An activity-packed journey into Central Mongolia, an area of diverse landscapes and the nomadic heartland of the country. See the Khognokhan Mountain, the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai, the Hot spring, the ancient Mongol capital the Karakorum, and travel through the famous Orkhon Valley registered in UNESCO, before venturing to the Hustai National Park for the wild Takhi horses and a plethora of wildlife. This condensed trip is a great introduction to the rich diversity of Mongolia’s history, culture and landscapes, with authentic homestays in guest gers next to local nomadic families. Spend time with your hosts and also use these fabulous wilderness locations as a base to explore the surrounding area on foot, by horse, and by vehicle. You will experience a range of cultural traditions – cookery, herding livestock on horseback, milking yak and mare and may all feature at some stage along your way.

Day 1 - Khognokhan – Uvgun Temple – Elsen Tasarkhai Dunes – Camel Riding

Today you head to the Khognokhan Nature Reserve, where you can explore the lower temple complex of Uvgun, see the reconstructed temples, and prayer wheel and look around the ruins. Then we recommend taking the 45-minute hike up to the older ruined temple complex in the hills – the scenery is fantastic, and depending on the time of year, wildflowers may be in abundance. Head back down to the valley floor, and onto the sand dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai, a 45-minute drive away. Tonight you will stay alongside a family of camel herders – settle into your gers and head off on a Bactrian ride across the dunes for an hour, then enjoy a traditional feast of khorkhog – mutton and vegetables seared and steamed with red hot stones from the fire. Overnight stay in ger alongside nomadic family.

ACCOMMODATION IN GUEST GERS NEXT TO NOMADIC FAMILIES AND IN HUSTAI GER CAMP - TRANSPORT BY A 4WD JAPANESE VAN - LOCAL GUIDE - ALL MEALS AS LISTED - ALL ENTRANCE FEES - ALL ATTRACTIONS AS LISTED

TRAVEL INSURANCE - VISAS - SNACKS & ALCOHOL - ITEMS OF PERSONAL NATURE