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Event Festival Tours

Naadam Festival and Gobi Tour

By September 15th, 2026No Comments

Discover Mongolia on our Naadam Festival and Gobi Tour. This 11-day journey combines the excitement of Naadam in Ulaanbaatar with the beauty of the Gobi Desert. See wide-open landscapes, explore amazing desert scenery, and learn about Mongolia’s rich history and culture.

DAY 1 ( July 11)

Naadam Festival Opening Ceremony & Horse Racing

The Naadam Festival Tour begins at 9:00 AM with a visit to Sukhbaatar Square to see the 9 White Banners ceremony. Then, explore the festive Naadam Court and enjoy the Opening Ceremony at the Central Stadium.

Afterward, travel outside the city to watch exciting Naadam horse races, then return to Ulaanbaatar for hotel check-in.

Hotel*** (Lunch/ Dinner)
Naadam Festival and Gobi Tour

DAY 2 (July 12)

Kharkhorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery

After breakfast, we’ll meet at 8:30 AM and head west to Kharkhorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire. Today, it’s a peaceful village with historical importance.

You’ll visit the impressive Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery, built in 1585. Wander through its ancient courtyards and feel the deep spiritual atmosphere.

Distance: 385km ( 6h drive on paved road )
Standard Ger Camp (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Karakorum

DAY 3 ( July 13)

Explore the Ruins of Ongi Monastery

Today, we journey to Ongi Monastery, located at the foot of Mount Saikhan Ovoo. Although the monastery was mostly destroyed in 1939, the remaining ruins are rich in history and offer a powerful glimpse into Mongolia’s spiritual past.

Distance: 250km ( 6h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Ongi Monastery

DAY 4 ( July 14)

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 sandstone cliffs glow brilliantly at sunset, making this a photographer’s dream and a memorable part of your Gobi Desert adventure.

Distance: 150km ( 5h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Gobi and Kharkhorum Tour

DAY 5 ( July 15)

 Khongor Sand Dunes

One of the top experiences on your

 is today’s visit to the magnificent Khongor Sand Dunes. These towering dunes stretch for over 180 kilometers, with some reaching heights of 800 meters.

You’ll ride a Bactrian camel through the sweeping sands and, if you’re up for it, climb the dunes for panoramic views of the Gobi.

Distance: 130km ( 5h drive on dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
Gobi desert Tour

DAY 6 ( July 16)

Yol Valley

Today, we’ll explore the scenic Yol Valley, nestled in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. Walk through dramatic gorges and admire the towering cliffs that surround this icy valley—some glaciers linger here until summer’s end.

This day is perfect for nature walks, wildlife spotting, and photography.

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

DAY 7 ( July 17)

Gobi Desert Colors – Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa)

Today, the 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: 220km ( 5h drive on paved/dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
6-Day Gobi Tour

DAY 8 ( July 18)

Baga Gazriin Chuluu

Next, travel to Baga Gazriin Chuluu in the Middle Gobi, a large area filled with impressive granite rock formations. It’s a great spot for a relaxing walk or a short hike. Along the way, enjoy wide views of the open steppe and the quiet desert landscape.

Visiting Baga Gazriin Chuluu is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Mongolia’s Gobi region.

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

DAY 9 ( July 19)

Terelj National Park

Terelj National Park is known for its beautiful valleys, rivers, and rock formations. Start with a hike to the peaceful Ariyabal Meditation Temple and enjoy stunning views from the top.

Next, take a one-hour horse ride through rolling hills, experiencing Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle firsthand. This visit is a highlight of the Naadam Festival tour, showcasing the country’s natural beauty and culture.

Distance: 290km ( 5h drive on paved/ dirt road )
Standard Ger Camp (Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner)
About Naadam

DAY 10 ( July 20)

Genghis Khan Statue Complex & Ulaanbaatar Museum

Today we will visit the famous Genghis Khan Statue Complex, one of Mongolia’s top attractions. Afterwards, return to Ulaanbaatar to explore a local museum and discover Mongolia’s rich history and culture.

Finally, check in to your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace.

Distance: 100km ( 2h drive on paved road )
Hotel*** (Breakfast/ Lunch)
Mongolia Short tours

DAY 11 ( July 21)

Departure from Mongolia 

On the final day, the driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport or train station for your onward journey, concluding your unforgettable Naadam Festival tour in Mongolia.

Breakfast

Tour Price

2 people -$2680 per person

3 people -$2330 per person

4 people -$2180 per person

Group tour- $1995 per person

( Single supplement $460)

Included

Breakfast- 10, Lunch- 10, Dinner-9
Standard ger camp 8, Hotel *** 2
English speaking tour guide
Driver+ Gas+4WD vehicle / Minivan
Camel riding 1h
Horse riding 1h
Naadam festival ticket & permissions
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

Naadam Festival and Gobi Tour – 11 Days

Experience the best of Mongolia on this unforgettable Naadam Festival and Gobi Tour. This 11-day journey combines the excitement of Mongolia’s famous Naadam Festival with the spectacular landscapes, history, culture, and natural wonders of the Gobi Desert.

Begin your tour in Ulaanbaatar during the Naadam Festival. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and watch Mongolia’s traditional competitions of wrestling, horse racing, and archery. After Naadam, travel across the vast Mongolian steppe toward the Gobi Desert. Discover fascinating historical sites, dramatic cliffs, golden sand dunes, and beautiful mountain valleys. Enjoy a camel ride in the Gobi, explore the famous Flaming Cliffs, and experience the peaceful beauty of the desert.

The journey also includes Terelj National Park, known for its beautiful mountains, rock formations, and open landscapes. Stay in comfortable Mongolian ger camps, enjoy traditional food, and experience the unique landscapes and culture of Mongolia. With private and group tour options available, this Naadam Festival and Gobi Tour is a great way to experience Mongolia in 11 unforgettable days.

What to Expect

  • Naadam Festival: Experience wrestling, horse racing, and archery in Ulaanbaatar.

  • Gobi Desert: Explore golden dunes, dramatic cliffs, valleys, and desert landscapes.

  • Camel riding: Enjoy a memorable camel ride in the Gobi.

  • History & culture: Discover Mongolia’s rich heritage and historic sites.

  • Private & group tours: Choose the travel style that suits you best.

  • 11-day adventure: Experience the perfect combination of Naadam, Gobi, nature, culture, and adventure.

FAQ

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