Gobi Desert and Naadam festival 9 days tour
GOBI DESERT COMBINED WITH NAADAM FESTIVAL 9 DAYS TOUR
Celebrate Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar, then journey through Mongolia’s Gobi Desert to experience sand dunes, ancient cities, and wild beauty.
📌 QUICK FACTS
📍 DESTINATION: Southern & Central Mongolia
📅 DURATION: 9 Days / 8 Nights
🗓️ AVAILABILITY: Only in July (Naadam Festival season)
👥 GROUP SIZE: 1 to 16+ guests
🏕️ ACCOMMODATION: Hotels in Ulaanbaatar + traditional Ger camps in the countryside
💬 LANGUAGE: English-speaking guides
🧭 TOUR STYLE: Cultural, Adventure, Festival
🚌 TRANSPORT: Private 4x4 or minivan based on group size
🗺️ TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Celebrate Mongolia’s largest national holiday, the Naadam Festival, in Ulaanbaatar
Witness traditional “Three Manly Games”: wrestling, archery, and horse racing
Experience horse racing at Khui Doloon Khudag on the steppe
Discover the rock formations of Baga Gazriin Chuluu
Explore the icy gorge of Yol Valley in the Gobi Mountains
Ride camels on the Khongor Sand Dunes, the “Singing Sands” of Mongolia
Visit the Flaming Cliffs, the world-famous dinosaur fossil site
Explore Ongi Monastery ruins in the vast Ongi Steppe
Tour ancient Karakorum city and the Erdene Zuu Monastery
Stay in traditional Ger camps under the Mongolian sky
🎉 ABOUT NAADAM FESTIVAL
Naadam, celebrated nationwide every July, is Mongolia’s biggest and most beloved national holiday. Known for its three traditional sports—wrestling, horse racing, and archery—Naadam is a vibrant celebration of Mongolian identity. The festival begins with a grand opening ceremony, followed by competitions and colorful cultural displays. It’s a blend of tradition, pride, and community that offers visitors rare insight into Mongolia’s heritage.
🏜️ ABOUT THE GOBI DESERT
The Gobi Desert is a landscape of contrasts—harsh and beautiful, barren yet full of life. It’s home to sweeping sand dunes, hidden oases, dramatic cliffs, and ancient fossil beds. Unlike typical deserts, the Gobi can be lush with wildlife and stunning geological formations. Highlights include the Khongor Sand Dunes, Yol Valley, and the Flaming Cliffs—once explored by dinosaur hunter Roy Chapman Andrews.
⏱️ TOUR PACE
Active – Moderate
This tour involves daily travel, long drives, and outdoor activities like hiking and camel or horse riding.
Participants should be comfortable with rustic settings and changing weather.
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness and a spirit of adventure.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is Naadam Festival celebrated?
Naadam takes place annually from July 11–13. This tour is timed to include the full festival experience.
What’s the accommodation like?
A mix of comfortable hotels in Ulaanbaatar and cozy Ger camps in the countryside.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, older children (10+) with a taste for adventure will enjoy the blend of culture and nature.
Will there be English-speaking guides?
Yes, experienced and fluent English-speaking guides will accompany you throughout the tour.
Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian and other dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.
🎒 WHAT TO BRING
Lightweight layers and a warm jacket (for chilly desert nights)
Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Travel-sized first aid kit and personal medications
Flashlight/headlamp for Ger camp nights
Power bank and adapters (Mongolia uses Type C & E plugs)
A lightweight daypack
GOBI DESERT COMBINED WITH NAADAM FESTIVAL 9 DAYS TOUR PACKAGE PRICE
Group size | 1 pax | 2-3 pax | 4-6 pax | 7-9 pax | 10-12 pax | 13-15 pax | More than 16 pax |
Price/Per person | 3630$ | 2780$ | 2450$ | 2380$ | 2280$ | 2210$ | 2150$ |
No | Include service | Exclude service | Include service of Meals |
1 | Vehicle with a driver. | Items of personal nature | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
2 | English speaking guide | Beverages, alcoholic drinks, bar bills, laundry | Per day 3 bottle water for per person /1,5 liter/ |
3 | Accommodation/Ger camps and Hotel/ | Travel and insurance | One time Mongolian traditional food /lamb with vegetables/ |
4 | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | International transportation | |
5 | All cooking and camping gears. | Taxi | |
6 | Airport shuttle | Optional activities | |
7 | National park and Other permits | Single supplement /For hotel or Ger camp/ | |
8 | Gratuity for the tour team |
GOBI DESERT COMBINED WITH NAADAM FESTIVAL 9 DAYS TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1/July 10/ - Ulaanbaatar capital city of Mongolia

