Mongolia & Naadam Festival

Departures & Pricing

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Fly to Ulaanbaatar

   Days 1–2

   Fly overnight to Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. You have the rest of the day at leisure.

2. 3

   Fly to the Gobi Desert

   Fly to the Gobi Desert and transfer by 4WD to your ger camp. After lunch, explore the dramatic Yolyn Am (Eagle’s Gorge) and visit a local family to experience nomadic hospitality and traditional dairy products.

3. 4

   Khongoryn Els Dunes

   Travel by 4WD to the Khongoryn Els, home to Mongolia’s largest sand dunes. Spend the day exploring the vast desert landscapes on foot and by vehicle, with the option to hike to the summit for panoramic views.

4. 5

   Bayanzag's Flaming Cliffs

   This morning is free for you to continue your exploration of the Gobi Desert and the sand dunes. After lunch, travel by 4WD to Bayanzag, more commonly known as the ‘Flaming Cliffs’. This afternoon, visit the Gobi Dinosaurs Cemetery and explore the surrounding landscape. Overnight in a ger camp close to the Flaming Cliffs.

5. 6

   Ongii River

   Journey approximately 4-5 hours to the Ongii River, some of which is on jeep trails over dry plains, with no direct roads. On arrival, check into your Ger camp close to the Ongii River and visit the ruins of two famed monasteries, the Barlim Khiid to the north and the Khutagt Khiid to the south. Combined they form the complex known as Ongiin Khiid Monastery.

6. 7

   Kharkorin

   This morning, depart Ongii and drive approximately 6 hours to the ancient capital of Kharkhorin, situated on the Orkhon River. Upon arrival, explore the ancient sites within Kharkorin, the Kharkorin Museum and get comprehensive introduction to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Orkhon River Valley.

7. 8

   Kharkorin

   Explore the memorable Erdene Zuu Monastery, witnessing the morning chants. This afternoon, enjoy a nomadic family visit including a traditional Mongolian barbeque and Airag sampling.

8. 9

   Tsenkher Hot Springs

   Today, you will drive 2-3 hours to the famous Tsenkher Hot Springs. Enjoy free time to relax in the springs and take in the remote scenery.

9. 10

   Khorgo-Terkh National Park

   Drive around 5 hours west, towards the serene Great White Lake (Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur). Upon arrival, check into your Ger Camp for an overnight stay. The camp is located within one of the most beautiful areas of the famous Great White Lake and Khorgo Volcano. Take a short hike up to the crater of the volcano for wonderful views or walk along the lake shore where there are excellent opportunities for bird and wildlife spotting. You may also want to visit Zayaiin Huree Monastery in Tsetserleg Town.

10. 11

    Murun

    Travel approximately 7 hours through the heart of the Mongolian steppe today, toward Lake Khovsgol. Due to conditions, you will stay overnight in the small city of Murun, allowing for a restful break at a local hotel before reaching the lake.

11. 12

    Lake Khovsgol

    This morning, commence the 3-hour drive to reach Lake Khovsgol. Stop at the Uushig Deer Stones along the way. In the afternoon, take a walk to the forest and visit a reindeer breeding family, where you will be introduced to their way of life.

12. 13

    Lake Khovsgol

    Enjoy a day at leisure around the lake, with plenty of activities available (at your own expense).

13. 14

    Fly to Terelj National Park

    This morning, drive around 3 hours to Murun airport and board your 1.5 hour flight to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, you will drive approximately 2 hours to the scenic Terelj National Park.

14. 15

    Terelj National Park

    This morning, enjoy exploring the area, enjoying the alpine scenery and seeing Turtle Rock. From here, hike over steep and uneven ground to visit the Aryabal Monastery and enjoy some hiking. After lunch, travel to Ulaanbaatar, stopping en route to visit the iconic Genghis Khan Statue.

15. 16

    Ulaanbaatar

    This morning, visit the 19th-century built Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Mongolia. Later, explore the Museum of Mongolian History where you can gain an insight into the culture of Mongolia, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

16. 17

    Pre-Naadam

    Today, spend time taking part in the Naadam Festival opening activities, such as the Honorary Guards & White Banners ceremony and the Deeltei Mongol costume parade held in Ulaanbaatars Central Square. In the afternoon, visit the newly built Chinggis Khaan Museum.

17. 18

    Naadam Festival

    Days 18–19

    Over the next 2 days you will experience, first-hand, the annual Naadam Festival. Mix with locals and nomads alike to witness the Opening Ceremony of the Naadam Festival, at Central Stadium. Here you can see featured events that include wrestling, horseracing and archery. Then, on the second day of the festival travel approximately 50km outside the city to enjoy a thrilling day watching the cross-country horseracing.

18. 20

    Ulaanbaatar at leisure

    Today is yours to spend at leisure. Explore Ulaanbaatar at your own pace, whether this be shopping for souvenirs, enjoying a cultural show of relaxing in a local café.

19. 21

    Depart Ulaanbaatar

    Days 21–22

    Fly overnight to Australia, arriving home the following day.

Book this tour

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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Package · Wendy Wu Tours · 14 nights

Best of Mongolia & Naadam Festival

• Expert National Guide accompanies you throughout the entire journey
• Sleep in premium gers and 4-star hotels with comfortable 4WD transport
• International flights, domestic travel and all entrance fees included

Departs 28 June, 2027 + More Dates

From $14,480 pp twin Was $14,980 pp

From $17,280 pp solo

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