
Gobi Desert and Central Mongolia
Tour Overview
Your adventure begins in the granite formations of Baga Gazaryn Chuluu, followed by the striking white cliffs of Tsagaan Suvraga, shaped by wind over thousands of years.
Entering the Gobi Desert, you’ll hike through the narrow gorge of Yoliin Am, where ice can remain even in summer. The journey continues to the towering Khongor Sand Dunes, where you’ll climb the dunes and enjoy camel riding across golden sands.
At Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs), discover one of the world’s most important dinosaur fossil sites. Then travel north to the ruins of Ongi Monastery, a reminder of Mongolia’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Transitioning into Central Mongolia, the landscape changes dramatically. You’ll explore the lush Orkhon Valley, ride horses through rolling hills, and relax in the soothing waters of Tsenkher Hot Springs.
Continuing to Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire.
Your journey ends with a visit to Elsen Tasarkhai, known as the “Mini Gobi,” before returning to Ulaanbaatar.
Daily Itinerary

Day 1:Elsen Tasarkhai and Mini Gobi
Elsen Tasarkhai, often referred to as the "Mini-Gobi," is a unique region of sand dunes located in the central part of Mongolia. Stretching over 80 kilometers, these golden dunes are surrounded by grasslands and mountains, creating a striking contrast in the landscape. Visitors can explore Uvgun Hiid(Temple), historical place where monks were hiding from Soviets at the time.

Day 2:KharKhorin City, Erdene Zuu Monastery
Erdene Zuu monastery was constructed in 15th century by Abtai Sain Khan using construction materials and stones from former imperial capital Karakorum. Visitors can explore temples, relics, and traditional architecture. This historical site is one of Mongolia's important cultural heritage and listed in UNESCO.

Day 3:The Great White Lake
The Great white lake is located next to a Khorgo volcano. Folk tale of Terkhiin Tsagaan nuur (The Great White Lake) is famously known among Mongolians and that is why this lake is popular destination for many travelers.

Day 4:Khorgo Volcano
The Great white lake is located next to a Khorgo volcano. Folk tale of Terkhiin Tsagaan nuur (The Great White Lake) is famously known among Mongolians and that is why this lake is popular destination for many travelers.

Day 5:Tsenkher Hot Spring
Tsenkher Hot Spring is a natural thermal spring located in Arkhangai Province, known for its mineral-rich waters and healing properties. The spring flows at temperatures up to 85°C and is believed to relieve muscle and joint pain. Surrounded by forests and rolling hills, the area offers a peaceful retreat.

Day 6:Orkhon valley - Orkhon Waterfall
Orkhon Waterfall, also known as Ulaan Tsutgalan, is one of Mongolia’s most beautiful natural attractions.The waterfall plunges 20 meters into a volcanic basalt canyon. The Orkhon Valley has been a center of Mongolian civilization for centuries and is home to ancient monuments, including Karakorum ruins and Orkhon Inscriptions.

Day 7:Orkhon Valley 2nd Day
We spend another day here riding horse and hike through the valley.

Day 8:Ongi Monastery
Ongi Monastery is a peaceful and atmospheric ruin set along the Ongi River in Mongolia’s central Gobi steppe. Once one of the country’s largest Buddhist centers, it now offers visitors a glimpse into Mongolia’s spiritual history amid wide desert landscapes. Travelers can explore the monastery ruins, visit the small restored temple and museum, enjoy quiet walks along the river, and stay in nearby ger camps.

Day 9:Bayanzag - Flaming Cliffs
Bayan Zag, famously known as the Flaming Cliffs, is one of Mongolia’s most important paleontological sites located in the Gobi Desert. Visitors can walk among the cliffs, learn about prehistoric discoveries, and enjoy guided tours explaining the site’s history. Bayan Zag is an essential stop for history lovers and a key destination on Gobi Desert tours.

Day 10:Khongor Sand Dunes
Khongoryn Els, known as the Singing Sand Dunes, is one of the most iconic attractions in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia. Stretching over 100 kilometers and rising up to 300 meters, these massive dunes dominate the desert landscape. The dunes produce a deep humming sound when sand shifts in the wind, giving them their name. Local legends describe the sound as whispers of desert spirits.

Day 11:Yoliin Am - The Yol Valley
Yoliin Am, also known as Vulture Valley, is a spectacular gorge located in Gurvan Saikhan National Park in the Gobi Desert. Despite the arid surroundings, the valley remains cool year-round and often contains ice well into summer.Named after the bearded vultures soaring above its cliffs, Yoliin Am is rich in biodiversity. Wildlife sightings may include ibex, argali sheep, and pikas. The valley has long been considered sacred by local nomads.

Day 12:White Stupa - Tsagaan Suvarga
Tsagaan Suvarga, meaning “White Stupa,” is one of the most striking natural landmarks in southern Mongolia. Located in Dundgovi Province, these colorful cliffs rise up to 60 meters. The cliffs display changing colors—white, pink, orange, and red—especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Fossils of ancient marine life found here indicate the area was once covered by an ocean, making Tsagaan Suvarga important for geological study.

Day 13:Baga Gazariin Chuluu - Small Stone of Place
Baga Gazaryn Chuluu(Small stone )Visitors can explore Uvgun Cave, mineral springs believed to have healing properties which you will find one of them there, and diverse steppe wildlife. Hiking through the rocky terrain and camping under clear starry sky. Baga Gazryn Chuluu is ideal for travelers seeking nature, history, and quiet landscapes.

Day 14:Terelj National Park
Terelj National Park and Genghis khan Statue

Day 15:Return to Ulaanbaatar and City tour
Capital city of Mongolia Ulaanbaatar was founded in 1639 as a buddhist monastic center known as Orgoo. it took 29 different locations before it settled where it is now. During this city tour we will be visiting Gandantegchileng monastery, Chinggis Khaan Museum and the main square.
Price & Options
Price Includes
- Driver + 4WD vehicle + Gas
- English speaking tour guide/cook
- National Park entrance fee
- Camel and Horse riding for an hour or longer
- Accommodations
- All meals(Breakfast, lunch and Dinner)
Price Excludes
- Accommodations in UB
- Travel and Medical insurance
- Personal Items
- Tip money for drivers and guides
- Visa fee
- Alcohol and soft drinks
Upcoming Scheduled Departures
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"We did the 4 day Mongolia tour with Jigden in December. Throughout the entire planning process, Jigden was patient and accommodating, even offering us....."
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"We went on a tour with Jigden's team around Central Mongolia and the Gobi desert. This trip turned out to be one of the most amazing trips we ever had...."


