Discover Mongolia Tour and Local Naadam Kharkhorin (16 days)
What to expect
Discover Mongolia with Naadam Festival
Discover the best that Mongolia has to offer, including a visit to Ulaanbaatar, the capital city. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Ride on a Two-Humped Camel
Enjoy a ride on the good-natured and sure footed Bactrian camels as you traverse across the amazingly beautiful Gobi Desert.
Participate in the Naadam Festival
Experience the amazing Naadam Festival as a part of our pacage, a unique part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.
Embrace Mongolia’s History
The tour will take you through some of Mongolia’s history, with visits to historic spots as the Erdenezuu monastery and Karakorum.
"Sake your thirst for adventure, while traveling in comfort”
We represent your interests best!
- Travel in comfort, yet feel the country's pulse.
- Available with a local Naadam Festival - UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
- See the real Mongolia- the largest nomadic country in the world, the side that other tourists don't get to see.The itinerary includes two domestic flights, so that you can save time and get more done.
- Go on a four wheel drive adventure spanning the vast steppe, cross the Gobi desert, trail through deep coniferous taiga forests, high mountains and crystal clear lakes.Dig into luscious barbeques cooked on red-hot stones, the traditional way.
- Enjoy a ride on the sure footed and good-natured Bactrian camel.
- Spend your nights in comfortable tourist camps and eat delicious, hygienic meals.
- Visit majestic temple ruins, sombre tombs, imposing cliffs.
- Peep into extinct volcanoes and rest your body in hot sulfur springs.
- Std twin room at 4* hotel
- Shared accommodation at Ger camp
- Private transfers
- English speaking guide
- All meals as listed
- All entrance fee
- Horse, camel ride, boat cruise
- Internal air tickets - free luggage allowance is 15 kg
- Mongolian barbecue
- Letter of Invitation
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities
- Camera fee for museum & monastery
- Travel Insurance www.WorldNomads.com
- Single supplement
Overview
Do you want to experience all Mongolia but don't know where to start? To see not only the boundless steppe and Gobi deserts but to also explore the historical sites and meet the people? Then this tour is for you. Amazing scenery, history, wildlife and adventure await on this fabulous trip - we promise you won't forget it!
Southern Mongolia (4 days) A chance for you to try riding the 2 humped Bactrian camels amongst the huge sand dunes of Southern Mongolia. Meet the camel herdsman and his family and then go on to see the land of the Dinosaurs, with relics from 60 million years ago.
Central Mongolia (4 days) Visit to a huge Buddhist Erdene Zuu monastery, the symbolic ruins of the ancient capital Kharkhorin, and a great extinct volcano area with White Lake. Visit nomadic horseman family and sample their home made dairy products.
Northern Mongolia (4 days) Khuvsgul Lake is the second biggest freshwater lake in Asia after Baikal and is a great place for fishing and boating and hiking through the beautiful scenery on land to explore the flora and fauna. Plus here you will meet Tsaatan reindeer nomads and explore their lifestyle.
Ulaanbaatar (2 days) The capital of Mongolia is a city of contrast where modern life comfortably blends with Mongolian traditional lifestyle you will visit the best of the city including Gandan Monastery, National Museum of History, Zaisan Hill War Memorial and live performance of Mongolian National folklore.
Thinking of adding the beautiful Naadam Festival to your trip? Learn more about special departures
- Discover Mongolia Tour and Local Naadam Festival (June 30 - July 15) (Local Naadam in Khuvsgul Lake)
The price per person will depend on the size of the group as shown below.
- filter_vintageAuthentic
- favoriteUnforgettable
- gradeSafe
To book this tour choose a date
I went on the 16 day tour of Mongolia with local Naadam Festival and loved every minute! This company is well organized, something that’s evident when you visit their website and read their blogs. Marla was a lovely guide for our two bookend days in UB and Oyunaa was outstanding for all the rest. Knowledgeable and delightful, Oyunaa has a lovely sense of humor and playfulness, and an unmistakable passion for her country. She was responsive to our individual interests, facilitating a petroglyph hunt for Donna, archery opportunities for Bogdan, and additional nomad contact for me, and to unexpected challenges on the road. Our driver, Nyama, was also extraordinary. I still don’t understand how, without GPS, often without readily seen landmarks, and sometimes driving through rain and road ruts, this man got us safely, surely and with good humor to all of our destinations. The itinerary and activities were terrific. Even though we didn’t see the pageantry of opening Naadam Festival in UB, I was still happy with the decision to visit a local Naadam Festival in the middle of the country, since we were able to get within a couple of feet of most of the activities - awesome. By the end of the trip, I’d ridden on a horse, a Bactrian camel, and a yak, held a 7 kilo eagle on my arm, and been kissed by a baby reindeer. Who could ask for more?!? Kudos, Discover Mongolia! I enthusiastically recommend this company.
