Mongolia Expedition – Naadam, Gobi and Khuvsgol [2025]

SOLD OUT! All positions on our 2025 Mongolia Expedition are now sold out. If you would like to place your name on the wait list in case of any cancellations or for the 2026 tour please complete the form below. Thank you very much.

We are beyond thrilled to open up registrations for our exclusive, small group tour of Mongolia, departing in July 2025!

Join us for an extraordinary 15-day expedition to the heart of Mongolia, a land where ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes converge.

Take part in an unforgettable journey that immerses you in the vibrant celebration of the Naadam Festival, where the spirit of the Mongolian people comes alive through traditional wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

Venture into the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert, where towering sand dunes and rugged terrains paint a picture of stark beauty. Discover the serene waters of Lake Khuvsgol, dubbed the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” surrounded by pristine forests and majestic mountains.

Our carefully crafted itinerary ensures you experience the best of Mongolia’s highlights as well as many hidden gems. Traverse lesser-known regions, meet nomadic families, stay in luxury ger camps and gain an authentic insight into their way of life. From the bustling streets of Ulaanbaatar to the tranquil beauty of remote landscapes, this expedition promises a rich tapestry of experiences.

Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture enthusiast, or someone seeking a unique travel experience, this journey offers a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility. Secure your spot now and prepare to be captivated by the magic of Mongolia. This is more than a trip; it’s an adventure of a lifetime.

“Our Antarctica adventure with NOMADasaurus was beyond amazing! Jarryd and Alesha were exceptional tour leaders – their expertise, passion, and attention to detail made every moment unforgettable. Their knowledge and ability to create unique experiences is next level. Highly recommend NOMADasaurus for an extraordinary journey!”

– 2022 Antarctica tour guest

This exciting Mongolia Naadam expedition has been handcrafted by us and in partnership with the top local destination management company in the entire country.

We will only be taking 12 guests with us on this captivating NOMADasaurus Tour, as we road trip Mongolia in comfort and style.

While the entire itinerary ensures you will experience the absolute best the nomadic nation has to offer, the real highlight will be the legendary Naadam Festival, which is what we have structured our tour dates to coincide with.

This nomadic sporting event has been bringing travellers to the country for years, but most people watch the festival in Ulaanbaatar, in a large stadium and surrounded by thousands of tourists and media outlets.

That is not what our expedition is about. Few people even realise that Naadams actually happen all over Mongolia in early July, not just in Ulaanbaatar.

We are going to leave the crowds behind and instead visit a local Naadam in a remote Gobi town, ensuring we have an up-close-and-personal experience with the athletes without thousands of other tourists around.

There are also many surprise Naadams that happen in small sums (villages) throughout the country, so this means that while the following itinerary is set, the day-to-day scheduling will be kept flexible in case we stumble across a village holding their own Naadam.

The beauty of Mongolia is also that you never really know what to expect, and if we encounter any unique situations, such as a nomadic family herding their camels at sunset, and we’ll halt the tour to capture spectacular photos and chat with the locals. We’ll be dedicated, enthusiastic, yet also open to change.

So why should you travel to Mongolia on a NOMADasaurus tour?

We have spent two months travelling through Mongolia, exploring the furthest reaches of the country. We fell in love with the nation and its people, but we quickly discovered something – Independent travel in Mongolia is difficult.

Public transport is unreliable and slow, the very few options for comfortable accommodation book out months in advance, and unless you have a local with you communication can be hard to manage.

That’s why we’ve carefully selected the best experiences and landscapes around the Gobi Desert and Khuvsgol Lake region, and organised this small-group tour to visit them all in comfort and ease.

This includes comfortable 4×4 transport, luxury ger camp accommodation and the best food available in the remote regions we are travelling.

In order to execute this unique expedition we have partnered with the number one destination management company in Mongolia, to ensure every aspect of the tour is carefully looked after.

The NOMADasaurus Tour Company launched in 2018 with two adventures around Kyrgyzstan, and since then has expanded to run trips in Antarctica, BotswanaKyrgyzstanTajikistan, and now Mongolia.

