ESSENCE OF MONGOLIA
OVERVIEW
The Essence of Mongolia is an activity-packed tour into central Mongolia. Visit the Khogno Khan Reserve, and the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai before venturing to the Hustai National Park to see the wild Takhi horses and plenty of other wildlife. This condensed trip lets you experience as much of Mongolia as possible in a short time of five days. Overnight stay in guest gers next to local nomadic families and a comfortable ger camp one night. Learn about your hosts’ culture and traditions, socialize with them, ride horses and Bactrian camels, and hike and visit hilltop temples. This all-encompassing trip contains most of what Mongolia offers, including must-dos and mustsees and is perfect for those with limited time in the country.
Culture 
Adventure & Nature 
Day 1 : Gurvanbulag – Gernhomestay – Horse ride
You will be picked up from a prearranged Ulaanbaatar location at a time to suit you - we suggest leaving around 8:30 am to make the most of the day. Board the vehicle and head west to the northern part of Gobi. On the way, you will stop briefly visiting Khar Bukhiin Balgas, interesting remains of an ancient fort used by nomadic tribes dating back to the 10th century. Then it's onto Gurvanbulag, where you will be staying at a guest ger alongside a nomadic family.
Enter the ger and experience the hospitality and traditional nomadic way of life - you can help make and drink milk tea, plus try homemade produce such as yoghurt and dried curds. In the afternoon you will have a chance to do an hour of horse riding in the surrounding hills and the dunes nearby. Or you can walk if you prefer. In the evening enjoy a traditional feast of khorkhog - mutton and vegetables seared and steamed with red hot stones from the fire.
- Travel details: 4hr/280km to Gurvanbulag
- Accommodation: Guest ger next to a nomadic family
- Meals included: Lunch; Dinner
Day 2 : Kharakhorum - Erdene Zuu Monastery - Monument of 3 Kings
Today you will travel to Kharakhorum the ancient capital of Mongolia where Chinggis Khaan established his headquarters in 1220. Since then, his son and successor, Ogodei built a palace enclosed by walls. You will visit the interesting local museum which showcases the Mongolian past and Erdenezuu monastery, the first Mongolian Buddhist temple complex built on the remains of 16th-century Kharakhorum city.
Then we will visit a local cooperative to attend a workshop for making felt items by hand or an art gallery.
- Travel details: 1-2hr/150km to Kharakhorum; short drives in town
- Accommodation: Ger camp
- Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 3 : Khogno Khan - Uvgun Temple - Elsen Tasarkhai Dunes - Camel Riding
Today you head to the nature reserve of Khogno Khan, where you can explore the lower temple complex of Uvgun Khiid, see the reconstructed temples, and prayer wheel, and look around the ruins. Then we recommend taking the 45-minute hike up to the older ruined temple complex in the hills - the scenery is fantastic, and depending on the time of year, wildflowers may be in abundance. Head back down to the valley floor, and onto the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai, a 30-minute drive away.
Tonight you will stay alongside a family of camel herders - settle into your gers and head off on a Bactrian ride across the dunes for an hour, then enjoy a home-cooked dinner.
- Travel details: 1.5hr/50km Khogno Khan; 45min/20km to Elsen Tasarkhai
- Accommodation: Guest ger next to a nomadic family
- Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 4 : Hustai National Park - Wild Takhi Horses - Hiking
After a leisurely breakfast jump in the vehicles for the journey back east to Hustai. You should arrive at your ger camp in time for lunch. The camp is located at the entrance to the National Park, and you will have some time to rest before venturing inside. At dusk, drive from your camp to see the Takhi - this is the time you have a better chance of seeing them up close and in inaccessible areas.
You may want to combine the trip with a long walk in the park - in which case you should leave a little earlier. Discuss your preference with your guide. Afterwards, head back to camp for dinner and your last night in a ger.
- Travel details: 3hr/240 km drive to Hustai National Park
- Accommodation: Ger camp
- Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 5 : Chinggis Khaan Statue complex - Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast travel to the remarkable Chinggis Khaan Statue complex. Once you arrive, climb up inside until you reach the exterior staircase which runs up the mane of the horse to a viewpoint overlooking the Tuul River, Terelj & the hills of the Khan Khentii. Then have lunch at the cosy restaurant. After lunch, board the vehicle and drive back to Ulaanbaatar, where you will be dropped off at a location to suit you (we can do multiple drop-offs if required).
