The Gobi Desert is a place of awe-inspiring contrasts and one of Mongolia’s most iconic natural wonders. Stretching across southern Mongolia, this vast desert is far more than just barren land. It’s a rich ecosystem, home to towering sand dunes, dramatic canyons, rare wildlife, and the fossils of dinosaurs from millions of years ago. With temperatures that swing from a freezing -40°C in winter to a scorching 45°C in summer, the Gobi’s extremes are part of what makes it so unforgettable.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Bactrian Camel Ride: Saddle up and cross the famous Khongoryn Els (Singing Sand Dunes), where the sands sing with the wind. These dunes can soar to 300 meters tall — an unforgettable sight.
• Flaming Cliffs: Visit Bayanzag, where dinosaur eggs were first discovered in the 1920s, and feel the history of prehistoric giants beneath your feet.
• Yolyn Am: Explore Eagle Valley, a breathtaking ice-filled canyon at the heart of the desert, where nature’s coolness contrasts with the heat of the surrounding Gobi.

Once the bustling capital of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century, Karakorum was established by Chinggis Khaan’s son, Ögedei Khan. Today, the ruins stand as a powerful reminder of Mongolia’s golden age. Just a short walk from the ruins, you’ll find Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery, built in 1586, where history and spirituality intertwine.

Karakorum & Erdene Zuu Monastery are a must-see for history enthusiasts and anyone looking to connect with the heart of Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Walk Through Ancient City Ruins: Step back in time as you wander through the ruins of Karakorum, once the heart of the Silk Road, where traders, explorers, and conquerors passed through.
• Witness Daily Prayers: Experience the serene atmosphere of Erdene Zuu Monastery, where Buddhist monks perform daily prayers, offering a glimpse into Mongolia’s spiritual traditions.
• Visit the Karakorum Museum: Dive deeper into Mongolia’s history at the Karakorum Museum, where artifacts from the Mongol Empire bring the past to life

Opened in 2022, the Chinggis Khaan Museum is a cutting-edge space dedicated to the legacy of Chinggis Khaan (Genghis Khan) and the Mongolian Empire. With modern, interactive exhibits, this museum takes you deep into the heart of Mongolia’s history.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• View original weapons, armor, and relics from the Mongol conquests.
• Walk through digital exhibits that breathe life into Mongolia’s ancient past.
• Marvel at giant murals and battle dioramas showcasing the might of Mongol warriors.

Just an hour’s drive from Ulaanbaatar, Terelj National Park offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with scenic rock formations, lush valleys, and traditional nomadic camps. It’s an ideal spot for families to escape into nature without straying too far from the city.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Observe the Turtle Rock, a massive rock formation shaped like a turtle.
• Saddle up and ride horses through green valleys, guided by friendly local herders.
• Stay in a cozy traditional Mongolian ger, and get a taste of authentic nomadic hospitality.

For over 2,000 years, Kazakh nomads in western Mongolia have practiced the ancient tradition of eagle hunting. These skilled hunters train golden eagles to hunt foxes and small animals in the vast wilderness.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Meet Kazakh eagle hunters, learning about their unique tradition and way of life.
• Hold a golden eagle on your arm and snap unforgettable family photos.
• Witness the Golden Eagle Festival, where hunters compete in horseback riding, archery, and eagle-hunting demonstrations.

Khoomei (throat singing) and Morin Khuur (horsehead fiddle) performances are unique musical traditions that are deeply intertwined with Mongolia’s nomadic culture and the natural world.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Watch live Mongolian music performances in Ulaanbaatar.
• Try playing the horsehead fiddle, a traditional instrument that dates back to the Mongol Empire.
• Experience the arts and cinema scene at the Ulaanbaatar International Film Festival or enjoy local theater performances.

Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, located in the rugged west of Mongolia, is a breathtaking natural wonder. This park is home to Mongolia's highest peaks, including the towering Khuiten Peak, which rises 4,374 meters. It’s a land of striking contrasts, from glaciers and alpine lakes to ancient petroglyphs, and is also famed for the traditions of Kazakh eagle hunters.

The park is a true paradise for those who seek adventure, history, and the unmatched beauty of Mongolia's highlands.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Hike to Potanin Glacier: Embark on a trek to Potanin Glacier, Mongolia's largest, where the crisp mountain air and awe-inspiring ice formations leave a lasting impression.
• Golden Eagle Festival: Be captivated by the Golden Eagle Festival, where skilled Kazakh nomads showcase their eagle hunting prowess in a mesmerizing tournament of tradition and skill.
• Tsagaan Salaa Petroglyphs: Step back in time and gaze upon ancient rock carvings dating back over 12,000 years, offering a fascinating glimpse into Mongolia's distant past.