Our passion is showing people around unique places in the world, focusing on community, adventure activities, epic landscapes, culture and photography. As such, it was only natural that our next expedition ventures into the first nomadic country that captured our hearts during an overland journey quite a few years ago.

I travelled to a country I knew nothing about with NOMADasaurus and will rave about how magnificent it was! Jarryd was beyond the best…not only do Jarryd and Alesha have a top notch blog, photography and tour company, they are true humanitarians making a difference in this world and creating connection for us all. Thank you for striving to bring us all together no matter where we are from. Bravo and thank you from the bottom of my heart!

– Joan, Kyrgyzstan tour participant

This brand new, bespoke 15-day tour of Mongolia will start off in the capital of Ulaanbaatar, where we’ll have a night to get to know each other before jumping on a flight and heading into the Gobi Desert.

From here we’ll meet up with our modern 4×4 vans to go on a road trip in style. We’ll visit nomadic families, go hunting for dinosaur fossils in the Flaming Cliffs, ride camels next to the largest sand dunes in the country, explore lush gorges and river confluences and dive deep into the history of the country through ancient ruins and Buddhist monasteries.

Having seen the absolute best highlights of the Gobi Desert we’ll start our drive north, watching as the landscape changes from desert to steppe and eventually into volcanic flow.

We’ll soon head into the Khuvsgul Mountains, a dramatic region home to what is known as the Blue Pearl of Mongolia, the enormous and glistening Khuvsgul Lake.

We’ll ride horses, go kayaking and hike along its shores before flying back to Ulaanbaatar for a final exploration of the city.

There’ll be plenty of incredible activities and sights along the way, and for the entire duration we’re staying in traditional Mongolian yurts, known as gers.

These aren’t ordinary gers though. We’ve booked the best tourist camps in every town to ensure comfort is at a maximum after the long driving days.

Jarryd was an OUTSTANDING Trip Leader in every way. Along with his love of the country and his great personality, he was very organized and knowledgeable, which made for a great adventure. I can highly recommend traveling with Jarryd and NOMADasaurus!

– Kyrgyzstan tour guest

For the entire tour you will be transported in 4×4, modern Japanese vans. Most ours use old Russian bans, but we’ve upgraded the vehicles for ours. This is a Mongolian road trip, and by using 4×4 vans we make sure we can navigate every track that twists its away across the country.

Mongolia is famous for having very few paved roads, and we’ll go days without seeing one. This is an adventure in every sense of the word.

Your tour leader will be one half of NOMADasaurus! Jarryd will be joining you for the entire experience, giving photography workshops, answering any questions you might have and sharing his expertise from more than a decade on the road.

In addition there will be a certified, experienced Mongolian guide who is fluent in English joining us. This will allow you to get an in-depth insight into the local culture, and ask any of the people you meet questions without fear of having words lost in translation.

“A fantastic tour in a spectacular country. Alesha and Jarryd have used their vast travel experience to put together an absolutely superb tour, suitable for all ages of intrepid tourists who are ready for an off the tourist track adventure. One of the best tours I have ever done!”

– Veronica, Kyrgyzstan tour participant

While the itinerary is filled with exciting activities and cultural interactions, we’ve also left in some free time so you can pursue your own interests, practice your photography or simply relax in your beautiful surroundings.

This is going to be an incredible adventure to discover the highlights of Mongolia – an offbeat nation that is truly one of the most sensational travel destinations in the world.

  • 2025 Mongolia Tour Dates: July 3rd to July 17th
  • Duration: 15 Days
  • Start/Finish: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
  • Maximum Group Size: 12 people
  • Fitness Level: Medium
  • Trip Leaders: Jarryd Salem, Alesha Bradford and one licensed local guide
Mongolia Tour Adventure Photography
Some of the views we’ll experience on our Mongolian road trip.

2025 MONGOLIA TOUR ITINERARY

This is the brand new NOMADasaurus Mongolia tour itinerary that we have put together in partnership with our local operator and the country’s most reputable tour company.

The accommodation is already booked and confirmed, but the day-to-day itinerary should be read as a guide, as some days might change if we come across local Naadams or find unique experiences along the way. That is the beauty of exploring Mongolia – you never know what you’ll discover.

