The Central Mongolia tour is an unforgettable off the beaten track adventure! Physically hard at times, but worth every effort. You will be rewarded with the best views! The landscapes are diverse every day, and locals are inviting to experience a nomadic lifestyle!
Why you will absolutely love this tour!
- Make the most out of our package trip. We offer the best prices available on the market & all of your expenses are included. Safely fly over here & we will take care of the rest.
- Experience the legendary hospitality of Mongolia. With five nights spent across Mongolian traditional yurts, you’ll immerse yourself in local life.
- Surround yourself with the surreal landscapes of the southern Mongolia, including the enchanting sand dunes, eroded hills and watch dramatic sunsets from on top of the Bactrian camel.
- Visit the biggest national parks, and monasteries on the way, immerse yourself in the history & culture of Mongolia.
Is this trip the one?
- You need to have a good level of fitness and be in excellent health to take part in this trip. Medical facilities can be as far away as 1-2 days’ drive at times, as some locations are very remote. During this journey the group will spend time in remote areas without home comforts or easy access to medical facilities.
- You’ll experience varying temperatures in the desert and out on the steppe or in the mountains, so check the weather forecast online before you visit and pack accordingly.
- You’ll be spending some nights with a local family in yurt on this trip. While the “ger/yurt” is shared and small, this is a great opportunity to connect with the nomads (and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals).
- Eating can be pretty challenging for vegan/vegetarian travelers as Mongolians mostly depend on meat and dairy products. Vegan/vegetarian food options can be scarce. However, we will try our best to suit your needs.
- Some destinations have outdoor bathroom facilities (squat toilets), and it won’t be possible to take a shower every day on this trip.
- Daily drives range from 3 to 7 hours in duration. While this can be tiring for some travelers, the sceneries & experiences are well worth the ride!
Our Adventure trips are designed for travelers who want exceptional experience, plenty of free time and having the flexibility to choose where and how their time and money is spent. By working plenty of free time into the itineraries and keeping many of the activities optional, we aim to make travel possible for those on even the slenderest of budgets. After all, why pay for an activity or excursion you wouldn’t otherwise be interested in?
Rules
2 days & 1 night
Day 1: Khustai National Park
This 2 day & 1 night trip is a calm & relaxing trip that lets you explore the nature, wild animals, and nomadic culture of Mongolia in only 2 days. Start by heading out to Khustai National Park. The park’s proximity to Ulaanbaatar makes it a popular day trip and overnight destination for visitors to see wildlife and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Hustai National Park (Khustain National Park), a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, is home to the takhi (Przewalski wild horse), the only truly wild horse population left on the planet. This makes a great tour for people with an interest in photography as you can take pictures of the wild horses, birds, and deer. While out there, go for a hike up the hills at dusk, it makes for a great experience that lets you see the wild horses living free of captivity, wandering on their own. Feed yourself with the simple, yet charming view. Afterwards, settle in a herder family, and taste the Mongolian delicacies, hot milk tea, cheese curd snacks, milk skim, and more! You can learn more about the Przewalski wild horses, and their reintroduction to the park from the nomads. Spend the night in their ger, a traditional dwelling for Mongolians. You share the ger with the family. While the ger is small and shared, this is a great way to experience the nomad lifestyle & connect with the people. There are no indoor bathroom facilities, so outdoor toilets are to be expected/ Wish for a clear sky tonight. You don’t want to miss the most beautiful night sky in the world.
Day 2: Elsen tasarkhai – Mini Gobi/Sand dunes
Today, Zaya team takes you to the Mini Gobi on the way to UB, offering a chance for you to feel what Gobi is like. After a day in the park, your day in the Mini Gobi can be very different and calming. Enjoy this afternoon hiking up the sand dunes and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Soak it all in! Though not included in the trip, it is highly recommended that you to ride a Bactrian camel.
3 days & 2 nights
This 3 days & 2 nights offers you an insight to the landscapes, tradition, nomadic cultures, and religion of Mongolia.
