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Itinerary

Step into a land where the sky stretches endlessly and the spirit of the nomad lives on. This 9-day overland journey through Mongolia will be an experience to a world untouched by time, a landscape of golden dunes, sacred mountains, and wide, open steppe. From the capital Ulaanbaatar, we’ll journey into the heart of the Gobi Desert, following ancient trade routes, canyon trails, and river valleys steeped in legend.

We'll ride camels across the Khongoryn Els dunes, hike the icy gorge of Yolyn Am, and stand on the windswept ridges of the Flaming Cliffs, where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered. Along the way, we’ll also stay with nomadic families, sleep in traditional gers, and share meals, stories, and customs that have remained unchanged for generations. In the green expanse of the Orkhon Valley, we’ll saddle up for a horseback ride to Mongolia’s largest waterfall, and explore the sacred ruins of Karakorum, the ancient seat of the Mongol Empire. This is a journey for those who seek authentic connection, natural wonder, and the joy of exploring by road, by hoof, and by heart. Let’s chase sunsets, share laughter around campfires, and feel the rhythm of life where the Earth still breathes freedom.

A map showing a travel itinerary in Mongolia, with the route starting and ending in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar.
A dense cityscape with numerous buildings illuminated by warm, low sunlight, with hazy mountains in the background.

Ulaanbaatar, the Capital

Welcome to Mongolia. Our journey begins in Ulaanbaatar, a city where glass towers rise beside ancient temples. After settling in, we’ll visit the peaceful Gandan Monastery, where golden Buddhas tower above prayer wheels. We’ll walk through Sukhbaatar Square, the historic heart of the city, before exploring the National Museum of Mongolian History to uncover the story of the Mongol Empire. In the evening, a traditional folk performance offers our first taste of throat singing, horse-head fiddle music, and the art of contortion. The adventure begins.

Jagged, light-colored rock formations rise above yellow trees on a rocky terrain under a deep blue sky.

From Ulaanbaatar to Tsagaan Suvarga

We leave the city behind and drive around 400 km south, where the horizon stretches endlessly and the landscape gradually transforms into the Gobi steppe. By the afternoon, we arrive at the spectacular Tsagaan Suvarga, a series of dramatic limestone cliffs sculpted by wind and time. As the sun begins to set, the rocks glow in shades of white, orange and pink, creating one of Mongolia's most breathtaking landscapes. Tonight, we settle into our first traditional ger camp, surrounded by silence, fresh air and a sky filled with stars.

White yurts and camels stand on a grassy plain with hills and mountains in the background under a clear sky.

Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park

Today we swap the desert for the mountains, driving 240 km into Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. We'll stop in Dalanzadgad for lunch, coffee and a chance to stretch our legs before continuing to Yolyn Am (Vulture Valley). Here we'll enjoy a 4.2 km hike through a dramatic gorge where towering rock walls create a cool microclimate, often preserving ice well into midsummer despite the surrounding desert. Home to wild ibex, vultures and other wildlife, it's one of Mongolia's most surprising landscapes. Our ger camp is located nearby, surrounded by rolling green hills, perfect for an evening walk to watch the sunset.

A dark SUV is parked on a desert sand dune with footprints leading away from it under a cloudy sunset sky.

Dunes, dunes, dunes

This is the heart of the Gobi. We drive across dry riverbeds and wind-carved hills to reach Khongoryn Els, the tallest dunes in Mongolia. Rising like mountains from the flat plain, they hum with sound as the wind moves their golden ridges, earning the name “Singing Dunes.” We’ll visit a local camel-herding family and try riding a Bactrian camel, a timeless way to travel in this region. As the sun sets, let’s climb the dunes for one of the most unforgettable views of the journey.

Large red rock formations glowing in the warm sunset light, with a rocky foreground and a blue sky.

Bayanzag and Ongi Monastery

Today we drive 170 km to the legendary Flaming Cliffs, famous as the place where the world's first dinosaur eggs were discovered. The striking red sandstone formations glow brilliantly under the sunlight, giving the cliffs their famous name. We'll spend time exploring this unique landscape before enjoying a relaxed evening around a bonfire, roasting marshmallows, sharing stories and admiring Mongolia's incredible night sky

Orkhon Valley, experiencing the nomadic life

Today is our longest driving day, covering around 480 km across a mix of paved roads and rugged off-road tracks. Depending on timing and weather, we may stop at the atmospheric ruins of Ongi Monastery, once one of Mongolia's largest Buddhist monasteries before its destruction during the Soviet purges. Leaving the desert behind, the scenery gradually changes into rolling green hills and lush valleys. The final stretch into the Orkhon Valley is particularly adventurous, with rough off-road tracks leading to one of Mongolia's most untouched regions. By late afternoon, we arrive at our host family's traditional ger. Nestled beside the river in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we'll experience authentic nomadic hospitality, enjoy a home-cooked dinner and spend the evening immersed in the peaceful rhythm of rural Mongolia.

