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THE ULTIMATE LUXURY ADVENTURE TREK TO THE WEST

TYPE
Private

SUPPORT
Daytime Guided

FOOD
Choice

ACCOMODATION
Type

  


TREKKING INTO GOBI MOUNTAIN

For those who want to cover most of the greatest sites of Mongolia, this adventure is the ultimate program designed for you. This 16-day journey takes you through the Harhiraa mountains and ends the trek in the Great Mongol Sands National Park, the biggest Gobi. 
The trip provides wonderful two-week trekking through the most beautiful landscapes and unexplored areas of Western Mongolia. You will explore sand mountains with sand rivers and lakes, expansive grasslands, and an authentic western nomadic culture. The tour is supported by luxury outdoor services.

You will love the idea of exploring the wild country of western Mongolia, learning about sand dune expeditions, and the Gobi ecosystem. This unique ecosystem forms a massive sand dune plateau including amazing dune rivers and Gobi Lakes. Great Mongol Sands National Park has undeniably a lot of territories that merit a visit. But we've done the legwork for you and have created an ultimate adventure that not only offers the maximum number of adventure options but also puts you up in Luxury Sand Camping, on the doorstep of places like the highest sand mountains and the sand rivers, with magnificent views right outside your window. Absolutely unforgettable. 

     
________________

16 days / 15 nights
4 people max

 

    

TERMS & CONDITIONS
INQUIRE NOW

TREKKING INTO GOBI MOUNTAIN

For those who want to cover most of the greatest sites of Mongolia, this adventure is the ultimate program designed for you. This 16-day journey takes you through the Harhiraa mountains and ends the trek in the Great Mongol Sands National Park, the biggest Gobi. 
The trip provides wonderful two-week trekking through the most beautiful landscapes and unexplored areas of Western Mongolia. You will explore sand mountains with sand rivers and lakes, expansive grasslands, and an authentic western nomadic culture. The tour is supported by luxury outdoor services.

You will love the idea of exploring the wild country of western Mongolia, learning about sand dune expeditions, and the Gobi ecosystem. This unique ecosystem forms a massive sand dune plateau including amazing dune rivers and Gobi Lakes. Great Mongol Sands National Park has undeniably a lot of territories that merit a visit. But we've done the legwork for you and have created an ultimate adventure that not only offers the maximum number of adventure options but also puts you up in Luxury Sand Camping, on the doorstep of places like the highest sand mountains and the sand rivers, with magnificent views right outside your window. Absolutely unforgettable. 

_________________

16 days / 15 nights

4 people max

TERMS & CONDITIONS
INQUIRE NOW

DAILY ITINERARY

Day 1. WELCOME TO MONGOLIA, A DAY IN THE ULAANBAATAR

Your Mongolian adventure kicks off in the capital of Mongolia—Ulaanbaatar. With a rich Buddhist past and flourishing modern touches, Ulaanbaatar is the largest city in Mongolia and one of the fastest-growing in Asia. The culture, food, and attitude of its residents reflect this bustling spirit. Get settled in on your first day and check in to the centrally located hotel, your home for the next night. We take you through the main square where happened major events and celebrations during the socialist era, to the doorsteps of ancient Buddhist temples and the National History museum introducing Mongolia's history from early humans to the modern era. 

Let's then attend a Traditional Mongolian authentic performance including folk dances, throat singing, and contortion at the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. Welcoming dinner meet and greet will see you get to know your new travel family before we put you at total ease by introducing your Mongolia tour itinerary. So, you'll be more organized with the program and closer knowledge about your tour.  Landing a few days before? No worries! Your airport pickup is included for any day before the tour and we can organize any extra nights required at the centrally located accommodation. 

Day 2. THE BEAUTY OF THE WEST, UUREG LAKE

Transfer to the airport for a 3-hour flight to Ulaangom, which is the capital of Uvs province, on the slopes of the Harhiraa mountain. It lies in the Great Lake Depression in the northwestern region of Mongolia, a land of high mountains with glaciers and alpine lakes, and waterfalls. We’ll have a picnic lunch and head to the beauty of the west, Uureg Lake, which lies closer to the Russian border. It is a large, beautiful salt-water lake surrounded by mountains with snow-capped peaks at 3,000m and is a great place for trekking.

After settle and short rest at the camp, we will take a short trek by ascending the nearest summit of Tsagaan Shuvuut Mountain (around 2000m) which will bring in to our view another panorama of the lake, together with the rugged terrain and the peaks of the Mountain range. In the afternoon, we descend to the lake and trek along its shoreline until arriving at our campsite. Overnight in a ger at the Suldet Tsahir camp in the shoreline of the lake.

Day 3. ALTAI MOUNTAINS, GOOJUUR WATERFALL

We will take on a road to mount Kharkhiraa located in the Uvs Province, part of the Altai Mountain Range. This is a very beautiful region, with high summits (Harhiraa Mountain's highest peak is at 4,037m). There are over 10 snowy mountain peaks and glaciers in the area of the Kharkhiraa and Turgen mountains. This is a place of alpine lakes, swift mountain streams, vast glaciers, and expansive grasslands. The pleasant tour in the afternoon to the Goojuur Waterfall pleases us with a great hike and helps you get acclimatized. 

Day 4. THE MAJESTIC MOUNTAINS AND LAND OF WATERFALLS

Day four begins with the trek you've been waiting for. A three-day, two-night journey along 25 km of rugged, natural, alpine beauty. You'll venture along the mountain trail, feeling close to both the surrounding holy lakes and the giant mountains that fascinate this area. Your tour leader, operation manager, local guides, porters, cooks, and fellow trekkers combine for an unforgettable experience. The trek brings you through mountain pasture, across mountain passes, and holy lakes. Trailside picnics of delicious food, warm and inviting campsites with hot soup, comfortable tents with a cozy sleeping bag, relaxing mattress, and underlayer are all part of the memories you'll craft on this experience of a lifetime.

