🏜️ KHERMEN TSAV CANYON

Mongolia’s Red Desert Canyon of Dinosaurs and Legends

Khermen Tsav Canyon, located deep in the Gobi Desert of southern Mongolia, is one of the country’s most dramatic and remote landscapes. Known for its towering red sandstone formations, wind-carved ravines, and rich deposits of dinosaur fossils, this ancient canyon resembles a Martian landscape.

Khermen Tsav is both a paleontologist’s treasure trove and a hidden gem for intrepid travelers who seek raw natural beauty, silence, and solitude. Its name means “Cracked Fortress,” referencing the jagged, fortress-like rock walls that rise from the desert floor.

📌 QUICK FACTS

🌟 HIGHLIGHTS

🏜️ Mars-like Scenery

Experience a surreal red landscape sculpted by wind and time.

🦕 Dinosaur Fossils

One of Mongolia’s richest sites for prehistoric remains.

📸 Stunning Photography

Ideal lighting at sunrise and sunset over canyon walls.

🏞️ Untouched Wilderness

Far from civilization, perfect for adventurers seeking solitude.

✨ SPECIAL FEATURES

⛰️ Eroded Cliff Walls

Sandstone formations resemble temples, fortresses, and towers.

🦴 Fossil Discoveries

Paleontologists have unearthed fossils from the Late Cretaceous period, including Tarbosaurus bataar.

🌬️ Natural Sculpture Garden

Erosion has formed bizarre shapes—some say resembling animals or ancient ruins.

🏺 Spiritual Mystique

Locals believe the canyon is guarded by ancient spirits.

🏞️ NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

🏜️ Khongor Sand Dunes – Towering dunes with camel treks

🦅 Yolyn Am Ice Valley – A cool contrast of glacier and desert

🧗 Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs – First dinosaur eggs discovered

🌌 Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park – Wide range of desert landscapes

🙋 FAQ

❓ How do I reach Khermen Tsav?

You’ll need a 4WD vehicle and a driver familiar with desert routes. It’s about 600 km from Dalanzadgad.

❓ Are there facilities or lodging nearby?

No formal facilities exist. Visitors must camp or join an organized expedition.

❓ Is a permit required to visit?

No permit is required, but traveling with a licensed guide or tour operator is highly recommended due to the extreme remoteness.

❓ When is the best time to go?

The best months are May to September when temperatures are tolerable and roads are passable.

❓ Is it safe to explore on foot?

Yes, but take caution—bring enough water, sun protection, and a satellite phone if going without a guide.

🧳 VISITOR TIPS

🧭 Go with a Guide – Navigation is difficult; mobile signals are non-existent.

💧 Bring Supplies – There’s no water, shade, or services—be self-sufficient.

🕶️ Sun Protection is Crucial – Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are must-haves.

⛺ Be Ready to Camp – Bring durable gear and prepare for hot days and cold nights.

📸 Golden Hour is Magic – Sunrise and sunset offer breathtaking color changes.

🌍 WHY VISIT?

🦖 Walk Among Dinosaurs

One of the few places in the world where fossils lie exposed in the open desert.

📸 Unreal Landscapes

The scenery rivals that of Utah or Arizona—without the crowds.

🧘 Silent Solitude

Disconnect completely from the modern world in this untouched wilderness.

🇲🇳 Rare Cultural Experience

Encounter local nomads and hear legends of spirits and ancient warriors said to roam the canyon.