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Central Mongolia Tours

Central Mongolia Grand Tour

By September 10th, 2026No Comments

Explore the beautiful landscapes and rich culture of Mongolia on the Central Mongolia Grand Tour. Visit mountains, sand dunes, ancient sites, hot springs, lakes, and volcanic landscapes on this 9-day tour while meeting local nomads along the way.

Day 1

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar

On the first day of your Central Mongolian tour, our team will meet you at the airport. After freshening up, we start exploring Ulaanbaatar. First, we visit Gandan Monastery, a peaceful site with beautiful Buddhist architecture.

Next, we head to the National History Museum to discover Mongolia’s fascinating past. Then, enjoy a relaxing walk around Sukhbaatar Square, the city’s vibrant heart. We end the day with dinner before dropping you at your hotel to rest.

Hotel*** (Lunch/Dinner)
Ulaanbaatar city tour

Day 2

Terelj National Park 

Today we pick you up from your hotel at 9:00 am. First, we visit the iconic Genghis Khan Statue. After exploring the statue complex, we drive to Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia’s most beautiful and popular parks.

In Terelj, visit Turtle Rock and the nearby Ariyabal Meditation Temple, both offering great views. The park’s mix of nature and culture makes it a highlight of the Central Mongolia Grand Tour.

Distance: 100km ( 2h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Best of Central Mongolia

Day 3

Elsen Tasarkhai: The Mini Gobi Experience on a Central Mongolia Grand Tour

After breakfast, we drive to Elsen Tasarkhai, a semi-desert in central Mongolia. Known as the “Mini Gobi,” it features sandy dunes, grasslands, rocky formations, and small water bodies.

Enjoy a 1-hour camel ride, explore the dunes, and take in the stunning scenery. Perfect for photos and short walks, Elsen Tasarkhai is a must-visit stop on your Central Mongolia Grand Tour.

Distance: 340km ( 6h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Central Mongolia Grand Tour

Day 4

Orkhon Valley 

Today we head to the Orkhon Valley, famous for its stunning natural beauty. The valley features lush grassy plains, a winding river, and the majestic Khangai Mountains in the background.

Enjoy hiking and a 1-hour horseback ride to explore the valley. Visit the famous Orkhon Waterfall, framed by rocky cliffs. With its rivers, mountains, and open plains, the Orkhon Valley is truly unforgettable.

Distance: 185km ( 4-5h drive on paved/ dirt road)
Nomad's Extra ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Orkhon waterfall

Day 5

Tuvkhun Monastery & Tsenher hot springs

Today, we drive to Tuvkhun Monastery, perched atop a mountain in the Khangai Range. It is one of Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monasteries. After arrival, enjoy a 10-kilometer uphill hike through the forest to the monastery.

After visiting the monastery, we continue to Tsenkher Hot Springs, famous for its mineral-rich waters and peaceful surroundings. Relax in the soothing hot springs, unwind after the hike, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Khangai Range.

Distance: 120km ( 4h drive on dirt road)
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Tuvkhun Monastery

Day 6

Khorgo & Terkh – Central Mongolia Grand Tour

Today, explore Khorgo Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, one of the highlights of the Central Mongolia Grand Tour. This beautiful park is a favorite spot for travelers who love nature and adventure.

You can go hiking, horseback riding, or birdwatching while enjoying the fresh air and peaceful views. The park is also famous for its volcanic landscape and clear blue lake.

Distance: 195km ( 6h drive on paved/ dirt road)
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Best of Central Mongolia

Day 7

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: 290km ( 6h drive on dirt/ paved road )
Standard Ger (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Karakorum

Day 8

Return to Ulaanbaatar 

After breakfast, we drive from Kharkhorin back to Ulaanbaatar. Once in Ulaanbaatar, check into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace. This is a perfect chance to relax, shop, or visit local sights. This marks the final stop of your Central Mongolia Grand Tour, giving you time to reflect on your journey through Mongolia’s history, nature, and culture.

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

Day 9

Departure from Mongolia

After breakfast, our driver will pick you up from the hotel. Then, transfer to the airport or train station to end your. Safe travels!

