The Deep Gobi & Khermen Tsav Expedition
About this tour
Some journeys change your perspective; others change your soul. This 12-day expedition into the deepest, most untouched corners of the Gobi Desert is not just a vacation—it is the ultimate adventure of a lifetime. Stand where dinosaurs once ruled, sleep beneath a galaxy untouched by city lights, and witness Mongolia’s dramatic transition into golden autumn. This is the raw, untamed earth as it was millions of years ago.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Chinggis Khaan International Airport, Sergelen, Mongolia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
The Experience: Upon your arrival at Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), our team will be waiting to give you a warm, traditional Mongolian welcome. We will handle your luggage and transfer you in comfort straight to the heart of the capital city. Your adventure begins with a relaxing stay at a luxury international hotel, allowing you to unwind and adapt to the local time zone in style. • Accommodation: Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace (or similar premium 5-star equivalent). • Meals Included: Welcome refreshments.
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Mongolia. We begin the morning at the majestic Gandan Tegchenling Monastery, the spiritual heart of Mongolian Buddhism, to witness morning chants and see the stunning 26-meter Megjid Janraisig statue. In the afternoon, we explore the world-class Chinggis Khaan National Museum, home to a breathtaking collection of royal artifacts and nomadic history spanning thousands of years. The day concludes with an exclusive Welcome & Ice-Breaking Dinner at a premium restaurant, where you will taste gourmet local cuisine and meet your fellow expedition travelers. • Accommodation: Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace (or similar premium 5-star equivalent). • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Welcome Dinner.
Day 3: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa), Mongolia
Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa) in Middle Gobi. This is a strange nature formation of colorful, massive mud cliffs that look like stupas, mound-like structures containing relics. Hiking through it offers the chance to take amazing photographs. Accommodation: Ger camp Gobi Caravanserai Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa), Mongolia to Yolin Am Ice Field, Mongolia
Breakfast in the early morning. It is followed by drive to Yol Valley. Located within the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, this deep canyon is famous for: • The Ice Field: Even in the middle of summer, deep parts of the gorge often contain thick layers of ice. • Wildlife: Look up to see Bearded Vultures (Lammergeiers) and Ibex on the cliff edges. • Hiking: The walk from the parking area to the ice field is about 2–3 km and is very scenic. Accommodation: Ger camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Yolin Am Ice Field, Mongolia to Khongor Sand Dune, Mongolia
In the morning drive to Khongor sand dune after arrival we’ll go climb sand dunes and have an hour of camel riding. If you may climb sand dunes, don't forget to spread the sand northwards against the wind to find the reason why locals call the sand dunes "Singing Sand.” The views are fantastic from the top of the sand dunes. Visit local nomadic family and camel riding for 1 hour.
Day 6: Khongor Sand Dune, Mongolia
Today, we leave the giant sand dunes behind and venture even deeper into the wild, unchartered territories of the Extreme Gobi. This is where the true 4x4 off-road expedition begins. We will navigate through vast desert plains, rugged rocky trails, and dry riverbeds where few tourists ever tread. Our destination is Narandaats, a breathtaking, lush green oasis hidden like a secret gemstone in the middle of the arid desert. Surrounded by harsh terrain, this oasis flourishes with natural springs and wild vegetation, serving as a vital life-source in the deep Gobi. Narandaats will be our strategic base camp—a place to rest, recharge, and enjoy the unbelievable tranquility of the desert before we make our final push into the prehistoric canyons of Khermen Tsav. Accommodation: Selected Ger Camp / Cozy Desert Base. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: khermen tsav, Sevrei, Mongolia
The crown jewel of our expedition awaits. Today, we drive into the legendary Khermen Tsav, a breathtaking red mud canyon hidden deep within the Gobi’s ultimate frontier. Often compared to the Grand Canyon but far more remote, these towering fiery-red structures form a massive, maze-like natural fortress. This is the sacred ground where world-famous, completely intact dinosaur fossils and ancient eggs were discovered. Upon arrival, we will embark on an incredible canyon hiking trek. Walking through the narrow, wind-sculpted clay walls feels like stepping onto a completely different planet. You will explore hidden pathways, capture jaw-dropping photographs, and feel the immense silence of the ancient earth. As the sun sets, casting a brilliant orange glow over the cliffs, our team will set up our premium camp inside the canyon. Tonight, you will experience the ultimate highlight: wilderness camping under a million stars. With zero light pollution, the desert sky transforms into a crystal-clear, endless sea of galaxies. Gather around a cozy campfire, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our field chef, and drift to sleep surrounded by the majestic walls of Khermen Tsav. Accommodation: Premium Wilderness Camping (High-quality windproof tents, warm mattresses, and warm sleeping bags). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Gourmet Field Dinner.
