Mongolian Wilderness Adventure(Trip #55495)

Tour Overview

We travel around in 4WD vans and stay in tents for maximum flexibility. We visit some truly spectacular regions and, though there is much driving to be done, we have days to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Climb sand dunes, go hiking in the mountains, swim in lakes and rivers. This trip is not for those who want luxury - there are no facilities and you will need to wash with bowls of water - but is for those who love the outdoors.

Itinerary:
Day 1 Arrive in Ulaan Baatar. Later this evening you will have the chance to meet your tour leader and the other members of the tour.
Day 2 A full free day to explore the capital city of Mongolia. Perhaps visit the Gandan monastery and the Winter Palace.
Day 3 Drive south through the Gobi to Mandalgovi. Approx. 8 hours driving
Day 4 Continue south to Yolyn Am or 'Vulture's Mouth', located in the 'Three Beauties' National Park. Approx. 11 hours driving
Day 5 Hike through the valley to reach the ice that remains there year-round. We then drive to the west.
Day 6We continue to Khongoryn Els and have the rest of the day free to explore these amazing sand dunes. Perhaps take a camel ride in the afternoon and climb the dunes for a memorable sunset.
Day 7 Drive north towards the Ongi River, a clear stream that runs through a barren rocky landscape. Our route allows a quick stop at Bayanzag. Approx. 7 hours driving
Day 8 Drive to the beautiful Khogno Khan Mountains, a massive series of rocky hills that rise up out of an otherwise flat landscape. Approx. 7 hours driving
Day 9 A full day to explore the nearby monastery and the mountains.
Day 10 A short drive takes us to Karakorum, the ancient capital built by Genghis Khan in the 13th century. We visit the magnificent Erdene Zuu monastery. Approx. 5 hours driving
Day 11 We drive to the White Lake, ringed by stark, volcanic mountains. We make several stops at interesting features. Approx. 7 hours driving
Day 12 A full day to relax at the lake. Wander along the shore line or hike up into the mountains for awesome views of this inhospitable terrain.
Day 13 Drive north through alpine scenery, crossing 3 mountains, on our way towards Lake Khovsgol. We pass herds of Mongolian horses and spend the night near the Moron River. Approx. 10 hours driving
Day 14 We make a short stop at the town of Moron before continuing to Lake Khovsgol, a magnificent clear blue lake on the Siberian border. We stay near the banks of the lake. Approx. 6 hours driving.
Day 15 - 16 Two full free days to hike around the lake or just relax and enjoy the views.
Day 17 We drive south to the Selenge River, one of the most lush and beautiful parts of Mongolia. Approx. 8 hours driving
Day 18 We continue south and east, stopping at the Orkon River again, only further downstream. Approx. 9 hours driving
Day 19 We drive to the Khustai National Park. Approx. 7 hours driving
Day 20 Drive back through the grasslands to Ulaan Baatar. Approx. 2 hours driving.
Day 21 Tour ends.

(Reference ID: ITAAMW)