Upon your arrival at Chinggis Khan International Airport, our dedicated driver and guide will warmly welcome you. We'll start your exploration by driving to your selected hotel, ensuring a comfortable and convenient transfer. The adventure kicks off with a visit to the vibrant local outdoor market, where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, exploring the diverse array of goods and experiencing the local culture. Next on the itinerary is a visit to the magnificent Gandan Monastery, a spiritual and cultural center adorned with traditional architecture and Buddhist significance. You'll have the opportunity to witness the serene ambiance and perhaps engage in a moment of contemplation. Following the spiritual journey, we'll delve into Mongolia's rich history at the National Museum, providing insights into the country's past, traditions, and cultural heritage. It's a captivating experience to better understand the unique tapestry of Mongolia's story. As the day winds down, you'll have leisure time in Ulaanbaatar city to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to stroll through the city streets, indulge in local cuisine, or simply relax, the evening is yours to enjoy. Rest assured, your overnight stay at the hotel will provide a comfortable and restful conclusion to your first day in Mongolia. Get ready for more adventures that await you in this enchanting land.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Hotel | Dinner |
Day 2/July 11/ - First day of Naadam festival

Experience the grandeur of the main event day at the Naadam Festival. The festivities commence at 9 o'clock as Chinggis Khaan's 9 knights elegantly carry the State Nine Banners on horseback, parading them to the Naadam Court at the Central Square. At 11 o'clock, witness the official Opening Ceremony at the Central Stadium, marking the beginning of an exhilarating day filled with traditional Mongolian sports. Stay enthralled at the Naadam court, where the three manly games—wrestling, archery, and ankle bone shooting—unfold. Immerse yourself in the vibrant holiday atmosphere, savor local cuisine, and revel in the rich tapestry of Mongolian culture. It's a day of excitement and celebration!
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Hotel | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 3/July 12/ - Second day of Naadam Festival

Embrace the authentic essence of Mongolian tradition as we embark on a journey to the horse racing court, "Khui doloon khudag," situated on the western outskirts of Ulaanbaatar. Delve into the fervor of the locals as they passionately engage in horse racing, a centuries-old tradition deeply ingrained in Mongolian culture. Horses, symbolic and revered creatures in Mongolian heritage, take center stage as they thunder towards the finish line. Witness the exhilarating spectacle, with racing horses competing in various age divisions. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere, and discuss the optimal timing for witnessing one or two divisions with your knowledgeable guide. Today, experience the genuine thrill of Mongolian horse racing in the picturesque countryside.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Hotel | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 4/July 13/ - Baga Gazar stone

Embarking on a captivating journey, we pick you up from your accommodation to begin an adventure towards Baga Gazriin Chuluu, also known as Earth Stone. As we leave the city, passing by vibrant shops, our drive spans approximately 280 km through the steppe, revealing a vast panorama of land and sea. The mesmerizing landscape unfolds with grand formations of rocks and basalts, characteristic of the Mongolian granite stone zone. Baga Gazriin Chuluu, a sprawling stone massif stretching 15 km in length and 10 km in width, beckons with its natural wonders. Inhabitants of this region include wild sheep, ibex, and marmots, creating a harmonious ecosystem. Surtiin Am, a narrow canyon within this stone massif, captivates with its aspen, birch, white wicker, and elm trees. Delve into the history of this sacred place as you explore the ruins of a stone temple and the remnants of two Gers—traditional Mongolian dwellings—where monks pursued meditation since the seventeenth century. Uncover the secrets of a 20-meter cave near Surtiin Am, where crystals glisten, and discover a spring renowned for its healing properties, particularly for eye ailments. As you arrive in Baga Gazriin Chuluu in the afternoon, the remainder of the day invites you to hike through the picturesque surroundings. Immerse yourself in the serenity of the landscape, dotted with captivating natural and cultural landmarks. Your overnight stay in a Ger camp promises tranquility and an opportunity to connect with the unique energy of this remarkable destination.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
340km | Asphalt | 4 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 5/July 14/ - Yol valley
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Following breakfast, we embark on a journey to Yol Valley. The term 'Yol' translates to vulture in Mongolian, and this valley originates from Zuun Saikhan Mountain, a prominent segment of the Gurvan Saikhan Mountain range, extending for over 10 kilometers. The narrowest section of the valley, accommodating only 3 or 4 individuals at a time, is entirely shaded by high cliff walls. Yol Valley is renowned for maintaining ice formations, created during winter by a small stream that persists even through the hot summer months until the end of July. The valley's beauty, coupled with the scent of juniper, creates an atmosphere of awe and wonder that is not to be missed. During our time there, we will explore the valley on horseback. If you prefer not to ride horses, a one-hour hike is also a delightful activity. Additionally, we will visit the local natural museum of Gurvan Saikhan National Park. We will spend the night in this captivating location.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
460km | Asphalt | 6 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 6/July 15/ - Khongor sand dunes