Legend: B (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner), S (Hot Showers), E (Electricity), W (WiFi)

July 3rd – Ulaanbaatar

Accommodation – 4 Star Hotel

Upon arriving in Ulaanbaatar, you will be met at the airport by our local team and transferred to our lovely 4-star hotel. As everybody will be arriving at different times, the day is free for you to relax, get some sleep if need be, or even go exploring the city. We will have our first group dinner tonight at a nice, traditional restaurant.

Meals Included: D

Facilities: S, E, W

Ger Camp Mongolia Tour

Welcome to Mongolia.

July 4th – Ulaanbaatar to Tsagaan Suvarga

Accommodation – Ger Camp

Today we leave the capital city and drive to Tsagaan Suvarga, an incredible sedimentary formation. It is approximately 7 hours driving, where you will experience your first adventure of navigating across the vast Mongolian steppe. We will break the drive up with lunch in Mandagovi.

Upon arrival we’ll check in to our wonderful ger camp and set off to the Tsagaan Suvarga scarps, hiking along vibrant cliffs and ascending towards the summit for breathtaking views. Afterwards we’ll return to camp for a delicious dinner.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Yolyn Am Gorge

Driving through the Yolyn Am Gorge.

July 5th – Tsagaan Suvarga to Yolyn Am Gorge via Gurvan Saikhan National Park

Accommodation – Ger Camp
After breakfast we start our picturesque five-hour journey to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, with plenty of stops for photos along the way. Our expedition includes a pit stop in Dalanzadgad, a charming Gobi town, where we’ll explore the new Umnugovi Province Museum and enjoy a delicious lunch. From here it’s just a short drive to Yolyn Am Gorge, one of the most stunning natural highlights in the Gobi Desert, where we’ll hike for an hour or so to explore. Afterwards we’l drive to our luxury ger camp for the night for dinner.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Khongor Sand Dunes

The views from the top of the Khongor Sand Dunes.

July 6th – Gobi Mirage to Khongor Sand Dunes

Accommodation – Ger Camp

We’ll have an early start today for those who feel up to it, waking at 5 am to watch the sunrise over the heart of the Mongolian wilderness. After breakfast our expedition continues as we make our way to the Khongor sand dunes, famous for being Mongolia’s longest dunes. The drive to reach these dunes will is about 4 hours, traversing vast desert badlands that stretch as far as the eye can see. Along the way, remote mountains silhouette the horizon, and solitary gers dot the landscape as nomads travel on camelback or horseback, creating surreal mirages. The desert floor itself is adorned with an array of colourful rocks and rare minerals. It’s the Gobi at its most rugged and striking, offering countless opportunities to pause and capture the stunning landscapes and the people who call this place home.

When we arrive we’ll enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch at our ger camp, and in the afternoon, we’ll explore the magnificent sand dunes nestled alongside the Khongor River, gracefully flowing through the sands. You’ll even have the chance to enjoy a one-hour camel ride amidst this breathtaking desert backdrop. Riding a camel in the Gobi Desert is guaranteed to be an experience you’ll never forget. As the day ends, settle in for a cozy dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.

We are staying in this ger camp for two nights.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Saxaul Forest

The Saxaul Forest.

July 7th – Khavtsgait Petroglyphs and Bayanzag (The Flaming Cliffs)

Accommodation – Ger Camp

This morning we will travel to the Khavtsgait Petroglyphs, nestled within the Dund Saikhan Mountain. Here we embark on a trek to the mountain, where a captivating gallery of rock paintings from the Bronze Age awaits. Once we’ve learnt about their stories we’ll drive back to camp for lunch.

In the afternoon, we will drive to the legendary Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs. Once we arrive, we’ll visit the information centre, which features informative exhibits and a brief documentary to enhance our understanding of the area. Then the real fun begins as we immerse ourselves in the wilderness and explore the unique natural formations, hiking along the trail. As the day draws to a close, we’ll return to our camp in the evening, where a delicious dinner awaits.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Ongii Monastery

The Ongi Monastery

July 8th – Khongor to Ongi

Accommodation – Ger Camp

After a tasty breakfast we make our north on the journey towards the Ongi Monastery ruins, situated by the scenic Ongi River. This picturesque drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, traversing the expansive and breathtaking Ongi steppe. Upon arrival at our ger camp we’ll come together for a traditional lunch.