Throughout the trek our equipment, tents, food, and luggage will be transported by 2 humped Bactrian camels, belonging to the ethnic group of Khoton nomads who will join us as local guides. We will load our luggage on pack camels and begin a three-day trek to "the land of the waterfalls". In the beginning, we will take support from our cars up to the mountain for about 15 km and then we start our three days pleasant trek in the Land of Mountain and Waterfalls. After 3-hour hiking along the valley, we will reach the many waterfalls at 2,400m. There, we enjoy the waterfall side picnic under the sound of waterfalls with a spectacular view of the valleys. 

Day 5. THE HOLY LAKES AND HIGH MOUNTAINS 

Today we trek across the sacred valleys of Harhiraa massif where we will do a great hike up to the many lakes. This wonderful valley contrasts with the previous landscapes of the mountain, with beautiful flora and unique geological rock formations. Our train of two hampered camels will catch up with us soon to prepare camp and dinner for the basecamp where we spend the night comfortably in our tents. 

Day 6. TREKKING FROM THE MOUNTAIN DOWN TO THE CAMP

Today marks the last day of the trek, you'll start the final descent to the Goojuur ger camp where a well-deserved hot shower and warm yurts will be waiting for you. After the mesmerizing sunrise over the Kharhiraa Mountains, your morning starts with a mountainside breakfast and a few hours trekking downhill through the valley until we meet our vehicles. On the way, we stop for a trailside picnic where we say goodbye to our local guides and their loving camels. 

Day 7. BLUE PEARL OF THE WEST, KHYARGAS LAKE

We will head to Khyargas Lake, the second-largest salty lake in Mongolia. It lies at an altitude of approximately 1025m. It is 75 km long, 31 km wide, and as deep as 92m. On the north side of the Lake, the Khan Khukhii Mountain is dominating the scene, and its south side displays a surreal white marble-like rock. The beauty and the surrounding view are a real pleasure that one can truly appreciate when visiting this uncommon place. This is also a lovely area for birdwatching and swimming in the salty water.

Day 8. THE WESTERN ROCKIES

We head to the unique Rocky Mountains of Western Gobi, a rare sacred place with its peak culminating at 2,500m, a perfect place to meditate and for awesome treks. This is one of the higher energetic and spiritual places in Mongolia. To reach our location, we shall drive about three and a half hours down the paved roads and some dirt roads, passing through grasslands and small desert and sand dunes landscapes. We will have a necessary stop at a small local village to refuel, and getting our food and water supplies for the next couple of days. Arriving by mid-day, we shall enjoy a beautiful meal after setting up the camp. The afternoon will ours to discover freely the surroundings.

Day 9. EXCURSION IN THE ROCKIES

On this day and after a quiet breakfast surrounded by the rocky formations, we start to hike to the stunning Elephant Rockies, accessible only by a narrow corridor made out of fallen rocks. There, let's find the cave named the Elephant's Eye, to enjoy meditation and relaxation with a view over the valley. It will require a little climbing, but be ensured that our team will help you out very nicely! The Mountain is also very beautiful with its naturally shaped canyons and cliffs. We count about 108 caves (an important number in Buddhism traditions) which are famous for having hosted Buddhist meditation practitioners. Here we meditate about the very nature and power of the elephants and to remain humble facing those giant creatures, in harmony with the scene. Among these unique rocks, we will lie down to a very particular rock shape, that resembles a floor made by men, being an extremely flat surface and dark color, contrasting with the entire rough-looking area. We will then enjoy a different type of meditation, lying on our belly to connect and charge our own batteries (resting) thanks to this very energetic place.

In the evening, we shall have an amazing view over the last light of the day, sitting on the rocks over our camp. Here, the sunsets are incredible and easily some of the highlights of the trip! We can there sit a few minutes for the last day's meditation. Our camp made of two semipermanent tents along with a shared space for cooking, open-air dining, and bio bathroom and an outdoor shower make up this special retreat known simply as the Rockies Outpost.

Day 10. TREKKING IN THE SEVEN BOWL AND GATE ROCK VALLEY

Great day for yoga lovers and trekkers: we begin with your soulful and mindful yoga class in the morning. This is an incredible opportunity for you to experience the beautiful Rockies in a unique way, with a lovely sunrise and bringing an efficient and healthy yoga session to the mix. After that session, we shall go on a hike through the scenery of the tall cliffs, passing a nearby canyon, and start to venture in a tight space around the seven mysterious holes filled with water known as the "Water of Ibex", the mountain goat. 

There the spot is a perfect location for meditating, to find your inner peace in this divine and serene ambiance. This will add a very new experience, matching the natural beauty of the Rockies. We shall then reach the top after a little climb secured by our team, and set a beautiful picnic lunch with a spectacular view over the valleys. The last part of the day will be spent visiting another stunning rocky formation "the Gate Rock" on our way down the mountain. This resembles the gateway or path to this beautiful Gobi Shangrila. A full day outside will drive us back to our camp for a well-deserved rest and dinner time together.

Day 11. GREAT MONGOL SANDS NATIONAL PARK

On our eleventh day, let's venture more to the West to reach the Sand Mountain Expeditions site. Here you will spend the next three nights in an Eco Tent Camp, focused on preserving the environment and making a point to making everyone feel at home. It will be our starting point for the several expeditions in the region, uncovering the treasures of the West Gobi. 

Will we first visit the magnificent Mukhart River, an almost oddity with its water source flowing out of the sands and creating an incredible Gobi ecosystem. This water nourishes all the small bushes and trees and providing wild fruits in the area. We shall enjoy a beautiful little hike barefoot in the water along the paths of the flowing river. This first contact will let you appreciate even Nature, making one with your surroundings. This beautiful walk through the sand and dune river will take about three hours of gorgeous exploring of this unique Gobi. Your outpost for the night is sand tent camping before gets there, we explore Gate Rock, a unique rock formation on the summit of the mountain. On your return from the Gate Rock, our cook will welcome you with deliciously prepared vegetarian meals and sandwiches along the trail. You will be hosted in fully equipped Luxury Desert Tents bringing the best comfort and Mongolian tradition in a truly amazing location. Each tent has been carefully designed with a private space in mind, opening a direct view of the largest sand dunes of the West. The service of hot towels scented with essential oil will help after a long day discovering the surroundings.

