Mongolia Tours: Gobi Desert

Straddling Central Asia, spliced between Siberia and the vast steppes of central Asia to the north and China to the south, lies the Gobi Desert, one of the most mysterious and intriguing of all the world’s arid lands. Moonscapes, flaming cliffs and the amazing Khongoryn Els sand dunes stretching to the horizon may all be found, but the Gobi is also alive with wildlife, particularly in September when the heat of summer begins to subside. You’ll very likely see antelope, wild ass, gazelle, and more than 200 species of bird inhabiting the park, including cranes and raptors. A short flight from Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad is the best way to access the Gobi on this leg of your Mongolia tour.

Fossil Sites
In Gurvansaikhan National Park take a trip to the world-renowned Flaming Cliffs, where evidence of a flourishing Late Cretaceous Age may be experienced firsthand. Considered by many paleontologists to be the mecca of the fossil world, it’s a must-see for the enthusiast or casual observer alike. A guided dig may be arranged for the serious student of paleontology.

Arburd Sands
Ninety miles south of Ulaanbaatar you’ll encounter steppes, sand dunes and Gobi rock formations, and many nomads with livestock. Stay at a ger camp and enjoy some of the best horse riding in the country. The local family belongs to one of the most famous horse-trainer families in Mongolia, and can give time-tested tips on horsemanship to the eager rider.

Altai Mountains
Where the Gobi Desert and the Altai Mountains meet, a unique ecosystem provides a habitat for wolves, pallas cat, gazelle, ibex, argali, wild ass a variety of raptors, and most importantly, the snow leopard. An expert guide may be arranged to track this beautiful and, sadly, very endangered animal in the hopes of a glimpse. (Please note that the chances of actually seeing a snow leopard in the wild are extremely remote, and that custom travel in this area may not always be available. Call your Travel Specialist for details.) Having an opportunity to interact with the wildlife in this region will be a memorable experience on your Mongolia travel.

Camel Trekking
It’s possible to take a day or multi-day camel-supported trek through various areas of the Gobi, alternately walking and riding. They’re smelly, ornery and belligerent—you’ve got to try it! By employing this ancient means of transport you’ll be stepping back in time and experiencing an exceptional insight into a way of life that has endured for centuries on the steppes of Central Asia. Stay in gers, welcomed by the locals, or camp under the stars for a truly remarkable Mongolia vacation. >>Mongolia: Kharakhorum

Travel Mongolia | Essential Mongolia | Mongolia: Gobi Desert | Mongolia: Kharakhorum | Mongolia: Lake Khosgol | Mongolia: Travel Essentials | Mongolia Accommodations