Semi-Gobi Desert Tour - Camel Ride, Nomadic visit & Traditional Ger Overnight

Unveil the Magic of Mongolia’s Semi-Gobi with Camel Rides, Sunsets, and Nomadic Hospitality

What to expect

Language

All Language

Destination

Gobi Desert

Best time

June - July

Activty

Gobi Exploration

Age

10+

Duration

2 Days/1 Night

Group

1+

Availibility

Year-round

Overview

Discover the enchanting beauty of Mongolia’s “Mini Gobi” on this immersive 2-day journey. Traverse golden sand dunes framed by sweeping steppes and forested hills, where nomadic traditions come alive amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Experience the gentle rhythm of camelback rides, heartfelt encounters with local families, and stunning sunsets that paint the desert sky.

This compact adventure offers an authentic taste of Mongolia’s vast wilderness—a perfect blend of cultural insight and natural wonder, all just a short journey from the capital.

Itinerary

10:00 – Depart from Ulaanbaatar
Set off from the capital on a scenic drive west to the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, known as the “Mini Gobi.” Along the 280-kilometre journey, enjoy photo stops and glimpses of Mongolia’s diverse landscapes, from open steppe to rocky hills.

13:30 – Roadside Lunch Stop
Stop for a hearty Mongolian lunch at a countryside food station. Savour traditional dishes like khuushuur, tsuivan, and suutei tsai—a perfect taste of local life.

16:30 – Arrival at Elsen Tasarkhai
Arrive at the dunes and check in to your ger camp or nomadic homestay. Take a moment to unwind and soak in the tranquil surroundings where desert, grassland, and mountains meet.

17:00 – Camel Trekking Adventure
Ride across the sands on a camel, guided by local herders. It’s a scenic and peaceful way to explore the unique desert terrain and connect with Mongolia’s nomadic heritage.

18:30 – Visit to a Nomadic Family
Drop by a nearby nomadic family’s ger to experience warm hospitality, taste local dairy treats, and learn about traditional lifestyles. A lovely chance for photos and cultural exchange.

20:00 – Sunset Photo Session
Climb a nearby dune to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The soft evening light and sweeping views make for stunning sunset photography.

Evening – Leisure Under the Stars
Enjoy dinner and a quiet evening in camp. Relax in your ger or stargaze beneath Mongolia’s vast night sky.

Overnight Stay
Sleep in a traditional tourist ger/nomadic homestay (subject to availability), surrounded by desert calm.

Meals included: Lunch, Dinner (L, D)

07:30 – Sunrise Walk & Breakfast
Start your day early with a peaceful walk on the dunes at sunrise, ideal for beautiful morning photos. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional breakfast with fresh local dairy products and milk tea at the camp.

08:30 – Camelback Ride Across the Steppe
Set off on a scenic camelback ride through the surrounding grasslands and dunes. Guided by experienced herders, this tranquil journey offers a unique way to experience the landscape.

10:30 – Roadside Lunch Stop
Stop for a hearty Mongolian lunch at a countryside food station along the highway. Savour traditional dishes like khuushuur, tsuivan, and suutei tsai—a delicious taste of local life.

12:00 – Depart for Ulaanbaatar
Begin the return drive to Ulaanbaatar, which takes approximately 5 hours including short photo stops.

17:00 – Arrive in Ulaanbaatar
Reach the capital city in the early evening, around 5 PM, wrapping up your memorable Mini Gobi adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch (B, L)

Inclusions

Included

  • Transfers between Ulaanbaatar and Elsentasarkhai
  • English-speaking experienced guide
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Accommodation in tourist ger camp/nomadic homestays (subject to availability)
  • Comfortable 2-wheel drive SUVs, including road tax
  • Camel rides, hikes, nomadic family visit, and activities
  • National park entrance fees and permits
  • 1 litre of drinking water per person per day
  • Sunset and sunrise photography opportunities

Not included

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

 

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