* (Las fechas de la excursión pueden ajustarse según el tamaño del grupo y las condiciones de la reserva.)
** (El precio por persona se basa en un grupo mínimo de seis participantes. Actualmente está reservando con la tarifa de grupo. Si el tamaño final del grupo para la fecha de su tour seleccionado es inferior a seis participantes, se aplicará un costo adicional para cubrir los gastos logísticos.)
Mongolia is a land of striking contrasts, where the golden sands of the Gobi Desert meet the lush valleys of Central Mongolia. This journey offers a perfect balance between breathtaking landscapes and timeless culture. In the Gobi, we photograph immense dunes, sculpted canyons, and the nomadic life of camel herders. Private sessions with Bactrian camels allow us to capture unforgettable images of desert life, while evenings spent in traditional ger camps immerse us in the warmth of Mongolian hospitality.
From the desert, we travel north into the cultural heart of Mongolia, where monasteries, sacred lakes, and volcanic formations reveal a gentler, greener side of the country. Here, we meet nomadic families, witness daily pastoral traditions, and explore historic sites such as the Erdene Zuu Monastery. The combination of desert and steppe landscapes makes this itinerary ideal for both portrait and landscape photography, offering countless opportunities to capture Mongolia’s wild beauty and ancestral traditions.
We travel aboard specially prepared Toyota Land Cruisers, driven by experienced local chauffeurs, and stay in a mix of hotels and gers equipped with beds. This adventure is designed to provide comfort while staying close to the authentic spirit of Mongolia.
It is a journey where each day brings new discoveries, and where photography becomes a way to connect deeply with both nature and culture.
Arrival Day
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at the airport, followed by a private transfer to your hotel in Ulaanbaatar. In the evening, you’ll meet your guides and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner, where we’ll introduce the journey ahead and share practical details about the upcoming days. This arrival day is designed for rest and orientation before the tour officially begins.
Day 1
After breakfast, we set out on our first journey into the Great Gobi of Mongolia. Today’s highlight is the spectacular Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa) canyon, located about 385 km south of Ulaanbaatar. The drive itself offers a glimpse into Mongolia’s vast steppe landscapes, gradually transforming into desert terrain. By evening, we arrive at a comfortable Ger camp, where you’ll enjoy traditional hospitality and rest under the wide-open Gobi sky.
Includes: Breakfast. Lunch, Dinner
Yol Canyon – “Yolyn Am”
Before reaching the dunes, the journey passes through Yol Canyon, also known as the Valley of the Vultures. Nestled in the Züün Saikhan Mountains, this gorge is famous for its towering cliffs, narrow passages, and seasonal ice field that can remain until late summer. The canyon was originally protected to conserve birdlife, especially the Lammergeier (bearded vulture), which gave the valley its name. Visitors often encounter dramatic rock formations, small waterfalls, and a cool microclimate that contrasts sharply with the surrounding desert.
Dungenee Canyon
Continuing onward, travelers pass through Dungenee Canyon, a lesser-known but equally captivating gorge located near Yol. With its narrow rock walls, hidden streams, and rugged cliffs, Dungenee offers a more secluded and adventurous atmosphere. The canyon is home to desert wildlife such as ibex, vultures, and pikas, and in spring, wildflowers brighten the rocky terrain. A small river flows along the valley floor, creating a refreshing oasis amid the arid Gobi.
Khongor Sand Dunes – “Khongoriin Els”
The Khongor Sand Dunes are the largest and most striking sand mass within Gobi Gurvan Saïkhan National Park. Covering over 900 square kilometers (347 sq. miles), they form one of Mongolia’s most impressive natural wonders. Rising suddenly from the surrounding plains, the dunes stretch for more than 180 kilometers in length and up to 27 kilometers (16 miles) in width.
Shaped by constant winds blowing from the north and west, the dunes reach breathtaking heights of 100 to 300 meters (328–984 ft). Their golden waves create a spectacular landscape that is both vast and mesmerizing—undoubtedly among the most iconic sights of the country. Tonight, we will stay in a comfortable tourist camp nestled near the dunes.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ongi Monastery – “The Secret of Ongi”
This morning after breakfast, we will set out for the ruins of Ongi Monastery, one of the most significant historical sites in south-central Mongolia. After exploring the ruins, the group will continue to the tourist camp “The Secret of Ongi”, where we will stay overnight.