You can then relax from your daily adventure from the comfort of your own authentic tent. The orientation of the Tent will allow you to enjoy the most beautiful sunsets of the West in this unique ecosystem. You will have the pleasure to enjoy the warm welcoming culture of the West, and an exquisite cuisine only to be found at the Desert Camp. Each ingredient has been specially selected in order to provide joy and energy for the expeditions to come, resulting from the experience of serving travelers for many years, the suggestions of our Tour Leaders and experts of the region. 

Day 12. A DAY IN THE GOBI MOUNTAIN LAKE

We will take a short drive to the Great Sand Dune Lake. On the Khangai Mountain range Western plateau, the Ulaagchin Black lake is certainly considered as one of the Jewels of the West Gobi. It is an amazingly beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by the Tovkhosh Mountain and on its Northern shoreline by the Great Mongol Sand Dunes. Here, the dunes are ending themselves into the water, creating a surreal beach effect. A gourmet picnic will be set up for our lunch at the shore of the lake, facing lots of beautiful peninsulas and bays that penetrate into the lake water. We shall rest in the area for the afternoon, then take a drive back to our Gobi nomad family outpost. In the evening, we will climb to the nearest hills. The view of the surrounding area from the top of the hill is amazing towards the endless Great Mongol Sand Dunes with the most beautiful sunset in the Gobi. 

Day 13. SAND MOUNTAIN EXPEDITION

The final segment of your sand mountain luxury adventure takes you to gigantic sand mountains. After waking up, you will be warmly welcomed by the stunning sunrise view over the Rockies. This morning you will revitalize and rejuvenate yourself through a  blissful and mindful yoga session. You shall enjoy it until breakfast is served around 08:00 am. Today, let's explore the nearby rocky sand mountain, and forget yourself amongst breathtaking landscapes. The park that is home to the tallest dunes in Mongolia and the highest peaks of the West, contrasts with the large open space of the desert. It hosts various panoramas of wetlands, grasslands, larch, forests, lakes, sand dune, and rivers. This quiet region is a treasure on its own, one of the most beautiful places to be while in Mongolia. 

After our light hike, you can enjoy a refreshing shower followed by the use of hot towels, scented with essential oil. By the comfort of your tent, you a seat, and relax on your seat, share stories with your fellow travelers with a glass of wine while dinner is being prepared. This will be your last night at the Sand Dunes and western Mongolian adventure. In the evening you are invited to a beautiful gobi bonfire cocktail party. 

Day 14. EXPLORE ULIASTAI TOWN

After the beautiful breakfast, we take a short hike up to the next mountain to enjoy your last morning in Great Mongol Sands National Park. Then head to the Uliastai town. On the way, we will stop for a picnic. In a three-hour drive, we reach the Uliastai town, check-in the hotel, and rest. In the evening we can discover the town on foot. Overnight at the local hotel. 

Day 15. FLIGHT BACK TO ULAANBAATAR

Bid Western Mongolia goodbye this morning. You'll be arranged to transfer to the local airport, where your journey ends. At the capital, our driver will pick you up for transfer and city tour. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 16. FLIGHT RETURN TO HOME

On the final day, depart home after spending a fulfilling and active two weeks and exploring some of Mongolia’s best! Our crew will drive you to the airport for an international flight. We sincerely hope you had an amazing experience and that you gained knowledge and respect for our beautiful land that is Mongolia. We are thankful for your participation and contribution to this adventure, to our families and local partners. 

TRANSFER AND DEPARTURE 

DAILY ITINERARY

Day 1. WELCOME TO MONGOLIA, A DAY IN THE ULAANBAATAR

Your Mongolian adventure kicks off in the capital of Mongolia—Ulaanbaatar. With a rich Buddhist past and flourishing modern touches, Ulaanbaatar is the largest city in Mongolia and one of the fastest-growing in Asia. The culture, food, and attitude of its residents reflect this bustling spirit. Get settled in on your first day and check in to the centrally located hotel, your home for the next night. We take you through the main square where happened major events and celebrations during the socialist era, to the doorsteps of ancient Buddhist temples and the National History museum introducing Mongolia's history from early humans to the modern era. 

Let's then attend a Traditional Mongolian authentic performance including folk dances, throat singing, and contortion at the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. Welcoming dinner meet and greet will see you get to know your new travel family before we put you at total ease by introducing your Mongolia tour itinerary. So, you'll be more organized with the program and closer knowledge about your tour.  Landing a few days before? No worries! Your airport pickup is included for any day before the tour and we can organize any extra nights required at the centrally located accommodation. 

Day 2. THE BEAUTY OF THE WEST, UUREG LAKE

Transfer to the airport for a 3-hour flight to Ulaangom, which is the capital of Uvs province, on the slopes of the Harhiraa mountain. It lies in the Great Lake Depression in the northwestern region of Mongolia, a land of high mountains with glaciers and alpine lakes, and waterfalls. We’ll have a picnic lunch and head to the beauty of the west, Uureg Lake, which lies closer to the Russian border. It is a large, beautiful salt-water lake surrounded by mountains with snow-capped peaks at 3,000m and is a great place for trekking.

After settle and short rest at the camp, we will take a short trek by ascending the nearest summit of Tsagaan Shuvuut Mountain (around 2000m) which will bring in to our view another panorama of the lake, together with the rugged terrain and the peaks of the Mountain range. In the afternoon, we descend to the lake and trek along its shoreline until arriving at our campsite. Overnight in a ger at the Suldet Tsahir camp in the shoreline of the lake.