In the afternoon we will visit the remnants of the historic Ongi Monastery, which dates to the 18th century. This excursion includes some brief hiking adventures amidst the ancient ruins. Later after we return to the ger camp to unwind and relax, there is the option to indulge in a rejuvenating sauna or a soothing massage. As the day comes to a close we’ll enjoy a delightful dinner at the ger camp, followed by a restful overnight stay in this tranquil setting.

NOTE: Today is one of the days that we will have the chance to visit a local Naadam Festival. Because of this, our itinerary may change in order to make the most of the event schedule. We may end up visiting the family for dinner rather than lunch, or will drive to a smaller village. We’ll endeavour to make the most of any opportunity that comes our way.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Karakorum Monastery

The fantastic Karakorum Monastery.

July 9th – Ongi to Karakorum

Accommodation – Ger Camp

Today our journey takes us further north into central Mongolia. It starts off with a scenic 4–5-hour drive, crossing the vast Gobi steppes before reaching the central Mongolian steppe. Along the way, we’ll pause for lunch along the main highway leading to the western province. Afterwards our expedition team will continue for another 1-2 hours, possibly making a stop to visit a nomadic family, before reaching Karakorum.

In this large central desert town we will explore the Museum of Karakorum, offering insights into Central Mongolia’s history and introducing us to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Orkhon River Valley. Once we arrive to our ger camp we’ll check in and rest before dinner.

We will stay at this camp for two nights.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E, W

Nomadasaurus Mongolia Tour

A local camel herder.

July 10th – The Naadam Festival in Karakoram

Accommodation – Ger Camp

Today will be one of the highlights of the entire expedition, and sure to be one of the best personal travel experiences you can have.

The historic and iconic Naadam Festival is a traditional event held across the country, and while most people head to the capital city to see the large stadium sports, we will be breaking away from the crowds and instead attend a regional Naadam Festival –  a cultural experience that will stay with you forever.

In Karakoram we will head to the local Naadam field first thing in the morning, kicking off with a vibrant opening ceremony featuring a folklore concert, parade, and speeches. After the ceremony we will watch the thrilling first round of wrestling matches, followed by the famous
horse race. Next witness the precision of archery games, where archers aim at skin targets from distances of 50 to 75 meters. We will be in the thick of the action, cheering on the athletes along with local families and friends. As the festivities wind down day we will visit the renowned Erdene Zuu Monastery, a historic landmark founded in 1586 and Central Mongolia’s very first Buddhist monastery. Wrap up the day with a

satisfying dinner at our camp, filled with the energy and excitement of
the Naadam festivities.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Mongolia Views

The kinds of views you can expect to see along the way.

July 11th – Karakoram to Khorgo Terkh National Park via Tsetserleg

Accommodation: Ger Camp

We’ll leave Karakoram first thing after breakfast and make our way to the town of Tsetserleg, in the heart of Arkhangai province with over 300 years of history. Once we arrive we’ll visit the 17th-century Zayiin Gegeen Monastery and the Guden Temple, home to the mummified body of First Zaya Bandita, a founding figure of the monastery. Our expedition then continues to the Tamir River valley, where we’ll stop for lunch near the historic Taikhar Rock. Driving north we’ll explore the Khorgo Terkh National Park in the afternoon, then arrive at camp located next to the serene Terkiin Tsagaan Lake. Here we’ll enjoy dinner and settle in for a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the natural beauty and historical wonders of this region.

We will spend two nights in this camp.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Horses Mountains

Horses relaxing at a small lake to drink.