Day 8: khermen tsav, Sevrei, Mongolia
Wake up early to witness a magical, unforgettable sunrise as the first morning light paints the towering red walls of Khermen Tsav in brilliant golden hues. After enjoying a fresh hot breakfast and freshly brewed coffee in the middle of the canyon, we will pack up our camp and begin our return journey back to the lush Narandaats Oasis. After days of driving and wilderness camping through the deep desert, today is completely dedicated to your comfort, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Upon arriving at our oasis base camp, you can wash off the desert dust, enjoy a long-awaited hot shower, and unpack your gear. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend at leisure—relax in the comfort of your ger, read a book, or take a peaceful stroll around the greenery of the oasis as the sun sets. Tonight, enjoy a hearty dinner and a deep, restful sleep in a comfortable bed. Accommodation: Selected Ger Camp / Cozy Desert Base. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 9: Flaming Cliffs, Mongolia
Today, our expedition moves towards one of the most famous paleontological sites in human history: Bayanzag, universally known as the "Flaming Cliffs." This is the exact location where the legendary American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews discovered the world’s first dinosaur eggs and completely intact nests in the 1920s, forever changing the field of science. Upon arrival, we will explore the majestic red sandstone cliffs and hike through the rare, ancient Saxaul forest—a unique desert tree that manages to thrive in the harsh Gobi sands. The true highlight of the day occurs in the late afternoon. As the sun begins to set, the entire landscape undergoes a magical transformation; the orange-red clay cliffs catch the light and appear to literally glow like a roaring fire. Standing on top of the cliffs, watching this fiery sunset over the endless desert horizon, is a powerful moment you will remember forever. Accommodation: Selected Ger Camp (Comfortable stay with modern amenities). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 10: Flaming Cliffs, Mongolia to Terelj, Mongolia
Today, our expedition takes a dramatic and beautiful turn as we leave the arid Gobi Desert behind and head north toward the alpine highlands of Central Mongolia. We will embark on a long, scenic drive on the paved highway, watching the landscape shift from vast desert plains to rolling green-and-gold steppes. To ensure your ultimate comfort, our professional 4x4 fleet will bypass the bustling traffic of the capital city by taking a clever detour via Nalaikh. This drives us straight into the breathtaking landscapes of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Arriving in Terelj in September is like stepping into a living oil painting. The endless larch and birch forests undergo their spectacular autumn transition, turning into a vibrant sea of brilliant yellow, orange, and gold. After the rugged heat of the desert, you will be welcomed by crisp mountain air, massive granite rock formations, and peaceful alpine meadows. We will visit the iconic Turtle Rock, explore the scenic valley, and experience horseback riding through the golden forests. Tonight, you will relax in a premium ger camp nestled among the whispering autumn trees. Accommodation: Premium Ger Camp (Terelj National Park). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 11: Terelj, Mongolia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Wake up to a crisp mountain morning in Terelj National Park. Before we head back to the city, you will enjoy a peaceful 1-hour horseback riding session through the golden larch forests and scenic alpine meadows—a quintessential Mongolian experience. Afterward, we will drive back to Ulaanbaatar and enjoy a delicious lunch at a premium city restaurant. The afternoon is dedicated to some leisure time and souvenir and cashmere shopping, allowing you to pick up world-class Mongolian cashmere and authentic local crafts to take home. As evening approaches, you will be treated to a spectacular Traditional Folklore Concert, featuring mesmerizing throat singing (Khuomei), beautiful contortionists, and ancient musical instruments like the Morin Khuur (Horsehead Fiddle). To celebrate the conclusion of our incredible 12-day journey, we will host an exclusive Farewell Dinner at the hotel, allowing everyone to share memories and toast to an unforgettable expedition. Accommodation: Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace (or similar premium 5-star equivalent). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Farewell Dinner.