Nomadic life is still very much alive in Mongolia, and staying with a Mongolian herding family offers a rare, authentic experience. It’s a chance to live alongside them, learning their customs and way of life.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Try your hand at milking yaks, herding sheep, and making airag (fermented mare’s milk).
• Sleep under the stars in a traditional ger, and experience the rhythm of nomadic life.
• Join in seasonal nomadic festivals, like the Yak, Camel, and Eagle Festivals.

The National Museum of Mongolia is a fascinating exploration of Mongolia's history from prehistoric times through to its modern democratic transformation.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Admire ancient Mongolian clothing, tools, and nomadic artifacts.
• Discover Mongolia’s transformation under Soviet influence.
• Dive into exhibits on the Mongol Empire and Buddhist traditions.

Nestled in northern Mongolia, Khuvsgul Lake is a stunning jewel of the country, known as the "Blue Pearl." It’s Mongolia’s largest freshwater lake and one of the deepest in the world, holding nearly 2% of Earth’s fresh water. Surrounded by rugged mountains, serene pine forests, and the traditional life of reindeer-herding nomads, this pristine lake is a place of natural beauty and tranquility.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Kayaking, Fishing, or Boating: Paddle across one of Asia’s cleanest lakes, where the crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains in a breathtaking display.
• Meet the Tsaatan People: Visit the Tsaatan (Reindeer) tribe, a small, nomadic community living deep within the taiga forests, where life has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
• Khuvsgul Ice Festival: Join in the fun at the Khuvsgul Ice Festival, where locals showcase their skills in ice horse racing, skating, and archery—a unique and thrilling experience in the heart of winter.

In the remote forests of northern Mongolia, the Tsaatan people live a reindeer-herding lifestyle, one of the last of its kind in the world. Their traditions are deeply tied to their reindeer, using them for transportation, milk, and spiritual ceremonies.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Ride a reindeer through snow-covered forests, a rare experience found only in Mongolia.
• Learn about shamanistic traditions and nomadic survival skills from the Tsaatan people.
• Stay in an ortz (a teepee-style tent) and experience the off-grid lifestyle of reindeer herders.

Step into the Bogd Khan Palace Museum, once the residence of Mongolia’s last king, Bogd Khan. This palace showcases royal artifacts, Buddhist treasures, and historic art.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Tour the luxurious palace chambers where Mongolia’s last ruler once lived.
• Explore rare Buddhist statues and silk robes from the royal collection.
• View exotic animal taxidermy, including a white elephant gifted by the Dalai Lama.

The Naadam Festival is Mongolia’s most vibrant and significant cultural event. Known as the "Three Manly Games," this festival celebrates Mongolia’s ancient traditions with wrestling, horse racing, and archery—sports that date back to the time of Chinggis Khaan. Held annually in July, it’s a true spectacle of strength, skill, and spirit, and an unforgettable experience for anyone lucky enough to witness it firsthand.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Traditional Mongolian Wrestling: Watch as wrestlers don historic outfits and perform the “Eagle Dance”—a dramatic, graceful ritual before their matches begin.
• Naadam Horse Racing: Feel the thrill as child jockeys race across the vast Mongolian steppe for up to 30 kilometers, demonstrating courage and speed.
• Mongolian Archery: Try your hand at Mongolian archery, a sport that has been practiced for over 2,000 years, testing both precision and focus.

National Amusement Park is the largest theme park in Mongolia, located in the heart of Ulaanbaatar. It’s packed with fun attractions for families, making it the perfect place for a day of entertainment.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Hold on tight for roller coasters, bumper cars, and a relaxing spin on the Ferris wheel.
• Take little ones to the mini-zoo, showcasing Mongolia’s native animals.
• Enjoy the playgrounds and picnic areas, great for winding down after a day of excitement.

Just 54 km east of Ulaanbaatar, the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex stands proudly with its monumental 40-meter (131-foot) statue of Chinggis Khaan (Genghis Khan) on horseback. It’s a striking symbol of Mongolia’s rich heritage and pride.

TOP EXPERIENCES

• Climb to the observation deck on the horse’s head for panoramic views of the endless Mongolian steppe.
• Dress up in Mongolian warrior armor and capture unique family photos.
• Explore the museum inside the statue, filled with artifacts from the Mongol Empire.