Geolodges Ursa Major: a ger camp overlooking the Orkhon Valley

Ursa Major is one of two geolodges by Out of Nowhere, which develops in Mongolia an approach to nomadic accommodation combining refined comfort with minimal environmental footprint. The camp is located near the village of Khujirt, 40 km from the former capital Karakorum, and overlooks the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Why choose Ursa Major

Three elements distinguish this camp from other Mongolian ger lodges. First, controlled density: 15 gers for a maximum of 50 guests, and each ger accommodates only 2 people, whereas most camps host 3 or 4. Second, a deliberate ecological approach, without running water, featuring dry toilets and a hospitality service adapted to these constraints. Finally, a state-of-the-art telescope with 16 GPS channels, presented by the establishment as one of the largest in service in Mongolia, which transforms nights into guided observation sessions.

Atmosphere and décor

The 15 gers are set on the eastern bank of the Orkhon River. The décor uses traditional materials: felt carpets on the floor, painted furniture in warm tones, nomadic objects. The sleeping comfort contrasts with the apparent rusticity: king-size beds (or two separate single beds), silk duvets. A room divider defines an intimate space equipped with a small water reservoir for washing and morning ablutions.

The gers

All gers are designed for a maximum of 2 people. The total capacity of the camp is capped at 50 guests, preserving a sense of calm and isolation.

The Hair Cocoon ger

A distinctive feature of the place: a ger dedicated to traditional teapot hair washing, provided by a hostess in traditional dress. The service includes shampooing, scalp massage, and blow-drying, complimentary; only haircuts are charged separately.

Dry toilets

Located in tents around the campsite, they are equipped with a wooden seat, a toilet lid, and a bucket of sawdust. Regular use of sawdust ensures a dry, hygienic, and odor-free environment.

Services and dining

• STEP & SPA: a service of 4 heated towels with essential oils, delivered twice daily (3 times upon request). Massages in your ger available upon reservation, performed by professionals.
• Restaurant: yak, beef, lamb, and regional fish, prepared in traditional style or reinterpreted by the chef. Buffet breakfast (French or English style) served from 6 to 11 a.m., with Mongolian touches such as boortsog (a rich pastry) and tarag (slightly acidic cow's milk yogurt).
• Stargazing: a state-of-the-art telescope with advanced optics, automated star localization via database and 16 GPS channels.

Location and access

The camp is located near Khujirt, in Övörkhangai Province, 40 km from Karakorum. It overlooks the eastern bank of the Orkhon River. Plan for a full day's travel from Ulan Bator to reach the site, typically integrated into itineraries connecting the Orkhon Valley and the former imperial capital.

Activities from the camp

• Traditional archery on ground targets
• Felt-making workshop in the craft ger (heritage conservation program)
• Visits to nomadic yak herder families
• Excursion to Karakorum and the Orkhon Falls
• Monasteries at Tovkhon and Shankh
• Uurtiin Tokhoi cliffs
• Horseback riding in the steppe
• Stargazing through the telescope

Nearby: alternative accommodation options

If Ursa Major is fully booked, other ger camps in the region deserve attention: Camp Eden, Camp Anar, and Camp Maikhan Tolgoi offer complementary options for exploring the Mongolian steppe.

Planning your stay

To incorporate Ursa Major into a comprehensive Mongolia itinerary, explore our Mongolia trips and work with our specialists to design an experience combining the Orkhon Valley, the Gobi Desert, and nomadic encounters.