
Trek and Gobi
From the steppes of Khangaï to the singing dunes of Gobi, an authentic trek in the heart of vast Mongolian landscapes.
Duration
19 days
From
€2,590/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
At the Tövkhön monastery, perched at 2,312 meters altitude, the wind has been blowing for centuries between the stone temples. This is where your immersion in the Khangaï mountains begins, before descending towards the UNESCO-listed valleys of the Orkhon. Seven days of trekking take you through isolated passes, larch forests and open steppes where nomadic herds graze.
Karakorum reveals the remains of the Mongol empire, while the Orkhon waterfalls unveil their black basalt wall. With herding families, you share traditional barbecue and discover yak milking. Further south, the ecosystem changes radically: the ochre cliffs of Bayanzag keep traces of dinosaurs, the dunes of Khongor stretch for 180 kilometers, and the canyons of Yoliin Am carve their deep gorges into the Gobi-Altaï mountains.
From the monasteries of Zanabazar to the Bactrian camel camps, this journey crosses fifteen centuries of Mongol history and reveals a country where vastness still forges nomadic souls.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary

Welcome and discoveries in Ulan Bator
Arrival in Ulan Bator, the Mongolian capital, where vast steppes gradually give way to a stunning city, blending Soviet heritage, nomadic traditions and emerging modernity. Welcome by your driver and transfer to the city center, your first glimpse of this fascinating destination with already captivating landscapes. Check-in at your hotel and rest (early check-in not included).

Departure to the steppe towards the mini-Gobi
Discovery of the Gandantegchinlen monastery, the country's main Buddhist center. Every morning, monks gather there for prayers in an atmosphere filled with serenity. This visit also allows you to learn more about Mongolian Buddhism and to freely exchange with people present on the site.
Departure for the splendid rock formations of Khögnö Khan. You discover a park with varied landscapes, between semi-desert steppes, taiga zones, granite massifs and a long stretch of sand approximately 80 km, which earned it the nickname of "mini Gobi".
Stroll along the sand dunes of Elsen Tasarkhai where we discover the arid landscapes of the Bayan desert.
Then, you hike to the Khambiin Khiid Monastery. Perched in the mountains, this 17th-century monastery was built by Zanabazar in tribute to his spiritual master, the monk Erdene. The peaceful atmosphere that reigns there and the view of the surroundings make it a remarkable cultural and spiritual stop.

Ancient Capital & Tovkhon Hermitage
Khogno Khan → Karakorum
Route for Kharkhorin, the former capital of the Mongols. Founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan, this emblematic city was one of the major stops on the Silk Road. It was from Karakorum that the Mongol empire was administered until the capital was transferred to Beijing by Kublai Khan. Today, only a few remains of the capital survive, recalling the historical importance of this place marked by the passage of the great khans. blablabla
Visit the Erdene Zuu monastery, built in 1586 by a nomadic prince. The complex, inspired by Chinese and Tibetan architectures, is surrounded by 108 sacred stupas, which testify to the spiritual importance of the site. The discovery continues at the Karakorum museum, dedicated to the history of the ancient capital and its region.
Kharkhorin → Orkhon Valley
You leave the road to reach the tracks and fully enjoy the natural landscapes. The route runs along the Orkhon canyons and the lush steppe where herds of nomadic families roam. You are then welcomed by a family of herders in the heart of the Orkhon Valley, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You spend the night camping west of Tuvkhun, in the heart of unspoiled nature.

Trekking through the Low Khangai mountains
Monastère de Tövkhön → Chaînes du khangai
We begin our hiking in the Orkhon Valley and Lower Khangai, an immersion into the heart of varied landscapes blending mountains, forests and open steppes. Over 7 days, you progress through isolated passes, follow river courses and explore confidential valleys, rarely traveled by visitors.
This trek combines adventure, nature and authentic encounters with nomadic families, particularly when discovering the Orkhon waterfall and sharing a moment with a local family. Each day reveals new panoramas and stages designed to fully appreciate the diversity of this region. This stay, adapted for travelers seeking wide open spaces, offers a balance between effort and rest in the heart of nature.
Hiking with logistical vehicle support.
The adventure begins at the Tövkhön monastery, from where you start a hike heading west. After approximately 12 km, a lunch break is planned near the Davkhar spring, before continuing your progression through the pass to reach the Biluut valley. You end the day at the edge of the Khestuut pass, after a route marked by the diversity of landscapes between mountains, forests and steppes.
Total distance: 25 km

