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Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar, Sand Dunes & Terelj National Park
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Length
8 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia)
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Ends in
Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia)
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Available Tour Start Dates
MAY 13, 2027 to SEP 28, 2028
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
Small Group
Group trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$2,299.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Mongolia doesn't do subtle. On this 8-day adventure, start in Ulaanbaatar before the steppe opens up and the landscape gets stranger and more spectacular with every kilometre. Golden dunes rise from rolling grasslands at Khugnu Khan, sculpted granite formations fill Terelj National Park, and the towering Genghis Khan Statue delivers a finale as vast as the country itself.
Visited During Tour
Elsen Tasarkhai (Mongolia) | Gorkhi-Terelj National Park (Mongolia) | Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar, Sand Dunes & Terelj National Park tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code AMUM-11671
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Day
1Arrival in Mongolia
Welcome to Mongolia! Arrive in Ulaanbaatar at any time and make your own way to the hotel to check in and settle in after your journey. As one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, Mongolia is known for its vast open landscapes and rich nomadic heritage-an incredible setting for the adventure ahead. This evening, meet your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and fellow travelers at a welcome briefing, where you'll get an overview of the journey. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed evening with the option to join your group for dinner at a local spot, a perfect opportunity to connect and kick off your time together.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. After your welcome meeting, join your CEO for an optional group dinner.
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Day
2Explore Ulaanbaatar
Start your first full day in Ulaanbaatar with a guided tour exploring the cultural and historical highlights of Mongolia's capital. Begin at the revered Gandan Monastery, one of the country's most important Buddhist sites, where you'll encounter the impressive 26-metre gold-leafed statue of Migjid Janraisig, a powerful symbol of Mongolia's spiritual heritage. Continue on to Zaisan Hill, climbing to the summit for sweeping panoramic views over the city, along with a striking Soviet-era memorial that reflects Mongolia's complex 20th-century history. After some free time for lunch, visit the Bogd Khan Winter and Summer Palace, once home to Mongolia's last king. Here, you'll gain insight into the country's royal past as you explore a fascinating collection of Buddhist artworks, royal treasures, and unique historical artifacts. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon, with the rest of the day at leisure to relax or continue exploring at your own pace.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Ulaanbaatar City Tour
Visit the highlights of Ulaanbaatar with a guided tour to the Gandan Monastery, Bogd Khan Palace, and Zaisan Hill - where you can take in a bird's eye view of the city.
Free Time
Free time to relax and explore at your leisure in Ulaanbaatar.
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Day
3Journey from Ulaanbaatar to Mini Gobi
Leave the city behind this morning and journey west across Mongolia's vast steppe, where endless grasslands stretch to the horizon-a reminder that Mongolia is one of the least densely populated countries on Earth. Arrive at Elsen Tasarkhai, often referred to as the "Mini Gobi," a unique landscape where sweeping sand dunes rise from the surrounding plains. Spend the afternoon exploring and hiking through this remarkable stretch of desert. Continue on to your ger camp, where you'll settle into your traditional accommodation, an authentic way nomadic families have lived for centuries. This evening, enjoy a hearty Mongolian barbecue dinner before unwinding under the wide-open sky and taking in the peaceful beauty of the steppe.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Hike the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes
Discover the striking landscapes of Elsen Tasarkhai, a rare 80 km stretch of golden sand dunes set against Mongolia's vast grassy steppe, forming part of the expansive Mongol Els system. Hike along the sweeping ridgelines for panoramic views across rolling dunes and open plains.
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Day
4Escape to Terelj National Park
Begin the day with breakfast at your ger camp before heading into the rugged landscapes surrounding Khugnu Khan Mountain. Set out on a scenic hike through pine forests and rocky ridgelines, taking in sweeping views across the Mongolian steppe, before visiting the atmospheric ruins of Ovgon Khiid Monastery, a centuries-old monastery built into the mountainside. Later, enjoy an authentic cultural experience with a local nomadic family, learning to make traditional Mongolian dumplings together inside their working ger before sharing a home-cooked lunch. Spend the afternoon gaining insight into daily nomadic life, with the chance to experience and observe traditional activities that form part of the family's everyday routine before returning to camp for free time and dinner under the vast Mongolian skies.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Hike to Khugnu Khan Mountain
Set out for a rewarding hike on Khugnu Khan Mountain, a striking granite massif rising above the surrounding steppe. The trail winds through pine forest to rocky ridgelines, where sweeping panoramic views await. Hike details: Distance: 2-3 km (1.25 - 2 miles) Difficulty: Moderate difficulty
Visit Uvgun Monastery
Discover the evocative ruins of Ovgon Khiid, a 17th-century monastery set dramatically into the rocky slopes of Khugnu Khan. One of Mongolia's oldest religious sites, it was largely destroyed during the Soviet purges and has since been partially restored-its atmospheric setting among towering boulders adding to its quiet sense of history.
Nomadic Family Visit with Mongolian Dumpling Making
Visit a local nomadic family and gain a firsthand insight into the traditions and daily rhythms of Mongolian pastoral life, where herding livestock across seasonal pastures has been practiced for generations. Enjoy a hands-on dumpling-making experience inside a traditional ger, share lunch with the family, and spend time experiencing the authentic routines and customs that shape life on the steppe.