July 12th – Khorgo Terkh National Park

Accommodation – Ger Camp

Today we have the whole day to explore the gorgeous Khorgo Terkh National Park. Our day begins with a hike around the volcanic landscape that wraps around Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan, often referred to as the ‘Great White Lake’. This tranquil lake is surrounded by postcard-perfect peaks, with clear water and expansive stretches of sandy beaches. Our route follows a winding road along the lake’s shoreline, passing by Shamanic formations of black lava, before veering inland toward the Khorgo Volcano. Standing at 10,000 feet in altitude, this volcano is now dormant but remains deeply revered by the nomadic communities of the region. A short walk will lead us to the rim of the volcano’s crater, where crimson rocks drop into the profound crater, surrounded by sacred Ovoo mounds. Behind us will be stunning views towards Lake Terkh Tsagaan, Afterwards we’ll return to camp and the afternoon is free for you to relax, or perhaps take part in some optional activities such as boating or fishing. Dinner will be at camp.

Meal Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Optional Activities: Boating or fishing

Khuvsgul Lake

Views over Khuvsgul Lake.

July 13th – Khorgo Terkh National Park to Tumurbulag

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Our expedition continues north into the breathtaking Khangai Mountains, passing through the majestic Shivert Pass along the way. The Khangai Mountains are home to a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged outcrops to steep slopes that tower above the winding river valleys and isolated ger camps. This picturesque drive will take us approximately 6 hours, and we’ll stop for a lovely picnic lunch on the way.

Our next destination is the Ulziit Khishig camp, nestled within the Tumurbulag soum territory. Once we reach our ger camp we’ll have a very special experience: a Mongolian traditional meal known as Khorkhog – an authentic mutton barbecue cooked with heated stones. It’s a delicious taste of Mongolia that we’ll enjoy before a full dinner and peaceful overnight stay at the ger camp.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E

Khuvsgul Mountains

Views over the Khuvskul Mountains.

July 14th – Ulziit Khishig to Khuvsgol Lake

Accommodation: Ger Camp

After breakfast we will drive to the jewel of Mongolia – the postcard-perfect Lake Khuvsgol. Before reaching the lake we still stop at the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site, the Uushig Deer Stones. Then it’s time to make our way to Lake Khuvsgol, stopping on the way to have lunch at a cozy ger restaurant. In the afternoon we’ll drive from Murun towards Siberia and the shores of Lake Khuvsgol. This is one of the most stunning trails in Mongolia, with lush hills, river valleys and massive rock formations making up the landscape. The road progressively gets more rugged into Khatgal, the largest village on the lake, but it’s all worth it once we arrive at the glistening expanse of Khuvsgol. Our ger camp is located close to the lake, and we’ll have an afternoon of leisure before dinner.

Meals Included: B, L

Facilities: S, E, W

Wrestling Naadam

Men wrestling at a local Naadam Festival.

July 15th – Activity Day at Lake Khuvsgol

Accommodation: Ger Camp

No trip to Mongolia is complete without riding a horse, and today we’ll offer exactly that in the most beautiful place in the country. Start your morning with a magical two-hour horseback ride along the edge of the lake, and then the rest of the day is free for you to do as you please.

Choose to relax at camp or go for a hike along the edge of the lake. You could also take part in an optional boat excursions, a visit to a Darkhad family, or try to meet the Tsaatan nomads, also known as the ‘Reindeer People’, who sometimes come down from their remote camps to sell handicrafts made of reindeer antlers. In the afternoon take part in a two-hour kayaking adventure on the tranquil waters of the lake.

Meals Included: B, L, D

Facilities: S, E, W

Optional Activities: Horse riding, kayaking, hiking, visiting the Tsaatan reindeer herders

July 16th – Fly to Ulaanbaatar

Accommodation: 4-Star Hotel

We leave behind the scenic Lake Khuvsgol and make our way back to Murun town to catch our flight back for Ulaanbaatar. The flight will take about 1.5 hours, and you’ll have the opportunity to gaze out at the vast Mongolian steppe that we just spent two weeks exploring. Once we arrive in Ulaanbaatar we will be transferred to our hotel to drop our luggage off.