Wow, Mongolia what a fantastic gem you are!!!
After searching online for a tour company to travel Mongolia with we settled on Discover Mongolia and didn't regrett it for a minute.
Starting in Ulaanbaatar and spending the day touring this fantastic city with our city guide Goomaral we got to enjoy all that Ulaanbaatar had to offer.
The following day we flew to the South Gobi city of Dalanzadgad. Here we met our driver Nandin and our guide Togoso who we would be travelling overland throughout Mongolia over the next 14 days.
Our guide Togoso and our driver Nandia made the journey very easy and enjoyable, and even though on some days we spent a long time in our car Togoso would keep us entertained with many stories of Mongolia and answered our hundreds of questions on everything from local life to the vast history Mongolia has to offer.
We could always rely on Nandia to get us to our next destination even though through most of Mongolia there were no roads, just the tracks of a vehicle that may of travelled before you and occasionally we even made our own tracks going cross-country!!!!
By choosing to travel mostly by overland, it was a great way to see such a diverse change of scenery from the deserts in the South Gobi, to the lakes and forests of the Khovsgol area.
Along the way to get to marvel at the fantastic wildlife and the way of life of Mongolia's many nomadic people. Animal life we witnessed along the way included Eagles, Ibex, Wild Stallions, Bactrian Camels, goats, cowes, horses, sheep, ground squirrels - all without a single fence in sight!!! The scenery, wildlife & people we met along the way made memories that will stay in our minds for years to come.
Some major highlights for us were meeting a couple of Nomad family's and appreciating how hard their way of life is.
Another highlight was experiencing the local Nadaam Festivities in the local region of Kharakhorum. This festival was amazing - the horse racing consisted of 20/25 kilometre races ridden by jockeys aged between 5 & 16!!! As well as the wrestling and archery competitions , there was also so much colour everywhere as all the locals wore their best outfits for the event!!
Our accommodations in the "Ger" camps changed each night , some were fantastic and some were just comfortable, but i consider that all part of the adventure!!
A big thanks to our guide Togoso, our driver Nandin and our Ulaanbataar city guide Goomaral who all helped make our Mongolian adventure as memorable and exciting as we were hoping ;)
Damian & Lucy Smith
Just returned from the Discover Mongolia with Naadam tour. What a trip. It was fabulous. Our guide, Uka, and drivers, Dambaa and Ayush were the best. We had so many questions before the trip started, and Bat answered them all. We were well prepared when we arrived in Ulaanbaatar. From the time we were met at the airport until we got on the plane to return home, we were well taken care of. The Festival was amazing. We were at the opening ceremonies and the horse racing. Uka got us great seats and explained what was going on. The country is beautiful. I was a little apprehensive about staying in a ger. I wasn't sure how that would work, but it turned out to be fun. They were clean and cozy. The food was good everywhere we ate. Having Mongolia BBQ with a family was VERY interesting. I have never eaten fresher meat. The family was friendly and inviting and the BBQ was quite good. Having Uka and Damba and Ayush to translate made us instant friends with the family. We saw so much, did so much and learned so much. Bouncing down the dirt roads listening to Mongolia music and looking at the beautiful scenery is something I will never forget. I am so glad we discovered "Discover Mongolia". It truly was a trip of a life time. I recommend it. 5 stars to Discover Magolia, Bat, Uka, Damba and Ayush.
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, you'll be greeted at the airport and escorted to 4* hotel.
Take a city tour to Gandan Monastery where you will see a huge gold plated Buddha, the symbol of Mongolian national pride and cultural revival.