Horse riding through waterfalls

Today there's no driving, just time to experience nomadic life. After breakfast, we'll ride Mongolian horses through the valley, following rivers and open grasslands at a relaxed pace. After lunch, we can do a round 10 km hike to a beautiful waterfall before returning to our host family. Depending on the season, we may help with daily activities such as milking yaks, preparing dairy products or chopping wood. It's a day to slow down, disconnect and experience one of the highlights of the journey.

Former Capital of the Mongol Empire

We leave the valley behind and drive 130 km to Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. We'll first visit the Karakorum Museum, where we'll discover the fascinating history of Genghis Khan's empire, before exploring Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia's oldest Buddhist monastery, built using stones from the former imperial capital. Surrounded by white stupas and peaceful temples, it's a fitting place to reflect on Mongolia's rich history. Tonight is our final evening in a traditional ger, where we'll gather around one last bonfire to share stories beneath the stars.

Homeward Bound

On our final day, we begin the journey back to Ulaanbaatar. Depending on road conditions, weather and timing, we may make a few scenic stops along the way before arriving in the capital during the afternoon. There will be time to relax, buy souvenirs or enjoy one last meal together before saying goodbye. As we return to the city, we'll take with us unforgettable memories of endless landscapes, warm nomadic hospitality, star-filled nights and an adventure unlike any other.

Ulaanbaatar

A relaxed final morning in Ulaanbaatar gives us time to reflect on the journey we've just shared. Sip a last coffee, watch the city come to life, or take a peaceful stroll through the National Amusement Park or along the riverside paths near the city center. For those craving a final taste of culture, optional visits to the Zanabazar Fine Arts Museum or the Winter Palace of Bogd Khan offer a deeper look into Mongolia’s artistic and royal heritage. You might also browse for antique horse gear, Buddhist relics, or felt crafts at the Narantuul Market or the boutique shops around Chinggis Square.

With your backpack in hand and Mongolia in your heart, we’ll say goodbye to a trip filled with windswept dunes, warm fires, endless horizons, and connections that will linger long after you return home. Until the next adventure.

What's included

  • All accommodation in traditional ger camps (yurts) in scenic locations and two nights in hotels in Ulaanbaatar. Note that facilities at the ger camps can be basic, with shared camping-style toilets and showers.

  • 8 traditional dinners at local ger camps and guesthouses featuring Mongolian cuisine

  • Private transportation with driver from Day 2 to Day 9, both included

  • English-speaking guide from Day 2 to Day 9

  • Horseback riding experience in the Orkhon Valley

  • Medical and baggage insurance - (coverage limits by destination country/region - €10,000 Italy, €20,000 Europe, €30,000 World, €50,000 USA/Canada)

What's not included

Roundtrip flight to/from destination
  • Food and beverages when not specified
  • All the extras you'll be able to fit in your backpack
  • Tips for local guide and driver, and fuel - approx. USD80

  • Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section

Optional activities

Please see below extra optional activities that you can experience during your trip. Your Group Leader will be happy to assist with organizing these activities for the group. Availability may vary depending on location and group preferences.

Please note these activities are provided by third party suppliers and liability rests exclusively with these third party suppliers.

  • Guided Tour in Ulaanbaatar - approx. USD20

Additional info

Learn more about accommodation, transport, and other useful travel information.
  • Accommodation

    Please note that accommodation at the ger camps will be in tented shared camps, and that a private room is not available.

  • Info on private roomsShow all details

Why WeRoad

  • Small groups, on average 11 people

  • Move or change your trip for free up to 31 days before departure

  • Book with $ 0. Pay the $ 100 deposit only once the trip is confirmed

The Group Leaders

Our Group Leaders are chosen because they’re people just like you: passionate travelers who share the experience authentically, while having the skills to take care of the organisation, and help you get the most out of every moment of the trip.

Find your flight

For this trip, we recommend arriving and departing from these airports.

ArrivalUlaanbaatar (Sergelen) (UBN)
ReturnUlaanbaatar (Sergelen) (UBN)
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WeRoadX

This is a WeRoadX

A trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader.

This is a trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader. They organise the whole trip: from defining the itinerary to selecting accommodation and on-site experiences. On the WeRoad website you can book the trip and manage it in MyWeRoad, just like any other WeRoad.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

About this trip

About WeRoad

About Mongolia

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