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Day
5Elsen Tasarkhai/Gorkhi Terelj National Park
Travel east today toward the stunning landscapes of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Known for its dramatic granite rock formations, forested hills, and winding river valleys, Terelj offers a striking contrast to the open steppe you've explored so far. Arrive at your ger camp and take some time to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings. If you're feeling active, head out on an optional short hike to get your first taste of the park's unique terrain. This evening, enjoy dinner at camp and settle in for another night in a traditional ger.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
1Optional Activities for Day 5
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Day
6Explore Terelj National Park
Spend a full day exploring the natural and cultural highlights of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia's most beautiful protected areas, known for its dramatic rock formations and serene alpine landscapes just outside the capital. Begin with a visit to Turtle Rock, a striking natural formation shaped like a giant turtle and considered a symbol of longevity in Mongolian culture. Continue on to the Aryaval Meditation Monastery, reached by a scenic hillside climb lined with carved Buddhist mantras, offering panoramic views over the valley and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Return to camp for lunch before trying your hand at traditional Mongolian archery, one of the historic sports of Naadam. In the afternoon, head out for a guided hike through the surrounding river valleys and forested hills, home to wildlife such as marmots and birds of prey. After a full day in nature and culture combined, return to camp for dinner and a relaxed evening in the peaceful surroundings of the park.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Turtle Rock
A striking granite outcrop shaped by natural erosion into the form of a giant turtle, this iconic site holds deep cultural significance in Mongolia, where turtles symbolize longevity and stability.
Aryaval Monastery
Perched on a hillside, Aryaval Meditation Monastery is reached via a scenic 1 km staircase lined with carved Buddhist mantras and zodiac animal symbols. While the monastery itself is relatively modern, the setting is serene and the panoramic views are exceptional-well worth the climb.
Archery Session
Discover the art of traditional Mongolian archery (surnai), one of the three classic Naadam games. With guidance from a local expert, learn about historic bow styles, time-honoured techniques, and take part in a hands-on practice session-suitable for all experience levels.
Hiking in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Explore the scenic river valleys and forested hills of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, where rolling landscapes are home to wildlife such as ibex, marmots, and birds of prey. Routes are tailored to the group's fitness level, offering a flexible and rewarding outdoor experience. Hike details: Distance: 3-4 km (2 - 2.5 miles) Difficulty: Moderate difficulty
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Day
7Return to Ulaanbaatar
Return to Ulaanbaatar today after your time in the wilderness, travelling back through the sweeping steppe landscapes of central Mongolia. Along the way, stop at one of the country's most iconic landmarks, the Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex. Standing at an incredible 40 metres tall, this stainless steel monument honours Mongolia's most legendary historical figure and offers panoramic views over the surrounding plains from the horse's head. Continue onward into the capital and arrive back at your hotel in the early afternoon to check in and refresh. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore Ulaanbaatar further and in the evening, choose to join your group for an optional farewell dinner, marking the end of your journey through Mongolia.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Genghis Khan Monument Visit
Towering over the banks of the Tuul River, the 131ft tall Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue is truly a sight to behold amid the flatlands of Mongolia. According to legend, this is where the mighty Khan discovered a golden whip that aided his many conquests. Stop by the visitors' centre, then ascend into the head of the horse, where a panoramic view of the landscape awaits.
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Day
8Farewell to Mongolia
Conclude your Mongolia journey today and depart at your convenience before check-out. As your time in Mongolia comes to an end, reflect on the landscapes, nomadic culture, and wide-open spaces that define this remarkable country.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar, Sand Dunes & Terelj National Park tour:
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group, UlaanbaatarYour Foodie Moment: Nomadic Family Visit with Mongolian Dumpling Making, Elsen Tasarkhai. Guided tour of Gandan Monastery. Visit to Zaisan Hill. Visit to Bogd Khan Winter & Summer Palace. Explore and hike the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes. Traditional Mongolian barbecue dinner. Hike to Khugnu Khan Mountain. Visit to Uvgun Monastery. Visit to a nomadic family. Mongolian dumpling-making experience. Lunch shared with a nomadic family. Dinners at ger camps. Visit to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Visit to Turtle Rock. Visit to Aryaval Meditation Monastery. Archery session. Hiking in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Visit to Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Explore Ulaanbaatar's spiritual heart at Gandan Monastery and Bogd Khan Palace, Hike golden sand dunes and sleep in a traditional ger camp at Khugnu Khan, Trek through Terelj National Park past Turtle Rock and Aryaval Monastery, Take in sweeping steppe views from the base of the iconic Genghis Khan Statue
Message from G Adventures About Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Optional Activities
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Gorkhi Terelj National Park- Afternoon Hike in the National Park
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (3 nts), ger camps (4 nts).
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners
What are the meals like on this trip?
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Included breakfasts will usually be asian style consisting of noodles or congee (rice porridge) or bread and eggs. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice maybe limited. While trekking in remote regions food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
What is the role of the group leader during this trip?
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO) in Mongolia. The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Transportation
Private vehicle, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or other holy sites.
Checklist
Cold weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layersConservative Dress:o Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)o Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Light Hiking:o Hiking bootso Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)o Walking poles Warm weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Are there any additional packing suggestions I should consider?
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips. Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones.
When can I do my laundry on this trip?
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Service Level
Standard: Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.