In the afternoon we will enjoy a traditional Mongolian meal at a local restaurant and then head out on a city tour. We’ll visit the Chinngis Khan Monument in Sukhbaatar Square, stop by Bogd Khaan’s Winter Palace Museum to learn about the history of Mongolia’s monarch and then finish up at a cashmere factory to learn how this famous product is made. You can shop for souvenirs if you’d like here as well.

As our last day together in Mongolia draws to a close we will immerse ourselves in Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage with a traditional folklore concert with the Tumen Ekh ensemble. We will then have a final group dinner at one of our favourite restaurant’s in the country.

Meals Included: B

Nomadic Family

We’ll have the chance to visit real nomadic families out in the desert.

July 17th – Departure

You will be transferred to the airport in time to catch your flight out of Mongolia. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later, and we’ll all depart as one big family, united with our huge adventure exploring one of the most fascinating countries in the world.

What’s Included

  • Accommodation: Twin-share in high-quality tourist ger camps, and twin-share in 4-star hotel in Ulaanbaatar.
  • All meals mentioned in the itinerary. Tea and water during meal times.
  • Transport: Three modern and air-conditioned Japanese 4×4 vans.
  • Airport/Train Station transfers: Pick up and drop-off at the airport for your flight when arriving and departing on the designated dates in this itinerary, or at the train station if you are travelling via the Trans-Siberian.
  • All activities included in the itinerary.
  • English-speaking certified, experienced local guide.
  • Photography workshops and advice.
  • Two trip leaders and photography experts (Alesha Bradford and Jarryd Salem from NOMADasaurus).
  • Two litres of bottled or filtered water per person, per day.
  • Entrance fees to museums and archeological sites.

What’s Not Included

  • International airfares or train tickets to and from Ulaanbaatar.
  • Mongolia tourist visa (we can provide a letter of invitation if required for your nationality)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory to join our tour). We recommend CoverMore for Australians and New Zealanders, and World Nomads for other nationalities, but please do your own research on travel insurance providers.
  • Any meals or snacks not included in the itinerary.
  • Alcoholic beverages or drinks other than water and tea.
  • Personal items such as laundry, medication, etc.
  • Optional activities.
  • Tips for drivers and local guide (Optional)
Horses Sunset
Wild horses and sunsets - just a standard views in Mongolia!

Frequently Asked Questions

Citizens of 24 countries can visit Mongolia visa-free, including those from United States and Canada. Visa-on-arrival is available for many Europeans. For everybody else a visa must be obtained through your local embassy. Please read this article to find out your particular circumstance. Official letters of invitation can be provided for anybody requiring one.

Food in Mongolia is often quite meaty with lots of carbs, but surprisingly delicious. The ger gamps we will be eating at are designed for tourists and make excellent quality food. In Ulaanbaatar we will be eating at nice restaurants.

While most traditional meals are served with meat or dairy products in Mongolia, all the places we will be eating at are used to serving tourists and can cater to vegetarians. Please keep in mind that the variety of fresh fruit and vegetables isn’t as plentiful in Mongolia as they are in other parts of the world, but the food will still be delicious.

If you are vegan things are slightly more difficult, but you will be catered for on this trip as best as possible.

We are very pleased to say that Mongolia is an incredibly safe country. Crime is low, and petty crime against tourists is very rare. As we will be spending most of our time in the countryside, we’ll be seeing more families and nomads than large crowds. The only exception to this is in Karakorum during Naadam. Here we encourage all guests to be aware of horses, and to keep their personal items close.

A Mongolian yurt is known as a ger, and while traditionally they house entire families, the ones we will be staying in are large, spacious, warm, have a solid floor, and sleep two people maximum. The sleeping situation is often two single beds with proper mattresses and blankets.

In Ulaanbaatar we will be staying in a very nice 4-star hotel in the city.

Yes, there is a single supplement option for an additional fee of USD$600. Spaces for this are very limited though, so we will be evaluating who signs up for the tour first before confirming.

In all of our accommodation western-style toilets will be available, even at the ger camps. In the ger camps these will be shared facilities.

On the road, things are far less glamorous. Toilets at gas stations and remote restaurants are often squat toilets and far from clean. We recommend ‘bush toilets’ if you need to go on the road. It’s what the locals do, so embrace it.