And there are other highlights - Sukhbaatar Square and National Museum of Mongolia - where you will see artifacts from Mongolia and Central Asia from the Stone Age to present time.
Excursion to Zaisan Hill Memorial to get your bearings with a panoramic view of the whole city.
Overnight in the hotel. (L+D)
Meet our driver in the hotel lobby and be transferred to the airport for your flight to Dalanzadgad. Drive to Yolyn Am, or Lammergeier Valley, beautiful and high elevated gorges forming incredible canyons. Gorges are so high thus sunlight never reaches the floor and winter’s snow can be kept good even in summer time.
These areas are situated in the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan /Three Beauties of the Gobi/ National park, the most easterly points of the Altai Mountains.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 60 km, an hour drive on paved/dirt road)
Drive to the “Khongoryn els” - the biggest sand dune in Mongolia, reaching a height of 200 meters in some areas.
Explore the dune area on the camelback. The two-humped Bactrian camels are very comfortable to ride as they walk slowly and gently. You will be well supported by their soft, fluffy humps when you ride them. Our camel guide will lead you safely through the sand dunes to explore the Uujim valley on the camelback.
Plus, you will have an opportunity to visit a camel herdsman family to experience their lifestyle, culture and traditions.
Similar to other deserts, the chance of rain/cloud is slim. So that there is a chance to gaze at the billions of stars in the evening. Discuss with your guide about timing when you climb over dunes.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 200 km, 5-6 hours drive on dirt road)
Drive to the Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs, where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered in 1922 by Roy Chapman Andrews. In this huge paleontological site, you will have a chance to walk on the ground where the Dinosaurs once roamed 60 million years ago.
On this day, you will discover not only dinosaur’s but ancient human’s remains too. Khavtsgait petroglyphs and saxual forest are good additions to this trip.
Photo shooting of the flaming cliffs and watching a documentary about this wonderful place is suggested in the evening.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 160 km, 4-5 hours drive on dirt road)
Drive to Ongi Temple ruins which had about a thousand lamas before the communists destruction in 1937. The temple was founded by a lama named Bari Yonzon and located on a small but panoramic cliff on a bank of Ongi river. On the way, experience how big and vast the Mongolian steppe is.
Secret of Ongi, a high end tourist camp will provide you perfect service after a long drive through the Gobi desert. Relax and enjoy your last day in the Gobi.
Overnight in the tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 180 km, 4-5 hours drive on dirt road)
Continue driving to the north, to the Orkhon valley. Landscape changes dramatically from semi desert into forest steppe.
Kharkhorin was the capital of the Great Mongolian Empire, dates back to the 13th century. Now, the ruin lies low confronting against time and hiding Chinggis khan’s secrets beneath its name – “black soil”. Visit Karakorum museum and see the artifacts collected from the ruins.
Next place Magnificent Erdene Zuu - the oldest monastery in Mongolia and the artwork of the Mongol architects – is located near the ruins.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 220 km, 5-6 hours drive on dirt road)
The Eriin Gurvan Naadam /three manly games/ is our biggest holiday in Mongolia, a symbol of our freedom and unity. It is such a great chance to experience our culture and people’s lifestyle. The festival has its roots in the Mongol army’s unified practice, competition and celebration that date back more than two thousand years.
Stay around the Naadam court and enjoy wrestling, horse racing, archery and ankle bone shooting. Get soaked into the holiday atmosphere, grab food and enjoy around our traditional culture.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
Naadam festival continues on the second day with tournaments of wrestling, horse racing, archery and other traditional games. Take a drive to Tsenkher hot springs through the land of the yaks. Mineral water rich with sulfur emerges from the ground (300m) at 70 degrees Celsius. Relax in the outdoor bath.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 100 km, 2-3 hours drive on paved/dirt road)
Drive deep into the heart of Khangai Mountain Range to explore Khorgo volcanic crater and The White Lake. There are dozens of extinct volcanoes here in a comparatively small area.
Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake /White Lake/ was created by the lava river when the Khorgo volcano erupted 9 thousand years ago. The lake area is now home to many endangered species of flora & fauna. White lake is a good spot for bird watching and photographing.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 200 km, 4-5 hours drive on dirt/paved road)
Take a scenic drive to Jargalant hot springs. Similar hot spring emerges from the ground (300m) at 70 degrees Celsius. Relax in the outdoor bath.
