Day-by-Day Itinerary
Touch down in Mongolia, recover from your journey, and get your first taste of the city's collision of traditional and modern.
Morning
Arrival & Hotel Transfer
Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN). A pre-arranged driver will transfer you to your hotel in the city center. Settle in and shake off the jet lag.
1-2 hours
$30-40 (transfer)
Arrange airport pickup through your hotel or tour operator.
Lunch
Modern Nomads (Sukhbaatar Square)
Mongolian
Mid-range
Afternoon
Gandan Monastery & City Orientation
Visit Gandan Khiid, Mongolia's most important Buddhist monastery, home to the magnificent 26.5-meter-tall Migjid Janraisig statue. Take a short walk around Sukhbaatar Square to see the Parliament building and statue of Chinggis Khaan.
3 hours
$5 (monastery donation)
Evening
Welcome Dinner
BD's Mongolian BBQ (near the State Department Store) for a customizable grill feast.
Where to Stay Tonight
Sukhbaatar District, Ulaanbaatar (Hotel like the Ramada Ulaanbaatar Citycenter or Best Western Tuushin Hotel)
Central location, easy walking access to major sites, restaurants, and shopping.
Exchange some currency (MNT) at a bank like Khan Bank or TDB. Cash is king outside the capital.
Day 1 Budget: $120
Look into Mongolia's imperial history and prehistoric past before enjoying a excellent folk art performance.
Morning
National Museum of Mongolia
Start your historical journey chronologically from the Stone Age to the modern era. The exhibits on the Mongol Empire and traditional nomadic life are outstanding.
2.5 hours
$5
Audio guides are available for rent.
Lunch
Luna Blanca (Vegetarian Restaurant)
Vegetarian Mongolian/International
Budget
Afternoon
Choijin Lama Temple Museum & Dinosaur Exploration
Visit this beautifully preserved temple complex, now a museum of religious art. Then, head to the Central Dinosaur Museum or the newer 'Mongol Dinosaur' exhibition at the Natural History Museum to see the famous Tarbosaurus and Protoceratops fossils.
3 hours
$8 (combined approx.)
Evening
Tumen Ekh Ensemble Folk Concert
Attend the famous performance at the National Academic Drama Theatre. Features throat singing, contortionists, and traditional dance.
Where to Stay Tonight
Sukhbaatar District, Ulaanbaatar (Same as Day 1)
Consistency for this short city stay before heading into the wilderness.
Buy a local SIM card (e.g., from Unitel or Mobicom) at the State Department Store. Data is cheap and important for navigation outside UB.
Day 2 Budget: $100
Take a domestic flight south to the gateway of the Gobi Desert and settle into your first traditional ger camp.
Morning
Flight to Dalanzadgad
Catch a morning flight (approx. 1.5 hours) from UB to Dalanzadgad. You'll be met by your local driver/guide with a 4x4 vehicle—your home for the next week. Drive to your designated ger camp.
3-4 hours (including flight and transfer)
$150-200 (flight)
Book flights on Aero Mongolia or Hunnu Air well in advance. Luggage limits are strict (usually 15kg).
Lunch
Lunch at a local canteen in Dalanzadgad
Mongolian (buuz, noodle soup)
Budget
Afternoon
Settle into Ger Camp & Local Exploration
Arrive at your ger camp, get oriented, and learn how a traditional Mongolian ger works. Take a short acclimatization hike in the nearby hills to soak in the vast, silent landscape.
2 hours
Included in tour/camp package
Ger camps are typically booked as part of a tour package including meals, transport, and guides.
Evening
First Ger Camp Dinner & Stargazing
Enjoy a hearty camp-cooked meal. With minimal light pollution, the night sky in the Gobi is impressive.
Where to Stay Tonight
Gobi Desert Ger Camp (near Dalanzadgad) (Traditional Ger Camp (e.g., Gobi Discovery Camp or similar))
Authentic nomadic accommodation with basic comforts (beds, stove), essential for the desert experience.
Pack a headlamp and wet wipes. Ger camps have shared bathroom facilities, and lighting can be minimal at night.
Day 3 Budget: $250 (includes flight and tour package costs)
A long but spectacular drive to one of the Gobi's most iconic sights: the towering singing sand dunes.
