Central Mongolia Express: Kharkhorin, Erdenezuu, Mini-Gobi

Explore the highlights of Central Mongolia including Kharkhorin, stunning natural parks, and the vast Semi-Gobi Desert on this unforgettable tour.

Description

Language

English

Destination

Central Mongolia

Best time

June - Sep

Activty

Cultural and Natural discovery

Age

5+

Duration

2 Days/1 Night

Group

1+

Availibility

Year-round

Overview

Experience the essence of Central Mongolia in just 2 days and 1 night. Visit the ancient capital Kharkhorin, explore the iconic Erdene Zuu Monastery, ride camels in the Mini-Gobi Desert, and spend a night in a traditional Ger camp — a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and nomadic hospitality.

Itinerary

09:00 – Pick-up from your hotel in Ulaanbaatar
After meeting your guide, we’ll set off on a scenic drive through the steppe toward Kharkhorin, the former capital of the Great Mongolian Empire in the 13th century. Along the way, enjoy views of wide-open grasslands and herds of grazing animals.

Upon arrival, explore the legendary Erdene Zuu Monastery, a spiritual and cultural landmark surrounded by 108 white stupas. We’ll also visit the Kharkhorin Museum to see artifacts and exhibits that bring Mongolia’s imperial history to life.

You’ll stay overnight at a tourist ger camp, with public shower and washing facility. Enjoy a warm Mongolian meal, and share stories around the camp with fellow travelers from around the world.

Meals included: Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

After breakfast, we head toward the unique landscape of the Mini-Gobi Desert, where golden sand dunes meet rugged mountains. This semi-arid area is a fascinating blend of desert and steppe.

We’ll visit a local nomadic family, where you can learn about their way of life, enjoy their hospitality, and see how centuries-old traditions continue today.

Next, take a camel ride through the quiet dunes — a memorable way to connect with the landscape and enjoy the peaceful desert setting. After lunch, we’ll journey back to Ulaanbaatar, arriving in the afternoon, full of unforgettable memories from Mongolia’s heartland.

Meals included: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

Inclusions

Included

  • Private transport with hotel pick up and drop off
  • Experienced English-speaking tour guide
  • Traditional Ger accomodation in Kharkhorin
  • All meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Camel riding experience in the Mini Gobi desert
  • Admission to Kharkhorin Museum
  • Admission to Erdene Zuu Monastery
  • Road taxes and parking fees
  • 1 litre of bottled drinking water per person per day

Not included

  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, shopping, etc.)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and drivers
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks outside of included meals
  • Expenses arising from force majeure or unforeseen circumstances (e.g., delays, cancellations)

 

Tour gallery

Map

Review

Gregory F

Buhuu Helped Make My Trip Possible

I found Buhuu on Viator and started chatting with him. He made my trip to Mongolia much better by arranging transportation and guided tours with him on multiple days. With his help I was able to travel to some rural areas, try local food and get a sense for what life is like in Ulaanbaatar. I found that with his help I had someone I could trust who was local during my stay. His help was instrumental in making my trip to Mongolia a success.

Nix B

Amazing experience!

Brad, the owner, was able to accommodate our last minute request for a day tour and we are truly grateful for it. Haggi, our driver and tour guide, was on-time, friendly, receptive to our needs, and fun to be with! We enjoyed a day tour and terelj was our favorite destination!