Day 12: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Chinggis Khaan International Airport, Sergelen, Mongolia
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your international flight schedule, our dedicated airport transfer team will meet you at the lobby, assist with your luggage, and drive you in comfort to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) for your departure flight back home. As you board your flight, you will take with you unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and stories from the deep canyons of Khermen Tsav and the golden forests of Mongolia. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey! Accommodation: None (Departure day). Meals Included: Breakfast.
What's included
To experience the true variety of Mongolia, our accommodations range from luxury city hotels to authentic wilderness camping. Please note our rooming arrangements: • In Ulaanbaatar (Hotels): Twin-share basis (2 people per room) at the 5-star Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace (or similar premium equivalent). • In the Countryside (Ger Camps): o At premium tourist camps with modern amenities, lodging is on a twin-share basis (2 people per ger). o In more remote, deep desert areas where camp capacity is limited, lodging will be 3 to 4 people per ger (traditional style). • Wilderness Camping (Khermen Tsav): High-quality, windproof tents shared by 2 to 3 people. • Single Supplement Request: If you prefer private accommodation (a single room or a single ger) throughout the tour wherever available, please notify us in advance. Please note that a Single Supplement is subject to availability and requires an additional fee. Mongolian traditional cuisine is heavily centered around high-quality, free-range beef and mutton (lamb), accompanied by flour, rice, and seasonal vegetables. You will enjoy hearty, delicious meals prepared at our selected ger camps and by our private field chef during camping. 🌱 Vegetarian, Vegan & Special Diets: If you are a vegetarian, vegan, or follow a strict gluten-free diet, please notify us well in advance (before the tour departure). While vegetarianism is not traditional in the countryside, our team is fully experienced and happy to prepare dedicated, nutritious meat-free meals for you. ⚠️ Allergies & Medical Restrictions: If you have any severe food allergies (such as dairy, nuts, or seafood) or specific religious dietary restrictions, please inform us during your booking process so our kitchen and field staff can be fully prepared to accommodate your needs safely.
International airfare, beverages, personal expenses
Languages spoken
What to know
🌤️ Weather Conditions in September September in the Gobi Desert is beautiful but highly unpredictable. Days are generally warm and sunny (around 15°C to 23°C), perfect for hiking. However, as soon as the sun sets, temperatures drop drastically, and canyon nights can get crisp and chilly (around 0°C to 5°C). In Terelj, you will experience a true alpine autumn morning. 👕 What to Wear (Dress in Layers) To stay comfortable through the shifting desert and mountain climates, layering is key: • Base Layer: Lightweight, breathable t-shirts and long-sleeve shirts (merino wool or moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics are best). • Insulation Layer: A warm fleece jacket, a sweater, or a lightweight down jacket for chilly evenings and early mornings. • Outer Layer: A high-quality windproof and waterproof jacket. The desert and canyons can get very windy. • Bottoms: Comfortable, durable hiking pants. Avoid heavy denim jeans for long drives and treks. • Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support and grip for walking through the rugged terrains of Khermen Tsav and Flaming Cliffs. Bring a comfortable pair of sneakers or sandals for relaxing at the camps. 🧳 Personal Gear to Bring • Sun Protection: The desert sun is intense. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. • Headlamp / Flashlight: Essential for moving around the wilderness camp at night inside Khermen Tsav. • Power Bank: While our vehicles have charging ports, a high-capacity power bank is highly recommended to keep your phone and camera charged during camping. • Personal Wet Wipes & Toiletries: Very useful for the wild camping night. ⚠️ Important Notes & Health • Hydration is Key: The Gobi air is incredibly dry. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. • Luggage: Please pack your gear in a durable duffel bag or a soft-shell suitcase rather than a hard-shell suitcase. Soft bags are much easier to pack efficiently into the 4x4 expedition vehicles. • Cash: While card payments work well in Ulaanbaatar, please bring some local currency (Mongolian Tugrik - MNT) in cash for buying authentic souvenirs, local snacks, or tipping tips in the deep countryside.
Route & locations
Chinggis Khaan International Airport, Sergelen, Mongolia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia