Trek and Gobi
Gobi, Sand & Silence 19 days classique

Trek and Gobi

From the steppes of Khangaï to the singing dunes of the Gobi, an authentic trek in the heart of Mongolia's vast landscapes.

20 years of local expertise4.75/5 (51 reviews including 40 Google)

Duration

19 days

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 into the Khangaï mountains begins, before descending toward 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 Falls 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 hold traces of dinosaurs, the Khongor dunes stretch over 180 kilometers, and the Yoliin Am canyons cut their deep gorges into the Gobi-Altaï mountains.

From the monasteries of Zanabazar to the Bactrian camel camps, this journey crosses fifteen centuries of Mongolian history and reveals a country where vastness still shapes nomadic souls.

The stages of your journey

D1
Oulan BatorHôtel★★Comfort
D2
Khögnö KhanCamp de yourtesComfort
D3
Monastère de TövkhönNuit en bivouac
D4–5
Chaînes du khangaiNuit en bivouac
D6–10
Vallée de l'OrkhonNuit en bivouac
D11
Monastère d'OngiNuit en bivouac
D12
BayanzagCamp de yourtes
D13–14
Dunes de khongorNuit en bivouac
D15
Canyon De YolNuit en bivouac
D16–17
Baga gazriin chuluu
D18–19
Oulan BatorHôtel★★Comfort

Highlights

Trek 7 days Khangaï
Erdene Zuu Monasteries
Orkhon Valley UNESCO
Authentic nomadic life
Singing Dunes Khongor
Gobi Canyons

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Welcome and discoveries in Ulan Bator

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, the Mongolian capital, where vast steppes gradually give way to an astonishing city, blending Soviet heritage, nomadic traditions and emerging modernity. Welcome from your driver and transfer to the city center, your first glimpse of this fascinating destination with its already exotic landscapes. Check-in at your hotel and rest (early check-in not included).

The rest of the day is free. You can take the opportunity to stroll around your accommodation, familiarize yourself with the neighborhood or simply relax before the start of your journey.

Hôtel★★Breakfast
D2

Departure to the steppe towards the mini-Gobi

Khögnö KhanGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Discovery of the Gandantegchinlen monastery, the country's main Buddhist center. Each morning, monks gather there for prayers in an atmosphere filled with serenity. This visit also allows you to learn more about Mongolian Buddhism and freely exchange with people present on the site.

Departure to 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 band of sand about 80 km long, which earned it the nickname of "mini Gobi".

Ride 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 surrounding area make it a remarkable cultural and spiritual stop.

Camp de yourtesBreakfastLunchDinner
Monastère de Tövkhön
D3

Old Capital & Tovkhon Hermitage

Monastère de TövkhönGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Khogno KhanKarakorum

1h30110 km

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.

Visit of the Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in 1586 by a nomadic prince. The complex, inspired by Chinese and Tibetan architecture, 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 former capital and its region.

KharkhorinOrkhon Valley

2h45 km

You leave the road to join the tracks and fully enjoy the natural landscapes. The route runs along the Orkhon canyons and the verdant 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.

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
D4

Hiking through the Low Khangai Mountains

Chaînes du khangaiGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Monastère de TövkhönChaînes du khangai

6h25 km

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 tourists.

This trek combines adventure, nature and authentic encounters with nomadic families, particularly when discovering Orkhon Waterfall and sharing time with a local family. Each day reveals new panoramas and stages designed to fully appreciate the diversity of this region. This stay, suited for travelers seeking vast 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 Davkhar spring, before continuing your progression through the pass to reach Biluut valley. You end the day near Khestuut pass, after a journey marked by the diversity of landscapes between mountains, forests and steppes.

Total distance: 25 km

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
D5

Khetsuu Pass to Mount Tsalgai

Chaînes du khangaiGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Walking tour

5h3022 km

After breakfast, you cross the Khetsuu pass before joining 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 vast plains.

Total distance: 22 km

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
D6

Arrival in the Orkhon Valley

Vallée de l'OrkhonGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Orkhon ValleyOrkhon Valley

5h1521 km

In the morning, you set off on a hike towards the Orkhon Valley. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this valley is a major center 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 take a break for lunch. The afternoon unfolds at the pace of a walk through the heart of the Orkhon Valley, until you reach your camp located near Undur Khyasaa.

Total distance: 21 km

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
D7

Passage from Undur Khyasaa to Uliastai

Vallée de l'OrkhonGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Orkhon ValleyOrkhon Valley

5h1521 km

Today, you continue your progression through mountain passes and valleys. After crossing Undur Khyasaa, you have lunch near the Baadai Pass. In the afternoon, you cross a small river before running alongside the peaceful Uliastai river, where you set up camp for the night in a calm and natural environment.

Total distance: 21 km

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
D8

Hiking along the Uliastai Valley

Vallée de l'OrkhonGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Orkhon ValleyOrkhon Valley

5h4523 km

You start the day with a hike upstream in the Uliastai valley, where the landscapes gain in relief and character. After lunch in the heart of the valley, you continue your journey towards the sites of Ogotoni Bulan and Yamaat Bulan, recognized for their rocky cliffs and wooded mountains. This itinerary leads to one of the most preserved places in the Orkhon valley, known mainly to the locals.

