Gobi Tour May 2019 02-07 June

Discovering Mongolia’s Gobi Desert: An In-Depth Review of the 6-Day Tour

Travelers seeking a journey into one of Asia’s most iconic desert landscapes will find this 6-day Gobi tour offers an authentic and visually stunning adventure. Managed by Stone Horse Expeditions, this itinerary promises a mix of natural wonders, paleontological marvels, and traditional Mongolian culture. From the surreal rolling dunes to the rugged mountains and ancient sites, it’s a trip that appeals to curious explorers looking for more than just postcard views.

One of the standout features of this tour is its focus on Gobi’s diverse landscape—you won’t just see endless sand dunes, but also towering mountain ranges, paleontological sites, and local herders’ camps. The inclusion of guided visits to famous spots like Flaming Cliffs and Khongoryn Els ensures you experience key highlights with insight. We love the balance of structured sightseeing and authentic interactions with local communities, offering a well-rounded taste of Mongolian life.

A potential consideration is the long driving hours involved—up to six hours on the first day and additional travel between sites. While this maximizes sightseeing, it’s worth preparing for some time on the road, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to travel fatigue. This tour suits active travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, rather than those seeking a leisurely holiday.

This tour is perfect for adventure-seekers, history buffs, and nature lovers eager for a comprehensive taste of Mongolia’s diverse Gobi landscape. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided experiences combined with authentic local stays in ger camps and visits to historic sites.

Key Points

• Authentic Mongolian Experience: Stay in traditional ger camps and interact with local herders, adding a genuine cultural touch.
• Stunning Landscapes: From vibrant desert dunes to dramatic mountain ranges, every day offers breathtaking scenery.
• Paleontological Highlights: Visit the Flaming Cliffs and see fossil exhibits, including dinosaur eggs and fossils of Velociraptor and Protoceratops.
• Active Adventures: Camel riding, walking in national parks, and climbing sand dunes provide engaging activities.
• Long Travel Days: Expect substantial driving time, especially on the first day, making it ideal for those comfortable with busier schedules.
• Educational Value: Guides share insights into geology, paleontology, and local traditions, enriching the experience.

Diving into the Gobi: A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Ulaanbaatar to the Gobi

Starting from Ulaanbaatar, your journey kicks off with a pickup from your hotel, followed by a roughly six-hour drive into the heart of the Gobi. The route takes you through the Middle Gobi White Shrine or Tsagaan Suvragaa, a scenic stop offering sweeping desert views and a chance to snap some photos of Mongolia’s rugged landscape. This is a good introduction to the terrain you’ll be exploring over the next few days.

The day concludes at a traditional ger camp, where you’ll experience your first night in authentic Mongolian accommodation. The ger stays are simple but comfortable, with enough space for rest after a long travel day. Staying overnight in this environment immerses you in the nomadic lifestyle that’s been practiced here for centuries.

Day 2: Dalanzadgad & Yolin Am

Traveling south to Dalanzadgad, the provincial capital of South Gobi, your journey deepens into the desert’s more dramatic features. The highlight here is the walk in Yolin Am, a valley famed for its surreal formations and desert flora. The landscape offers a stark beauty—cliffs, canyons, and open plains that stretch to the horizon.

Lunch is served at the ger camp before you head to the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, known as The Three Beauties of the Gobi—a trio of mountain ranges that loom over the sands. These ranges are prime habitat for species like Argali, Ibex, and snow leopards, though spotting these elusive animals requires luck and patience.

Day 3: Khongoryn Els & Camel Rides

Today’s star attraction is Khongoryn Els, the famed “singing sands” of Mongolia. This massive dune system, stretching over 1,000 square kilometers, produces a musical hum when the sand shifts—an experience that words can’t truly capture. You can climb to the top for spectacular panoramic views or opt for a camel ride across the dunes, a classic Gobi experience.

The dunes are not just visually impressive but also provide opportunities for photography that captures the endless sense of space. Staying overnight in a local ger camp allows you to truly feel the desert’s quiet and expansive atmosphere.

Day 4: Flaming Cliffs & Local Heritage

Traveling eastward, you reach Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs—an internationally renowned paleontological site made famous by Roy Chapman Andrews. Here, you can walk among striking red sandstone formations and learn about the dinosaurs that once roamed the area. The site also features a small hilltop temple built by local herders, giving you a glimpse into contemporary Mongolian spiritual life.

That night, you stay with a local herder family in a traditional ger, gaining insight into everyday nomadic life and enjoying home-cooked Mongolian dishes—an authentic cultural exchange worth savoring.

