Day 1/July 4/ - 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.

Day 2/July 5/ - 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.

Day 3/July 6/ - Yol valley

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.

Day 4/July 7/ - 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.

Day 6/July 9/ - 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.

Day 5/July 8/ - 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.

Day 7/July 10/ - First day of Naadam festival

Experience the grandeur of the main event day at the Naadam Festival. 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!

Day 8/July 11/ - 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.

Day 9/July 12/ - 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.

Day 10/July 13/ - 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!