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Gobi and Horseback Tour

Discover Mongolia’s most iconic landscapes on this 13-day Gobi and Horseback Tour. Travel through the dramatic rock formations of Baga Gazarin Chuluu and the colorful cliffs of Tsagaan Suvarga before exploring the deep canyon of Yol Valley, the towering Khongor Sand Dunes, and the famous Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs.

This Gobi and Horseback Tour continues north to the green pastures of Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape, where you’ll ride across open steppe and experience authentic nomadic culture. Enjoy peaceful horseback riding around the lakes and forests of Naiman Nuur before finishing in historic Kharkhorin with a visit to Erdene Zuu Monastery. Combining desert landscapes, cultural heritage, and scenic riding, this Gobi and Horseback Tour offers an unforgettable way to explore Mongolia.

  • Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights
  • Tour Type: Private Tour
  • Available: Daily from 20 May to 20 September (Choose your preferred travel dates, and we can tailor the itinerary to suit your interests.)
  • Activities: Enjoy a scenic drive, light hikes, a 1-hour camel ride, horse ride, an authentic nomadic lifestyle experience, and visits to historic sites, desert landscapes, and lush green scenery.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Baga Gazarin Chuluu – Start of the Gobi and Horseback Tour

Our Gobi and Horseback Tour begins with a morning pickup at 9:00 AM. Then we head to Baga Gazariin Chuluu, a stunning rocky area in the Middle Gobi.

This area is 15 km by 10 km with striking rock formations. It stands out from the flat desert and offers great views. You can walk, hike, and enjoy the peaceful Gobi scenery.

Distance: 285km ( 5h drive on paved/ dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Lunch/ Dinner)
Gobi desert Tours

Day 2

Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa)

Today,  our tour heads to Tsagaan Suvarga, also known as the White Stupa. This beautiful cliff formation stands out with its bright layers of white, yellow, red, and orange. The colors come from natural minerals and clay in the rock.

It’s a great place to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the wide-open views of the Gobi Desert.

Distance: 255km ( 5h drive on paved/ dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Gobi Tour Mongolia

Day 3

Explore Yol Valley

Yol Valley is a narrow, beautiful spot in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park.

Tall cliffs and rocks surround the valley. You can hike through narrow paths and see a glacier that melts by late June. Enjoy the fresh air, spot wildlife, and take great photos.

Distance: 230km ( 5h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Gobi desert Tour

Day 4

Khongor Sand Dunes- Highlight of the Gobi and Horseback Tour

A highlight of our Gobi and Horseback Tour is today’s visit to the magnificent Khongor Sand Dunes, which stretch over 180 kilometers and rise up to 800 meters high.

Climbing these dunes can be tough for many people. But when you get to the top, you’ll see an amazing view of the desert. Experience riding on two-humped Bactrian camels.

Distance: 180km ( 5h drive on paved/ dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Gobi desert Tour

Day 5

Bayanzag- flaming cliffs

After breakfast, we drive to Bayanzag, famously known as the Flaming Cliffs. This iconic site is where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered by American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews.

The red cliffs glow at sunset, making it a photographer’s dream in the Gobi Desert.

Distance: 130km ( 4h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Gobi and Central Mongolia tour

Day 6

Explore the Ruins of Ongi Monastery

Ongi Monastery was one of the largest and most respected in Mongolia. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in 1939 during the communist purge.

Today, only ruins remain. But even with little left, it’s a fascinating place to visit. You can walk through the ruins, enjoy the views, and imagine its powerful past.

Distance: 150km ( 5h drive on dirt road )
Nomad's Ger ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Ongi Monastery

Day 7

Orkhon Valley

Orkhon Valley is one of Mongolia’s most beautiful destinations. This area features rolling grasslands, lush meadows, and unique volcanic rock formations. Today is the longest driving day of this 13-day Gobi and horseback adventure, but the stunning scenery makes it worthwhile.

You’ll also enjoy a short hike to the beautiful Orkhon Waterfall, a perfect spot to stretch your legs and take in nature’s beauty.

Distance: 320km ( 8h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner )
Orkhon waterfall

Day 8

Start the Horse Trip to the 8 lakes

Begin your horseback adventure to the Eight Lakes in Mongolia! This trip combines breathtaking scenery, local culture, and outdoor adventure.