Passage of Khetsuu to Mount Tsalgai
Walking tour
After breakfast, you cross the Khetsuu pass before reaching the vast Khushuun Tal steppe, where you have lunch. In the afternoon, you continue your journey by climbing the Yantsat pass, then set up camp at the foot of Mount Tsalgai. The day alternates between mountain passages and crossings of large plains.
Total distance: 22 km

Arrival in the Orkhon Valley
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon Valley
In the morning, you head out on a hike towards the Orkhon Valley. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this valley is a major centre of nomadism, where many herding families set up their summer camps each year.
You cross Mount Tsalgai before descending towards the valley. The river is crossed near a small waterfall, where you stop for lunch. The afternoon unfolds at the pace of a walk through the heart of the Orkhon Valley, until you reach your camp located in the surroundings of Undur Khyasaa.
Total distance: 21 km

Passage from Undur Khyasaa to Uliastai
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon Valley
Today, you continue your progress through mountain passes and valleys. After crossing Undur Khyasaa, you have lunch near Baadai Pass. In the afternoon, you cross a small river before following the peaceful Uliastai River, along which you set up camp for the night in a calm and natural environment.
Total distance: 21 km

Hiking along the Uliastai Valley
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon Valley
You start the day with a hike upstream in the Uliastai valley, where the landscapes become more dramatic and characterful. After lunch in the heart of the valley, you continue towards the sites of Ogotoni Bulan and Yamaat Bulan, renowned for their rocky cliffs and forested mountains. This itinerary leads to one of the most preserved places in the Orkhon valley, known mainly to local residents.
Total distance: 23 km

Deed Khurd Pass
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon Valley
Last day of hiking through the Uliastai valley. You have lunch at the foot of the Deed Khurd pass, then cross it before reaching the shores of a peaceful lake, where you spend the night under the stars.
Total distance: 22 km

Orkhon Waterfalls and Immersion with Nomads
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon cascades
After breakfast, you set off for a short drive through the Orkhon valley to meet a nomadic family. Along the way, you stop at the Orkhon waterfall, also known as Ulan Tsutgalaan. The water cascades down a dark basalt cliff, sometimes creating a fleeting rainbow as the sun reflects off it. Standing 16 meters high, these falls formed nearly 20,000 years ago, as a result of a combination of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
One night stay with a family of nomadic herders. You will discover the lifestyle of nomads and share their daily life in complete simplicity. Depending on the season, you may be offered the opportunity to participate in animal milking, traditional dairy product making, or even herding livestock on horseback.
(Activities subject to seasonal variations)
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D11
Ongi Monastery(MN)
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Transitional day between two ecosystems: you leave the green mountains of Khangai to head towards...
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ServicesOrkhon Valley → Ongii monastery • 7h30 • 300km
Discovery of the site, known as the Ong lamasery, as well as the associated small museum. The inhab...
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Services(1)3 000 MNT
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Planned accommodation: CampingD2→D9 + D11 + D14→D15
English-speaking guideD2→D18
Cook - trek circuitD2→D18
DriverD2→D18
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D12
Bayanzag(MN)
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Last day of track driving before reaching the gates of the Grand Gobi and its "Three Beauties", the tr...
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ServicesOngii monastery → Bayanzag • 4h30 • 150km
Visit to the Bayanzag cliffs, known as the "Flaming Cliffs" due to their r...
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Services(1)16 000 MNT
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Accommodation
Camp Gobi tour
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1 night
Standard ger320 000 MNT
Supplements included in the price
320 000
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Staff dinner(DS)mandatory
2026-06-2650 000
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Dinner(DIN)mandatory
2026-06-2680 000
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Staff Room+BF(STF)mandatory
2026-06-26190 000
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Staff room — 1 night· no rate (add a "Staff Room" supplement)
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English-speaking guideD2→D18
Cook - trek circuitD2→D18
DriverD2→D18
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D13
Khongor Dunes(MN)
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Early in the morning, you will head towards Khavtsgait Mountain. After a short transfer, you begin your...
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ServicesBayanzag → Khavtsgait • 1h • 40km
We then head west towards the park to reach the sand dunes of Khongor, where...
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Services(1)Khavtsgait → Khongor els • 4h • 160km16 000 MNT
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Accommodation
Homestay — Khongor els
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1 night
Homestay (ger)30 000 MNT
Dinner20 000 MNT
English-speaking guideD2→D18
Cook - trek circuitD2→D18
DriverD2→D18
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D14
Khongor Dunes(MN)
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This morning, you set off for a camel ride in the heart of the Gobi Desert. At a leisurely pace...
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Services(2)80 000 MNT
You then take the track heading east towards the "Three Beauties" and the canyon region.
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ServicesKhongor dunes → Yolii am • 5h20 • 180km
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Planned accommodation: CampingD2→D9 + D11 + D14→D15
English-speaking guideD2→D18
Cook - trek circuitD2→D18
DriverD2→D18
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D15
Yol Canyon(MN)
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Experience a trekking day in the Yoliin amet Mukhaart Shiveet region, two emblematic sites in...
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Services(3)5h • 20km42 000 MNT
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Planned accommodation: CampingD2→D9 + D11 + D14→D15
English-speaking guideD2→D18
Cook - trek circuitD2→D18
DriverD2→D18
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Baga Gazriin Chuluu(MN)
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You travel through one of the empt
At the end of the day, you attend the preparation of a Mongolian barbecue, then share this traditional meal with your hosts in a warm atmosphere.

