Classic Mongolia Circuit 16-Day Joining Tour

🌍 Circuit Mongolian – 16 Day Expedition Tour

Explore Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, Ancient Monasteries, Nomadic Culture & Northern Lakes

Discover the best of Mongolia on this unforgettable 16-day expedition across the country’s most spectacular landscapes. From the dramatic sand dunes and flaming cliffs of the Gobi Desert to the lush valleys of Central Mongolia and the crystal-clear waters of Khuvsgul Lake, this journey offers a complete Mongolia travel experience.

Travel through vast steppes, mountains, deserts, and forests while experiencing authentic nomadic culture, traditional ger camps, camel riding, horse riding, and Mongolia’s rich history. Visit famous destinations including Khongoryn Els, Bayanzag, Erdene Zuu Monastery, and beautiful Khuvsgul Lake.

This expedition combines adventure, culture, nature, and local experiences, making it one of the most complete tours for travelers wanting to explore Mongolia beyond the ordinary.

 

📌 Quick Facts

  • 🗓 Tour Dates: June 6 – June 21
  • ⏳ Duration: 16 Days / 15 Nights
  • 📍 Tour Starts: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
  • 📍 Tour Finishes: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
  • 🌏 Regions Covered: Gobi Desert, Central Mongolia, Khangai Mountains, Lake Khövsgöl, Northern Taiga
  • 👥 Tour Type: Joining tour
  • 🛣 Total Driving Distance: Approx. 3,000 – 3,500 km
  • 🏨 Accommodation
  • 🏙 2 Nights Hotel in Ulaanbaatar
  • 🏕 13 Nights Traditional Ger Camps
  • 🌲 Lakeside and Mountain Scenic Camps(Ensuite ger upgrade available in selected locations upon request.)

🚗 Transportation

  • Private 4WD vehicle / Comfortable van (depending on group size)
  • Professional driver
  • Fuel and road expenses included
  • Combination of paved roads and off-road desert tracks

🌟 Tour Highlights

🐫 Explore the Iconic Gobi Desert

Experience Mongolia’s legendary desert landscapes:

  • Ride Bactrian camels across the towering dunes of Khongor Sand Dunes (“Singing Sands”)
  • Walk through the dramatic red cliffs of Bayanzag, world-famous for dinosaur fossil discoveries
  • Hike in the cool canyon of Yol Valley where summer ice lingers

The Gobi section offers surreal contrasts desert, mountains, canyons, and oases.

 

🦖 Walk Through the Land of Dinosaurs
At Bayanzag, discover one of the world’s most important paleontological sites where dinosaur eggs and fossils were first uncovered in the 1920s. Watch the Flaming Cliffs glow deep red at sunset one of Mongolia’s most photogenic locations.

 

🏛 Stand in the Ancient Capital of the Mongol Empire
Visit Kharkhorin, founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan.

Explore:

A journey into the heart of Mongolian imperial history.

 

♨ Relax in Natural Hot Springs

Unwind at Tsenkher Hot Spring in the scenic Khangai Mountains. Enjoy mineral-rich outdoor baths surrounded by forest and fresh mountain air.

 

🌋 Discover Volcanic Wonders
Climb the extinct Khorgo Volcano and explore lava fields formed over 8,000 years ago. Walk along the peaceful shores of Terkh White Lake in Khorgo–Terkh National Park.
 

🐎 Experience Mongolia on Horseback

Enjoy a full-day guided horseback ride through alpine meadows and forested mountain trails near Terkh White Lake an authentic way to experience Mongolia’s nomadic heritage.

 

🌊 Visit Lake Khövsgöl – The Blue Pearl of Mongolia

Marvel at the crystal-clear waters of Lake Khövsgöl, one of Asia’s most pristine freshwater lakes.

  • Lakeside walks
  • Mountain scenery
  • Cool northern climate
  • Perfect photography opportunities

🦌 Meet the Tsaatan Reindeer Herders

Travel into the taiga forest to encounter Mongolia’s Tsaatan community, one of the country’s smallest ethnic groups.