Day 3. ALTAI MOUNTAINS, GOOJUUR WATERFALL

We will take on a road to mount Kharkhiraa located in the Uvs Province, part of the Altai Mountain Range. This is a very beautiful region, with high summits (Harhiraa Mountain's highest peak is at 4,037m). There are over 10 snowy mountain peaks and glaciers in the area of the Kharkhiraa and Turgen mountains. This is a place of alpine lakes, swift mountain streams, vast glaciers, and expansive grasslands. The pleasant tour in the afternoon to the Goojuur Waterfall pleases us with a great hike and helps you get acclimatized. 

Day 4. THE MAJESTIC MOUNTAINS AND LAND OF WATERFALLS

Day four begins with the trek you've been waiting for. A three-day, two-night journey along 25 km of rugged, natural, alpine beauty. You'll venture along the mountain trail, feeling close to both the surrounding holy lakes and the giant mountains that fascinate this area. Your tour leader, operation manager, local guides, porters, cooks, and fellow trekkers combine for an unforgettable experience. The trek brings you through mountain pasture, across mountain passes, and holy lakes. Trailside picnics of delicious food, warm and inviting campsites with hot soup, comfortable tents with a cozy sleeping bag, relaxing mattress, and underlayer are all part of the memories you'll craft on this experience of a lifetime.

Throughout the trek our equipment, tents, food, and luggage will be transported by 2 humped Bactrian camels, belonging to the ethnic group of Khoton nomads who will join us as local guides. We will load our luggage on pack camels and begin a three-day trek to "the land of the waterfalls". In the beginning, we will take support from our cars up to the mountain for about 15 km and then we start our three days pleasant trek in the Land of Mountain and Waterfalls. After 3-hour hiking along the valley, we will reach the many waterfalls at 2,400m. There, we enjoy the waterfall side picnic under the sound of waterfalls with a spectacular view of the valleys. 

Day 5. THE HOLY LAKES AND HIGH MOUNTAINS 

Today we trek across the sacred valleys of Harhiraa massif where we will do a great hike up to the many lakes. This wonderful valley contrasts with the previous landscapes of the mountain, with beautiful flora and unique geological rock formations. Our train of two hampered camels will catch up with us soon to prepare camp and dinner for the basecamp where we spend the night comfortably in our tents. 

Day 6. TREKKING FROM THE MOUNTAIN DOWN TO THE CAMP

Today marks the last day of the trek, you'll start the final descent to the Goojuur ger camp where a well-deserved hot shower and warm yurts will be waiting for you. After the mesmerizing sunrise over the Kharhiraa Mountains, your morning starts with a mountainside breakfast and a few hours trekking downhill through the valley until we meet our vehicles. On the way, we stop for a trailside picnic where we say goodbye to our local guides and their loving camels. 

Day 7. BLUE PEARL OF THE WEST, KHYARGAS LAKE

We will head to Khyargas Lake, the second-largest salty lake in Mongolia. It lies at an altitude of approximately 1025m. It is 75 km long, 31 km wide, and as deep as 92m. On the north side of the Lake, the Khan Khukhii Mountain is dominating the scene, and its south side displays a surreal white marble-like rock. The beauty and the surrounding view are a real pleasure that one can truly appreciate when visiting this uncommon place. This is also a lovely area for birdwatching and swimming in the salty water.

Day 8. THE WESTERN ROCKIES

We head to the unique Rocky Mountains of Western Gobi, a rare sacred place with its peak culminating at 2,500m, a perfect place to meditate and for awesome treks. This is one of the higher energetic and spiritual places in Mongolia. To reach our location, we shall drive about three and a half hours down the paved roads and some dirt roads, passing through grasslands and small desert and sand dunes landscapes. We will have a necessary stop at a small local village to refuel, and getting our food and water supplies for the next couple of days. Arriving by mid-day, we shall enjoy a beautiful meal after setting up the camp. The afternoon will ours to discover freely the surroundings.

Day 9. EXCURSION IN THE ROCKIES

On this day and after a quiet breakfast surrounded by the rocky formations, we start to hike to the stunning Elephant Rockies, accessible only by a narrow corridor made out of fallen rocks. There, let's find the cave named the Elephant's Eye, to enjoy meditation and relaxation with a view over the valley. It will require a little climbing, but be ensured that our team will help you out very nicely! The Mountain is also very beautiful with its naturally shaped canyons and cliffs. We count about 108 caves (an important number in Buddhism traditions) which are famous for having hosted Buddhist meditation practitioners. Here we meditate about the very nature and power of the elephants and to remain humble facing those giant creatures, in harmony with the scene. Among these unique rocks, we will lie down to a very particular rock shape, that resembles a floor made by men, being an extremely flat surface and dark color, contrasting with the entire rough-looking area. We will then enjoy a different type of meditation, lying on our belly to connect and charge our own batteries (resting) thanks to this very energetic place.

In the evening, we shall have an amazing view over the last light of the day, sitting on the rocks over our camp. Here, the sunsets are incredible and easily some of the highlights of the trip! We can there sit a few minutes for the last day's meditation. Our camp made of two semipermanent tents along with a shared space for cooking, open-air dining, and bio bathroom and an outdoor shower make up this special retreat known simply as the Rockies Outpost.

Day 10. TREKKING IN THE SEVEN BOWL AND GATE ROCK VALLEY

Great day for yoga lovers and trekkers: we begin with your soulful and mindful yoga class in the morning. This is an incredible opportunity for you to experience the beautiful Rockies in a unique way, with a lovely sunrise and bringing an efficient and healthy yoga session to the mix. After that session, we shall go on a hike through the scenery of the tall cliffs, passing a nearby canyon, and start to venture in a tight space around the seven mysterious holes filled with water known as the "Water of Ibex", the mountain goat. 