Day 1: Kharkhorin
On your first day, Head to the Ancient Capital of Mongolia, Kharkhorin. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the nomads. You will be visiting Erdenezuu Monastery, the oldest Buddhist Monastery and probably the most important one. The monastery went through periods of neglect and prosperity until finally the Stalinist purges of 1937 put it completely out of business. After the collapse of communism, it became active again, offering a peaceful haven & religious freedom top the ones that seek it. Main 3 temples were destroyed, and most of the monks were purged, but it still stands proud today in the beautiful valley. Next, drive to the Kharkhorin Museum, where you will get an insight to the ancient Mongolia, the legendary Chinggis khan, and his empire. You will be spending the night at a tourist ger camp today.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Activities Included – Erdenezuu Monastery, Kharkhorin Museum
- Accommodation – Tourist ger camp
Day 2: Elsen tasarkhai/Mini Gobi-Sand dunes
Today, Zaya team takes you to the Mini Gobi on the way to UB, offering a chance for you to feel what Gobi is like. After a day in Kharkhorin, your day in the Mini Gobi can be very different and calming. Enjoy this afternoon hiking up the sand dunes and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Soak it all in! Though not included in the trip, it is highly recommended that you to ride a Bactrian camel. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free for you to explore at your own pace. You’ll see nomadic herdsmen and their families watching over goats, sheep, and horses. Get to know their simple, but delightful way of living in this little peaceful corner of the world. Tonight, spend the night at local herder family, eat like a local, immerse yourself in the nomad culture, and sleep in a ger, a traditional dwelling for Mongolians. You share the ger with the family. While the ger is small and shared, this is a great way to experience the nomad lifestyle & connect with the people. There are no indoor bathroom facilities, so outdoor toilets are to be expected.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Optional Activities – Horse riding, Camel riding
- Accommodation – Herder family ger
Day 3: Khustai National Park
Rise with the sun & settle in a – hour drive to the Khustai National Park. The park’s proximity to Ulaanbaatar makes it a popular day trip and overnight destination for visitors to see wildlife and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Hustai National Park (Khustain National Park), a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, is home to the tahki (Przewalski wild horse), the only truly wild horse population left on the planet. This makes a great tour for people with an interest in photography as you can take pictures of the wild horses, birds, and deer. You can visit a herder family tonight, taste the Mongolian delicacies, hot milk tea, cheese curd snacks, milk skim, and more! You can learn more about the Przewalski wild horses, and their reintroduction to the park from the nomads. While out there, go for a hike up the hills, it makes for a great experience that lets you see the wild horses living free of captivity wandering on their own. Simply sit and enjoy the view, and capture it with your heart.
4 days & 3 nights
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar
Welcome to Ulaanbaatar! Zaya drivers will meet you at the airport and happily take/escort/drive you to your choice of accommodation. If you arrive earlier than the indicated date, explore what our lovely capital, Ulaanbaatar has to offer. The big Journey begins with a meeting with Zaya staff at your convenient location the day before the tour begins! Discuss about your travel plans & get ready for the journey.
Day 2: Kharkhorin
It’s an early start today. Get up, prepare you new playlist, pack your belongings, and head to Zaya hostel. After breakfast, meet your guide, driver, and fellow travelers. Settle in a ride top the Ancient capital of Mongolia, Kharkhorin. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the nomads. You will be visiting Erdenezuu Monastery, the oldest Buddhist Monastery and probably the most important one. The monastery went through periods of neglect and prosperity until finally the Stalinist purges of 1937 put it completely out of business. After the collapse of communism, it became active again, offering a peaceful haven & religious freedom top the ones that seek it. Main 3 temples were destroyed, and most of the monks were purged, but it still stands proud today in the beautiful valley. Next, drive to the Kharkhorin Museum, where you will get an insight to the ancient Mongolia, the legendary Chinggis khan, and his empire. You will be spending the night at a tourist ger camp today.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Activities Included – Erdenezuu Monastery, Kharkhorin Museum
- Accommodation – Tourist ger camp
Day 3: Orkhon Valley Natural and Historical Reserve