  • Learn about reindeer herding traditions
  • Visit teepee-style homes
  • Experience remote northern nomadic culture

A rare cultural highlight few travelers experience.

 

🕌 Explore Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Visit the stunning Amarbayasgalant Monastery, one of Mongolia’s best-preserved monasteries, built between 1726–1736. Admire its intricate architecture and peaceful valley setting.

 

🌄 Complete North-to-South Mongolia Expedition

This journey covers:

  • Gobi Desert
  • Steppe plains
  • Volcanic highlands
  • Alpine forests
  • Northern taiga
  • Sacred monasteries
  • Remote nomadic communities

A true grand circuit of Mongolia.
 

✨ Why This Tour is Special

✔ Covers Mongolia’s most diverse landscapes

✔ Combines adventure, culture, and relaxation

✔ Includes desert, volcanoes, lakes, and reindeer herders

✔ Balanced pace with immersive experiences

✔ Ideal for photographers and explorers
 

🏃 Overall Tour Pace: Moderate to Active Expedition

This is a comprehensive north-to-south Mongolia journey, covering vast distances and diverse terrain. The tour balances scenic drives, cultural visits, light hiking, and horseback experiences.
It is not rushed, but it is a true expedition-style itinerary.

 

🚗 Driving & Travel Rhythm

  • 🛣 Total Distance: Approx. 3,000–3,500 km
  • ⏳ Longest Drive Days: 6–7 hours
  • 🚙 Combination of paved highways and off-road desert tracks
  • 🏕 Frequent changes of scenery and accommodation

Some days involve long scenic drives (especially Days 3, 11, and 13), but these are broken up with photo stops and cultural visits.

 

🚶 Activity Level: Easy to Moderate (With Optional Active Elements)

Daily Activities May Include:

  • 🥾 Light to moderate hiking (Yol Valley, Khorgo Volcano, monastery areas)
  • 🐎 Full-day horseback riding (Day 10 – optional participation level)
  • 🐫 Camel riding at Khongor Sand Dunes
  • 🏞 Walking around historical sites
  • 🌋 Climbing volcanic crater (moderate incline)
  • 🌊 Lakeside walks at Lake Khövsgöl

No technical climbing or trekking is required.

 

🏕 Accommodation Comfort Level

  • Ulaanbaatar: Comfortable hotel
  • Countryside: Traditional ger camps
  • Basic but clean facilities
  • Shared bathrooms in most camps
  • Some camps offer optional ensuite upgrade
  • This tour is comfortable but not luxury-focused.

 

🎯 Fitness Requirement

  • Suitable for travelers with average mobility
  • Ability to walk 2–3 hours at relaxed pace
  • Comfortable getting in/out of 4WD vehicles
  • Suitable for ages approximately 12–75 (depending on physical condition)
  • Horse riding and volcano climbing are optional alternatives can be arranged.

 

🌦 Environmental Considerations

  • High altitude areas (cooler temperatures)
  • Dusty desert sections
  • Strong sun exposure
  • Large temperature differences between day & night

Layered clothing and moderate stamina are recommended.

 

⏳ Summary of Tour Style

This is a classic Mongolia Grand Expedition:

✔ Adventure-oriented

✔ Wide geographic coverage

✔ Deep cultural immersion

✔ Scenic diversity

✔ Balanced activity & relaxation

Ideal for travelers who want to experience the complete Mongolia circuit in one journey.
 

