Karakorum & Central Mongolia Tour

3 photos

Karakorum - Erdene Zuu Monastery - Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes

Duration

3 days

Group Size

5 persons

Accommodations

Ger (3 single beds)

Transportation

Van (Toyota Alphard)

Embark on an enriching 3-day journey through Central Mongolia, delving into the historical Silk Road. Explore the ancient capital of Karakorum (Kharkhorin), the revered Erdene Zuu Monastery, and the picturesque Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes. Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying with a traditional Nomadic family and experience their way of life. Enjoy a unique ride on a Bactrian camel in the Semi-Gobi Desert, adding a memorable touch to your adventure.

Highlights

Explore the ruins of Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire
Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia
Stay overnight with a nomadic family in a ger and marvel at the starry sky
Sample traditional Mongolian cuisine
Experience the contrast of sand dunes and lush greenery
Ride a 2-humped (Bactrian) camel over the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes

Included/Excluded

All accommodations listed
All meals mentioned accordingly
All transportation mentioned
English speaking tour guide
All entrance fees and road charges

Single rooming supplement
International flights and cost for visas
Inoculations and personal insurances
Photography or video recording fees at sights
Personal expenses

Tour Plan

Day 1 Ulaanbaatar - Karakorum

Start your day with pick up at your hotel in Ulaanbaatar and drive to Karakorum (360 km or 220 miles), the past capital of Great Mongolian State. Enjoy half-day Karakorum tour to visit the signature Erdene Zuu Monastery, and Karakorum Museum to learn about its regional history. Marvel at the clear sky filled with stars and spot Milky Way.

* Accommodations: Ger with 3 single beds at a local ger camp
* Food & drink: Lunch and dinner at a local ger camp

Day 2 Elsen Tasarkhai dunes - Stay with a nomadic family

After breakfast, drive to Elsen Tasarkhai dunes (70 km or 44 miles), known as Semi-Gobi for its similar natural features to the famous Gobi Desert. Ride 2-humped (Bactrian) camels for the ultimate desert experience over endless sand dunes. Afternoon drive to Semi-Gobi (270 km or 170 miles away) to visit a nomadic family. Experience the daily lives of nomads and taste organic dairy products they produced. Spend the night with nomadic family.

* Accommodations: Ger with 3 single beds at nomadic family location
* Food & drink: Breakfast and lunch at local cafes and dinner with a nomadic family

Day 3 Drive back to Ulaanbaatar

Drive back to Ulaanbaatar (270 km or 170 miles).

* Food & drink: Breakfast with a nomadic family and and lunch at a local cafe