There the spot is a perfect location for meditating, to find your inner peace in this divine and serene ambiance. This will add a very new experience, matching the natural beauty of the Rockies. We shall then reach the top after a little climb secured by our team, and set a beautiful picnic lunch with a spectacular view over the valleys. The last part of the day will be spent visiting another stunning rocky formation "the Gate Rock" on our way down the mountain. This resembles the gateway or path to this beautiful Gobi Shangrila. A full day outside will drive us back to our camp for a well-deserved rest and dinner time together.

Day 11. GREAT MONGOL SANDS NATIONAL PARK

On our eleventh day, let's venture more to the West to reach the Sand Mountain Expeditions site. Here you will spend the next three nights in an Eco Tent Camp, focused on preserving the environment and making a point to making everyone feel at home. It will be our starting point for the several expeditions in the region, uncovering the treasures of the West Gobi. 

Will we first visit the magnificent Mukhart River, an almost oddity with its water source flowing out of the sands and creating an incredible Gobi ecosystem. This water nourishes all the small bushes and trees and providing wild fruits in the area. We shall enjoy a beautiful little hike barefoot in the water along the paths of the flowing river. This first contact will let you appreciate even Nature, making one with your surroundings. This beautiful walk through the sand and dune river will take about three hours of gorgeous exploring of this unique Gobi. Your outpost for the night is sand tent camping before gets there, we explore Gate Rock, a unique rock formation on the summit of the mountain. On your return from the Gate Rock, our cook will welcome you with deliciously prepared vegetarian meals and sandwiches along the trail. You will be hosted in fully equipped Luxury Desert Tents bringing the best comfort and Mongolian tradition in a truly amazing location. Each tent has been carefully designed with a private space in mind, opening a direct view of the largest sand dunes of the West. The service of hot towels scented with essential oil will help after a long day discovering the surroundings.

You can then relax from your daily adventure from the comfort of your own authentic tent. The orientation of the Tent will allow you to enjoy the most beautiful sunsets of the West in this unique ecosystem. You will have the pleasure to enjoy the warm welcoming culture of the West, and an exquisite cuisine only to be found at the Desert Camp. Each ingredient has been specially selected in order to provide joy and energy for the expeditions to come, resulting from the experience of serving travelers for many years, the suggestions of our Tour Leaders and experts of the region. 

Day 12. A DAY IN THE GOBI MOUNTAIN LAKE

We will take a short drive to the Great Sand Dune Lake. On the Khangai Mountain range Western plateau, the Ulaagchin Black lake is certainly considered as one of the Jewels of the West Gobi. It is an amazingly beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by the Tovkhosh Mountain and on its Northern shoreline by the Great Mongol Sand Dunes. Here, the dunes are ending themselves into the water, creating a surreal beach effect. A gourmet picnic will be set up for our lunch at the shore of the lake, facing lots of beautiful peninsulas and bays that penetrate into the lake water. We shall rest in the area for the afternoon, then take a drive back to our Gobi nomad family outpost. In the evening, we will climb to the nearest hills. The view of the surrounding area from the top of the hill is amazing towards the endless Great Mongol Sand Dunes with the most beautiful sunset in the Gobi. 

Day 13. SAND MOUNTAIN EXPEDITION

The final segment of your sand mountain luxury adventure takes you to gigantic sand mountains. After waking up, you will be warmly welcomed by the stunning sunrise view over the Rockies. This morning you will revitalize and rejuvenate yourself through a  blissful and mindful yoga session. You shall enjoy it until breakfast is served around 08:00 am. Today, let's explore the nearby rocky sand mountain, and forget yourself amongst breathtaking landscapes. The park that is home to the tallest dunes in Mongolia and the highest peaks of the West, contrasts with the large open space of the desert. It hosts various panoramas of wetlands, grasslands, larch, forests, lakes, sand dune, and rivers. This quiet region is a treasure on its own, one of the most beautiful places to be while in Mongolia. 

After our light hike, you can enjoy a refreshing shower followed by the use of hot towels, scented with essential oil. By the comfort of your tent, you a seat, and relax on your seat, share stories with your fellow travelers with a glass of wine while dinner is being prepared. This will be your last night at the Sand Dunes and western Mongolian adventure. In the evening you are invited to a beautiful gobi bonfire cocktail party. 

Day 14. EXPLORE ULIASTAI TOWN

After the beautiful breakfast, we take a short hike up to the next mountain to enjoy your last morning in Great Mongol Sands National Park. Then head to the Uliastai town. On the way, we will stop for a picnic. In a three-hour drive, we reach the Uliastai town, check-in the hotel, and rest. In the evening we can discover the town on foot. Overnight at the local hotel. 

Day 15. FLIGHT BACK TO ULAANBAATAR

Bid Western Mongolia goodbye this morning. You'll be arranged to transfer to the local airport, where your journey ends. At the capital, our driver will pick you up for transfer and city tour. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 16. FLIGHT RETURN TO HOME

On the final day, depart home after spending a fulfilling and active two weeks and exploring some of Mongolia’s best! Our crew will drive you to the airport for an international flight. We sincerely hope you had an amazing experience and that you gained knowledge and respect for our beautiful land that is Mongolia. We are thankful for your participation and contribution to this adventure, to our families and local partners. 

TRANSFER AND DEPARTURE 

TREKKING INTO GOBI MOUNTAIN

For those who want to cover most of the greatest sites of Mongolia, this adventure is the ultimate program designed for you. This 16-day journey takes you through the Harhiraa mountains and ends the trek in the Great Mongol Sands National Park, the biggest Gobi. 
The trip provides wonderful two-week trekking through the most beautiful landscapes and unexplored areas of Western Mongolia. You will explore sand mountains with sand rivers and lakes, expansive grasslands, and an authentic western nomadic culture. The tour is supported by luxury outdoor services.

You will love the idea of exploring the wild country of western Mongolia, learning about sand dune expeditions, and the Gobi ecosystem. This unique ecosystem forms a massive sand dune plateau including amazing dune rivers and Gobi Lakes. Great Mongol Sands National Park has undeniably a lot of territories that merit a visit. But we've done the legwork for you and have created an ultimate adventure that not only offers the maximum number of adventure options but also puts you up in Luxury Sand Camping, on the doorstep of places like the highest sand mountains and the sand rivers, with magnificent views right outside your window. Absolutely unforgettable. 