- Travel details: 2hrs/180km to Chinggis Khaan Statue complex; 1hr/60 km to UB
- Accommodation: -
- Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch
Our services include :
- All activities described in the itinerary
- Twin Ger of nomad family stay (2 nights)
- Ger camp stay (2 nights) in the countryside
- English-speaking driver service
- Horse and camel ride fee
- Local guides
- Bottled water 1.5l per day
- Entrance fees to Protected Areas
- All transfers by 4WD Japan minivan in the countryside
- Meals of breakfast, lunch and dinner as mentioned per day itinerary
Our services do not include :
- International transportation to and from Mongolia
- Travel insurance
- Snacks and alcoholic drinks
- Sleeping bag, tips and gratuities
- Laundry and items of a personal nature
Mongolia, known as the "Land of the Eternal Blue Sky," is a vast and sparsely populated country in East Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. With its rugged landscapes, rich nomadic culture, and deep historical roots, Mongolia offers a unique and adventurous travel experience.
Getting There :
By Air: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) in Ulaanbaatar is the main gateway. Major airlines such as MIAT Mongolian Airlines, Korean Air, and Aeroflot offer flights from various international destinations.
By Train: The Trans-Mongolian Railway connects Ulaanbaatar with Moscow and Beijing, providing a scenic and adventurous route into the country.
Accommodation :
Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel Ulaanbaatar, Blue Sky Hotel & Tower
Mid-Range: Ramada Ulaanbaatar Citycenter, Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace
Budget: Danista Nomads Hostel, Sunpath Mongolia Hostel
Traditional Ger Camps: Experience nomadic life in ger camps such as Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Hustai National Park, and the Gobi Desert.
Top Attractions :
Ulaanbaatar: The capital city, combining modern and traditional elements, is home to the Gandan Monastery, Sukhbaatar Square, and the National Museum of Mongolia.
Gobi Desert: Famous for its vast sand dunes, such as Khongoryn Els, the Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag), and the Yolyn Am ice canyon.
Lake Khövsgöl: Often called the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," this stunning alpine lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and hiking.
Orkhon Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this region is rich in historical and cultural sites, including ancient ruins and beautiful waterfalls.
Terelj National Park: Known for its stunning rock formations, lush meadows, and opportunities for horseback riding and hiking.
Karakorum: The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, featuring the Erdene Zuu Monastery, the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia.
Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa): Spectacular limestone formations that resemble a stupa, located in the middle Gobi.
Activities :
Horseback Riding: Explore the vast steppes and experience nomadic life on horseback.
Hiking and Trekking: Numerous trails in the Altai Mountains, Khangai Mountains, and other regions offer breathtaking views and challenging adventures.
Camel Trekking: Experience the Gobi Desert on a camel, guided by local herders.
Nomadic Culture: Stay with nomadic families, learn about their way of life, and participate in traditional activities like herding and milking livestock.
Festivals: Attend the Naadam Festival in July, featuring traditional sports such as wrestling, horse racing, and archery.
Dining :
Traditional Mongolian Cuisine: Try dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pies), and khorkhog (meat cooked with hot stones).
Local Restaurants: Experience Mongolian hospitality at places like Modern Nomads, BD's Mongolian Barbeque, and Hazara Indian Restaurant in Ulaanbaatar.
Ger Camps: Many ger camps offer traditional meals and a chance to try homemade dairy products like airag (fermented mare's milk).
Practical Information :
Language: Mongolian, with some English spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Mongolian Tögrög (MNT)
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for pleasant weather and access to remote areas.
Local Transport: Domestic flights, buses, and shared vans (mikrs). Renting a 4x4 vehicle with a driver is common for exploring the countryside.
Tips :
Prepare for Weather: Mongolia’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, including a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
Respect Local Customs: When visiting nomadic families, observe local customs and traditions. Always ask permission before taking photos.
Health Precautions: Bring any necessary medications, as pharmacies may be limited in remote areas. Drink bottled or boiled water.
Connectivity: Internet access may be limited outside Ulaanbaatar. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for mobile data.
Mongolia’s blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture makes it an extraordinary destination for travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience. Whether you’re exploring the vast steppes, delving into the history of the Mongol Empire, or experiencing the warmth of nomadic hospitality, Mongolia promises an unforgettable adventure.
ESSENCE OF MONGOLIA
Reference #: WTP0762
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The Essence of Mongolia is an activity-packed tour into central Mongolia. Visit the Khogno Khan Reserve, and the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai before venturing to the Hustai National Park to see the wild Takhi horses and plenty of other wildlife. This condensed trip lets you experience as much of Mongolia as possible in a short time of five days. Overnight stay in guest gers next to local nomadic families and a comfortable ger camp one night. Learn about your hosts’ culture and traditions, socialize with them, ride horses and Bactrian camels, and hike and visit hilltop temples. This all-encompassing trip contains most of what Mongolia offers, including must-dos and mustsees and is perfect for those with limited time in the country.