Today, you will be visiting the beautiful Orkhon Valley. Orkhon valley is one of the world’s most important cultural regions and recognized as a “Cultural Landscape” of the UNESCO World Heritage in 2004. It is a must destination for tourists to experience the nomadic and lush green lands of Mongolia. Thought the ride is exhilarating and challenging, it’s pleasantly peaceful and extremely beautiful. You can sit by the stream, listen to the sounds of the nature, and watch the horses across the lush grassland. Afterwards, drive to the Orkhon falls, one of the biggest waterfalls in Mongolia. About 20,000 years ago, the waterfall was formed by an exceptional merge of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Freshen up, put your feet in the cold water, enjoy the pleasant sounds of the waterfall, and soak in the beautiful scenery. You have an opportunity to feast on “khorkhog”, a traditional Mongolian barbeque dish today. Tonight, spend the night at local herder family, enjoy Mongolian delicacies, immerse yourself in the nomad culture, and sleep in a ger, a traditional dwelling for Mongolians. You share the ger with the family. While the ger is small and shared, this is a great way to experience the nomad lifestyle & connect with the people. There are no indoor bathroom facilities, so outdoor toilets are to be expected. Be sure to peek through your door tonight, Mongolian night sky will be the most beautiful thing you will ever sky.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Activities Included – Orkhon Valley, Orkhon Falls, “Khorkhog” barbecue making
- Accommodation – Herder family ger
Day 4: Elsen tasarkhai/Mini gobi-Sand dunes
Rise with the sun! Today, Zaya team takes you to the Mini Gobi on the way to UB, offering a chance for you to feel what Gobi is like. After a day in amazingly green valley, your day in the Mini Gobi can be very different and calming. Enjoy this afternoon hiking up the sand dunes and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Soak it all in! Though not included in the trip, it is highly recommended that you to ride a Bactrian camel. If you appreciate the nature & wild animal, this is definitely the one for you. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free for you to explore at your own pace. You’ll see nomadic herdsmen and their families watching over goats, sheep, and horses. Get to know their simple, but delightful way of living in this little peaceful corner of the world. Spend your last night in a humble herder family ger.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Optional Activities – Horse riding, Camel riding
- Accommodation – Herder family ger
5 days & 4 nights
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar
Welcome to Ulaanbaatar! Zaya drivers will meet you at the airport and happily take/escort/drive you to your choice of accommodation. If you arrive earlier than the indicated date, explore what our lovely capital, Ulaanbaatar has to offer. The big Journey begins with a meeting with Zaya staff at your convenient location the day before the tour begins! Discuss about your travel plans & get ready for the journey.
Special info: Stay at Zaya with a 15% discount the day before and after the trip.
Day 2: Kharkhorin
It’s an early start today. Get up, prepare you new playlist, pack your belongings, and head to Zaya hostel. After breakfast, meet your guide, driver, and fellow travelers. Settle in a ride top the Ancient capital of Mongolia, Kharkhorin. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the nomads. You will be visiting Erdenezuu Monastery, the oldest Buddhist Monastery and probably the most important one. The monastery went through periods of neglect and prosperity until finally the Stalinist purges of 1937 put it completely out of business. After the collapse of communism, it became active again, offering a peaceful haven & religious freedom top the ones that seek it. Main 3 temples were destroyed, and most of the monks were purged, but it still stands proud today in the beautiful valley. Next, drive to the Kharkhorin Museum, where you will get an insight to the ancient Mongolia, the legendary Chinggis khan, and his empire. You will be spending the night at a tourist ger camp today.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch
- Activities Included – Erdenezuu Monastery, Kharkhorin Museum
- Accommodation – Tourist ger camp
Day 3: Orkhon Valley Natural and Historical Reserve
Today, you will be visiting the beautiful Orkhon Valley. Orkhon valley is one of the world’s most important cultural regions and recognized as a “Cultural Landscape” of the UNESCO World Heritage in 2004. It is a must destination for tourists who want to experience the nomadic and lush green lands of Mongolia. Thought the ride is bumpy & exhilarating, the destination is pleasantly peaceful and extremely beautiful. You can sit by the stream, listen to the sounds of the nature, and watch the horses across the lush grassland. Afterwards, drive to the Orkhon falls, one of the biggest waterfalls in Mongolia. About 20,000 years ago, the waterfall was formed by an exceptional merge of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Freshen up, put your feet in the cold water, enjoy the pleasant sounds of the waterfall, and soak in the beautiful scenery. You have an opportunity to feast on “khorkhog”, a traditional Mongolian barbeque dish today. Tonight, spend the night at local herder family, enjoy Mongolian delicacies, immerse yourself in the nomad culture, and sleep in a ger, a traditional dwelling for Mongolians. You share the ger with the family. While the ger is small and shared, this is a great way to experience the nomad lifestyle & connect with the people. There are no indoor bathroom facilities, so outdoor toilets are to be expected. Be sure to peek through your door tonight, Mongolian night sky will be the most beautiful thing you will ever sky.
