Gobi tour with Naadam Extension

Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, the professional BTTC Travel team will warmly welcome you at the airport or train station and escort you to your hotel, conveniently located in the vibrant heart of the city. Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel. (-/-/D).

After breakfast, we will start the city tour including a visit to the Museum of National History. Here, you’ll discover fascinating exhibits related to Mongolian history, including a splendid collection of traditional costumes. If time allows, we will visit the World War II Memorial at Zaisan Hill, where we can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city, followed by a dinner at a downtown restaurant. Overnight at the hotel. (B/L/D)

Start your adventure with an early morning transfer to the airport for a 1.5-hour flight to Mongolia’s stunning South Gobi Province. Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic drive (180-220 km) through breathtaking landscapes on the way to the Khongor Sand Dunes, one of the Gobi’s most remarkable natural wonders. Stretching an impressive 180 km and reaching up to 20 km in width, the dunes lie along the northern slopes of the beautiful Servei and Zuulun mountain ranges. Known as the “Singing Dunes”, the dunes emit a captivating, resonant sound as wind sweeps across their 200-meter-high peaks—a mesmerizing experience from afar. Nestled near the dunes is the lush Khongor River oasis, which blooms with vibrant greenery in the summer. Here, we will enjoy a memorable camel ride on the two-humped Bactrian camels, fondly referred to by locals as the “Living Dinosaurs”. This is also a wonderful chance to observe the unique lifestyle of the camel breeders. Relax and unwind overnight at a traditional ger camp amidst the desert’s beauty. (B/L/D)

Begin the day with a scenic drive through Gobi’s rugged landscapes and arid desert. Along the way, catch glimpses of camel herds and local herding families, adding to the authentic experience of the Gobi. Arrive at the camp and after lunch we will visit Bayanzag, famously known as the “Flaming Cliffs.” Formed 60-70 million years ago, these ancient red rock formations gained their iconic name from American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews, who visited in the 1920s. The stunning cliffs, with their striking orange hues, are renowned for their rich deposits of dinosaur fossils, eggs, and bones, making them a world-renowned paleontological site. Surrounded by unique Saxaul tree forests, Bayanzag is an unforgettable landscape to explore on foot. Wander through this ancient terrain, discovering its secrets before settling in for an overnight stay at a traditional ger camp. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we will drive to the majestic Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, where the enchanting Yol Valley awaits. In the afternoon, explore this breathtaking natural wonder—a narrow canyon carved by a river through the Zuun Saikhan Mountains. Towering rock walls rise 200 meters above, sheltering lush green meadows and a remarkable layer of ice that often persists deep within the canyon walls.

During summer rains, waterfalls cascade from the canyon’s walls, adding to its magic. Enjoy a scenic trek along the canyon floor, where you may be fortunate enough to spot rare wildlife, including Argali wild sheep, Ibex Mountain goats, and the iconic Yol Lammergeier. Spend the night immersed in nature at a traditional ger camp. (B/L/D)

Begin the day with an early morning drive to the airport for your return flight to Ulaanbaatar. En route to the hotel, visit the historic Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, also known as the Green Palace. Built in 1903, this palace was dedicated to the 8th Bogd Gegeen, the last khan of Mongolia and head of the Buddhism. The palace showcases remarkable art, including bronze castings, silk paintings, mineral-based icons, and intricate deity statues crafted by the renowned artist Zanabazar and his students. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore, shop, or relax while taking in the sights of Ulaanbaatar. In the evening, experience an enchanting performance featuring traditional Mongolian folk songs, throat singing, the captivating melodies of the horse-headed fiddle, lively traditional dances, and graceful contortion art. Overnight at the hotel. (B/L/D)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to the Central Stadium in the southern part of Ulaanbaatar for the Naadam Festival Opening Ceremony, which starts at 11 am, this spectacular event features an impressive march of monks and athletes, lively music, and colorful parades that celebrate Mongolian culture. The highlight of the day is the first round of wrestling, which begins around noon in the main stadium. This thrilling event is not only captivating but also incredibly photogenic, providing perfect opportunities for memorable snapshots. After lunch, we will see an archery contest, where skilled contestants use traditional compound bows made from sinew, wood, horn, and bamboo, strung with bull tendon. Watch as men fire 40 arrows from 75 meters, while women shoot 20 arrows from 60 meters, all aiming for a bullseye. Another popular Naadam activity is the ankle bone shooting, a game played with shagai—sheep anklebones that serve as both game pieces and tokens of friendship and divination. Enjoy a Naadam Gala Dinner accompanied by captivating performances of traditional Mongolian folk music. Overnight in a hotel. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, head to the horse racing area to witness the thrilling races featuring 4- and 5-year-old horses. Horse racing is a cherished sport among herders, who travel great distances to showcase their finest steeds. Unlike Western horse racing, these races take place on the vast steppe, covering distances from 15 to 30 kilometers, testing the endurance of both horses and riders. The young riders, aged 6 to 12, are exceptionally skilled, having been riding since infancy. During the races, up to 500 horses from every corner of Mongolia compete, divided into six categories based on age. For instance, two-year-old horses race over 10 miles (16 kilometers), while seven-year-olds race for 17 miles (30 kilometers). These magnificent racehorses are fed a special diet to prepare for the competition. After lunch we will visit Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, also known as the Green Palace. Built in 1903, this stunning palace was dedicated to the 8^th Bogd Gegeen, the last khan of Mongolia and head of Buddhism. Marvel at the remarkable art displayed within, including exquisite bronze castings, silk paintings, mineral-based icons, and intricate deity statues crafted by the renowned artist Zanabazar and his students. Conclude your day with a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel, reflecting on the rich culture and traditions of Mongolia. (B/L/D)

Our professional BTTC Travel team will be at your service to transfer to the airport. With a commitment to exceptional hospitality, we’ll make sure your experience is smooth and stress-free. Our team assists you with any last-minute needs, ensuring you leave with a sense of fulfillment and a heart full of cherished experiences. (B/-/-)