G4: Gobi & Tsenkher Hot Spring: An 11-Day Journey from Desert to Serenity

·      Highlights: Baga Gazryn Chuluu NP features a unique moonlike landscape with massive granite rocks. This area is known for its intriguing rock formations and historical significance, including ancient inscriptions and petroglyphs.

·      Hike: Ascend Baga Gazryn Uul, the highest peak in the area (1,768m).

·      Scenery: Enjoy panoramic views from the peak, with rugged terrain and unusual rock formations.

·      Highlights: Tsagaan Suvraga, also known as the White Stupa, features natural rock formations that resemble the ruins of an ancient city. The colorful layers of the rock are a result of different geological periods.

·      Hike: Explore the Tsagaan Suvarga formations.

·      Scenery: Expansive desert landscapes with striking geological features.

host family offers paid shower available 15000MNT

·      Highlights: Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park is home to the Yolyn Am, or Vulture’s Mouth, a deep and narrow mountain gorge. The area is known for its stunning ice fields (which can last through the summer) and dramatic cliffs.

·      Hike: Trek to Yolyn Am and possibly Dungenee Canyon.

·      Climate: Despite being in the Gobi Desert, the gorge can be surprisingly cool, with ice fields persisting into summer.

·      Scenery: Towering cliffs and narrow passages make for dramatic views.

·      Highlights: Khongor Sand Dunes, also known as the Singing Dunes, are some of the largest and most impressive sand dunes in Mongolia. (This area has shower facilities available)

·      Hike: Climb the Singing Dunes and explore the area along the Khongor River.

·      Natural Features: The dunes can reach heights of up to 300 meters and stretch for over 100 kilometers.

·      Scenery: Sweeping views of the desert landscape, with the contrast of green vegetation along the river. (1hr-camel riding)

·      Highlights: Bayanzag, known for its dinosaur fossils and Flaming Cliffs, where numerous significant paleontological discoveries have been made.

·      Hike: Explore Bayanzag and the Flaming Cliffs.

·      Paleontology: The area is famous for the discovery of dinosaur eggs and bones.

·      Scenery: The red sandstone cliffs are particularly stunning at sunset.

·      Highlights: The ruins of Ongiin Khiid, which once housed 28 temples and 4 universities, all destroyed in the 1930s. 

·      Hike: Explore the ruins of Ongiin Khiid.

·      Scenery: The ruins are set along the banks of the Ongi River, providing a picturesque backdrop.

·      Exploration: Wander through the remains of the temples and soak in the historical atmosphere.

·      Morning After breakfast at the ger camp, set off for the breathtaking Orkhon Waterfall, located in the heart of the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural history.

·      As you approach the waterfall, take in the vast expanse of rolling hills, lush meadows, and the winding Orkhon River. Upon arrival, embark on a short hike to the waterfall itself. You’ll hear the powerful roar of the water before you see it. The hike offers several scenic viewpoints, allowing for great photo opportunities.

·      Take time to rest and freshen up before dinner.

·      Horhog tradional barbecue for the dinner 

surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature under a starry sky. 

Tsenkher Hot Spring is a natural hot spring with mineral-rich waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties. Take a dip in the natural hot spring waters, known for their healing properties. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take some time to unwind.

·       After an early breakfast, you’ll begin your journey to Kharkhorin 

·       Upon arrival in Kharkhorin, immerse yourself in the historical significance of this ancient city, once the heart of the Mongol Empire. 

·       Visit Erdenezuu Monastery: Your first stop is the Erdenezuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest and most important Buddhist monastery. Built in 1586 from the ruins of the ancient capital, 

·       Kharkhorin Museum: After exploring the monastery, you’ll visit the Kharkhorin Museum, which houses fascinating archaeological finds from the Mongol Empire. The museum offers a glimpse into the past with exhibits featuring ancient relics, artifacts, and an impressive collection of stone sculptures, tools, and items used by Genghis Khan's armies. Learn about the rise and fall of this once-mighty empire and how it influenced the region.

·       As the day winds down, return to your ger for a relaxing evening.

After breakfast, depart for Khustai National Park.Explore the national park, known for its successful reintroduction of the endangered Przewalski's horse (Takhi) into the wild. Go on a guided hiking to spot these rare wild horses and other wildlife that inhabit the park. Experience the hospitality of the local nomadic community and learn about their traditional way of life.

After breakfast Begin your return journey to Ulaanbaatar, head towards journey back, reminiscing about the incredible experiences and memories made during your trip. Arrive in Ulaanbaatar in the late afternoon, and the tour concludes.