Itinerary Overview

D1–D2 Ulaanbaatar → D3 Terelj National Park → D4 Kharkhorin and the Orkhon Valley → D5–D7 South Gobi. The distance from Ulaanbaatar to Kharkhorin is about 360 km, with a driving time of 5–6 hours; to reach the Gobi, you can take a domestic flight to Dalanzadgad (about 1.5 hours) and then transfer to an off-road vehicle, or drive the whole way by private car across the grasslands. The former saves time, while the latter offers a more complete experience of the changing landscapes.

D1–D2 Ulaanbaatar: City and History

• D1: Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, transfer to the city and check into your hotel; in the afternoon, take a walk around Sükhbaatar Square, visit the National Museum of Mongolia to learn about the history of the grassland empires, and in the evening climb Zaisan Memorial Hill for a panoramic view of the city.
• D2: In the morning, head to the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex on the outskirts, where you can climb up to the base platform for a distant view of the steppe; in the afternoon, return to the city to visit Gandan Monastery, and in the evening go to the Zanabazar Market to shop for cashmere products and handicrafts. End the day with a performance of horsehead fiddle and throat singing.

D3 Terelj National Park

About 60–70 km from Ulaanbaatar, this is the most easily accessible area for grassland scenery and unique rock formations. Hike to Turtle Rock, which resembles a giant turtle, and climb to Aryabal Meditation Temple on the hillside to listen to the prayer flags fluttering in the wind. In the afternoon, go horseback riding through the grasslands and valleys. Overnight at a ger camp, enjoy a barbecue cooked with hot stones by the fire, and gaze at the starry night sky.

D4 Kharkhorin and the Orkhon Valley

Drive to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, and visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Tibetan Buddhist temple, surrounded by 108 stupas outside its walls. Then explore the Kharkhorin Ruins and Museum, and admire the sweeping grasslands of the Orkhon Valley. The Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and along the way you may also see deer stones and Turkic inscriptions.

D5–D7 South Gobi: Canyons, Sand Dunes, and Flame Cliffs

• D5: Fly to Dalanzadgad and transfer to an off-road vehicle to venture into the heart of the Gobi. Hike the glacial canyon in Yolyn Am Valley, where remnants of ice can still be found in the valley bottom during summer. Overnight at a desert camp.
• D6: Early in the morning, head to the Khongoryn Els sand dunes and ride a camel to the top to hear the singing sands. In the afternoon, go to the Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, famous for the discovery of dinosaur eggs, where the rock layers glow in shades of orange and red under the setting sun.
• D7: Return to Dalanzadgad and take a domestic flight back to Ulaanbaatar, departing that evening or the following day.

Tips

• The Gobi section involves long drives with few road signs. It is recommended to book a private car or join a small group tour led by a driver familiar with the terrain.
• Day and night temperatures vary greatly on the grassland and in the desert. Wear short sleeves during the day and bring a down jacket and warm hat for the night.
• During Naadam Festival, domestic flights and campsites are very limited. Please book several months in advance.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun throughout the trip. UV radiation in the Gobi is extremely strong — lip balm and sunscreen are essential.