______________

16 days / 15 nights
4 people max

TERMS & CONDITIONS >

INQUIRE NOW >

DAILY ITINERARY

Day 1

WELCOME TO MONGOLIA, A DAY IN THE ULAANBAATAR

Your Mongolian adventure kicks off in the capital of Mongolia—Ulaanbaatar. With a rich Buddhist past and flourishing modern touches, Ulaanbaatar is the largest city in Mongolia and one of the fastest-growing in Asia. The culture, food, and attitude of its residents reflect this bustling spirit. Get settled in on your first day and check in to the centrally located hotel, your home for the next night. We take you through the main square where happened major events and celebrations during the socialist era, to the doorsteps of ancient Buddhist temples and the National History museum introducing Mongolia's history from early humans to the modern era. 

Let's then attend a Traditional Mongolian authentic performance including folk dances, throat singing, and contortion at the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. Welcoming dinner meet and greet will see you get to know your new travel family before we put you at total ease by introducing your Mongolia tour itinerary. So, you'll be more organized with the program and closer knowledge about your tour.  Landing a few days before? No worries! Your airport pickup is included for any day before the tour and we can organize any extra nights required at the centrally located accommodation. 

Day 2

THE BEAUTY OF THE WEST, UUREG LAKE

Transfer to the airport for a 3-hour flight to Ulaangom, which is the capital of Uvs province, on the slopes of the Harhiraa mountain. It lies in the Great Lake Depression in the northwestern region of Mongolia, a land of high mountains with glaciers and alpine lakes, and waterfalls. We’ll have a picnic lunch and head to the beauty of the west, Uureg Lake, which lies closer to the Russian border. It is a large, beautiful salt-water lake surrounded by mountains with snow-capped peaks at 3,000m and is a great place for trekking.

After settle and short rest at the camp, we will take a short trek by ascending the nearest summit of Tsagaan Shuvuut Mountain (around 2000m) which will bring in to our view another panorama of the lake, together with the rugged terrain and the peaks of the Mountain range. In the afternoon, we descend to the lake and trek along its shoreline until arriving at our campsite. Overnight in a ger at the Suldet Tsahir camp in the shoreline of the lake.

Day 3 

ALTAI MOUNTAINS, GOOJUUR WATERFALL

We will take on a road to mount Kharkhiraa located in the Uvs Province, part of the Altai Mountain Range. This is a very beautiful region, with high summits (Harhiraa Mountain's highest peak is at 4,037m). There are over 10 snowy mountain peaks and glaciers in the area of the Kharkhiraa and Turgen mountains. This is a place of alpine lakes, swift mountain streams, vast glaciers, and expansive grasslands. The pleasant tour in the afternoon to the Goojuur Waterfall pleases us with a great hike and helps you get acclimatized. 

Day 4

THE MAJESTIC MOUNTAINS AND LAND OF WATERFALLS

Day four begins with the trek you've been waiting for. A three-day, two-night journey along 25 km of rugged, natural, alpine beauty. You'll venture along the mountain trail, feeling close to both the surrounding holy lakes and the giant mountains that fascinate this area. Your tour leader, operation manager, local guides, porters, cooks, and fellow trekkers combine for an unforgettable experience. The trek brings you through mountain pasture, across mountain passes, and holy lakes. Trailside picnics of delicious food, warm and inviting campsites with hot soup, comfortable tents with a cozy sleeping bag, relaxing mattress, and underlayer are all part of the memories you'll craft on this experience of a lifetime.

Throughout the trek our equipment, tents, food, and luggage will be transported by 2 humped Bactrian camels, belonging to the ethnic group of Khoton nomads who will join us as local guides. We will load our luggage on pack camels and begin a three-day trek to "the land of the waterfalls". In the beginning, we will take support from our cars up to the mountain for about 15 km and then we start our three days pleasant trek in the Land of Mountain and Waterfalls. After 3-hour hiking along the valley, we will reach the many waterfalls at 2,400m. There, we enjoy the waterfall side picnic under the sound of waterfalls with a spectacular view of the valleys. 

Day 5

TREK AMONG THE HOLY LAKES AND HIGH MOUNTAINS

Today we trek across the sacred valleys of Harhiraa massif where we will do a great hike up to the many lakes. This wonderful valley contrasts with the previous landscapes of the mountain, with beautiful flora and unique geological rock formations. Our train of two hampered camels will catch up with us soon to prepare camp and dinner for the basecamp where we spend the night comfortably in our tents. 

Day 6 

TREKKING FROM THE MOUNTAIN DOWN TO THE CAMP

Today marks the last day of the trek, you'll start the final descent to the Goojuur ger camp where a well-deserved hot shower and warm yurts will be waiting for you. After the mesmerizing sunrise over the Kharhiraa Mountains, your morning starts with a mountainside breakfast and a few hours trekking downhill through the valley until we meet our vehicles. On the way, we stop for a trailside picnic where we say goodbye to our local guides and their loving camels. 

Day 7 

BLUE PEARL OF THE WEST, UUREG LAKE 

We will head to Khyargas Lake, the second-largest salty lake in Mongolia. It lies at an altitude of approximately 1025m. It is 75 km long, 31 km wide, and as deep as 92m. On the north side of the Lake, the Khan Khukhii Mountain is dominating the scene, and its south side displays a surreal white marble-like rock. The beauty and the surrounding view are a real pleasure that one can truly appreciate when visiting this uncommon place. This is also a lovely area for birdwatching and swimming in the salty water.