- Se Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Activities Included – Orkhon Valley, Orkhon Falls, “Khorkhog” barbecue making
- Accommodation – Herderfamily ger
Day 4: Tsenkher Hot Springs
Set between forested hills, Tsenkher’s hot springs are a popular detour from the main road. It will give you a great pleasant break during the trip, offering you a chance to relax in the hot spring pools. Enjoy the luxury. Expect to spend the whole day at the resort, in a chillax mode. We recommend sitting in the pool at night, for a less crowded, and somewhat a romantic experience. As you go back in, get ready for the big ride tomorrow.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Activities Included – Tsenher hot springs resort
- Accommodation – Tsenher Hot springs resort
Elsen tasarkhai/Mini Gobi – Sand dunes
Rise with the sun! Today, Zaya team takes you to the Mini Gobi on the way to UB, offering a chance for you to feel what Gobi is like. After a day in amazingly green valley, your day in the Mini Gobi can be very different and calming. Enjoy this afternoon hiking up the sand dunes and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Soak it all in! Though not included in the trip, it is highly recommended that you to ride a Bactrian camel. If you appreciate the nature & wild animal, this is definitely the one for you. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free for you to explore at your own pace. You’ll see nomadic herdsmen and their families watching over goats, sheep, and horses. Get to know their simple, but delightful way of living in this little peaceful corner of the world. Spend your last night in humble herderfamily in the middle of sand dunes.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch
- Optional Activities – Horse riding, Camel riding
6 days & 5 nights
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar
Welcome to Ulaanbaatar! Zaya drivers will meet you at the airport and happily take/escort/drive you to your choice of accommodation. If you arrive earlier than the indicated date, explore what our lovely capital, Ulaanbaatar has to offer. The big Journey begins with a meeting with Zaya staff at your convenient location the day before the tour begins! Discuss about your travel plans & get ready for the journey.
Day 2: Elsen tasarkhai/Mini Gobi – Sand dunes
Rise with the sun and prepare for the big journey ahead. Get to know your driver, guide, and fellow travelers over breakfast at Zaya hostel, and head on the big journey. Today, Zaya team takes you to the Mini sand dunes, offering a chance for you to feel what Gobi is like. Your day in the Mini Gobi will be peaceful and calming. Enjoy this afternoon hiking up the sand dunes and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Soak it all in! Though not included in the trip, it is highly recommended that you to ride a Bactrian camel. If you appreciate the nature & wild animal, this is definitely the one for you. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free for you to explore at your own pace. You’ll see nomadic herdsmen and their families watching over goats, sheep, and horses. Get to know their simple, but delightful way of living in this little peaceful corner of the world. Tonight, spend the night at local herder family, enjoy Mongolian delicacies, immerse yourself in the nomad culture, and sleep in a ger, a traditional dwelling for Mongolians. You share the ger with the family. While the ger is small and shared, this is a great way to experience the nomad lifestyle & connect with the people. There are no indoor bathroom facilities, so outdoor toilets are to be expected. Be sure to peek through your door tonight, Mongolian night sky will be the most beautiful thing you will ever sky.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Optional Activities – Horse riding, Camel riding
- Accommodation – Herder family ger
Day 3: Orkhon Valley Natural and Historical reserve
