Mongolia: dunes, steppes, and Buddhist traditions

Departure on an international flight for the international flight to Mongolia.

Arrival in the capital and commencement of guided tours Arrival in the capital and commencement of guided tours. The day includes the discovery of the city's main museums and monasteries, with an essential stop at the Dinosaur Museum to admire the skeletons of prehistoric giants, including the famous velociraptor. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Departure by off-road vehicle heading south towards Baga Gazrin Chuluu, an area characterised by striking granite formations set within the steppe landscape.

The journey continues to the cliffs of Tsagaan Suvarga, spectacular rock formations of vibrant colours that rise from the desert floor.

Entry into Gurvan Saikhan National Park, the largest in the country and habitat for rare species such as the snow leopard and the black-tailed gazelle Entry into Gurvan Saikhan National Park, the largest in the country and habitat for rare species such as the snow leopard and the black-tailed gazelle. Exploration of the Yolyn Am gorge, known as the Valley of the Vultures, a deep mountain cleft famous for glaciers that persist even during the hot season.

The journey continues towards the spectacular Khongor sand dunes, among the most iconic landscapes of the Gobi Desert.

Transfer to Bayanzag, the celebrated Flaming Cliffs Transfer to Bayanzag, the celebrated Flaming Cliffs. The area is renowned for the deep red hue of its rocks and for the significant palaeontological discoveries made within its walls.

Travel to the ruins of the Ongi temple, an ancient religious centre situated along the banks of the river of the same name.

Arrival at Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of Karakorum destroyed in the 14th century Arrival at Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of Karakorum destroyed in the 14th century. Visit to the Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of Mongolia's most significant Buddhist spiritual centres, built directly upon the foundations of the former city.

Transfer to Khustai National Park, a nature reserve specifically established for the protection and reintroduction of wild Mongolian horses to the steppes.

Onward travel to Terelj National Park, a protected area of alpine landscapes home to endangered species including elk, brown bears, and weasels.

Return to the capital, Ulaanbaatar, after exploring the natural beauty of the park Return to the capital, Ulaanbaatar, after exploring the natural beauty of the park. The evening features a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Transfer to the airport with assistance for boarding the onward flight.