Day 8

THE WESTERN ROCKIES

We head to the unique Rocky Mountains of Western Gobi, a rare sacred place with its peak culminating at 2,500m, a perfect place to meditate and for awesome treks. This is one of the higher energetic and spiritual places in Mongolia. To reach our location, we shall drive about three and a half hours down the paved roads and some dirt roads, passing through grasslands and small desert and sand dunes landscapes. We will have a necessary stop at a small local village to refuel, and getting our food and water supplies for the next couple of days. Arriving by mid-day, we shall enjoy a beautiful meal after setting up the camp. The afternoon will ours to discover freely the surroundings.

Day 9

EXCURSION IN THE ROCKIES

On this day and after a quiet breakfast surrounded by the rocky formations, we start to hike to the stunning Elephant Rockies, accessible only by a narrow corridor made out of fallen rocks. There, let's find the cave named the Elephant's Eye, to enjoy meditation and relaxation with a view over the valley. It will require a little climbing, but be ensured that our team will help you out very nicely! The Mountain is also very beautiful with its naturally shaped canyons and cliffs. We count about 108 caves (an important number in Buddhism traditions) which are famous for having hosted Buddhist meditation practitioners. Here we meditate about the very nature and power of the elephants and to remain humble facing those giant creatures, in harmony with the scene. Among these unique rocks, we will lie down to a very particular rock shape, that resembles a floor made by men, being an extremely flat surface and dark color, contrasting with the entire rough-looking area. We will then enjoy a different type of meditation, lying on our belly to connect and charge our own batteries (resting) thanks to this very energetic place.

In the evening, we shall have an amazing view over the last light of the day, sitting on the rocks over our camp. Here, the sunsets are incredible and easily some of the highlights of the trip! We can there sit a few minutes for the last day's meditation. Our camp made of two semipermanent tents along with a shared space for cooking, open-air dining, and bio bathroom and an outdoor shower make up this special retreat known simply as the Rockies Outpost.

Day 10

TREKKING IN THE SEVEN BOWL AND GATE ROCK VALLEY

Great day for yoga lovers and trekkers: we begin with your soulful and mindful yoga class in the morning. This is an incredible opportunity for you to experience the beautiful Rockies in a unique way, with a lovely sunrise and bringing an efficient and healthy yoga session to the mix. After that session, we shall go on a hike through the scenery of the tall cliffs, passing a nearby canyon, and start to venture in a tight space around the seven mysterious holes filled with water known as the "Water of Ibex", the mountain goat. 

There the spot is a perfect location for meditating, to find your inner peace in this divine and serene ambiance. This will add a very new experience, matching the natural beauty of the Rockies. We shall then reach the top after a little climb secured by our team, and set a beautiful picnic lunch with a spectacular view over the valleys. The last part of the day will be spent visiting another stunning rocky formation "the Gate Rock" on our way down the mountain. This resembles the gateway or path to this beautiful Gobi Shangrila. A full day outside will drive us back to our camp for a well-deserved rest and dinner time together.

Day 11

GREAT MONGOL SANDS NATIONAL PARK

On our eleventh day, let's venture more to the West to reach the Sand Mountain Expeditions site. Here you will spend the next three nights in an Eco Tent Camp, focused on preserving the environment and making a point to making everyone feel at home. It will be our starting point for the several expeditions in the region, uncovering the treasures of the West Gobi. 

Will we first visit the magnificent Mukhart River, an almost oddity with its water source flowing out of the sands and creating an incredible Gobi ecosystem. This water nourishes all the small bushes and trees and providing wild fruits in the area. We shall enjoy a beautiful little hike barefoot in the water along the paths of the flowing river. This first contact will let you appreciate even Nature, making one with your surroundings. This beautiful walk through the sand and dune river will take about three hours of gorgeous exploring of this unique Gobi. Your outpost for the night is sand tent camping before gets there, we explore Gate Rock, a unique rock formation on the summit of the mountain. On your return from the Gate Rock, our cook will welcome you with deliciously prepared vegetarian meals and sandwiches along the trail. You will be hosted in fully equipped Luxury Desert Tents bringing the best comfort and Mongolian tradition in a truly amazing location. Each tent has been carefully designed with a private space in mind, opening a direct view of the largest sand dunes of the West. The service of hot towels scented with essential oil will help after a long day discovering the surroundings.

You can then relax from your daily adventure from the comfort of your own authentic tent. The orientation of the Tent will allow you to enjoy the most beautiful sunsets of the West in this unique ecosystem. You will have the pleasure to enjoy the warm welcoming culture of the West, and an exquisite cuisine only to be found at the Desert Camp. Each ingredient has been specially selected in order to provide joy and energy for the expeditions to come, resulting from the experience of serving travelers for many years, the suggestions of our Tour Leaders and experts of the region. 

Day 12

A DAY IN THE GOBI MOUNTAIN LAKE

We will take a short drive to the Great Sand Dune Lake. On the Khangai Mountain range Western plateau, the Ulaagchin Black lake is certainly considered as one of the Jewels of the West Gobi. It is an amazingly beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by the Tovkhosh Mountain and on its Northern shoreline by the Great Mongol Sand Dunes. Here, the dunes are ending themselves into the water, creating a surreal beach effect. A gourmet picnic will be set up for our lunch at the shore of the lake, facing lots of beautiful peninsulas and bays that penetrate into the lake water. We shall rest in the area for the afternoon, then take a drive back to our Gobi nomad family outpost. In the evening, we will climb to the nearest hills. The view of the surrounding area from the top of the hill is amazing towards the endless Great Mongol Sand Dunes with the most beautiful sunset in the Gobi. 

Day 13

SAND MOUNTAIN EXPEDITION

The final segment of your sand mountain luxury adventure takes you to gigantic sand mountains. After waking up, you will be warmly welcomed by the stunning sunrise view over the Rockies. This morning you will revitalize and rejuvenate yourself through a  blissful and mindful yoga session. You shall enjoy it until breakfast is served around 08:00 am. Today, let's explore the nearby rocky sand mountain, and forget yourself amongst breathtaking landscapes. The park that is home to the tallest dunes in Mongolia and the highest peaks of the West, contrasts with the large open space of the desert. It hosts various panoramas of wetlands, grasslands, larch, forests, lakes, sand dune, and rivers. This quiet region is a treasure on its own, one of the most beautiful places to be while in Mongolia. 