Morning
Scenic Drive to Khongoryn Els
Start a full-day drive (approx. 5-6 hours) west across the desert plains. The journey is part of the adventure, with ever-changing landscapes and potential wildlife sightings like gazelles.
5-6 hours
Included in tour package
Bring snacks, water, and download music/podcasts for the drive.
Lunch
Picnic lunch prepared by your guide/cook
Picnic (sandwiches, salads, fruit)
Included
Afternoon
Camel Trekking & Dune Climb
Arrive at the impressive Khongoryn Els dunes, some reaching 300 meters high. Take a short camel trek along the dune base with a local camel herder family. Challenge yourself to climb to the top for a phenomenal sunset view.
3-4 hours
$15-20 (camel ride)
Wear closed shoes, as the sand gets extremely hot. The climb is strenuous but worth it.
Evening
Ger Camp Stay with Local Family
Dinner and overnight at a ger camp run by a local herder family near the dunes.
Where to Stay Tonight
Khongoryn Els Ger Camp (Family-run Ger Camp)
Direct cultural interaction and a magical location at the foot of the dunes.
Listen for the 'singing' of the dunes on your descent—the low rumble caused by sand avalanches is surreal.
Day 4 Budget: $180
Discover the Gobi's paleontological treasures and explore a impressive ice-filled canyon.
Morning
Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs)
Drive to Bayanzag, site of Roy Chapman Andrews' new 1920s dinosaur expeditions. The red-orange cliffs glow spectacularly in the morning light. Hunt for fossil fragments (you can keep small pieces) and learn about the Protoceratops and velociraptor finds.
2.5 hours
$3 (site fee)
Lunch
Picnic lunch at Bayanzag
Picnic
Included
Afternoon
Yolyn Am (Eagle Valley)
Drive to the narrow, deep gorge of Yolyn Am in the Gurvansaikhan Mountains. Hike through the valley, where a river of ice can often persist year-round. Look for wildlife like ibex and rare birds.
3 hours
$3 (park fee)
The hike involves some rock-hopping. Sturdy shoes are essential.
Evening
Return to Ger Camp
Dinner back at your ger camp near Dalanzadgad, sharing stories of the day's discoveries.
Where to Stay Tonight
Gobi Ger Camp (near Dalanzadgad) (Traditional Ger Camp)
Convenient base for exploring the central Gobi attractions.
Visit the small museum at the entrance to Yolyn Am to see taxidermied local wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard.
Day 5 Budget: $160
A full travel day transitioning from the arid Gobi to the lush, historic grasslands of central Mongolia.
Morning
Take an early morning flight from Dalanzadgad back to
Ulaanbaatar. Meet your new driver/guide for the central/northern leg of the journey.
3 hours (including airport time)
$150-200 (flight)
Again, book flights early and confirm luggage limits.
Lunch
Sandwiches/Salads
Mid-range
Afternoon
Drive to Karakorum (Kharakhorum)
Begin the 5-6 hour drive west to Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. The scenery shifts to rolling green steppe dotted with herds of horses and sheep.
5-6 hours
Included in tour package
This is a good day to listen to podcasts or audiobooks about Mongol history.
Evening
Arrival in Karakorum
Check into your ger camp and enjoy a quiet dinner overlooking the Orkhon River valley.
Where to Stay Tonight
Karakorum Ger Camp (Ger Camp (e.g., Mönkh Tenger Camp))
Proximity to the historic sites of Karakorum and Erdene Zuu.
Stop at a roadside "guanz" (simple restaurant) for a coffee or salty milk tea break. It's a classic Mongolian travel experience.
Day 6 Budget: $250 (includes flight)
Explore the symbolic heart of the Mongol Empire and its surviving Buddhist legacy.
Morning
Erdene Zuu Monastery
Visit Mongolia's oldest surviving Buddhist monastery, built in 1585 using stones from the ruins of Karakorum. Walk the massive walls, explore the ornate temples, and observe monks in prayer.
2.5 hours
$5
Hire the on-site English-speaking guide for a much richer understanding.
Lunch
Karakorum Restaurant
Mongolian & European
Mid-range
Afternoon
Karakorum Museum & Turtle Rock
Visit the excellent modern museum to see artifacts from the ancient city and learn about Silk Road history. Then, see the remnants of Chinggis Khaan's capital, marked by the large stone 'turtles' that once stood at the city's corners.