We will take you away from the tourist area to a real nomadic grassland.Visit a local horse breeder family and live like a Mongolian Nomad for a day! Get involved in their daily life and take a class on milking livestocks and play ankle bone games.
In the evening, cook a traditional Mongolian barbecue under the instruction of the hostess.
This is a real experience and will be an unforgettable highlight of this tour.
Overnight in the nomadic family. (B+L+D)
(Distance 120 km, 3-4 hours drive on dirt road)
Drive to Murun town, the capital of Khuvsgul province. Take a city tour of Murun town and visit a local market and town museum. Chance to observe the locals part of everyday life at the market.
Visit the richest bronze age burial site called Uushgi uvur to see famous deer stones.
Relax in a local hotel. (B+L+D)
(Distance 200 km, 5-6 hours drive on dirt road)
The Blue Pearl - Khuvsgul Lake, the deepest and purest lake in Mongolia. The lake is one of the few glacial lakes left from the last ice age. Some people call it “Switzerland of Mongolia”. You have an opportunity to trek to the lakeside & mountain for a better view and photo shooting.
Explore the flora & fauna of Khuvsgul lake area. Optional kayaking activity is available.
In the evening, have fun with a bonfire party and share your feedback of the tour with your group members.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 140 km, 3-4 hours drive on dirt road)
Our last day in the countryside we have something special for you. Today we will take a boat trip to see reindeers herders. Reindeer are herded for their antlers, a lucrative medicinal material as well as for their milk and meat. You have a chance to take your memorable pictures with reindeers and herders.
In the evening, farewell bonfire party and share your feedback of the tour with your group members.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
(Distance 15 km, 30 minutes on boat)
You will be escorted to the Murun city for your return flight to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival in UB, take a tour of the Chinggis Khaan Statue, the biggest equestrian statue in the world - 40 meters tall stainless steel statue symbolically pointed east towards his birthplace, on the bank of the Tuul River at Tsonjin Boldog.
Drive to Terelj national park to visit the Temple of Ariyapala and enjoy a stunning view. Explore the famous Turtle Rock and the extraordinary frock formations.
Overnight in tourist camp. (B+L+D)
Today is your chance to do some shopping for souvenirs and cashmere in Ulaanbaatar. Later in the evening, you will attend a live Mongolian traditional music and dance performance. A perfect ending for a perfect journey.
Overnight in the hotel. (B+L+D)
After breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport. (B)
B – Breakfast L - Lunch D - Dinner
Good to know
- The best time to make this trip
May to September is the best season, with the peak season in July for the Naadam Festival. July and August are also the wettest months of the year, but be assured, our climate is such that you will still have many sunny days at this time. The best time to visit the Gobi is June or September.
- Accommodation:
We believe that comfortable, welcoming accommodation is vital to the enjoyment of your trip. You will be stay in a standard 3-4 star hotel in Ulaanbaatar and a tourist ger camp (traditional dwelling) with currency (220V), shower and other useful services (2 to 4 people per ger) in the countryside. All accommodation offered by Discover Mongolia is personally checked by our staff to ensure high standards.
- Meals:
In Ulaanbaatar, you will be dining at fine European and Asian cuisine restaurants. Mutton, beef, rice and noodles form the basis of the Mongolian diet, so your meals will be based around this. However, the trail rations may include vegetables, eggs, peanut butter, cheese and sometimes yak! On some days there will be lunchboxes from tourist camps. It is good food and our experience has been that guests are happy with this arrangement. Please let us know in advance if you are a vegetarian. Alcohol is not provided on the trip but tourists are free to bring their own.
- Transport:
Discover Mongolia use the highest level, latest model, air-conditioned private vans or 4WD vehicles for the maximum comfort on your touring days. A day's drive in the countryside will be approx 200-250km.
- Personal things to bring with you:
Warm thin layers of clothing are the best such as bring a waterproof jacket, and a hat and headscarf to protect you from the sun and winds. Don't forgot insect repellent, sun cream, lip-gloss, water purifying tablets and first aid kit (medicine for headache, cold, diarrhea, runny nose; bandages; any medicine prescribed for you ). All your camera equipment.