On this day, our journey takes us to Khongor Sand Dune, the second-largest sand dune in the country, stretching along the northern side of Sevrei and Zoolun mountain ranges. This remarkable formation spans from 5 to 10 km in width and nearly 100 km in length, with crests reaching heights of 80 to 300m above the surrounding landscape. The booming sound generated by the shifting sands can be heard from a distance on windy days, earning the local moniker 'Singing Sands.' Adjacent to Khongor River at the dunes' northern edge lies an oasis. Today, we will embark on camel rides to explore these colossal sand dunes, venturing into an area where climbing one of the dunes offers energetic travelers an unforgettable experience of boundless vistas across a sea of daffodil-colored sand. We will spend the night in this enchanting desert oasis.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
180km | Off-Road | 3 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 7/July 16/ - Ongi Monastery via Bayanzag Flaming cliffs

After breakfast, we embark on our journey to Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs. This is the site where American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews made a groundbreaking discovery, unearthing the cemetery of dinosaurs and the world's first dinosaur eggs. We'll engage in a hike through the cliffs, exploring the remarkable Gobi tree grove named 'Bayanzag,' with the tree species Saxaul flourishing in this central Asian Gobi region. You'll have the opportunity to witness the legacy of the 1920s American excavation through a short documentary. Following lunch, our expedition continues to Ongi Monastery ruins, traversing the expansive Ongi Steppe, a vast landscape that spans an extraordinary 100 km. Ongi Monastery, once among the largest seven monasteries in Mongolia, housed two temples constructed in the 1780s. However, during the 1930s repression, these temples were destroyed, and many monks faced execution or imprisonment. We'll arrive at the camp in the late afternoon, and after dinner, explore the Ongi temple ruins, soaking in the beauty of the surrounding area. Overnight stay in the Ger camp.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
270km | Off-road | 5 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 8/July 17/ - Karakorum city and Erdene Zuu monastery

After breakfast, our journey takes us to Karakorum, the former capital of the Great Mongolian State. Today, Karakorum is a small local township, but in its historical heyday, the city was founded in 1220 in the Orkhon River Valley by order of Genghis Khan. Unfortunately, the city faced destruction when, after the collapse of the Yuan dynasty, Khuvilai Khan Min's state invaders sacked Karakorum in 1388, massacring its inhabitants and leaving it in ruins. Two centuries later, Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in 1586, became the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. The materials for its construction were sourced from the remnants of Karakorum. During its zenith in the late 18th century, Erdene Zuu was a complex featuring ornate gardens and 62 temples, accommodating over 1000 lamas. Tragically, in 1937, during the communist purges, the entire monastery was systematically destroyed. Our visit to Karakorum includes stops at the Karakorum Museum, Karakorum Ruin Open Museum, and the Erdene Zuu Monastery Complex. Overnight stay in the area.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
280km | Off-road | 6 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 9/July 18/ - Ulaanbaatar city capital city of Mongolia

After our journey back to Ulaanbaatar, you can indulge in a well-deserved rest and relaxation at the hotel. The return trip, while long, provides a sense of accomplishment and a chance to reflect on the diverse landscapes and cultural experiences encountered during our adventure. Take this time to unwind, refresh, and savor the memories created throughout our exploration of Mongolia's fascinating landscapes and historical sites.
Distance | Route | Hiking time | Accommodation | Food |
340km | Asphalt | 4 hours | Hotel | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 10/July 19/ - Home sweet home

As your time in Ulaanbaatar concludes, our dedicated driver will ensure a timely drop-off at Chinggis Khan International Airport. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for choosing to explore the wonders of Mongolia with us.
Thank you for being part of our journey, and we hope the memories created during your visit will linger as souvenirs of a truly enriching experience. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Mongolia in the future. Until then, farewell and bon voyage!
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
70km | Highway | 1 hour | n/a | Breakfast |
OTHER TOURS
Celebrate Naadam Festival and explore Mongolia’s Gobi Desert on this 9-day tour with camel rides, culture, and ancient sites. July departures only.
Discover Mongolia’s Ice Festival at Khuvsgul Lake—ice sculptures, games, rituals & frozen lake adventures in a 5-day winter wonderland tour.
Celebrate Tsagaan Sar, Mongolia’s Lunar New Year, in a 4-day cultural tour with nomadic homestays, rituals, and festive traditions.