💰 Package Price (Per Person):2500USD 

✔ Based on shared twin/double accommodation

✔ Nomadic camps and remote ger camps included

✔ Guaranteed departure with minimum 2 participants

 

🛏 Single Supplement

  • $550 USD (applies only to hotel nights in Ulaanbaatar)
  • Nomadic family nights and ger camps typically do not offer single room separation

📌 Payment Terms

  • Deposit: 30% upon booking confirmation
  • Balance: Due 30 days before departure
  • Full payment required for bookings made within 45 days of travel

📝 Booking Conditions

  • Price based on current exchange rates and service costs
  • Subject to availability at time of booking
  • Itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or road conditions

👶 Children’s Discount Policy

We warmly welcome families traveling with children and offer the following special rates:

  • 🍼 Children under 2 years old: FREE OF CHARGE
  • 👦 Children aged 3–10 years: 30% discount off the regular adult price
  • 👧 Children 11 years and older: Charged at the regular adult rate

Please note: Discounts apply when children share accommodation with parents. Extra bed charges may apply depending on hotel policy.

 

💳 Payment Methods

We accept the following payment methods:

  • MasterCard
  • Visa Card
  • Visa Credit Cards

Secure card payments are available for your convenience.

Please note: Bank transaction fees or card processing charges may apply depending on your bank.

✅ Detailed Inclusions ❌ Detailed Exclusions

🏨 Accommodation (15 Nights)

  • 🏙 2 Nights Hotel in Ulaanbaatar
    • Twin/Double standard room
    • Private bathroom
    • Breakfast included
  • 🏕 13 Nights Traditional Ger Camps
    • Twin shared ger (2–4 beds)
    • Shared bathroom facilities (most locations)
    • Bed linen and basic amenities provided
  • 🌊 Lakeside ger camp at Lake Khövsgöl
  • ♨ Ger camp near Tsenkher Hot Spring

(Ensuite ger upgrades available in selected camps upon request and subject to availability.)

✈ Flights & Visa

  • International airfare to/from Mongolia
  • Domestic flights (if requested separately)
  • Mongolian visa fee (if applicable)
     

🍽 Meals

  • 15 Breakfasts
  • 15 Lunches
  • 15 Dinners

Includes:

  • Traditional Mongolian meals
  • Western-style dishes where available
  • Picnic lunches during long drives
  • Bottled water (1 bottle per person per day)

Special dietary requests (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) available with prior notice.

🛡 Travel Insurance

  • Personal travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Medical coverage
  • Emergency evacuation
  • Trip cancellation coverage
     

🚗 Transportation

  • Private 4WD vehicle or comfortable van (depending on group size)
  • Professional and experienced local driver
  • Fuel, road tolls, and parking fees
  • Combination of paved roads and off-road desert tracks
  • Airport transfer on arrival & departure

💳 Personal Expenses

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Soft drinks outside included meals
  • Laundry services
  • Phone calls & Wi-Fi charges
  • Souvenirs & shopping
  • Spa services not included in itinerary

👨‍🏫 Guide & Local Support

  • English-speaking professional tour guide throughout the tour
  • Cultural interpretation and translation
  • Local horse guide for riding day
  • Camel handler at Khongor Sand Dunes

🛏 Accommodation Upgrades

  • Single room supplement (hotel nights in Ulaanbaatar)
  • Ensuite ger upgrade
  • Early check-in / Late check-out
     

🎟 Entrance Fees & Permits

All entry tickets and protected area fees included for:

  • Yol Valley
  • Bayanzag
  • Kharkhorin
  • Erdene Zuu Monastery
  • Ongi Monastery
  • Khorgo Volcano
  • Amarbayasgalant Monastery
  • National Park & environmental protection fees

🎟 Optional Activities

  • Additional horseback riding sessions
  • Boat rental at Lake Khövsgöl
  • Additional cultural shows in Ulaanbaatar
  • Private photography or drone permits
  • Extra camel riding time
     

🐎 Activities & Experiences

  • 🐫 Camel riding in the Gobi Desert
  • 🐎 Full-day guided horseback riding near Terkh White Lake
  • ♨ Hot spring bathing entrance
  • 🦌 Visit to Tsaatan reindeer herders community
  • 🥾 Guided hiking experiences
  • 🏜 Desert dune climbing
  • 🏛 Historical site explorations

🎁 Gratuities
Tips are not included but recommended:

  • Guide: $8–12 USD per person per day
  • Driver: $5–8 USD per person per day
     

🛡 Government Taxes & Service Charges

  • VAT (Value Added Tax)
  • Local service fees
  • National park conservation fees
  • Driver and guide wages
 

📌 Important Notes

  • Some ger camps have shared bathroom facilities.
  • Road conditions in remote areas can be rough.
  • Weather may cause minor itinerary adjustments.
  • Electricity and Wi-Fi are limited in remote regions.