After our light hike, you can enjoy a refreshing shower followed by the use of hot towels, scented with essential oil. By the comfort of your tent, you a seat, and relax on your seat, share stories with your fellow travelers with a glass of wine while dinner is being prepared. This will be your last night at the Sand Dunes and western Mongolian adventure. In the evening you are invited to a beautiful gobi bonfire cocktail party. 

Day 14

EXPLORE ULIASTAI TOWN

After the beautiful breakfast, we take a short hike up to the next mountain to enjoy your last morning in Great Mongol Sands National Park. Then head to the Uliastai town. On the way, we will stop for a picnic. In a three-hour drive, we reach the Uliastai town, check-in the hotel, and rest. In the evening we can discover the town on foot. Overnight at the local hotel. 

Day 15

FLIGHT BACK TO ULAANBAATAR

Bid Western Mongolia goodbye this morning. You'll be arranged to transfer to the local airport, where your journey ends. At the capital, our driver will pick you up for transfer and city tour. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 16

FLIGHT RETURN TO HOME

On the final day, depart home after spending a fulfilling and active two weeks and exploring some of Mongolia’s best! Our crew will drive you to the airport for an international flight. We sincerely hope you had an amazing experience and that you gained knowledge and respect for our beautiful land that is Mongolia. We are thankful for your participation and contribution to this adventure, to our families and local partners. 

TRANSFER AND DEPARTURE 

Level 3

Suitable for:
Advanced Beginners and people with an average to good fitness level. Usually, those hikers have a minimum of experience and some outdoor skills.
Paths and terrain:

Similar to the beginner trails, but with some light challenging sections. We can experience some paths obstructed by rocks to cross, but no streams whatsoever.
Altitude:

Elevation difference: lower than 600 meters/ 1968 ft
Elevation and exposure:
 Moderate ascents, including some possible steeper paths. The hikers should have a good balance and not be afraid of some height and slopes.

INCLUDED

  • Airport transfers to/from the hotel, 24 / 7
  • Domestic flight Ulaanbaatar to Uliastai
  • Full board during the adventure: B, L & D 
  • Katadyn - water filter for safe drinking throughout the tour 
  • Guided meditation sessions
  • Guided yoga sessions 
  • 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Ulaanbaatar, breakfast included
  • 1 night at a Family Luxury Guest House in a Kharkhorin
  • 3 nights at the Sand Dune Outpost/bonfire and cocktail party
  • 6 nights at Our Outposts nearby nomad families 
  • 3 nights tent camping outdoors, with travel showers
  • Outdoor equipped 4WD comfortable vans and 4WD logistics jeep with cooler
  • English-speaking tour leader, meditation and yoga coaches
  • Operation manager, drivers, and cook
  • Entrance fees for parks, museums, monasteries, and traditional shows as indicated in the program 
  • Types of equipment for outdoor camping/table, chair, cutlery, travel shower, sleeping bag, fleece liner, pillow, mattress

EXCLUDED

  • International flights 
  • Travel insurance 
  • Excess luggage fees on a domestic flight, it's limit to 15 kg per person
  • Early check-in and late check-out at your hotel
  • Gifts for kids and nomad family
  • Beverages & any costs of a personal nature/include items such as laundry, sunscreen, toiletries, and souvenirs
  • Water Bottle
  • Tour leader, driver, cook, and local guide gratuity 

 

Clothing and Footwear
* Breathable 2-4 short-sleeved T-shirts
* Breathable 1-2 long-sleeved shirts (for sun, bugs) or 1-2 light sweatshirts
* Quick-drying shorts
* Lightweight 1 warm sweater or fleece
* Wind and waterproof pant, jacket, or raincoat
* Lightweight sports pants around the camp
* Sun-shielding cap or hat
* Lightweight warm hat/beanie (for colder nights and mornings)
* Lightweight glove (wool or polypro)
* Sleepwear
* Bandana or Buff
* Socks (polypro or wool, 3 or more pairs)
* Lightweight waterproof hiking footwear, sandals, and flip flops(for shower)
* Urban outfit (optional)

Basic Personal Toiletries
* Environmental friendly/biodegradable bar soap for shower, as well as shampoo
* Quick-dry travel towel (large size)
* Smaller towel
* Biodegradable wet wipes (good for instant washes)
* Toothbrush and toothpaste
* Cosmetics

Travel Gears
* Sleeping bag liner (provided during the tour but if you want you can bring your own)
* Lightweight mini waterproof foldable foam sitting pad (for outdoor meditation)
* Headlamp
* Sunglasses with a protection factor 3 minimum
* Spare eyeglasses or contact lenses
* Re-usable water bottle
* Small binocular (optional)
* Knife Opinel-type or Swiss army knife-type, lighter, sewing accessories are always useful

Sun and Bug protection
* Sunglasses or glacier glasses (with sunglasses straps)
* Sunscreen
* SPF-rated lip balm
* Insect repellent (for June/July/August trips)

Personal Items
* Prescription medication / Pain killers(for bad backs, headaches, muscle pulls, constipation, etc). 
* Cell phone (if you have, with waterproof case)
* Charging USB cables and plugs
* Camera with extra batteries, and card
* Electrical adapters / converter
* Portable power bank

Sometimes your GML trip simply isn’t long enough! Extend your stay for the best vacation possible. If you wish to spend a few days in the region either before or after your official GML trip and need assistance making those plans, your GML Travel Advisor can help.

Call us to create an independent travel experience that fits your needs—we can also arrange for a local guide.

Make an Inquiry

Trekking Into Gobi Mountain Lake


Once you submit your form, we'll get back to you with ideas, questions, options, and logistical insight to begin planning the trip of your dreams. It's as simple as that.