On the way to the Gobi Desert!
Orkhon Valley → Ongii monastery
A transition day between two ecosystems: you leave the green mountains of Khangai to head towards the Gobi.
Discovery of the site, known as the Ongii lamasery, as well as the associated small museum. The dwellings and monasteries, once occupied by nearly a thousand monks, were almost entirely destroyed in 1937. Since 2002, a few monks have returned and have undertaken the reconstruction of the temples with modest means but profound devotion.

Flaming Cliffs and Dinosaurs
Last day of track before reaching the gates of the Great Gobi and its "Three Beauties", the three highest peaks of this part of the Gobi-Altai mountain range: Baruun Saihan, the Western Beauty; Dund Saihan, the Central Beauty; and Züün Saihan, the Eastern Beauty, which peaks at 2,846 meters.
Visit to the Bayanzag cliffs, known as the "flaming cliffs" due to their ochre and red hues, and famous for the "dinosaur cemetery". Surrounded by saxaul forests, they bear witness to a time when dinosaurs still inhabited the region. It was here that paleontologist Roy Andrews Chapman discovered, in 1922, the first dinosaur bones and eggs ever unearthed, now visible at the Natural History Museum in Ulan Bator and in several museums around the world.

Arrival in the Khongor dunes
Early in the morning, you will head towards the Khavtsgait Mountain. After a short transfer, you begin your hike. The climb up Khavtsgait Bagh mountain requires sustained effort, but the view of the desert from the summit is remarkable. You will observe many rock paintings depicting argali sheep, horses, camels and human figures in hunting scenes.
Khavtsgait → Khongor els
We then head west towards the Khongor sand dunes, or "clear beige sand". They stretch in a wide belt at the foot of the "Three Beauties", forming one of the most emblematic landscapes of the Gobi desert.
Visit of the Khongor dunes. This long expanse of sand, stretching over nearly 180 km long and 20 km wide, features dunes of approximately 80 meters in height, with the highest reaching 120 meters. From their summit, the view opens onto the vastness of the desert, while the movement of sand produces a natural humming sound, at the origin of the name "singing dunes". Beyond the golden ridges, the steppe stretches as far as the eye can see.

Camel trek and dune climbing
This morning, you will set off for a pleasant camel ride around your camp. At a leisurely pace, you will discover the typical landscapes of the Gobi desert, between sand dunes, vast desert expanses and mountains on the horizon. A wonderful experience to appreciate in a different way the beauty and tranquility of this unique environment.
On foot, you will climb one of the dunes to enjoy a wide panorama over the desert. From the summit, the silhouettes of the Three Beauties stand out on the horizon and, with a bit of luck, you will perceive the singing of the dunes.
Dunes de khongor → Yolii am
You then take the track heading east towards the "Three Beauties" and the canyons region.

The Valley of the Vultures
Walking tour
Experience a full day of trekking in the Yoliin am and Mukhaart Shiveet region, two emblematic sites of the Gobi desert. The morning begins with a hike through the heart of Yoliin Am gorge, renowned for its towering cliffs and unique microclimate, where patches of ice sometimes persist until late summer. You follow a narrow trail surrounded by rock walls and remain alert to wildlife; it is not uncommon to spot a golden eagle or an ibex on the heights.
After lunch in the heart of nature, you continue towards Mukhaart Shiveet, an even more isolated sector, characterized by its underground rivers and hidden springs amid the dunes. The path reveals an alternation of landscapes: desert areas, verdant valleys and contrasting reliefs, offering beautiful opportunities for observation and photography.
This day of hiking combines exploration, tranquility and immersion in varied environments, while revealing the diversity of the Gobi's ecosystems. An itinerary designed for travelers wishing to discover the region in an authentic way and away from the hustle and bustle.