Formed by ancient volcanic activity, the Eight Lakes—or Khuisiin Naiman Nuur—are surrounded by forests, hills, and meadows. It’s the perfect spot for travelers who love nature, exploration, and authentic Mongolian landscapes.

Distance: ( approx 25 km, 4-5 hours ride)
Ger Guesthouse (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Horseback Tour Mongolia

Day 9

Continue Horse Trek to 8 Lakes

Continue your Gobi and Horseback Tour as you ride north through the stunning Eight Lakes region of Mongolia. This leg of your journey brings more excitement, breathtaking scenery, and rich culture in the heart of the Khangai Mountains.

Enjoy the peaceful ride and take in panoramic views of the crystal-clear lakes surrounded by rolling hills and forests. It’s a perfect day to connect with nature and experience Mongolia’s wild beauty.

Distance: ( approx 25 km, 4-5 hours ride)
Ger Guesthouse (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Eight Lakes

Day 10

Horse Trek to Buurug Valley

Today, continue your adventure as you leave the beautiful Eight Lakes behind and ride toward the breathtaking Orkhon Valley. Enjoy every moment of your horseback journey through this amazing landscape filled with rolling hills and open grasslands.

Along the way, you’ll discover the area’s rich wildlife and unique plant life. You’ll also meet local nomadic families, experience their daily life, and enjoy Mongolia’s warm hospitality.

Distance: ( approx 25 km, 4-5 hours ride)
Ger Guesthouse (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Gobi and horseback tour

Day 11

Horse Trek to Orkhon Waterfall

Continue your Gobi and Horseback Tour to the stunning Orkhon Waterfall, one of Mongolia’s most iconic natural sites. As you ride, the valley widens into peaceful open land with breathtaking views.

Explore the area, listen to the roar of the waterfall, and walk along the edge of the deep Orkhon Canyon. On your final day of horseback riding, relax at a cozy tourist camp and reflect on your amazing Mongolian journey.

Distance: ( approx 25 km, 4-5 hours ride)
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Adventure Tours Mongolia

Day 12

Kharkhorin & Erdene Zuu Monastery

Today, we will visit Kharkhorin, the former capital of the Mongol Empire. This historic town is full of cultural treasures and stories from the past.

We’ll explore Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of Mongolia’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples, and also visit the Kharkhorin Museum.

Distance: 125km ( 4h drive on dirt/ paved road )
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Kharkhorin

Day 13

Gobi and Horseback Tour Ends: Return to Ulaanbaatar

After breakfast, we’ll drive back to Ulaanbaatar. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or guesthouse.

This marks the end of your 13-day Gobi and Horseback Tour. We hope you had an unforgettable adventure!

Distance: 365km ( 6h drive on paved road )
( Breakfast/ Lunch )

Gobi and Horseback Tour Price

2 people -$2860 per person

3 people -$2420 per person

4 people -$2215 per person

Included

  • Breakfast- 12, Lunch- 13, Dinner-12
  • Standard ger camp 9, Nomad’s extra ger 3
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Driver+ Gas+4WD vehicle / Minivan
  • Camel riding 1h
  • Horse riding
  • Local Horse Guide
  • Horses for luggage
  • Entrance fees for the parks and museums listed in the program
  • Daily drinking water (1.5 liter per person per day)

Not Included

  • International Airfare and Mongolia visa fee
  • Personal items
  • Alcoholic drinks, snacks, bar bills, laundry
  • Accommodation in Ulaanbaatar
  • Travel insurance
  • Single supplement
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers

Request Gobi and Horseback Tour

Have a questions or want to customize this tour? Send us a request using the form below

Prefer email? Contact us at contact@manofmillennium.com

By submitting this form, you agree to our Booking Terms & Conditions.

FAQ

Why Choose This Tour?

13-Day Gobi and Horseback Tour

Explore the best of Mongolia on this 13-day Gobi and Horseback Tour. Your journey starts at Baga Gazarin Chuluu, a stunning rocky area in the Gobi, then moves to the colorful Tsagaan Suvarga cliffs. Discover the breathtaking Yol Valley with its dramatic canyons and frozen river. Experience the vast Khongor Sand Dunes and the unique Bayanzag “Flaming Cliffs,” famous for dinosaur fossils.

Ride north toward the beautiful Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is known for its wide green pastures and traditional nomadic culture. Meet local herders, stay in cozy ger camps, and enjoy riding across open grasslands.

