Central Mongolia Discovery Tour: Kharkhorin, Erdenezuu, Semi-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

3 Days/2 Nights

Group

1+

Availibility

Year-round

Overview

Experience the best of Central Mongolia in 3 unforgettable days. Discover the ancient capital Kharkhorin, explore the iconic Erdene Zuu Monastery, hike the scenic trails of Khogno Khan National Park, and ride camels in the Semi-Gobi Desert. Enjoy authentic nomadic hospitality with overnight stays in traditional Ger camps — the perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure.

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 traditional Ger, with modern comforts like showers and electricity. 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 Semi-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.

In the evening, we’ll stay in a nomadic Ger, experiencing life without electricity or running water. It’s a true cultural experience, with the chance to relax, reflect, and gaze at the stars from the middle of the Mongolian countryside.

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

Today we’ll explore the dramatic landscapes of Khogno Khan National Park, where rocky hills, forested areas, and open plains come together in a perfect nature escape. If you’d like, you can go for a short horseback ride through the park — a fun way to enjoy the scenery and feel like a nomad for a day.

We’ll also visit the Erdene Khamba Monastery ruins, nestled into the mountain cliffs — a peaceful place steeped in history and natural beauty.

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 transportation throughout the tour, including fuel
  • Knowledgeable and experienced English-speaking tour guide
  • All meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and permits for all national parks and cultural sites
  • 1 litre of bottled drinking water per person per day
  • Road taxes and parking fees
  • Two nights’ accommodation in traditional Mongolian Ger/Yurt camps
  • Camel riding experience in the Semi-Gobi Desert
  • Horse riding experience in Khugnu Tarna National Park
  • Admission to Kharkhorin Museum
  • Admission to Erdene Zuu Monastery
  • Admission to Khugnu Tarna National Park
  • Admission to Erdene Khamba Monastery

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)

 

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