📜 Cancellation & Refund Policy
We understand that unexpected circumstances can arise and may require you to cancel your trip. While we would deeply regret your decision to cancel your journey to Mongolia, we recognize that valid reasons can occur.

If you need to cancel your tour, please send a written cancellation request via email to: 📧 info@travel-to-mongolia.com
Your email must include:

  • The name of the tour
  • Your full name
  • The reason for cancellation
  • Cancellation and refunds will be calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation request.

💰 Refund Schedule

  • 91 days or more before departure: ✔ 100% refund of the total tour price
  • 90 to 31 days before departure: ✔ 90% refund of the total tour price
  • 30 to 7 days before departure: ✔ 70% refund of the total tour price
  • 6 days to the day of departure: ✔ 50% refund of the total tour price

📌 Important Notes

  • Refunds will be processed within 14–21 business days.
  • Bank transfer fees or transaction charges (if any) are non-refundable.
  • If the tour includes third-party services (flights, special permits, festival tickets, etc.), separate cancellation rules may apply.
  • No refunds will be issued for unused services after the tour has started.

🌤️ Weather in Mongolia – June (Summer Season)

June marks the beginning of summer in Mongolia and is widely considered one of the best months to travel due to pleasant temperatures and generally stable weather.  

🌦 General Climate (June)

June is warm and pleasant overall, with green landscapes and extended daylight hours.  

Rainfall begins to increase compared to spring, but heavy rains or extended storms are uncommon showers are usually short and scattered.  

Temperatures vary significantly between daytime and nighttime due to Mongolia’s continental climate.  

☀ Ulaanbaatar (Central Mongolia)

📍 Capital city temperature averages

  • Daytime highs: ~20–23 °C (68–73 °F)
  • Nighttime lows: ~7–10 °C (45–50 °F)
  • Pleasant, warm days with some cloud or occasional light rain
  • Long daylight (~16 hours) for sightseeing  

🏜 Gobi Desert Region

📍 Southern regions such as Yol Valley & Bayanzag

  • Daytime highs: ~24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
  • Nighttime lows: ~10–17 °C (50–63 °F)
  • Warm desert sun with clear skies most of the time
  • Low precipitation and dry air make days feel warmer  

🌲 Northern & Highland Areas (Khövsgöl & Mountains)

📍 Khuvsgul Lake & northern forests

  • Daytime highs: ~18–24 °C (64–75 °F)
  • Nighttime lows: ~5–12 °C (41–54 °F)
  • Cooler conditions in higher altitudes
  • Possible light rain or drizzle great for wildflowers & forest scenery  

🌦 Summary by Region

RegionDaytimeNighttimeNotes
Ulaanbaatar & Central20–23 °C7–10 °CWarm days, cool nights
Gobi Desert24–28 °C10–17 °CWarm, dry, ideal for exploration
Northern Highlands (Lake Khövsgöl)18–24 °C5–12 °CCooler & lush greenery
High Mountains (Khorgo, Khangai)15–22 °C5–10 °CCooler air & variable weather

🌞 Tips for June Weather in Mongolia
☀️ Clothing

  • Light layers for daytime warmth
  • Warm jumper/jacket for cool mornings & evenings
  • Waterproof jacket for occasional showers

🌦 Sun & UV

  • Very strong daytime sun due to high altitude
  • Bring sunscreen & sunglasses

🌃 Night

  • Nights can be cool to chilly, especially in mountains or desert
  • Warm socks/outer layer helpful for ger camps

📌 Best Time for Activities

  • 🐫 Camel riding, desert tours, and open plain drives → sunny, warm days
  • 🌄 Hiking & volcano exploration → cooler mornings ideal
  • 🚣 Lake & northern region activities → cool & refreshing weather
  • 🏯 City sightseeing → long sunny days

🏅 Overall June Weather in Mongolia

June offers very favorable weather for travel across diverse regions from deserts in the south to lakes and forests in the north with warm days, cool nights, and mostly clear skies. 
 