Continue to the scenic Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur) area, surrounded by forests and volcanic mountains. Enjoy peaceful trail rides, picnic by the lakes, and relax under the stars. Finally, visit Kharkhorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. Explore Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s first Buddhist monastery, and discover the country’s fascinating history.

This Gobi and Horseback Tour combines Mongolia’s top natural and cultural highlights. Ride through deserts, valleys, and mountains. Connect with local people and explore breathtaking landscapes. If you love horses, open spaces, and authentic travel experiences, this Gobi and Horseback Tour is perfect for you.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast and dinner are provided by the ger camp. Depending on the day’s travel itinerary, lunch will be served either at the camp or at a local roadside café.

Breakfast at the ger camps: Each camp is different. Some camps serve a buffet breakfast, while others provide a simple breakfast such as bread, eggs, sausages, jam, cheese, cereals, yougurt, some fruits, coffee, and tea.
Lunch and dinner: Meals are typically Mongolian-style dishes including meat (beef, mutton, or chicken), vegetables, pasta, rice, soup, salad, and more, as well as some desserts.
Vegetarian and vegan meals are available upon request. However, please inform us in advance when booking your tour.

Accommodation

In rural areas, instead of hotels, seasonal ger camps serve tourists.

What is a ger camp?

Standard Ger Camps are like hotels, but instead of rooms, you sleep in a Ger. These camps are usually near famous places. A Standard Ger has 2 to 4 single beds, a small table, a stove to keep warm. And sometimes a a shelf or a small sink. There is no bathroom inside the ger. You will use clean toilets and hot showers in another building nearby. There is also a place to eat, and sometimes a small bar or game room.
Some camps have Ensuite Gers. These have a private bathroom inside the ger. If you want this type, please tell us. We can book it for you, but it costs extra. Please note that ensuite gers are not available at all tourist destinations, and some ger camps have only a few ensuite gers.

What Are Ger Guesthouses? ( Nomad’s extra ger)

Some nomadic families living in national parks or tourist areas run small businesses renting ger accommodations to backpackers. This gives you a chance to experience the real nomadic lifestyle up close.

These usually have 4–6 beds and are shared only with your group, not with others. Keep in mind, many nomadic families don’t have formal toilets at their summer homes. Instead, you’ll find simple toilet trenches, often screened on three sides. Also, most ger guesthouses may not have shower facilities, so be prepared for basic living conditions.

Hotels

In Ulaanbaatar, it is usually more cost-effective to book your hotel independently through Booking.com or similar websites and purchase the tour separately from a tour company. However, if you prefer, we can include hotel accommodation in your tour upon request.

Guide and Transportation

Englsih seapking tour guides

All of our guides are highly proficient in English and are knowledgeable, flexible, and attentive to your needs. Guides in other languages can be arranged upon request for an additional fee.

Car with Driver

We provide comfortable Japanese or Korean vehicles suitable for both off-road and paved roads. Although we have a wide selection of vehicles, we will choose the most suitable option for you depending on the group size. All of our drivers are highly experienced, friendly, and skilled in safe driving.

Packing List

Riding & Outdoor Clothes:

  • Lightweight, breathable shirts (long-sleeved for sun protection)

  • Comfortable riding pants (no jeans if possible — too stiff for long rides)

  • Fleece jacket or warm sweater (for evenings and mountain areas)

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket

  • Light down jacket (especially for spring or autumn)

  • Comfortable camp or casual clothes for evenings

  • Scarf or buff (protects from dust and sun)

Footwear:

  • Sturdy riding boots (with a small heel) or hiking boots suitable for stirrups

  • Sandals or light shoes for camp use

  • Warm socks and thin riding socks

Health and Safety Essentials

  • Personal medications – Bring all necessary medications in their original packaging.

  • Basic first aid kit – Include items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary personal care supplies.

  • Bug spray or insect repellent – Especially helpful during evenings or in grassland areas.

  • Sunscreen – The sun can be intense in Mongolia’s high-altitude regions.

Toiletries and Personal Care+ Gear

To save space, bring travel-size toiletries and only what you’ll need:

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo
  • Small travel pillow
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Personal toiletries (eco-friendly soap/shampoo)
  • Wet wipes (very handy in remote areas)
  • Sunscreen (high SPF), lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat
  • Reusable water bottle (1–2 liters)
  • Riding gloves (protect hands during long rides
  • Small gifts for local families