( Breakfast)

Tour Price

2 people -$2025 per person

3 people -$1755 per person

4 people -$1575 per person

5 and more – $1485 per person

( Single supplement $320)

Included

  • Breakfast- 8, Lunch- 8, Dinner-7
  • Standard ger 5, Nomad’s Ger 1, Hotel*** 2
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Driver+ Gas+4WD vehicle / Minivan
  • Camel riding 1h
  • Horse riding 1h
  • 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
  • Hotel early check-in and late check-out
  • Travel insurance
  • Single supplement
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers

Central Mongolia Grand Tour

Experience the best of Mongolia’s heartland on this Central Mongolia Grand Tour. Visit Terelj National Park, Elsen Tasarkhai, the Orkhon Valley, Tuvkhun Monastery, Tsenkher Hot Springs, Kharkhorum, Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, and Khorgo Volcano. Along the way, enjoy spectacular landscapes, meet local nomads, ride horses and camels, and discover Mongolia’s rich history and culture.

Begin at Terelj National Park, known for its granite rock formations, green valleys, and mountain scenery. Continue to Elsen Tasarkhai for golden sand dunes and a camel-riding experience. Explore the historic Orkhon Valley, visit Orkhon Waterfall, and experience traditional nomadic life. Then hike through the forested mountains to Tövkhön Monastery before relaxing at Tsenkher Hot Springs.

Continue to Kharkhorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, and visit Erdene Zuu Monastery. Finish your journey at Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake and Khorgo Volcano, surrounded by spectacular volcanic landscapes. Stay in traditional Mongolian ger camps, enjoy local food, and experience authentic nomadic culture. This Central Mongolia Grand Tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience the region’s landscapes, history, and culture in one unforgettable journey.

What to Expect

  • Amazing landscapes: Mountains, forests, steppe, dunes, lakes, and volcanic scenery.
  • Horse & camel riding: Experience traditional Mongolian travel.
  • History & culture: Visit Kharkhorum, Erdene Zuu, and Tuvkhun Monastery.
  • Hot springs: Relax at Tsenkher Hot Springs.
  • Nomadic culture: Stay in ger camps and meet local families.
  • Nature & adventure: Hike, explore, and enjoy Central Mongolia’s spectacular scenery.

FAQ- Central Mongolia Grand Tour

What about drivers and guides?

Drivers with Vehicles

Our experienced drivers know Mongolia’s paved roads, gravel tracks, and rugged terrain. We provide comfortable, reliable vehicles suited to different road conditions, including Toyota Delica, Toyota Hiace, Toyota Prado, and Hyundai Grand Starex. Vehicles are selected based on the group size, itinerary, and road conditions to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Tour guides

Our English-speaking guides have excellent knowledge of Mongolia’s history, culture, and landscapes. They are friendly, professional, and happy to share their knowledge throughout your Mongolia tour. Guides who speak other languages can be arranged upon request for an additional fee.

What accommodation is provided?

What are ger camps? ( Yurt)

Standard Ger Camps are like hotels, but instead of rooms, you sleep in a yurt. These camps are usually near famous places. A Standard Ger has 2 to 4 single beds, a small table, and a stove to keep warm. And sometimes 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 yurt. 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 camps have only a few ensuite gers.

What meals are included?

Meals on Your Mongolia Tour

Breakfast and dinner are provided at the ger camps, while lunch is usually served at local restaurants or cafés based on the day’s itinerary. In the Mongolian countryside, ger camps mainly serve traditional Mongolian food, along with some European-style dishes. Meals often include meat with vegetables, salads, or soup. Breakfast usually includes tea or coffee, bread, butter, jam, eggs, and sausage. Some ger camps also offer cereals, pancakes, cheese, and other options. When staying with nomadic families, you can enjoy authentic homemade Mongolian food and experience local cuisine.

Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements can be arranged with advance notice. Please let us know about any allergies or restrictions when booking. We provide one 1.5-liter bottle of drinking water per person per day.

What should I bring with me?

Recommended Clothing for Gobi desert Tour

  • Warm layers – Mongolia’s climate can vary greatly, even in summer. Pack light and warm clothing such as sweaters, thermal tops, and a quality jacket.

  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots – Ideal for exploring national parks, valleys, and countryside trails.

  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho – Weather conditions can be unpredictable, so pack for possible rain.

  • Hat, gloves, and scarf – Especially useful for cool mornings and nights.

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

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

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo

  • Sunscreen and moisturizer to protect against dry air and sun exposure

  • Roll-on deodorant

  • Shaving cream (in tube or stick form) and extra razor blades

  • Wet wipes and dry tissues – useful when traveling in rural areas

Inquire About This Tour