Ongi Monastery is the collective name for two monastic complexes that face each other across the Ongi River in Saikhan-Ovoo district, Dundgovi Province. The southern complex, founded in 1660, once contained administrative buildings and 11 temples. The northern complex, built in the 18th century, expanded to 17 temples—including one of the largest in Mongolia—and housed four Buddhist universities.
At its height, Ongi Monastery was among the largest in the country, home to more than 1,000 monks. Though destroyed in the 1930s, the ruins remain a powerful reminder of Mongolia’s spiritual heritage. The site lies about 18 km south of Saikhan-Ovoo town, offering visitors a chance to walk among the remnants of temples and imagine the grandeur of this once-thriving religious center.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we will begin our journey to Karakhorum, the legendary ancient capital of Mongolia.
Founded in 1235, Karakhorum served as the capital of the Mongol Empire until 1260, and later as the seat of the Northern Yuan dynasty during the 14th–15th centuries. Though much of the city lies in ruins today, it remains a site of immense historical importance. The ruins are located in the northwestern corner of Övörkhangai Province, near the modern town of Kharkhorin, and stand adjacent to the Erdene Zuu Monastery—the earliest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. Together, they form part of the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking among the remnants of Karakhorum, visitors can imagine the grandeur of the empire at its height, when it was a hub of politics, culture, and trade along the Silk Road.
Tonight, we will stay overnight in the comfortable new camp “Secret of Silk Road”.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we will set out for Khorgo–Terkhiin Tsagaan National Park, one of Mongolia’s most beautiful natural reserves. Along the way, we will visit the dramatic Chuluut Canyon, carved by the Chuluut River through volcanic rock, offering breathtaking views of steep cliffs and winding waters.
We will then continue to the shimmering Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, a vast freshwater lake formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. Surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, the lake is a paradise for birdlife and a peaceful spot to enjoy the pristine beauty of the Mongolian countryside.
Nearby lies the impressive Khorgo Crater, an extinct volcano whose rugged lava fields and panoramic views make it a highlight of the park. In the evening, we will stay overnight in a comfortable tourist camp close to the crater, immersed in the tranquility of this remarkable landscape.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we will set out for the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, often called the “Mini Gobi”. Stretching for about 80 kilometers, these golden dunes create a striking contrast with the surrounding steppe and forested areas. It is a unique landscape where desert, steppe, and mountain ecosystems meet, offering opportunities to walk on the dunes, ride camels, and enjoy the dramatic scenery.
We will then continue to the Khugnu Khan Rocky Mountains, a majestic granite formation rising from the plains. The area is rich in history and legend, with ancient temples, ruins, and sacred sites hidden among the cliffs. The mountains are also home to diverse wildlife, including ibex and various bird species, making it a fascinating place for exploration and photography.
In the evening, we will stay overnight in a comfortable tourist camp near the mountains, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Mongolia’s varied landscapes.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we will travel back to Ulaanbaatar city, concluding our journey through Mongolia’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival, we will check into a comfortable hotel and have time to relax or explore the city at leisure.
In the evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the experiences and memories shared during the trip.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport for your departing flight. This marks the end of our journey together, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Mongolia’s landscapes, culture, and history.
Includes: Breakfast
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport for your departing flight. This marks the end of our journey together, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Mongolia’s landscapes, culture, and history.
Includes: Breakfast
Accommodation
Transportation
Guiding & Support
Meals & Beverages
Photography Program
Outerwear
Clothing
Protection & Essentials
In Ulaanbaatar, guests will stay in comfortable 4‑star hotels. During the Gobi Desert portion of the trip, accommodation is provided in traditional Ger camps (two persons per Ger). Some camps are equipped with modern toilet facilities both inside and outside, and meals are served in a specially designated dining Ger. Please note that Wi‑Fi is not available in the Gobi, and cellular/internet connection is limited. For better coverage, we recommend using a MOBICOM SIM card. There are no hotels in the Gobi, but the Ger camps are cozy and well‑maintained. While you may experience minor inconveniences, these will be more than compensated by the breathtaking, untouched nature surrounding you throughout Mongolia.
Vegetarian options are available, though the variety of vegetables may be limited in certain areas. Breakfast typically includes bacon and eggs, toast with Nutella, sausages, juice, and coffee. Lunch and dinner feature fresh salads, hearty soups, and a selection of meat, pasta, or rice dishes.
