Asia · Mongolia
A masterfully crafted itinerary traversing the heart of Mongolia, beginning in the capital of Ulaanbaatar before venturing deep into the Gobi Desert and returning through the ancient imperial capital.
A masterfully crafted itinerary traversing the heart of Mongolia, beginning in the capital of Ulaanbaatar before venturing deep into the Gobi Desert and returning through the ancient imperial capital. This journey traces a perfect circle encompassing millennia of history, spectacular geological formations, and the vastness of the Central Asian steppes.
The experience is defined by intimate encounters with nomadic culture, from the mysticism of shamanism and Buddhist monasteries like Erdene Zuu to the captivating traditions of Khoomi throat singing. Nature takes centre stage throughout, from the dinosaur fossils of the Flaming Cliffs and the 'singing' dunes of Khongoryn Els to sightings of the rare Takhi wild horses in Hustain Nuruu National Park.
The expedition features meticulously planned logistics by 4x4 vehicle with an Italian-speaking guide. Accommodation balances the comfort of 4-star hotels with the evocative experience of staying in exclusive two-person gers, ensuring authentic contact with local ranger families and herders.
12 days in the programme
Following a warm welcome at the airport and transfer to your hotel, the exploration of the Mongolian capital begins Following a warm welcome at the airport and transfer to your hotel, the exploration of the Mongolian capital begins. The day is dedicated to visiting the National History Museum and the majestic Genghis Khan Square, the political and social heart of the nation.
The morning begins with a visit to Gandan Monastery, one of Mongolia's most significant spiritual centres The morning begins with a visit to Gandan Monastery, one of Mongolia's most significant spiritual centres. Afterwards, you will attend an exclusive meeting with a Khoomi singer to discover the secrets of this evocative and traditional guttural singing style.
Depart by 4x4 for the Middle Gobi Desert Depart by 4x4 for the Middle Gobi Desert. The destination is Baga Gazryn Chuluu, a granite rock formation set within the steppe where you will have your first encounter with nomadic life, meeting a local family of rangers.
Continue southwards to reach Yolyn Am, known as the Valley of the Vultures Continue southwards to reach Yolyn Am, known as the Valley of the Vultures. This spectacular gorge is famous for its towering rock walls and ice sheets that, under specific conditions, persist even during the summer season.
The journey crosses desert landscapes to reach the towering dunes of Khongoryn Els The journey crosses desert landscapes to reach the towering dunes of Khongoryn Els. Known as the 'Singing Dunes' due to the peculiar sound produced by the wind moving the sand, they represent one of the most iconic and wild areas of the Gobi.
Visit Bayanzag, a site of extraordinary palaeontological importance where numerous dinosaur fossils have been unearthed Visit Bayanzag, a site of extraordinary palaeontological importance where numerous dinosaur fossils have been unearthed. The rock formations, nicknamed the Flaming Cliffs for their intense red hue, provide the backdrop for a meeting with a family of camel breeders.
Transfer to Ongi Monastery, strikingly situated along the banks of the river of the same name Transfer to Ongi Monastery, strikingly situated along the banks of the river of the same name. Once one of the largest monastic complexes in Mongolia, the site today bears witness to an important process of historical and spiritual reconstruction.
Arrive in Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire founded by Genghis Khan Arrive in Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire founded by Genghis Khan. The day includes a visit to the celebrated Erdene Zuu Monastery, enclosed by a wall of 108 white stupas, and an in-depth historical exploration at the local archaeological museum.
Explore the area of Khar Balgas to take part in an immersive culinary experience Explore the area of Khar Balgas to take part in an immersive culinary experience. As guests of a local family, you will learn the preparation techniques of typical Mongolian dishes, sharing the traditional flavours of the steppe.
The journey continues towards Hustain Nuruu National Park The journey continues towards Hustain Nuruu National Park. Here, by 4x4 vehicle, you will set out on an excursion dedicated to spotting the Takhi (Przewalski's) horses, the last truly wild horses remaining in the world.
Return to the capital for final cultural experiences Return to the capital for final cultural experiences. The day includes a privileged meeting with a shaman and concludes with a folkloric performance of traditional Mongolian music and dance.
Following breakfast, an escort service will take you to the airport for your return flight, concluding the services of the itinerary.
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