Selena Travel

Discover True Mongolia (with flight)

18days/17nights

Tour grade: Easy

Style: Traveller

From: US$ 3,050
  • No rushing here, so we don't miss any natural & cultural wonders of Mongolia at all!
  • Explore Mongolia in depth, peaceful overland drive - no expensive internal flights!
  • Pay only 160 USD/day or even less for this amazing 18 day package - BEST VALUE!
  • Meet people and make friends! You will be part of a group of 4-8 people during the tour as it is a group departure.

Tour Overview

Join us on this epic Mongolia tour through this wonderful country of ancient history, unique Mongolian nomadic culture, and rare wildlife species, untouched beautiful landscape, Gobi Desert and hospitable Mongolian people whose lives are not changed in many ways since the days of mighty Genghis Khan and his empire. This fantastic Mongolia trip is specially designed to bring you all these unique features nowhere else to be experienced.

Our Mongolia travel starts from the 17th century magnificent Amarbayasgalant monastery, the outstanding Lake Huvsgul & the beautiful Horidol Saridag Mountains, Tsaatan people, picturesque Khorgo-Terkh National Park and ancient capital at Karakorum. The next half of the tour takes you to the Gobi Desert and its wonderful sites: Ongi monastery ruins, Bayanzag the Flaming Cliffs, the Khongor sand dunes and the glacial Yoliin Am. At the last leg of trip, we'll spend some leisure and fune time at amazing Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve - a home to endangered wildlife and many other sites on the way.

Landscape and cultural sightseeing blend easily in Mongolia - you will have the chance to visit families of nomads, remote Buddhist monasteries and traditional events, and to take part in horse-riding or guided walking if you wish - there are also endless opportunities for photography.
 

Tour map

Brief itinerary

  • Day 0: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, dealing with jet lag
  • Day 1: Ulaanbaatar city sightseeing day
  • Day 2: Ulaanbaatar – Amarbayasgalant Monastery
  • Day 3: Amarbayasgalant – Bulgan, Uran Togoo
  • Day 5: Moren - Lake Huvsgul
  • Day 6: Leisure Day at Lake Huvsgul
  • Day 7: Lake Huvsgul - Moren – Jargalant
  • Day 8: Jargalant - Khorgo Terkh National Park
  • Day 9: Khorgo Terkh National Park – Tsenkher Hot Springs.
  • Day 10: Tsenkher Hot Springs - Ancient Capital Karakorum
  • Day 11: Karakorum – Ongi Monastery
  • Day 12: Ongi - Bayanzag "Flaming Cliffs" – Dinosaur native land
  • Day 13: Bayanzag – stunning Khongor sand dunes – renown as singing dunes
  • Day 14: Khongor - Yoliin Am Gorge
  • Day 15: The Gobi Desert - Ulaanbaatar - Gun-Galuut nature reserve via Giant Genghis Monument
  • Day 16: Leisure Days at Gun Galuut Nature Reserve
  • Day 17: Gun Galuut - Terelj National park
  • Day 18: Terelj National park- Ulaanbaatar
  • Day 00: Departure from Mongolia.
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Tour images

Full Itinerary

Day 0:

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, dealing with jet lag

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, our guide and driver will meet us at the airport and aid with check-in at the central hotel. The remainder of the day is for you to get over jet lag and take a good rest before your wonderful journey across Mongolia. Hotel in Ulaanbaatar is not included in the package. You can check suggested hotels here.

Day 1:

Ulaanbaatar city sightseeing day

The city tour of Ulaanbaatar takes you through some of the principal sights of this unique city. You visit the Gandan Monastery, housing a 26 meter high gilded statue of the Buddha. Welcome lunch in a Mongolian restaurant. Your tour also takes you to the Genghis Khan monument on the Sukhbaatar square and the Museum of National History. Then we visit Bogd Khan's palace museum and Zaisan Memorial hill. Hotel in Ulaanbaatar is not included in the package. You can check suggested hotels here. 

Day 2:

Ulaanbaatar – Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Meet in the hotel lobby and we start our big Mongolian tour this morning and head to the north to magnificent Amarbayasgalant monastery. Stop for lunch at Darkhan town, second largest city of the country. We arrive and transfer to tourist ger camp near the renowned monastery in the late afternoon. Ger camp L+D

Day 3:

Amarbayasgalant – Bulgan, Uran Togoo

After breakfast we visit beautiful Amarbayasgalant monastery to take part in the morning chants and meet the monks, then head to the north toward Lake Huvsgul, break our journey in picturesque Uran Togoo mountain in Bulgan province in the northern Mongolia. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 5:

Moren - Lake Huvsgul

3-4 hours of driving to the north to the Lake Huvsgul that is called “Mother Ocean” by the locals, enjoy hiking around the lake. We spend the night at friendly Toilogt ger camp by the lake. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 6:

Leisure Day at Lake Huvsgul

This day is spent leisurely, activities and sightseeing on Lake Huvsgul and its surroundings - admire the inspiring beauty of Lake Huvsgul on a panoramic drive to Mt.Khyasaa, visit the Tsaatans "Reindeer people" and enjoy a 2 hour kayaking. Optional horse riding, fishing etc  Ger camp B+L+D

Day 7:

Lake Huvsgul - Moren – Jargalant

Today we drive a path southwards, passing Moren and continuing into the astounding Khangai Mountains. We make the five to six hour passage to the Jargalant Hot Springs, crossing the Tsagaan Burgas (White Bush) Pass on your way.We break our journey in Jargalant Hot Springs. Relax at hot springs spa. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 8:

Jargalant - Khorgo Terkh National Park

A short drive today brings you into the volcanic surrounds of Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan - the 'Great White Lake'. We visit local nomadic family on our way to the lake. The lake lies calmly in the arms of tall hills, its water extremely clear and lined with long sand beaches. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 9:

Khorgo Terkh National Park – Tsenkher Hot Springs.

Breakfast and we drive to Tsenkher hot springs with a stop in lovely Tsetserleg town to visit the Zay Bandida monastery museum and have lunch. Then continue the drive for 1.5hrs, arrive at the Tsenkher hot springs in the evening. Have dinner and enjoy hot bath before going to bed. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 10:

Tsenkher Hot Springs - Ancient Capital Karakorum

Today, we head toward to Karakorum - the ancient capital of Mongolia. Arrive in Karakorum and we visit legendary monastery Erdene Zuu, the biggest Buddhist monastery in Central Mongolia founded in 1586. Visit Karakorum museum. Optional visit to town bazaar and then Khaadiin Khoshoo on the hill to have a great view of Orkhon river valley. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 11:

Karakorum – Ongi Monastery

Today we drive to the Great Gobi desert with the break visiting the Ongi monastery, which is related to 18th century. Visit nomadic family ger in the morning. Have picnic lunch on the way in a scenic spot. Visit to Ongi monastery ruins, optional walk. Transfer to tourist ger camp, full board and overnight at the ger camp. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 12:

Ongi - Bayanzag "Flaming Cliffs" – Dinosaur native land

Today we visit the Bayanzag- the Flaming Cliffs in Mongolian fashion - on the back of a camel or alternatively by foot or car. You can even find real dinosaur bones and eggs yourself! An optional short camel ride around the red cliffs. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 13:

Bayanzag – stunning Khongor sand dunes – renown as singing dunes

The drive to the dunes at Khongoriin takes between 3 and 4 hours. Visit the beautiful sand dunes and the Khongor river streaming through the sands, camel riding along the Khongor sand dunes etc. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 14:

Khongor - Yoliin Am Gorge

Today we drive through the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan Park  stopping for photography and possibly lunch along the way. Transfer to ger camp, dinner and overnight. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 15:

The Gobi Desert - Ulaanbaatar - Gun-Galuut nature reserve via Giant Genghis Monument

Today, we say goodbye to the drivers and catch flight to Ulaanbaatar. Arrive and drive directly to Gun-Galuut nature reserve in the valley of the Kherlen River across the green steppes via Giant Genghis monument. Arrive and check at eco friendly Steppe Nomads ger camp (Certificate of Excellence 2013 by Tripadvisor.com) Ger camp B+L+D

Day 16:

Leisure Days at Gun Galuut Nature Reserve

Gun-Galuut is a home to many endangered species including the Argali wild mountain sheep and many more. We hike or enjoy some optional horse ride to Mt. Baits to view the gorgeous Argali mountain sheep and the White Napped Crane, Whooper Swan and other birds. Visit a nomadic family and learn their ways to tend their livestock. Moreover, we will enjoy a presentation about Mongolian Ger dwelling with a Ger construction show on one of the days. Optional fishing or kayaking on the river Kherlen. Ger camp B+L+D

Day 17:

Gun Galuut - Terelj National park

After breakfast we drive to Terelj National park. Visit Aryapala temple, a temple of meditation and Turtle rock. Optional hiking, horse riding or archery at the park.  Ger camp B+L+D

Day 18:

Terelj National park- Ulaanbaatar

After breakfast we drive back to Ulaanbaatar and transfer to the hotel. Optional souvenir and cashmere shopping if you wish. Enjoy traditional folklore concert by the magical Tumen Ekh ensemble. Farewell dinner. Hotel in Ulaanbaatar is not included in the package. You can check suggested hotels here. B+L+D

Day 00:

Departure from Mongolia.

Transfer to the airport after breakfast. Say goodbye to Mongolia 

Date & Price

 

Single supplement charge US$480
Naadam add - on  US$350 per person

Included Services

  • Full-time services of your English speaking local guide(s) throughout the tour
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees according to the itinerary
  • Ticket to the Giant Genghis Monument Complex
  • Private transfers (4WD Japanese minivans + Experienced drivers) – 4 tourists in 1 van
  • Airport transfers
  • Twin share at good tourist camps
  • Meals as listed (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
  • 2 hour Camel riding fees in the Gobi
  • 3 hour Horse riding fees in Gun-Galuut or Huvsgul
  • 3 kayaking fees in Huvsgul
  • Nomads’ Day festival ticket (Sep departure only)
  • Gobi – Ulaanbaatar flight + Tax (10+5kg free luggage)
  • 0.5 l x 3 bottled water per day
  • Visa support invitation letter where applicable
  • Exclusive Discover True Mongolia souvenir!

