Mongolia

Upon arrival at the Ulaanbaatar airport, transfer to our centrally located hotel.

Begin today at Sukhbaatar Square to view the Great Khans memorial, built in celebration of the 800th anniversary of the Mongol Empire. Stroll from the square to the Chinggis Khan National Museum, where a local historian leads us through galleries dedicated to the ancient states that preceded Chinggis Khan, the Mongol Empire, and the post-Genghis Khan era. Later in the afternoon, visit the National Library’s treasure room, which holds special manuscripts dating back to the 16th century. Gather with local Stanford alumni for welcome drinks this evening before dinner at a local restaurant.

Depart Ulaanbaatar for Karakorum, stopping in Hustai National Park, home to the last remaining species of wild horse, the takhi, commonly known as Przewalski’s horse. Hear from the park biologist about current conservation efforts, then search for the beautiful horses in their natural habitat. Continue our drive to Karakorum, site of the 13th-century capital of the Mongol Empire, and check in to our ger camp.

At the Karakorum Museum, the museum curator provides an overview of the historical significance of the Orkhon Valley, designated a UNESCO Cultural Landscape. Next, visit the Erdene Zuu Monastery, which is surrounded by 108 stupas and has been a place of Buddhist activity for centuries. Observe the monks as they perform prayers and rituals in temples richly decorated with spectacular Buddhist art. After lunch, we stop at the Gokhturk Museum to see the Bilge Qaghan and Kul Tigin monuments, dedicated to Turkish Khans who ruled Mongolia between the 6th and 8th century.

Early this morning, depart on our long journey to the Gobi. Stop for lunch at Ongiin Khiid and walk through the ruins of the 17th-century temple, known as the “Pearl of the Great Desert,” that was one of the largest monasteries in Mongolia until its destruction during the communist purges in 1939. Continue across the vast Ongi steppe to reach the Three Camel Lodge, our luxury ger resort situated on the edge of Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. After dinner we head outdoors to take in the dazzling night sky, free of light pollution.

Take advantage of several optional activities this morning or simply relax. In the afternoon, we drive to Moltsog Els, one of the few regions of the Gobi covered by sand dunes. Visit with a camel breeder family and explore the area on foot or by a camel.  After dinner, enjoy an optional stargazing session.

This morning, drive to Havsgait Valley where we hike to a mountaintop to observe ancient petroglyphs. Later, head out to Bayan Zag, commonly known as the Flaming Cliffs, for the orange glow of its rock at dawn and dusk.  It was here in 1923 that Dr. Roy Chapman Andrews and his exploration team from the American Museum of Natural History found the first nest of dinosaur eggs. Although not obvious to the untrained eye, the Flaming Cliffs are rich with dinosaur fossils and have been the site of important paleontological discoveries.

Today, we witness a local countryside Naadam Festival. Wrestling, horseracing, and archery are the three age-old competitions traditionally used to measure the courage and strength of nomads and warriors.  Contemporary Naadam games showcase the abilities of local men, women, boys, and girls, and are also a time when family and friends get together to celebrate the joyful summer season.

After breakfast, transfer to local airport for our flight returning to Ulaanbaatar. Spend the rest of the day at leisure with dinner on our own.

Today is all about Mongolia’s vibrant contemporary art scene. We are welcomed into the creative spaces of distinguished Mongolian artists for personal encounters with their work and process. Visit a range of private galleries that showcase both traditional influences and modern abstraction. Tonight, gather for a traditional performance followed by our farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

After breakfast, transfer to airport for flights returning home.