After breakfast, begin your city exploration at Sukhbaatar Square, named after the revolutionary hero who declared Mongolia’s independence from China in 1921. Continue to the Gandan Monastery, the country’s largest functioning monastery, where you can witness monks in prayer and view the impressive Golden Buddha statue of Migjid Janraisig. Time permitting, visit the Natural History Museum to see authentic dinosaur skeletons, followed by Zaisan Memorial Hill for sweeping views over the capital.

Overnight: Blue Sky Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, transfer to the airport for a flight to Ulgii, capital of Bayan-Ulgii Province in Mongolia’s far west. Ninety percent of the population here is Kazakh, Mongolia’s largest ethnic minority, whose traditions and language have been preserved in the isolated Altai Mountains.

Explore the town and enjoy their warm hospitality, learning about local culture and handicrafts, including the making of colourful rugs. A visit to the provincial museum will provide insight into the distinct Muslim culture of Western Mongolia.

Overnight: Local Hotel, Ulgii
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today offers one of the most extraordinary cultural encounters of the journey. We travel to Sagsai County, about 25 kilometres from Ulgii, where we are warmly welcomed by an authentic Kazakh eagle-hunting family. Against a backdrop of sweeping Altai Mountains, you’ll step into the world of these legendary hunters whose traditions have been passed down through generations.

Learn first-hand about the ancient art of eagle hunting – from the capture and training of these magnificent birds, to the customs, festivals, and ceremonies that surround this proud tradition. The eagle hunter will introduce you to his trained golden eagle, explain the bond between hunter and bird, and share stories of life in the rugged Mongolian wilderness. You’ll also experience the unique lifestyle of the Kazakh nomads, who live in spacious gers during the summer months and move with their livestock in search of better pastures.

This intimate day with the family is more than a visit – it’s a rare opportunity to witness a living tradition that defines the culture and spirit of Western Mongolia.

Overnight: Local Hotel, Ulgii
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, journey across the striking landscapes of the Gobi-Altai Mountains to reach one of Mongolia’s most iconic natural wonders — the Khongor Sand Dunes. Stretching for nearly 200 kilometres, these golden dunes rise as high as 300 metres and are often called the ‘Singing Sands’ for the haunting sounds they create as the wind shifts the grains.

Climb to the crest of the dunes for breathtaking views across the desert, where ribbons of sand meet rugged mountains and endless steppe. Later, feel the rhythm of the desert beneath you as you ride a camel across the dunes, guided by local herders whose families have lived here for generations.

As the sun sets, the dunes glow in shades of gold and crimson — a moment of pure magic in the heart of the Gobi. Return to your luxury ger for dinner and another night under the desert sky.

Overnight: Deluxe Ger Camp – en-suite bathroom with shower
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we set out to explore the remarkable Bronze Age petroglyphs of Khavtsgait, carved high into the sacred mountains over 3,000 years ago. Following a rocky but rewarding trail, we’ll discover hundreds of engravings that depict the daily life of ancient people — from hunters with bows and arrows to wild animals, herders, and horses pulling carts. Standing among these mysterious carvings, you’ll feel a powerful connection to Mongolia’s earliest ancestors.

Afterwards, we visit a local herder family for an intimate glimpse into nomadic life in the Gobi. Share time with the family as they go about their daily chores such as milking goats, caring for livestock, and preparing traditional dairy products. You may even have the chance to taste fermented mare’s milk, a beloved staple of Mongolian culture.

This is a day of contrasts — ancient rock art that has endured for millennia, and the living traditions of Mongolia’s nomads that continue to thrive today.

Overnight: Gobi Nomad Lodge – Super Deluxe Ger (en-suite, shower & air conditioning)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, visit the small museum at Gobi Nomad Lodge, which houses rare artefacts and traditional items used by nomadic people through the centuries. You’ll also have the chance to try on ceremonial costumes and royal dress, and even pose for photos seated on a replica throne of the Khans — a fun window into Mongolia’s regal past.

In the afternoon, journey to the legendary Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag, a dramatic landscape of glowing red sandstone that blazes in the sunlight. It was here in 1922 that American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews unearthed the world’s first nest of fossilised dinosaur eggs, a discovery that put Mongolia on the paleontological map. As you walk among the cliffs, imagine this area as it once was — teeming with prehistoric creatures.

Stay until the sun begins to set, when the cliffs live up to their name, glowing a brilliant fiery orange against the desert sky. This magical scene is one of the most unforgettable moments in the Gobi. Return to your luxury ger for dinner and a peaceful night under the stars.

Overnight: Gobi Nomad Lodge – Super Deluxe Ger (en-suite, shower & air conditioning)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up surrounded by the pristine beauty of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, a landscape of dramatic rock formations, rolling valleys, and peaceful rivers. Today we explore its most iconic sights, beginning with Turtle Rock and the nearby “Monk Reading a Book” formation — both natural wonders steeped in legend.

Continue to the serene Aryabal Meditation Temple, perched on a hillside with sweeping views of the valley. Here you’ll learn about Mongolian Buddhism and its role in local culture while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

In the afternoon, make a detour to the monumental Chinggis Khan Statue Complex, the world’s largest equestrian statue at 40 metres high. Rising from the steppe, it symbolically faces east towards the great leader’s birthplace. Climb inside the statue for a panoramic view over the vast Mongolian plains and explore the visitor centre, where exhibits bring to life the story of Genghis Khan and his empire.

Return to your luxury hotel to relax, enjoy the spa or pool, and share dinner with your fellow travellers in this unforgettable setting.

Overnight: Terelj Luxury Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy one final breakfast at the hotel before checking out. At the designated time, you will be transferred to Chinggis Khan International Airport for your onward flight. As you depart, take with you lasting memories of Mongolia’s sweeping landscapes, rich traditions, and the warm hospitality you’ve experienced along the way.

Overnight: —
Meals: Breakfast