy ger restaurant. In the afternoon, our path takes us on a picturesque drive from Murun to Lake Khuvsgul, covering a distance of just over 150 kilometers. Along the way, we'll traverse a landscape characterized by lush green hills punctuated by rugged rock formations. We'll encounter river valleys with intricate networks of braided channels meandering through the fertile valley floors, while the skies above are graced by the presence of majestic birds of prey. As we approach the settlement of Khatgal and enter the forested terrain surrounding the lake, the road may become a bit uneven. However, our journey will reward us with the breathtaking sight of Lake Khuvsgul, with our ger camp conveniently located nearby. The remainder of the day offers leisure time by the serene shores of Lake Khuvsgul, allowing you to unwind and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 14:

Leisure Day in Lake Khuvsgul

Start your morning with a delightful two-hour horseback ride along the picturesque lakeshore. The remainder of the day is dedicated to leisure and exploration in the captivating surroundings of Lake Khuvsgul. There are numerous ways to make the most of your day, including optional hiking, boat excursions, and the opportunity for a kayaking adventure on the tranquil waters of the lake, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of this remarkable natural landscape.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

 

Day 15:

Murun - Ulaanbaatar

We leave behind the scenic Lake Khuvsgul and make our way to Murun town, where we'll board a flight bound for Ulaanbaatar. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Upon landing at the airport in Ulaanbaatar, you will be smoothly transferred to your hotel. If time permits, you can engage in some optional shopping for cashmere and souvenirs. As the day draws to a close, immerse yourself in Mongolia's rich cultural heritage with a traditional folklore concert at the Tumen Ekh ensemble. The day concludes with a heartfelt farewell dinner, a fitting way to celebrate the end of your journey.

 

Accommodation: Hotel booked by clients

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 16:

Departure from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

In the morning, we will arrange your transfer to the airport or train station. This marks the conclusion of our services. Safe travels, and we hope you had a wonderful experience! 

 

Date & Price

 

TOUR DATES: 

  • 25th June - 10th July, 2025
  • 23rd July - 7th August, 2025

 

If you prefer a private tour experience, simply click the "Customize this tour" button located at the bottom of the page to personalize the itinerary according to your preferences. Upon submitting your request, our team of travel advisors will promptly provide you with a tailored proposal and quote.

 

 

TOUR PRICE:

3-10 Pax:      3050 USD per person (based on twin or double occupancy)

Single supplement charge:   450 USD per person 

 

 

INCLUDED SERVICES

  • Continuous services of your English-speaking local guide throughout the entire tour
  • All sightseeing activities and entrance fees as specified in the itinerary
  • Private transfers using 4WD vehicles, with experienced drivers. Typically, there will be four or five passengers sharing one van
  • A flight ticket from Murun to Ulaanbaatar, including taxes (with a baggage allowance of 10 kg for checked luggage and 5 kg for carry-on)
  • Convenient airport transfers
  • Twin share accommodation in standard Mongolian gers at well-regarded tourist ger camps (with shared public western style bathroom) for a total of 12 nights
  • All meals as indicated (B for breakfast, L for lunch, D for dinner)
  • Fees for a 1-hour camel ride in the Gobi
  • Fees for 2-hour horseback riding experience in the Lake Khuvsgul area
  • Three 0.5-liter bottled waters per day
  • Visa support invitation letter, where applicable /company invitation letter only; if needs consulate invitation letter, then additional cost shall be covered by the traveller/

 

EXCLUDED SERVICES

  • International Airfare/train tickets and associated taxes
  • Travel insurance and visa fees
  • Accommodation in Ulaanbaatar
  • Personal expenses, including but not limited to laundry, beverages, and camera or video fees at various sites
  • Tips for your guide and driver (at your discretion)
  • Optional activities not covered in the package (yak riding, archery etc.)

 

 

OPTIONAL EXTRA PURCHASES

 

1. EN-SUITE GER UPGRADE at the ger camps:

  • $40 per person per night – 6 nights ger camp has en-suite accommodation /Total 240 USD per person, at Bayanzag, Khongor, Yol, Karakorum and Khuvsgul/. 

 

   2. HOTEL in ULAANBAATAR for 3 nights (day 1, 2, 15): – Holiday Inn/ Best Western/ Novotel

  • $130 for a single room per night & $170 for a twin/double room per night – 3 nights /Total 390USD for single room, $510 for twin or double room/. 

 


 

Tour Background

 

ACCOMMODATION INFO ON YOUR MONGOLIA TOURS:

 

In Ulaanbaatar:  Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, features a wide range of accommodations, from basic guesthouses to luxurious five-star hotels. Some of our tours do not include hotel stays in Ulaanbaatar, allowing you the flexibility to select a hotel that fits your needs and budget. Be sure to check the Inclusions and Exclusions section of your tour program to see if your hotel stay is part of the package. If you’d like assistance with booking, your travel consultant is ready to recommend and arrange the perfect hotel for your stay.