Today, you will be visiting the beautiful Orkhon Valley. Though it’s a long day of driving there, the scenery along the way is spectacular, so sit back, relax and enjoy it. Orkhon valley is one of the world’s most important cultural regions and recognized as a “Cultural Landscape” of the UNESCO World Heritage in 2004. It is a must destination for tourists to experience the nomadic and lush green lands of Mongolia. Thought the ride is exhilarating and challenging, it’s pleasantly peaceful and extremely beautiful. You can sit by the stream, listen to the sounds of the nature, and watch the horses across the lush grassland. Afterwards, drive to the Orkhon falls, one of the biggest waterfalls in Mongolia. About 20,000 years ago, the waterfall was formed by an exceptional merge of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Freshen up, put your feet in the cold water, enjoy the pleasant sounds of the waterfall, and soak in the beautiful scenery. You have an opportunity to feast on “khorkhog”, a traditional Mongolian barbeque dish today. Spend your last night in a humble herderfamily ger.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Activities Included – Orkhon Valley, Orkhon Falls, “Khorkhog” barbecue making
- Accommodation – Herder family ger
Day 4: Tsenkher Hot Springs Resort
Set between forested hills, Tsenkher’s hot springs are a popular detour from the main road. It will give you a great pleasant break during the trip, offering you a chance to relax in the hot spring pools. Enjoy the luxury. Expect to spend the whole day at the resort, in a relax mode. We recommend sitting in the pool at night, for a less crowded, and somewhat a romantic experience. As you go back in, get ready for the big ride tomorrow.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Activities Included – Tsenher hot springs resort
- Accommodation – Tsenher Hot springs resort
Day 5: Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake
Rise and shine! Today, you will be exploring the most unique attractions in Central Mongolia. Your first stop is White Lake of the Terkh River”, is located 2060 meters (1,28 miles) above the sea level. It’s the jewel of Arkhangai aimag and one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. The eruption of Khorgo Volcano, ytour next destination, explains the presence of the lake. Besides, it’s surrounded by other extinct volcanoes. Horseback riding can be arranged at site. This area is still wild, you may see chitals, marsh deer, wild boars, ducks or great cormorants. Tonight, you will be spending the nights at a tourist ger camp with an opportunity to take a shower.
- Meals Included – Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Activities Included – White Lake of Terkh River, Khorgo Volcano
- Optional Activities: Horse riding
- Accommodation – Tourist ger camp
Day 6: Kharkhorin
Head to the Ancient Capital of Mongolia, Kharkhorin today. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the nomads. You will be visiting Erdenezuu Monastery, the oldest Buddhist Monastery and probably the most important one. The monastery went through periods of neglect and prosperity until finally the Stalinist purges of 1937 put it completely out of business. After the collapse of communism, it became active again, offering a peaceful haven & religious freedom top the ones that seek it. Main 3 temples were destroyed, and most of the monks were purged, but it still stands proud today in the beautiful valley. Next, drive to the Kharkhorin Museum, where you will get an insight to the ancient Mongolia, the legendary Chinggis khan, and his empire. Today, you wull be spending the night in a tourist ger camp, with an opportunity of a hot shower.
- Meals included – Breakfast, lunch
- Activities Included – Erdenezuu Monastery, Kharkhorin Museum
- Accommodation – Tourist ger camp
Airport pick-up & drop-off
Meals during the trip
breakfast, lunch, dinner
4-wheel car & driver
Accommodation during the trip
tourist ger camp
local family ger
English speaking tour guide
Entrance to parks & monasteries
Visit the Ancient Capital of Mongolia is available during entire year.
| 1 person | $770 |
| 2 persons | $444 |
| 3 persons | $336 |
| 4 persons | $281 |
| 5 persons | $249 |
| 6 persons | $227 |
| 1 person | $1158 |
| 2 persons | $656 |
| 3 persons | $489 |
| 4 persons | $406 |
| 5 persons | $356 |
| 6 persons | $320 |
| 1 person | $1361 |
| 2 persons | $778 |
| 3 persons | $583 |
| 4 persons | $486 |
| 5 persons | $428 |
| 6 persons | $389 |
| 1 person | $1661 |
| 2 persons | $956 |
| 3 persons | $721 |
| 4 persons | $604 |
| 5 persons | $533 |
| 6 persons | $486 |
| 1 person | $1987 |
| 2 persons | $1148 |
| 3 persons | $868 |
| 4 persons | $728 |
| 5 persons | $644 |
| 6 persons | $588 |
REVIEWS
Lake Khuvsgul was amazing as well. The scenery is spectacular, the people friendly. The waters are pristine, especially as you go north of the town of Hatgal. Boat rides and horse trekking are readily available
I enjoyed my visit and definitely will return to see rest of Mongolia.
“Thank you Andy for making my trip easy”