Not Included in the Service
 
  • International Airfare/train tickets + Tax 
  • Travel insurance & Visa fees
  • Accommodation in Ulaanbaatar
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, camera or video fees at any sites etc. 
  • Tips for your guide and driver (discretionary).
  • Optional activities
     

DISCOUNT CONDITIONS:  
  • For children of a family (0 – 3 years old) is 100% free of charge
  • For children of a family (4 – 12 years old) is 40% free of charge
  • Discount for courier bringing min 3 pax
  • More attractive prices for groups of 12 and more people!
  • 1 free space for every 16 PAX 

Tour Background

Accommodation on Selena Travel tours 
Ulaanbaatar: Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia has many hotels ranging from basic 1* to high-end 5*. Some international hotel chains have opened such as Kempinski, Ramada, and Best Western to name a few. Some of Selena Travel Mongolia tours do not include hotel accommodation in Ulaanbaatar, where clients are advised to take care of their own accommodation in Ulaanbaatar. Please refer to your tour program (Included services and Exclusions section) for more details. Your Selena Travel advisor is happy to assist you with hotel booking on your request. Below you will find some suggested hotels in Ulaanbaatar:  
  • Best Western Gobi Kelso ***
  • Springs hotel ***
  • Ramada hotel ****
  • Kempinski Khan Palace ****
  • Best Western Premier *****

Outside Ulaanbaatar: Please take in mind that traveling in the countryside of Mongolia is often tough, a trip is conducted in remote areas where there’s no hotel and paved roads exist.

Outside of Ulaanbaatar, tourist Ger camps are the best accommodation for travelers. A Ger is Mongolian traditional dwelling made of felt layers and wooden construction, and the Mongols have lived in Gers since the time immemorial. Tourist Ger camps offer comfortable Gers with 1-4 beds with good bedding, and also have western style showers and WCs (mostly shared). A few Ger camps offer en-suite Gers at additional charge (please ask your Selena Travel advisor for this). Due to remoteness some tourist Ger camps may not excel in service, so travelers may not always expect high pressure showers, bubble baths or gourmet food etc. 
 
Food on Selena Travel tours 
During your tour in Mongolia you will be eating in good restaurants in Ulaanbaatar, we have a great variety in restaurants in the capital city. Once you are outside the capital, Ger restaurants in Ger camps and local cafes in the small towns and villages will be the places where you will be eating. Ger restaurants often have set menu, but their food is usually very good (Ger camps provide mostly continental breakfast, lunches consist of salad, soup, main course and dessert, whilst, dinners are usually salad, main course and dessert).
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 chocolate bar etc). Vegetarians are well taken care of both in Ulaanbaatar restaurants and tourist Ger camps.
 
Luggage allowance on Selena Travel tours 
When you travelling overland in a vehicle (minivan & jeep), it would be suitable if you have 20kg luggage per person (max). However, please kindly note that domestic flight luggage allowance per person is 15 kg (10 kg for the check in luggage and 5 for the carry on luggage). For 1kg extra luggage you pay US$2 - 5. 
 
DESTINATION & ATTRACTIONS BRIEF INFO
 
Lake Huvsgul - The Blue Pearl of Asia: Lake Huvsgul, the second largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Baikal in Buryatia, is popular for its pure water, awesome Alpine-like landscapes, wonderful wildlife and the different ethnic people living around it. Lake Huvsgul region is a destination in itself and an entire tour could be devoted to this specific part of 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. The nature beauty is awesome here and is a great place for hiking, horse riding and relaxing. You can visit the Hell of Yellow Dog, Ice Hole and the Youth Cave that are pretty impressive!

The city of Karakorum: In 1220 great Chinghis Khaan declared it as the capital city of his vast Empire. Today there are many interesting sites left to visit; the legendary turtle rock sculptures, Buddhist stupas and the ruins of this once great city to name a few. Erdenezuu - the 1st Buddhist monastery in Mongolia was established in 1586. 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 most mysterious place on earth The Gobi invites you to reveal its secrets. This region is famous for its unique natural formations, many places where you can dig and find real dinosaur fossils, flora and fauna not found anywhere else in the world. There is plenty to photograph- impressive herds of gazelles & sightings of the rare Khulan(Asiatic wild ass). 

Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs) is internationally famous for its fossilized dinosaur remains. Dinosaur nests with eggs were found here as well as whole fossilized skeletons.
 
The Khongoriin Els sand dunes extend along the northern side of Sevrei and Zuulun mountain ranges. 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 (Vulture's 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 Vultures and other large birds.

Tour Map

Tour Reviews

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.

Rafaella, Benedetta, Lidia

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.

Margaret Suganda

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