Experience a 13-day Gobi and horseback adventure from the vast Gobi Desert to the lush Orkhon Valley. Ride across golden dunes and green steppes while discovering Mongolia’s rich nomadic culture.
Day 1
Baga Gazarin Chuluu – Start of the Gobi and Horseback Adventure
Our Gobi and horseback adventure 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.
Standard Ger Camp ( Lunch/ Dinner)
Day 2
Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa)
Today, our Mongolia overland 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.
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
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.
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Day 4
Khongor Sand Dunes- Highlight of the Gobi and horseback adventure
A highlight of our Gobi and horseback adventure 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.
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
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.
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
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.
Nomad's Ger ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
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.
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner )
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.
Ger Guesthouse (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Day 9
Continue Horse Trek to 8 Lakes
Continue your Gobi and horseback adventure 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.
Ger Guesthouse (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
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.
Ger Guesthouse (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Day 11
Horse Trek to Orkhon Waterfall
Continue your horseback adventure 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.
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
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.
Standard Ger Camp ( Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Day 13
Gobi and horseback adventure 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 adventure. We hope you had an unforgettable adventure!
( Breakfast/ Lunch )
Tour Price
2 people -$2860 per person
3 people -$2470 per person
4 people -$2270 per person
Included
- Breakfast- 12, Lunch- 13, Dinner-12
- Standard ger 9, Nomad’s Ger 3
- English speaking tour guide
- Driver+ Gas+4WD vehicle / Minivan
- Camel riding 1h
- Horse riding
- Horses for luggage
- Local horse guide
- 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
Gobi and Horseback Adventure Tour 13 Days
Experience Mongolia’s diverse landscapes on this Gobi and Horseback Adventure Tour 13 Days. Explore the dramatic Gobi Desert, then travel into Central Mongolia for an unforgettable horseback adventure through the Orkhon Valley and Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur). Discover Tsagaan Suvarga, Yol Valley, Khongor Sand Dunes, Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, and Ongi Monastery in the Gobi. Enjoy a camel ride at the Khongor Sand Dunes before continuing north toward the beautiful landscapes of Central Mongolia.
The highlight of this Gobi and Horseback Adventure is riding through the Eight Lakes and Orkhon Valley. Ride across open grasslands, forests, mountains, rivers, and peaceful nomadic landscapes. Visit Orkhon Waterfall, meet nomadic families, and stay in traditional Mongolian gers. Finish your journey in Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, and visit Erdene Zuu Monastery before returning to Ulaanbaatar.
What to Expect
- Gobi Desert: Tsagaan Suvarga, Yol Valley, Khongor Sand Dunes, Bayanzag, and Ongi Monastery.
- Horseback adventure: Ride through the remote Eight Lakes and beautiful Orkhon Valley.
- Camel riding: Enjoy a camel ride across the golden Khongor Sand Dunes.
- Orkhon Valley: Discover Mongolia’s spectacular grasslands, rivers, mountains, and waterfalls.
- Nomadic culture: Meet local families and experience traditional ger life.
- Mongolian history: Visit Kharkhorin and historic Erdene Zuu Monastery.
- Complete adventure: Combine the Gobi Desert, horseback riding, Eight Lakes, Orkhon Valley, nature, culture, and history in one unforgettable 13-day Gobi and Horseback Adventure.
FAQ- Gobi and horseback adventure
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 Are Ger Guesthouses? ( Nomad’s extra yurt)
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 guesthouses may not have shower facilities, so be prepared for basic living conditions.
Hotels in Ulaanbaatar
Hotels in Ulaanbaatar are usually most cost-effective to book independently through Booking.com or similar hotel booking websites. We recommend choosing a hotel in or near the city center, as this makes it convenient to access restaurants, shops, and major sightseeing attractions. However, if you would prefer us to arrange your hotel in Ulaanbaatar as part of your tour, we can arrange this for you as well.
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
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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.
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Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots – Ideal for exploring national parks, valleys, and countryside trails.
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Waterproof jacket or rain poncho – Weather conditions can be unpredictable, so pack for possible rain.
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Hat, gloves, and scarf – Especially useful for cool mornings and nights.
Health and Safety Essentials
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Personal medications – Bring all necessary medications in their original packaging.
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Basic first aid kit – Include items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary personal care supplies.
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Bug spray or insect repellent – Especially helpful during evenings or in grassland areas.
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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:
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Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo
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Sunscreen and moisturizer to protect against dry air and sun exposure
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Roll-on deodorant
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Shaving cream (in tube or stick form) and extra razor blades
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Wet wipes and dry tissues – useful when traveling in rural areas


