The Call of the Mongolian Steppe
When you think of raw natural beauty, awe-inspiring vistas, epic landscapes and a deep connection with the land, the Grand Tour Mongolia Route is top of mind. This carefully crafted journey takes you through Mongolia’s diverse terrain and nomadic traditions.
With deserts, mountains, grasslands and pristine lakes, the route is as varied as it is stunning. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover or culture vulture, the Grand Tour Mongolia is your ticket to an unforgettable journey and is considered a great destination.
What is the Grand Tour Mongolia Route?
The Grand Tour Mongolia Route is a full circuit of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in the country. It’s 14 to 21 days depending on your pace. It takes you across central Mongolia, the South Gobi Desert, northern Mongolia and even to the majestic Altai Mountains in the west.
The tour includes cultural landmarks, national parks, natural wonders, and the opportunity to live like a nomadic herder. Similar to countries like Namibia, Mongolia offers a unique combination of offroading and camping experiences, making it a prime destination for adventure seekers.
Why Follow the Grand Tour Mongolia Map?
The Grand Tour Mongolia map is more than just a navigation tool – it’s a visual representation of adventure. It’s a loop that takes you to some of the country’s most spectacular and remote destinations. By following the grand tour mongolia map during the grand tour season, you won’t miss out on:
- The towering dunes of the Gobi Desert
- The serene beauty of Khuvsgul Lake
- The spiritual heart of Mongolia at Erdenezuu Monastery
- The rolling grasslands of the Orkhon Valley
- The rich biodiversity of Khustai National Park
- The awe inspiring Altai Mountains
- The Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, where significant paleontological findings were discovered, including the first fossilized dinosaur eggs and various dinosaur skeletons, famously explored by Roy Chapman Andrews
Starting Point: Ulaanbaatar – Where Modern Meets Traditional
Most tours start in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital and the logistical hub of the country. From here you can prepare for your journey, meet your tour guide and visit local highlights such as:
- Gandan Monastery
- National Museum of Mongolia
- Sukhbaatar Square
- Traditional ger camps just outside the city
Your journey begins with a strong contrast: the bustle of city life gives way to the vastness of the Mongolian countryside.
Central Mongolia: The Heartland of History and Nomadic Life
From Ulaanbaatar the Grand Tour Mongolia Route heads into Central Mongolia where you’ll find the cultural and historical heart of the Mongol Empire. Must-visit stops include:
- Khustai National Park: Famous for its wild horses, known as takhi or Przewalski’s horses. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes: A slice of desert among green hills, perfect for camel riding.
- Karakorum & Erdenezuu Monastery: The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, Karakorum is home to the oldest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia.
- Orkhon Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the cradle of nomadic civilization. Horse riding through this valley is an unforgettable experience. Travelers can find traditional Mongolian dishes like Buzz and Khushuur in almost every small village.
Erdenezuu Monastery: A Glimpse into Mongolia’s Spiritual Heritage
Erdenezuu Monastery is one of the most significant and oldest monasteries in Mongolia, showcasing the country’s rich spiritual heritage. Located in the Kharkhorin valley, the monastery was built in 1586 by Abtai Sain Khan, a Mongolian khan, and is dedicated to the memory of his father, Altan Khan.
The monastery’s stunning architecture, which blends Tibetan and Chinese styles, is a testament to the country’s cultural diversity. Visitors can explore the monastery’s numerous temples, shrines, and museums, which house an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts, sculptures, and thangkas.
The monastery’s tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Mongolia’s spiritual traditions.
South Gobi: The Desert of Dinosaurs and Flaming Cliffs
The next leg of the grand tour takes you into the South Gobi, a land of extremes. Here the landscape becomes a sea of sand and rocky mountains:
- Yolyn Am (Vulture’s Mouth) Canyon: Located in the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, this deep canyon has unique flora and ice fields even in summer months.
- Khongoryn Els (Singing Dunes): Towering sand dunes that sing in the wind. Perfect for camel riding and sandboarding.
- Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag): One of the world’s richest dinosaur fossil sites, named by American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews.
Staying in a local ger camp under the starlit Gobi sky is one of the tour highlights. Dinner in a local ger camp offers a chance to enjoy traditional Mongolian cuisine and cultural immersion.
Northern Mongolia: Tranquil Beauty and Pristine Lakes
Northern Mongolia is a world away from the arid south. This north region is dominated by alpine forests, lakes, and the taiga biome:
- Lake Khuvsgul (or Khuvsgul Lake): Often called the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” it’s one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes. The crystal clear waters and surrounding taiga forest offer kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
- Bulgan Province: Known for its scenic beauty, small villages, and nomadic herders.
The Grand Tour Mongolia Route here is about peace, natural scenery, and the slower pace of nomadic life.
Western Mongolia: Where Culture Meets Mountains
Western Mongolia is the realm of the Kazakh eagle hunters, rocky mountains and spiritual heritage:
- Altai Mountains: Trekking paradise and home to Mongolia’s highest peaks. The Altai Mountains rise significantly above sea level, offering stunning vistas and challenging hikes.
- Tsambagarav National Park: Breathtaking views and rich wildlife.
- Eagle Hunting Traditions: Witness the bond between Kazakh hunters and their golden eagles.
This is an off-the-beaten-path experience few travelers dare to take, away from the town’s hustle and bustl .
Grand Tour Mongolia Map: Your Journey Awaits
With the Grand Tour Mongolia map you can see the entire route. This detailed information map includes:
- Major stops and landmarks
- Distances and travel times
- Overnight ger camps and hotels
- Horse riding, camel riding and local festivals
- Information about visiting various natural wonders and cultural sites
This map will help you plan a smoother trip and discover hidden gems off the main route.