In Ulaanbaatar there is fast internet and 4G phone service. Outside of the capital phone reception can be spotty at best. Some of the ger camps may have slow wifi, but this can’t be relied on. If you need to stay connected we recommend purchasing a local sim card with data for your phone upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar. You won’t be connected 24/7, but you’ll pick up signal at times while we’re driving around and at some of the ger camps.

The tour guide, leader and drivers will have access to a phone in case of emergency.

We have organised three modern Japanese Mitsubishi Delica 4×4 vans with a capacity of 7 people each to transport the group around. We’ll keep the number of guests in each van to 4 or 5 maximum. This ensures we won’t be overcrowding the vehicles and will have room for luggage. This also allows us to have one van available in case of emergencies.

The weather in Mongolia in July is quite hot. In the evenings in the desert, the temperature may drop enough to require long pants and a sweater, but in general you’ll be wearing clothes for warm weather. Khuvsgul Lake will be slightly cooler, but still warm. We will be sending out a complete packing list to confirmed participants on this tour.

Not really. We will be staying below 2000m above sea level for most of the trip, so altitude should not be an issue. Consult your doctor if you are concerned.

In the ger camps electricity is available at night so you can charge your equipment. We recommend also bringing a USB power bank to keep your phone and other smaller items charged during the day if required.

The tour leader will be on hand at all times to answer any questions you may have about photography, whether it is about settings, composition, lighting, technical gear, editing, etc. He will also be holding informal workshops throughout the tour such as how to use Adobe Lightroom, how to shoot astrophotography, and more.

Yes! In general the people in Mongolia are very friendly and open to having their pictures taken. Usually all it takes is a smile and to ask if you can, and they’ll happily pose for you. In some places like the markets and bazaars the vendors prefer not to be photographed, so always ask before pointing a camera in their face. Our local guide can always assist when communicating with people.

A decent level of fitness is required to take part in this tour, as we will be spending many hours driving on bumpy roads, as well as hiking, horse riding and kayaking.

If for any reason you feel uncomfortable with some of the adventure activities you can choose not to do them, and other, lighter alternatives will be found for you.

There is a minimum age of 18 to join this tour. There is no maximum age limit to join, but please keep in mind the fitness levels as specified above.

ATMs that accept foreign debit cards like MasterCard and Visa are available in Ulaanbaatar, so you can choose how much spending money you want once you are in the country. As a general idea, USD$250 should be plenty for snacks, alcohol and souvenirs for the 14 days.

Absolutely! In fact many people that ride the Trans-Siberian will get off in Ulaanbaatar to explore Mongolia. If you would like help booking this bucket-list train journey let us know and we can put you in touch with our local tour operator to organise this.

Ger Sunset
One of the ger camps we'll be staying at on this adventure.

TOUR COST – USD$4,450

(Maximum 12 People)
  • A non-refundable deposit of USD $900 is required to secure your position on this tour.
  • The remainder of the cost is required by 3rd of May, 2025
  • Payment can be made via bank transfer in USD, AUD, EUR or GBP.

As places are limited we will be sending out payment details in order of when the registration forms have been received. The earlier you complete the form, the sooner we will send you the payment information.

Once you receive the payment information you will have 24 hours to pay the deposit before we forward details to the next person in line. For this reason we recommend only completing the registration details once you’re ready to pay the deposit. Thanks very much for your understanding.

Cancellation Policy

If for any reason you need to cancel your position on this tour you will forfeit your deposit (unfortunately we will be using the deposit to pay for accommodation and activities as soon as it is received. We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance with trip cancellation options.)

If you have already paid in full this is the percentage of refund available:

  • Before 4th March 2025 – 100% of total trip cost (minus deposit)
  • Between 5th March and 3rd April 2025 — 70% of total trip cost (minus deposit)
  • Between 4th April and 32nd May 2025 – 50% of total trip cost (minus deposit)
  • After 3rd May 2025 – No refund available.

If we cancel this tour for any reason, whether it is personal or political, you will receive 100% of your money back, including deposit.

July 3rd Tour – 2 Spaces Remaining