Day 5: Dinosaur Fossil Museum & Return to Dalanzadgad

Back at the Flaming Cliffs, you’ll have time to explore the newer museum exhibits, which showcase fossils and provide context about the area’s paleontological significance. The fossils here include some of the earliest dinosaur eggs and fossilized remains of Velociraptor and Protoceratops, making it a haven for dinosaur enthusiasts or curious minds.

Later, you return to Dalanzadgad for the night, with a chance to visit the local desert museum to learn more about the Gobi’s geology and its people. This blend of natural history and local culture creates a well-rounded understanding of the region.

Day 6: Baga Gazriin Chuluu & Return to Ulaanbaatar

On your final day, the journey back to Ulaanbaatar is broken up with a stop at Baga Gazriin Chuluu, a granite rock formation site that also houses an old monastery. The striking landscape provides a scenic picnic spot, and the area is home to mountain sheep like Argali.

The drive concludes with a few hours back in the city, where you can reflect on the diverse sights and experiences of the Gobi. You’ll arrive in Ulaanbaatar ready to share stories of this rugged, beautiful country.

Authenticity and Practicalities

This tour’s focus on staying in ger camps and engaging with local herders makes it a strong choice for travelers wanting a genuine taste of Mongolia. While the schedule is packed, the long drives are balanced by the reward of seeing some of the world’s most iconic deserts and paleo-sites. The private group setup means your experience can be tailored, and guides are well-versed in the area’s natural and cultural significance.

The cost of $2,500 per person reflects the inclusiveness of transport, park admissions, and authentic accommodations. While it might seem steep, the value lies in the comprehensive coverage of Mongolia’s highlights, the quality of guides, and the immersive environment.

Transport & Timing

Transport is primarily via comfortable vehicle suited for rough roads, and the timing allows for full exploration without feeling rushed—though be prepared for longer travel days, especially on the first and last days. The itinerary is well-structured to maximize sightseeing while still allowing moments of quiet in the vast landscape.

Group Size & Accessibility

As a private tour, the maximum group size is small, fostering a more personalized experience. This is ideal for those who prefer intimate adventures over large, impersonal tours. It’s suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility concerns should note that some activities, like climbing dunes or walking in parks, involve physical effort.

Final Thoughts

This Gobi tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Mongolia’s legendary desert, combining stunning natural scenery, paleontological treasures, and authentic cultural experiences. You’ll see dramatic landscapes that seem almost otherworldly, explore ancient dinosaur sites, and stay in traditional yurts that put you right in the heart of nomadic life.

The value of this trip lies in its thorough coverage of both natural and human history, guided by knowledgeable experts who bring the region’s stories to life. The accommodation, while simple, allows for genuine culture, and the scenic drives reveal some of the most impressive vistas Mongolia has to offer.

This experience is best suited for active, curious travelers who want more than just a sightseeing tour—those eager to engage with the land, its history, and its people on a deeper level. If you’re after a memorable adventure that combines natural beauty, paleontological wonders, and authentic cultural exchanges, this Gobi tour will not disappoint.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $2,500 fee covers hotel and ger camp stays, transportation in a private vehicle, park admissions, and guided visits to key sites like Flaming Cliffs and Khongoryn Els.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Ulaanbaatar is included, making it easy to start your adventure without additional logistics.

Are meals included?
The tour includes meals at the camps and during travel days, with local cuisine often served. Specific meal details are not provided but expect traditional Mongolian dishes.

How long are the driving days?
The first day involves about six hours of driving, with additional travel time on subsequent days between key sites, which can total several hours each day.

Can most travelers participate?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, but participants should be comfortable with long drives and some physical activities like walking or climbing dunes.

What are the accommodation types?
You’ll stay in simple but comfortable ger camps, and occasionally with local herder families—offering authentic experiences rather than luxury lodging.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it operates as a private experience for your group only, which allows for a more personalized schedule and interaction.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring safety and planning flexibility.

To sum it up, this Gobi tour provides a comprehensive and authentic Mongolian experience, blending breathtaking landscapes with cultural insights. It’s ideal for those eager to see iconic sites like the Flaming Cliffs and Khongoryn Els while also engaging with local communities. The long drives are an honest reflection of Mongolia’s expansive terrain but are balanced by the richness of the sights and stories you’ll gather along the way. For travelers craving adventure, history, and spectacular scenery, this journey into the Gobi will leave lasting memories.