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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Mongolia

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

Located just east of Ulaanbaatar, Terelj National Park presents dramatic rock formations, lush valleys, and opportunities for outdoor pursuits.

It is a popular destination for visitors seeking a taste of Mongolian nature close to the capital.

Activities

  • Horse Riding Across the Steppe
  • Visiting the Iconic Turtle Rock
  • Climbing to Aryabal Meditation Temple
  • Experience a Ger Camp Visit

Countryside Explorations

Discover more of Mongolia's natural beauty and wildlife just a short drive from the city.

Hustai National Park

Home to the reintroduced Przewalski's wild horses (takhi), Hustai presents a chance to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

Highlights

  • Przewalski's Horse Viewing
  • Steppe Scenery
  • Wildlife Spotting

Elsen Tasarkhai Mini Gobi

Experience a taste of the Gobi Desert with this unique landscape of sand dunes, steppe, and mountains, approximately 3-4 hours drive.

Features

  • Sand Dunes
  • Camel Riding
  • Diverse Landscapes

Excursion Planning Insights

Guided Tours

  • Organized transport
  • Local guide expertise
  • Less flexibility
  • Group pacing

Private Arrangements

  • Custom itinerary
  • Personal pace
  • Higher cost
  • Self-planning

Day Trip Quick Facts

  • Travel Time from Ulaanbaatar1-4 hours drive
  • Typical Cost per PersonVaries by tour type
  • Recommended Vehicle Type4x4 recommended
  • Best Time to VisitMay to October
  • Main ActivitiesHorse riding, hiking, wildlife
  • AccommodationDay trip, optional ger stay
  • What to BringWater, snacks, layers
  • ConsiderationsSunscreen, hat, camera

Booking Tip

For seamless day trip booking, explore options on GetYourGuide.

Cultural Immersion Beyond the City

Explore Mongolian nomadic culture and historical sites with extended excursions.

Nomadic Lifestyle

Experience daily life with nomadic families, traditions, and hospitality.

Ancient Monasteries

Explore historical Buddhist complexes with deep spiritual significance.

Historical Capitals

Visit sites of the Mongol Empire, including the ancient capital.

Karakorum & Erdene Zuu

The ancient capital of the Mongol Empire and one of Mongolia's oldest surviving Buddhist monasteries.

What to See

  • Erdene Zuu Monastery
  • Buddhist Temples
  • Stone Turtles

Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in history and nomadic heritage with stunning natural beauty.

Experiences

  • Scenic Landscapes
  • Nomadic Homestays
  • Cultural Discovery

Cultural Journey Facts

Ancient CapitalKarakorum
UNESCO SiteOrkhon Valley
Main FaithBuddhism
Traditional DwellingGer
Iconic AnimalHorse
Historical FigureChinggis Khaan

Dives

  • For truly immersive experiences, consider multi-day tours that include nomadic homestays.
  • These tours provide direct cultural exchange and traditional food experiences.
  • Always check with tour operators for itineraries that suit your interest.
  • Booking ahead secures availability during peak travel times.
  • Ethical engagement with local communities is highly valued.

Diverse Excursion Options

Mongolia presents a variety of unique excursions, from desert adventures to northern wilderness.

Gobi Desert Expeditions

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vast and diverse landscapes of the Gobi Desert.

Highlights

  • Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag)
  • Khongoryn Els (Singing Dunes)
  • Yolyn Am (Ice Valley)

Northern Mongolia: Lake Khuvsgul

Known as the 'Blue Pearl of Mongolia,' Khuvsgul Lake is a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by mountains.

Activities

  • Lakeside Activities
  • Lakeside Ger Camps
  • Forest Exploration

Western Mongolia: Altai Mountains

A remote region famed for its dramatic peaks and ancient traditions, including eagle hunting.

Experiences

  • Mountain Trekking
  • Eagle Hunters
  • Cultural Festivals

Ulaanbaatar Day Tours

Beyond the main parks, other options are available for half-day or full-day trips near the capital.

Nearby Points of Interest

  • Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex
  • Manzushir Monastery Ruins
  • Falconry Demonstrations

Choosing Your Adventure

Select an excursion that aligns with your interests and the time available for travel.

Desert Explorer

For sweeping landscapes and unique geological sites.

Nature Lover

For lush forests, pristine lakes, and mountain scenery.

Cultural Seeker

For deep dives into history and nomadic traditions.

Travel Planning

Consider domestic flights for long-distance excursions like the Gobi Desert or Khuvsgul Lake to maximize your time in the region.