• Ride camels in the Gobi Desert.
  • Explore ancient Karakorum
  • Meet Tsaatan reindeer herders at Lake Khuvsgul

Mongolia Grand Tour: 16-Day Gobi Desert & Lake Khuvsgul Expedition

Experience the best of Mongolia in one seamless journey. We’ve expertly paced this 16-day expedition to ensure you spend less time in the car and more time immersed in the landscapes. From the silent majesty of the Gobi to the deep, aromatic Siberian Taiga of the North, this tour balances iconic bucket-list sites with deep cultural immersion.

  • Transportation
    Transportation

    4x4 SUV / Minivan

  • Age range
    Age range

    All ages

  • Group size
    Group size

    4-6

  • Language
    Language

    English-speaking

  • Meals
    Meals

    All meals as per itinerary

  • Best time
    Best time

    JUN-SEP

Highlights

  • Southern Mongolia: The Gobi Desert (5 Days) Venture into the legendary Gobi. Ride two-humped Bactrian camels across the "Singing Sands," share tea with local herders, and explore the Flaming Cliffs—the world-renowned "Land of Dinosaurs" where 60-million-year-old fossils still rest.

  • Central Mongolia: Heart of the Empire (4 Days) Step into history at Karakorum, the 13th-century capital of the Mongol Empire. Visit the majestic Erdene Zuu Monastery, trek the volcanic craters of the Khorgo-Terkhiin National Park, and soak in the natural Tsenkher Hot Springs.

  • Northern Mongolia: The Blue Pearl & The Taiga (4 Days)
    Discover Lake Khuvsgul, Asia’s second-largest freshwater lake. This region is the southern fringe of the Great Siberian Taiga, a vast boreal forest of larch and pine. You’ll journey into this dense wilderness to meet the Tsaatan reindeer nomads and learn about their unique shamanic way of life.

  • Ulaanbaatar: The Modern Frontier (2 Days) Experience the contrast of a city where glass skyscrapers meet ancient temples. Visit the Gandan Monastery and the National Museum before enjoying a world-class performance of traditional Khoomei (throat singing).

Itenerary

Expand All +
  • Welcome to Mongolia

    Upon arrival in the "Land of the Eternal Blue Sky," our team will transfer you to your hotel. After a short rest, dive into Mongolian history at the National Museum and find peace at the Gandan Monastery, where the scent of incense and the low chant of monks provide a soulful welcome to the capital.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Activities:

      Welcome & City tour

    • Meals:

      Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

    • Accomodation:

      4-Star Hotel

  • Southern Mongolia: The Middle - Gobi

    Leave the city behind as we trek south toward the Gobi. You’ll be mesmerized by Tsagaan Suvarga, an ancient seafloor transformed into towering limestone cliffs. Expect a stunning hike through these "painted" formations, which glow with vibrant oranges and pinks—a photographer’s dream and a perfect introduction to the desert’s raw beauty.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Activities:

      Soft level of hiking

    • Meals:

      B, L , D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Southern Mongolia: The Gobi Desert

    Journey into the deep gorges of the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains. Here, you’ll hike through a narrow canyon so sheltered from the sun that thick ice often remains throughout the summer. Keep your eyes on the jagged peaks above for bearded vultures and wild Argali sheep that call this cool desert oasis home.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L , D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Southern Mongolia: The Gobi Desert

    Today, you’ll reach the "Singing Sands," Mongolia’s largest dunes stretching over 100km. The highlight is a sunset camel trek on the back of a two-humped Bactrian camel, moving slowly across the golden peaks. Afterward, visit a local herder family to experience the legendary hospitality of the Gobi and taste traditional dairy products.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Activities:

      Two-humped Bactrian camel

    • Meals:

      B, L , D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Southern Mongolia: The Gobi Desert

    Step back 70 million years at the site where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered. Known as the Flaming Cliffs for the deep ochre glow they emit at dusk, you’ll spend the afternoon exploring the spires and canyons. It’s an otherworldly landscape where you can still feel the thrill of 1920s paleontology expeditions.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Southern Mongolia: The Middle Gobi

    As we transition toward Central Mongolia, we stop at the haunting ruins of Ongi Monastery. Once a massive Buddhist university destroyed in the 1930s, the site is now a peaceful riverside retreat. Explore the small museum and hike the surrounding rocky hills for a panoramic view of the river winding through the arid steppe.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Central Mongolia: Heart of the Empire

    Arrive at the historic heart of Mongolia. You’ll walk through the 16th-century Erdene Zuu Monastery, built from the ruins of Genghis Khan’s capital. The 108 stupas surrounding the complex create a majestic silhouette against the Orkhon Valley, offering a profound look into the spiritual and imperial history that shaped the world.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Central Mongolia

    After days of desert dust and history, treat your body to the natural healing waters of Tsenkher. These sulfurous springs emerge from the earth at 86°C / 186.8°F/ and are funneled into outdoor pools. Spend your evening soaking under a canopy of stars, surrounded by lush forested hills—the ultimate rejuvenation before heading into the northern mountains.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Central Mongolia: Volcanic area