 

Here are hotels that we recommend:  

  • Springs hotel (3*)
  • Holiday Inn (4*)
  • Best Western Premier (5*)
  • Shangri-La Hotel (5*)

 

Outside Ulaanbaatar: Outside of Ulaanbaatar where there are no hotels, tourist Ger (yurt) camps are the best accommodation for travelers. A Ger is Mongolian traditional dwelling made of felt layers and wooden construction, and the Mongolians have lived in Gers for thousands of years. Tourist Ger camps offer comfortable Gers with 1-3 beds with good bedding (1 Ger equals 1 hotel room), and also offer well-maintained public western style showers and WCs on their grounds. Some Ger camps offer en-suite bathroom facilities at additional charge, please ask your Selena Travel advisor for further details when booking your Mongolia tour. 

 

 

MEALS ON SELENA TRAVEL TOURS: 

In the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, a great variety of restaurants can be found and you will be eating at some of the best restaurants of Ulaanbaatar on your Mongolia tour while in the capital. Once you are outside the capital, Ger restaurants in Ger camps, local cafes in the small towns and sometimes nomadic families will be the places where you will be eating most of your meal. Ger restaurants often offer set continental breakfasts, set menu lunches and dinners consisting of salad or soup, main course and dessert.

 

While on the tour, during your longer driving days you will take packed lunch from Ger camps, often vegetable salad, main course such as fried chicken/noodles/dumplings and a small dessert, while hitting the road. Most of the food restrictions and allergies such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and many others, can be accommodated with ease on your Mongolia adventure.

 
 

LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE ON SELENA TRAVEL TOURS: 

If you are on an overland only tour across Mongolia, the recommended weight of your luggage is 20kg per person (max). Please kindly note that domestic flight luggage allowance per person is also 20 kg (15 kg for the check in luggage and 5 kg for the carry on luggage). For 1kg extra luggage, you pay US$2 - 5. 

 

 

 

DESTINATION & ATTRACTIONS BRIEF INFO: 

 

Lake Khuvsgul - The Blue Pearl of Asia: Lake Huvsgul, the second largest freshwater lake in Asia after the Lake Baikal in Russia, is a popular destination for its pristine water, awesome Alpine-like landscapes, wonderful wildlife and many different ethnic groups living in the area. Lake Huvsgul region is so vast and offers variety of activities and diverse landscape, therefore your entire Mongolia tour could be devoted to this specific part in northern Mongolia.  

 

Khorgo -Terkh National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in Mongolia with its crystal clear Terkh Lake and the Khorgo Volcano. With its jaw-dropping natural beauty, the area is a great fit for hiking, horse riding and cultural immersion tours.

 

The city of Karakorum: In 1220, the Great Genghis Khan declared Karakorum as the capital city of his vast Mongol Empire. Today there are many interesting sites left to visit in this historically important area, including the legendary turtle rock sculptures, Buddhist stupas and the ruins of this once great city to name a few. Moreover, Erdenezuu - the 1st Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, was established in 1586 in Karakorum. Today Erdenezuu monastery still shows its glory with collections of many priceless religious objects and incredibly beautiful Mongolian arts. It has a massive square wall, 420 meters in length each side, 108 Stupas & 17 temples.

 

The Gobi Desert is the one the most mysterious and unique places in Mongolia. Known as the cradle of dinosaurs, the region is famous for its dinosaur fossils and its unique natural formations as well as numerous endemic flora and fauna. There are many mesmerizing places of interest in the Gobi desert with main three being the Flaming cliffs, the Singing dunes and Lammergeier Gorge.  

 

Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs) is internationally famous for its fossilized dinosaur remains. Dinosaur nests with eggs were first found here as well as whole fossilized skeletons. 

 

The Khongoriin Els sand dunes extend along the northern side of Sevrei and Zuulun mountain ranges in Southern Mongolia. These dunes are 180 km long, 15-20 km wide and up to 200m high. There is a small oasis near Khongoriin Gol stream, which flows along the northern edge of the dunes. The scenery here is simply spectacular. 

 

Yoliin Am (Lammergeier Gorge) is a narrow valley located in the Zuun Saikhan Mountain range, with thick pieces of ice almost all year around hidden in its depths. This area is home to rare animals such as the Argali (wild sheep) and Ibex as well as Lammergeier, Vultures and other large raptors.

Tour Map

Tour Reviews

Dec 10, 2024.  The Gobi & Karakorum Explorer

Aug 10, 2012. Gobi & Karakorum Explorer tour Our recent "The Gobi & Karakorum Explorer" tour with you was excellent, everything exceeded our expectations! It was a super trip in our lives and we loved our Mongolia holiday so much. Our guide Joe was kind, well organised, accurate and informative, polite and caring and always provided us with timely information. And our driver Jack is super, very friendly, professional and always on time. We are wild travelers, having been to many places in the world - but Mongolia is still truly unspoiled and uncontaminated. Selena Travel's services were perfect right from the very first email. We would like to thank Selena Travel, our guide and our driver for having made this Mongolia experience a truly beautiful one with so many wonderful memories.

by Rafaella, Benedetta, Lidia

Aug 08, 2012.  Gobi & Karakorum customized 11 days tour

Sending you some of our nicer pictures. Some are chosen for their beautiful scenery while the rest are just us happily playing and goofing around. There are a couple of shots of us doing some Mongolian wrestling, as suggested by Oyuna since we missed out on the mini-Naadam festival. She said since we missed it, we might as well organise our own festival by playing some Mongolian games. Haha... We had so much fun playing those games!!! :)OK, I hope you like the pictures we send you. Best regards to everyone at Selena Travel and thank you once again for all your assistance.

by Margaret Suganda

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