Best Time for the Grand Tour Mongolia
The best time for the Grand Tour is from June to September. During this period:
- Roads are open
- Weather is good for camping
- Most national parks are open
- Naadam Festival takes place in July with Mongolian wrestling, archery and horse racing
You’ll see Mongolia at its best. The anticipation around the grand tour season is high, offering unique experiences and behind-the-scenes insights, especially during the Mongolia special.
Tips for the Grand Tour
- Vehicle: 4×4 car or van is necessary for Mongolia’s rough terrain.
- Guide: An experienced guide will give you cultural insights and keep you on track.
- Tours: Many operators offer similar tours, check the itinerary and inclusions.
- Packing: Layers, sunscreen, power bank, basic medicine, reusable water bottle.
- Night: Pack appropriate clothing for the cooler night temperatures, such as warmer sleeping bags, especially during spring and autumn.
- Food & Accommodation: Most meals are provided at ger camps, local food with mutton, rice and dairy.
Cultural Etiquette and Nomadic Life
Experiencing nomadic life is a big part of the Grand Tour Mongolia route. Remember:
- Always accept food and drink offered by your hosts.
- Remove your hat when entering a ger.
- Don’t point your feet towards the hearth or elders.
- Be respectful when photographing people and animals.
Nomadic herders’ hospitality is legendary and will give you a glimpse into Mongolia’s living traditions. Breakfast is typically provided at ger camps, offering a complete dining experience.
Naadam Festival
If you travel during Naadam season you’re in for a treat. The festival features:* Horse Racing: Young jockeys racing across the steppes
- Wrestling: The national sport with traditional costumes
- Archery: Men and women competing in this ancient skill
This is the time to see Mongolia come alive with colors, music and traditions.
Activities and Excursions: Horse Riding and Camel Riding
Experience the thrill of exploring Mongolia’s vast steppes and deserts on horseback or camelback. Our guided horse riding and camel riding excursions offer a unique opportunity to discover the country’s natural beauty and nomadic culture.
Ride through the rolling hills and vast plains of central Mongolia, visit traditional nomadic families, and learn about their ancient traditions and ways of life.
Alternatively, explore the Gobi Desert’s stunning landscapes and unique wildlife on camelback, and discover the secrets of the desert’s ancient fossils and rock formations.
Our experienced guides and well-trained horses and camels ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders.
Accommodation and Transportation: Navigating the Mongolian Landscape
Our carefully selected accommodations and transportation options ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey through Mongolia’s diverse landscapes.
From modern hotels in Ulaanbaatar to traditional ger camps in the countryside, our accommodations offer a range of options to suit all budgets and preferences.
Our transportation fleet includes 4×4 vehicles, buses, and domestic flights, which provide a safe and reliable way to navigate the country’s rugged terrain. Our experienced drivers and guides are knowledgeable about the local roads and conditions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Unique Experiences: Discovering the Creepy Teepee
Experience the thrill of discovering Mongolia’s unique natural wonders, including the infamous Creepy Teepee. Located in the heart of the Gobi Desert, this natural rock formation is a must-see for any adventure-seeker.
Our guided excursions offer a unique opportunity to explore the teepee’s eerie landscape, learn about its geological history, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding desert.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, photographer, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Creepy Teepee is an unforgettable destination that will leave you in awe.
From Screen to Reality: The Grand Tour Mongolia Episode
TV fans may remember the Mongolia episode from The Grand Tour featuring Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May.
The episode showed the country’s tough terrain and breathtaking views. It sparked interest in the grand tour mongolia route for millions of viewers worldwide.
Follow their footsteps and you’ll see why Mongolia is an adventure destination that combines adventure, nature and culture.
Upcoming episodes, themed ‘survival of the fattest’, will feature a unique, stripped-back adventure format, contrasting the previous studio format and focusing on the challenges faced by the show’s hosts during their travels.
Conclusion: Why the Grand Tour Mongolia Route Should Be Your Next Adventure
The Grand Tour Mongolia Route isn’t just a trip—it’s a life changing experience. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast whil watching wild horses in Khustai, camel riding in the Gobi Desert or sharing a meal with nomadic herders in a remote ger camp, you’re connecting with a timeless land.
The grand tour mongolia route offers organized tours or DIY options but with a reliable map and sense of adventure the rewards are endless. From the peaceful taiga to the sunny south gobi, from horse riding in Orkhon Valley to kayaking on Lake Khuvsgul, this journey will capture Mongolia.
Explore. Discover. Watch the world go by on the Mongolian steppes. I highly recommend this epic tour, especially the stay in a hotel, to anyone looking for more than a vacation—looking for a journey that changes you.
Stay tuned for our next post where we’ll break down each stop in the grand tour mongolia special map, including tips for your trip , must-see spots and traveler stories!
If you would like to experience more about Mongolia, check the following links:
- Mongolian Souvenir: The Best Unique Gifts from the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky
- 6 Most visited museums in Mongolia
- Mongolia Architecture: A Blend of Tradition and Cultural Influences
- Best Time to Visit Mongolia: A Guide to Seasons and Festivals
- Mongolia Landmark: A Journey Through History and Natural Wonders
- Gandantegchinlen monastery facts
- Discover the Rich History of Choijin Lama Monastery
- Tourist Spots in Mongolia
- 10 Best Things to See in Mongolia
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