2.5 hours
$5 (museum)
The museum's scale model of ancient Karakorum is a highlight.
Evening
Sunset at the Monument
Climb the hill to the modern monument overlooking the plains for a panoramic sunset view of the historic site.
Where to Stay Tonight
Karakorum Ger Camp (Same as previous night)
Allows for a relaxed exploration of the area over two days.
At Erdene Zuu, walk clockwise around the stupas and temples, following Buddhist custom.
Day 7 Budget: $120
Journey deeper into the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley to witness its powerful waterfall and nomadic communities.
Morning
Drive into the Orkhon Valley
Drive southwest from Karakorum into the scenic Orkhon Valley, a culture shaped by pastoral nomads for millennia. Stop at nomadic families to see dairy production (in summer).
2.5 hours
Included in tour package
Bring small gifts like sweets, school supplies, or useful items from home for nomadic families you may visit.
Lunch
Lunch at a ger camp near the waterfall
Mongolian
Included
Afternoon
Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall
Hike to the edge of the impressive 24-meter-high waterfall, where the Orkhon River plunges into a basalt canyon. You can view it from both the top and (with a steep hike) the bottom.
2 hours
$3 (parking fee)
The rocks near the edge can be slippery. Exercise extreme caution.
Evening
Horseback Riding & Ger Camp
Take a short horseback ride on Mongolian steppe horses with a local guide before dinner at your riverside ger camp.
Where to Stay Tonight
Orkhon Valley Ger Camp (Riverside Ger Camp)
Idyllic setting by the Orkhon River, perfect for relaxation and horse riding.
If you're brave, take a (very cold!) dip in the natural pools near the base of the waterfall.
Day 8 Budget: $150
A scenic drive to a relaxing destination: natural hot springs located in a mountain valley.
Morning
Leisurely Drive & Steppe Views
Enjoy a relaxed drive north out of the Orkhon Valley. The route offers classic postcard views of the Mongolian steppe: endless green plains, grazing livestock, and isolated gers.
3-4 hours
Included in tour package
Lunch
Picnic lunch en route
Picnic
Included
Afternoon
Tsenkher Hot Springs
Arrive at the resort centered around natural hot springs (49-50°C/120°F). Check into your cabin or ger and spend the afternoon soaking in the therapeutic, mineral-rich outdoor pools surrounded by pine forests.
3-4 hours
$10 (springs access if not included in lodging)
Book accommodation at the resort itself (e.g., Tsenkher Hot Springs Resort) to have easiest pool access.
Evening
Relaxation & Resort Dinner
Enjoy a hearty dinner at the resort restaurant and perhaps a post-soak stroll under the stars.
Where to Stay Tonight
Tsenkher Hot Springs Resort (Resort Ger or Cabin)
Direct access to the hot springs and comfortable facilities for a relaxing stop.
Bring your own towel and swimsuit. The resort provides them but quality varies.
Day 9 Budget: $140
A long travel day heading north towards the gateway of the Khövsgöl region.
Morning
Early Start & Scenic Driving
Begin the longest drive of the trip (7-8 hours) north towards the town of Moron. The landscape becomes hillier and more forested as you enter the Khövsgöl province.
7-8 hours
Included in tour package
This is a marathon drive. Break it up with frequent photo stops and leg stretches.
Lunch
Lunch at a roadside guanz in a provincial town
Mongolian (usually soup or khuushuur)
Budget
Afternoon
Arrival in Moron & Local Monastery
Arrive in the provincial capital, Moron. If time allows, visit the restored Datsan (monastery) in town for a peaceful end to the journey.
1 hour
Free (donation appreciated)
Evening
Hotel Stay in Moron
Dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant like 'Khövsgöl Restaurant'.
Where to Stay Tonight
Moron (Mörön) town (Hotel (e.g., Moron Hotel or Ayanchin Hotel))
A necessary stop with hotel comforts (hot shower, reliable wifi) before the final push to the lake.
Stock up on any last-minute snacks, cash, or supplies in Moron. Options at the lake are very limited.
Day 10 Budget: $130
Complete your journey to Mongolia's 'Dark Blue Pearl,' one of the world's largest and purest freshwater lakes.
Morning
Drive to Khövsgöl Lake
The final 2-3 hour drive from Moron to Khatgal village at the southern tip of the lake is impressive, passing through lush taiga forest and meadows.
