Iceland vs Mongolia – If you’re an avid traveler who has fallen in love with the dramatic landscapes and unique culture of Iceland, it’s time to consider your next adventure: Mongolia.
Both countries offer vast, unspoiled natural beauty and a rich tapestry of history and culture, but Mongolia presents a different kind of allure that will captivate those who appreciate the wonders of Iceland. Here’s why a tour of Mongolia should be next on your bucket list.
Diverse and Untamed Landscapes
Iceland is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, including geysers, volcanoes, glaciers, and hot springs. Similarly, Mongolia boasts a variety of breathtaking terrains that will enthrall nature lovers.
From the towering Altai Mountains and the expansive Gobi Desert to the rolling steppes and crystal-clear lakes, Mongolia offers a diverse array of natural wonders.
The pristine beauty of Lake Khövsgöl, often referred to as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” rivals the glacial lagoons of Iceland, while the Gobi’s dramatic dunes and canyons provide a stark contrast to Iceland’s volcanic vistas.
Rich Nomadic Culture
Iceland’s Viking heritage is a significant draw for many visitors, with its sagas, ancient ruins, and traditional customs. Mongolia, on the other hand, is the heartland of the nomadic way of life.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the daily routines of herders, experience the hospitality of ger (yurt) living, and witness age-old traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries.
The Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s largest and most celebrated event, showcases traditional sports such as wrestling, horse racing, and archery, offering a vibrant insight into the country’s cultural heritage.
Unique Wildlife Encounters
While Iceland’s wildlife, including puffins, whales, and the elusive Arctic fox, captivates nature enthusiasts, Mongolia offers its own unique encounters.
The country is home to the elusive snow leopard, the majestic wild horses of the Khustain Nuruu National Park, and the Bactrian camel, which can be seen traversing the Gobi Desert.
Bird watchers will delight in the variety of species found around Mongolia’s lakes and wetlands, making it a paradise for wildlife photography and observation.
Adventure Opportunities
Iceland is a haven for adventure seekers, offering activities such as glacier hiking, ice climbing, and diving between tectonic plates. Mongolia, too, is an adventurer’s paradise.
Trekking through the Altai Mountains, riding horseback across the steppes, or exploring the depths of the Gobi Desert are just a few of the exhilarating experiences awaiting you.
Mongolia’s vast and varied terrain provides endless opportunities for outdoor pursuits, ensuring that thrill-seekers will find plenty to satisfy their adventurous spirits.
Historical and Archaeological Wonders
Iceland’s history is etched into its landscapes, from ancient Viking settlements to medieval churches. Similarly, Mongolia’s historical and archaeological sites tell the story of a rich and complex past.
The ancient capital of Kharkhorin, once the center of the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan, offers a glimpse into the country’s storied history.
The Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, showcases the country’s spiritual heritage, while the petroglyphs and stone monuments scattered across the countryside speak to the long-standing human presence in the region.
Serenity and Solitude
One of the most enchanting aspects of Iceland is its sense of solitude and connection with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Mongolia offers a similar, if not more profound, experience.
With one of the lowest population densities in the world, Mongolia provides a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. Here, you can camp under the vast, star-filled sky, hike for days without encountering another soul, and truly disconnect from the outside world.
The serenity of Mongolia’s landscapes offers a perfect escape for those seeking to recharge and reconnect with nature.
If Iceland’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and opportunities for adventure have captured your heart, Mongolia promises to deliver an equally, if not more, fulfilling travel experience.
From its diverse landscapes and rich nomadic culture to its unique wildlife and profound sense of solitude, Mongolia stands as an unparalleled destination for those who love the unspoiled and the extraordinary.
Add a Mongolia tour to your bucket list, and prepare to embark on a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Suggested tour:
Horse Riding Mongolia: 1 day trip in Terelj National Park
Mongolia best tours and trips
Mongolia horseback riding tours
Terelj National Park Tour & Travel
Khustain Nuruu National Park Tour & Travel
Central Mongolia Tour
Amazing Mongolian ice festival tour – Khuvsgul lake
Mongolian Tsaatan Reindeer Herders Camp Tour
9 days trip : Mongolian Fishing Tour in Uvurkhangai
Mongolia Motorcycle Tour – Khuvsgul
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