Total distance: 23 km

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
D9

Deed Khurd Pass

Vallée de l'OrkhonGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Orkhon ValleyOrkhon Valley

5h4525 km

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

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
D10

Orkhon Waterfalls and Immersion with Nomads

Vallée de l'OrkhonGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Orkhon ValleyOrkhon cascades

1h3030 km

After breakfast, you set off on a short drive through the Orkhon Valley to reach a nomadic family. Along the way, you stop at Orkhon Waterfall, also known as Ulan Tsutgalaan. Water cascades down a dark basalt wall, sometimes creating a fleeting rainbow when sunlight reflects off it. At 16 meters high, these falls were formed nearly 20,000 years ago as a result of a combination of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

We arrive at a nomadic herding family's home. You will discover the nomadic way of life and share in their daily routine with simplicity. Depending on the season, you may be offered the opportunity to participate in milking animals, making traditional dairy products, or even herding livestock on horseback.

(Activities subject to seasonality)

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
Monastère d'Ongi
D11

On the way to the Gobi Desert!

Monastère d'OngiGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Orkhon ValleyOngii monastery

7h30300 km

Transition day between two ecosystems: you leave the green mountains of the Khangai to head towards the Gobi.

Discovery of the site, known as the Ongii monastery, as well as the small associated museum. The dwellings and monasteries, once occupied by nearly a thousand monks, were almost entirely destroyed in 1937. Since 2002, some religious have returned and undertaken the reconstruction of the temples with modest means but profound devotion.

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
Bayanzag
D12

Flaming Cliffs and Dinosaurs

BayanzagGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

Last day of track before reaching the gates of the Grand Gobi and its "Three Beauties", the three highest peaks of this part of the Gobi-Altai 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 saxaoul 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 in the Natural History Museum of Ulaanbaatar and in several museums around the world.

Camp de yourtesBreakfastLunchDinner
Dunes de khongor
D13

Arrival in the Khongor Dunes

Dunes de khongorGuide francophoneCook - trekking circuitGuide furgon

BayanzagKhavtsgait

1h40 km

Early in the morning, you will head towards Khavtsgait Mountain. After a short transfer, you begin your hike. Climbing the mountain of Khavtsgait Bagh requires sustained effort, but the view of the desert from the summit is remarkable. There you will observe many rock paintings depicting wild sheep, horses, camels and human figures in hunting scenes.

KhavtsgaitKhongor els

4h160 km

We then head west of the park to reach the Khongor sand dunes, or "light bay sand". They extend in a wide belt at the foot of the "Three Beauties", forming one of the most emblematic landscapes of the Gobi Desert.

Visit to the Khongor dunes. This long expanse of sand, which stretches for nearly 180 km long and 20 km wide, features dunes approximately 80 meters high, with the highest reaching 120 meters. From their summit, the view opens onto the immensity of the desert, while the movement of sand produces a natural humming, at the origin of the name "singing dunes". Beyond the golden crests, the steppe unfolds as far as the eye can see.

BreakfastLunchDinner
Dunes de khongor
D14

Camel ride and dune climbing

Dunes de khongorGuide francophoneGuide furgon

This morning, you set off for a camel trekking in the heart of the Gobi Desert. At the leisurely pace of this emblematic animal, you progress along the dunes and the Khongor River, "Clear Bay", which alternates between surface and underground.

On foot, you climb one of the dunes to enjoy a wide panorama of the desert. From the summit, the silhouettes of the Three Beauties stand out on the horizon and, with a bit of luck, you will hear the singing dunes.

Dunes de khongorYolii am

5h20180 km

You then take the track heading east towards the "Three Beauties" and the canyons region.

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
Canyon De Yol
D15

The Valley of the Vultures

Canyon De YolGuide francophoneGuide furgon

Walking tour

5h20 km

Experience a day of trekking in the Yoliin am region and Mukhaart Shiveet, two emblematic sites of the Gobi desert. The morning begins with a hike through the heart of the Yoliin Am gorge, recognized for its high cliffs and unique microclimate, where patches of ice sometimes persist late into 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 nature, you continue towards Mukhaart Shiveet, an even more isolated area, characterized by its underground rivers and springs hidden among the dunes. The path reveals an alternation of landscapes: desert areas, green 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.

Nuit en bivouacBreakfastLunchDinner
Baga gazriin chuluu
D16

Granite Mountains of Baga Gazriin Chuluu

Baga gazriin chuluuGuide francophoneGuide furgon

Yolii amBaga gazriin chuluu

7h450 km

You travel through one of the emptiest regions of Mongolie. Between rocky desert and semi-arid steppes, you reach the Baga gazariin chuluu rocky formation, where impressive 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 pleasant region for walking.

BreakfastLunchDinner
Baga gazriin chuluu
D17

Hiking to discover Baga Gazriin Chuluu

Baga gazriin chuluuGuide francophoneGuide furgon

You traverse one of the emptiest regions of Mongolie. Between rocky desert and semi-arid steppes, you reach the Baga gazariin chuluu rocky formation, 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.

BreakfastLunchDinner
Oulan Bator
D18

Return to Ulan Bator and free time

Oulan BatorGuide francophoneGuide furgon

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 for as long as needed.

Rest of the day free. Accompanied by your guide, you browse the city shops to make your final purchases.

Hôtel★★BreakfastLunch
Oulan Bator
D19

Have a great return trip 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 your preferred time, depending on your flight.

Breakfast

Price per person

2-3 pers.€3,650/pers.
4-5 pers.€3,290/pers.
6 pers.€2,890/pers.
7 pers.€2,690/pers.
8-10 pers.€2,590/pers.

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.

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 partner

Travel 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 insurance

Frequently 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.

Chimgee, Cultural and encounters facilitator for Mongolia
20years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Central Steppes

Cultural and encounters facilitator for Mongolia, based in Oulan Bator

The most beautiful memories from Mongolia are often born from an unexpected encounter, around a cup of tea or a ger door that opens with a smile.

Chimgee

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Support4.75/5