2-3 hours
Included in tour package
Lunch
Lunch at your lakeside ger camp
Mongolian/Russian influenced
Included
Afternoon
Boat Trip & Lakeside Relaxation
Take a short boat trip on the crystal-clear waters of the lake. Afterwards, simply relax on the shore, hike along the forested coastline, or visit the small museum in Khatgal.
3 hours
$20-30 (boat rental)
Boat trips can be arranged through your ger camp.
Evening
Lakeside Ger Camp Evening
Enjoy a fish dinner (if available) and a campfire by the serene lake.
Where to Stay Tonight
Khövsgöl Lake (southern shore) (Lakeside Ger Camp (e.g., Ashihai Tourist Camp or similar))
Impressive location right on the shore of one of Mongolia's most beautiful natural wonders.
The water is freezing year-round (around 4°C/39°F), but a quick plunge is a memorable (if brief) experience!
Day 11 Budget: $160
Optional deep cultural immersion with the Tsaatan reindeer herders or exploration of the lake's dramatic western shore.
Morning
Option A: Visit a Tsaatan (Reindeer Herder) Family
For a significant extra cost and time (2-3 day trip), you can visit a Tsaatan community. A more accessible option is to visit a local Tuvan ethnic family in the region to learn about their distinct culture.
Full day (for Tuvan visit)
$50-100+ (for guided visit, plus potential helicopter charter for Tsaatan)
Arranging a true Tsaatan visit requires specialist operators, long horse treks, and should be planned months in advance.
Lunch
Lunch with local family or at camp
Local
Included/Varies
Afternoon
Option B: Hike to Mt. Jigleg Pass or Horse Trek
Take a guided hike or horseback ride up the hills on the western shore for spectacular panoramic views of the entire lake. Look for wildflowers and possibly argali sheep.
4 hours
$30-50 (horse rental with guide)
Your ger camp can arrange a local horseman guide.
Evening
Farewell to the Lake
A final peaceful evening at your ger camp, soaking in the pristine atmosphere.
Where to Stay Tonight
Khövsgöl Lake (Same lakeside Ger Camp)
Continuity and maximum time in this beautiful location.
If not visiting reindeer herders, seek out a local shamanic cultural show in Khatgal to learn about this ancient spiritual practice.
Day 12 Budget: $200 (varies greatly with chosen activity)
Travel back to the capital, with time for last-minute shopping and a farewell dinner.
Morning
Drive to Moron & Flight to UB
Drive back to Moron's airport (2-3 hours) and catch an afternoon flight to
Ulaanbaatar. Transfer to your city hotel.
5-6 hours total
$150-200 (flight)
Flights from Moron to UB are less frequent; booking is essential.
Lunch
Lunch at Moron airport or a packed lunch
Simple/Mongolian
Budget
Afternoon
Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping
Visit the State Department Store or the Naran Tuul (Black Market) for last-minute gifts: cashmere, traditional dels (robes), leather goods, or Mongolian art.
2 hours
Variable
At Naran Tuul, be mindful of your belongings and be prepared to bargain.
Evening
Farewell Dinner with Cultural Show
Enjoy a final dinner at a restaurant like 'The Bull' or 'Hazara' (Indian) followed by a traditional folk concert, perhaps at the State Opera & Ballet Theatre if timing aligns.
Where to Stay Tonight
Sukhbaatar District, Ulaanbaatar (Hotel (same as initial arrival or similar))
Convenient for final shopping, dining, and departure the next day.
If you bought a cashmere item, get a VAT refund form from the store (for purchases over a certain amount).
Day 13 Budget: $220
Final reflections and departure from Mongolia.
Morning
Free Time & Bogd Khaan Palace Museum (Optional)
Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast or visit the Bogd Khaan Winter Palace Museum, the home of Mongolia's last king, to see his personal artifacts and temple complex.
1-2 hours
$5
Lunch
Lunch near your hotel or at the airport
Varied
Mid-range
Afternoon
Airport Transfer & Departure
Transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) for your international departure, filled with memories of vast landscapes and warm hospitality.
1 hour (transfer)
$30-40
Confirm your pickup time with your hotel or tour operator the night before.
Evening
Departure
Flight home.
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day.
Leave any leftover Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) at the airport; it's very difficult to exchange outside the country.
Day 14 Budget: $80