Granite Mountains of Baga Gazriin Chuluu
Yolii am → Baga gazriin chuluu
You traverse one of the emptiest regions of Mongolie. Between rocky desert and semi-arid steppes, you reach the Baga gazariin chuluu rocky formation mountains, where imposing granite formations shaped by the often harsh elements of this area appear.
In the 19th century, two venerated monks lived here, and their inscriptions carved into the rock are still visible. According to legend, Genghis Khan stayed in this region, which is pleasant for hiking.

Trekking to discover Baga Gazriin Chuluu
Baga gazriin chuluu → Baga gazriin chuluu
You will travel through one of the emptiest regions of Mongolie. Between rocky desert and semi-arid steppes, you reach the Baga gazariin chuluu rocky formation mountains, where imposing granite formations shaped by the often harsh elements of this area appear.
In the 19th century, two venerated monks lived here, and their inscriptions carved into the rock are still visible. According to legend, Gengis Khan stayed in this region pleasant for walking.

Return to Ulaanbaatar and free time
Baga gazriin chuluu → Oulan Bator
Return to Ulan Bator. The last herds of wild horses sometimes cross the road before your eyes, while the last smoking yurts in the distance remind you of the steppe right up to the city gates. You then arrive in the city center and settle into your hotel, where you can rest as long as needed.
Rest of the day is free. Accompanied by your guide, you explore the city's shops to make your last purchases.

Good to have you back and see you next time!
Breakfast at the hotel. The driver will take you to Ulan Bator international airport. The return transfer will take place at the time you wish, depending on your flight.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Included
- Airport / hotel / airport transfers
- 2 nights in a ** hotel in Ulan Bator, breakfast included
- Full board during the excursion
- Mineral water
- 1 night in comfortable yurt camp with hot shower
- 4 nights with a local family, in a host's yurt
- 11 nights under canvas, camping
- Transportation by 4x4 or minibus + driver
- Essence
- English-speaking guide
- Cook for groups > 3 participants
- Local guide2
- Park and Museum Entrance Fees Mentioned
- Traditional show
- Kitchen equipment (mess tent, camping tables and chairs) and bedding (tent, sleeping bag, ground mat), sanitary tent
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
Entry requirements to Mongolia depend on your nationality. The information below provides general guidance for tourist stays. We recommend verifying the specific conditions applicable to your situation with the embassy or consulate of Mongolia in your country of residence, as well as with your own authorities, before your departure.
Passport
To enter Mongolia, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry date and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Some nationalities may benefit from visa exemptions for tourist stays, while others must obtain a visa before departure.
If a visa exemption applies to your nationality, the authorites may request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
proof of accommodation or your travel itinerary.
For specific information regarding visa requirements and any exemptions applicable to your nationality, please contact the embassy or consulate of Mongolia in your country of residence.
Registration with local authorities
Any traveller staying in Mongolia for more than 30 days must register with the Immigration, Naturalization and Foreign Affairs Office (GASI). For stays of 30 days or less, registration is generally handled by your hotel or accommodation provider.
It is recommended to keep a copy of this registration throughout your stay, as Mongolian authorities may request it during checks.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Mongolia. However, certain vaccinations are recommended as a preventive measure:
routine immunizations (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles),
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
tick-borne encephalitis, particularly if planning trekking or staying in rural areas,
rabies, if there is a possible risk of contact with wild or stray animals.
It is advised to consult a doctor or international vaccination centre at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some cases, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. All travellers should verify the specific requirements applicable to them with the embassy or consulate of Mongolia in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for assistance-repatriation and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed to enjoy your trip with peace of mind!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complementary Credit Card
Specific to our trips, we strongly suggest subscribing to one of them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and the procedures for reporting a claim are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A stay in Mongolia is possible without a visa for a limited duration. A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry is required. For a longer stay, a visa can be obtained from the Mongolian embassy. Entry conditions change regularly: check the rules applicable to your nationality with the Mongolian consular authorities before departure.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailor-made trip, budget between 160 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation (yurts, lodges), meals, 4x4 with driver and English-speaking guide. International flights (800-1200 euros round trip) are additional. Mongolia offers a timeless nomadic immersion.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust together each detail until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.

Let's talk about your adventure — Central Steppes
Horsewoman of the great Mongolian steppes, based in Oulan Bator
In Mongolia, you'll experience a rare sensation: the feeling of having space, time, and the impression that the horizon has no end.
— Emelyne