    Hike the cinder cone of the extinct Khorgo Volcano for a 360-degree view of the solidified lava fields and the sparkling Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake. The contrast of the black volcanic rock against the azure water is breathtaking. Spend the afternoon riding horses along the lakeshore or simply relaxing in this pristine national park.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Central Mongolia - Green Route

    Experience the "Green Route" as we drive through the high mountain passes and wildflower-filled valleys of northern Mongolia. This is a day for slow travel and stunning vistas. We’ll stop to visit nomadic horse herders along the way, witnessing a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries in these remote, beautiful valleys.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Northern Mongolia: The Blue Pearl & The Taiga

    Head north to the crown jewel of Mongolia’s wilderness. Lake Khuvsgul holds 1% of the world’s fresh water and is surrounded by dense Siberian Taiga. You’ll feel the air turn crisp and clean as we arrive at the lakeshore. Enjoy a sunset walk or a gentle horse ride along the crystal-clear pebble beaches.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Northern Mongolia: The Blue Pearl & The Taiga

    Today is a true cultural highlight. We’ll journey into the Taiga forest to meet the Tsaatan (Dukha) people, a community of reindeer herders who live in teepees (ortz). Learn about their shamanic traditions and their unique bond with their animals. In the afternoon, board a private boat to explore the lake's pristine islands.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Local Hotel

  • Northern Mongolia

    Leaving the lake, we visit Uran Togoo, an extinct volcano famous for its textbook-perfect circular crater. A hike to the rim reveals a miniature forest and a seasonal lake hidden inside the cone. The views of the surrounding Bulgan province steppe are incredible, making it one of the most scenic spots in the country.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Northern Mongolia

    Leaving the lake, we visit Uran Togoo, an extinct volcano famous for its textbook-perfect circular crater. A hike to the rim reveals a miniature forest and a seasonal lake hidden inside the cone. The views of the surrounding Bulgan province steppe are incredible, making it one of the most scenic spots in the country.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      Tourist Ger Camp

  • Ulaanbaatar

    We make the final drive back to the bustling capital. Enjoy a free afternoon for last-minute shopping—Mongolian cashmere is the finest in the world! In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner and a traditional folklore performance, featuring the incredible art of throat singing and contortionism.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B, L, D

    • Accomodation:

      4-Star Hotel

  • Come as a tourist, leave as a friend

    After a final breakfast at your hotel, our team will provide a private transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey. You’ll leave with a camera full of photos and a heart full of memories from the land of Genghis Khan.

    • Transport:

      Private vehicle

    • Meals:

      B

    • Accomodation:

Route

What’s Included in Your Expedition

Include Features
  • 2 nights in a 4-star hotel in Ulaanbaatar

  • 1 night in a local hotel at Lake Khuvsgul

  • 12 nights in authentic tourist ger camps across the countryside

  • Standard Accommodation:
    2–4 person in a ger (shared showers and toilets located in a central building).

  • Upgrade Options:
    Luxury gers with private ensuite bathrooms are available at select locations (subject to availability and additional cost).

  • All meals as specified (15x Breakfast, 15x Lunch, 15x Dinner)

  • Expert, English-speaking professional guide

  • Private transportation in rugged 4x4 expedition vehicles

  • All entry fees for National Parks, museums, and monasteries

  • 1-hour horse riding & 1-hour camel riding

  • Private boat tour on Lake Khuvsgul

Exclude Features
  • International airfare

  • Personal travel gear (sleeping bags, etc.)

  • Alcoholic beverages and specialty coffee

  • Single supplement fee

  • Room category upgrades

  • International travel insurance

  • Gratuities for your guide and driver

Additional Info

  • The Spirit of Adventure:


    This is an epic overland expedition covering vast distances and varied climates. It requires a spirit of adventure and adaptability, but it rewards you with the most complete and authentic Mongolian experience possible. For those traveling in July, ask us about adding the Naadam Festival to your itinerary!


    Ready to explore the Land of Eternal Blue Sky?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

A tourist ger camp is a traditional Mongolian nomadic-style lodging designed for travelers. You will stay in a ger—a circular, felt-covered dwelling that has been the heart of Mongolian culture for centuries.

  • Standard Facilities:
    Standard gers feature comfortable beds and linens. For your convenience, modern western-style toilets and hot showers are located in a separate, central bathhouse building just a short walk from your ger.
  • Ensuite Upgrades:
    Private ensuite bathrooms (shower and toilet inside the ger) are available at a limited number of locations. Please contact us to check availability, as upgrades may affect the final tour price.

We specialize in small-group adventures. To ensure an intimate experience and personalized attention from your guide, our groups typically range from 4 to 12 travelers (pax). This allows for better flexibility and more authentic nomadic encounters.

Absolutely! You can join one of our guaranteed departures to meet fellow travelers. If there is no scheduled departure on your preferred dates, we can help you create a new one and assist in finding "travel buddies" to join your expedition.

Yes. We love creating bespoke experiences. We can arrange a private departure exclusively for your group and fully customize the itinerary to match your specific interests, pace, and comfort preferences.

Currently, citizens of 33 countries enjoy visa-free entry to Mongolia (including the US and Canada for stays up to 30–90 days). If your citizenship requires a visa, Eventour Mongolia provides official visa support letters and guidance to ensure your application process is smooth and successful.

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$ 1,832.0 /per person
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