🎒 What to Bring – Mongolia in June❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

👕 Clothing (Layering is Key)

☀️ Daytime Wear (15–28°C)

  • Lightweight breathable shirts (quick-dry recommended)
  • T-shirts (cotton or moisture-wicking)
  • Comfortable trekking pants
  • Light hiking shorts (optional for Gobi)
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Sunglasses (strong UV)

🌅 Evening & Early Morning (5–12°C in north/mountains)

  • Warm fleece jacket or sweater
  • Lightweight down or insulated jacket
  • Thermal top (1 set is enough)
  • Long sleeve shirt
  • Warm sleepwear (ger camps can be cool at night)

🌧 Rain Protection

  • Waterproof jacket or rain shell
  • Light rain pants (optional but useful in north)

👟 Footwear

  • Comfortable hiking boots (broken-in, not new)
  • Light walking shoes or sneakers
  • Sandals (for ger camp & hot spring)
  • 3–5 pairs of socks (include warm pair for mountains)

🧴 Personal Items

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+ minimum, UV is strong)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Moisturizer (dry climate)
  • Personal toiletries
  • Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
  • Small quick-dry towel
  • Basic medications
  • Motion sickness tablets (for off-road drives)
  • Reusable water bottle

🏕 For Ger Camps & Remote Areas

  • Small flashlight or headlamp
  • Power bank (electricity limited in remote camps)
  • Travel adapter (Type C & E plugs used in Mongolia)
  • Earplugs (optional, countryside sounds)
  • Small backpack for day hikes

🐫 For Gobi Desert

  • Light scarf or buff (dust protection)
  • Extra water bottle
  • Light breathable long sleeves (sun protection)

🌲 For Northern Mongolia & Taiga

  • Warmer jacket (even in June nights can drop near 5°C)
  • Thin gloves (optional if sensitive to cold)
  • Insect repellent (especially near Khuvsgul Lake)
  • Binoculars (great for wildlife & bird watching)

🏊 For Hot Springs (Tsenkher)

  • Swimsuit
  • Flip flops
  • Small waterproof bag

📸 Optional but Recommended

  • Camera with extra batteries
  • Drone (if permitted)
  • Notebook / travel journal
  • Snacks from home (protein bars etc.)

🎯 Packing Tip for Your 16-Day Tour

Since you travel across desert → steppe → mountains → taiga → lake, temperatures vary.

👉 Best strategy:

Pack light layers instead of heavy bulky clothes.

A light down jacket + fleece will handle almost all cold evenings.
 

1️⃣ When does the tour start and finish?

The tour starts in Ulaanbaatar on June 6 and finishes in Ulaanbaatar on June 21.
Airport transfers on arrival and departure days are included.

2️⃣ What type of accommodation will we stay in?

  • 🏨 Hotel in Ulaanbaatar (3–4 star)
  • 🏕 Traditional Ger Camps in countryside
  • 🐎 Nomadic family stay (authentic experience)

Ger camps provide beds, linens, and usually shared or ensuite bathrooms depending on location. Remote areas have simpler facilities.

3️⃣ Is Mongolia safe for travelers?
Yes. Mongolia is considered very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, especially in rural areas. Your guide and driver will accompany you throughout the journey.

4️⃣ How difficult is this tour?

This is a moderate adventure tour:

  • Long driving days (some off-road)
  • Light hiking (Yol Valley, Khorgo Volcano, Uran Mountain)
  • Optional horse riding
  • Basic facilities in remote areas
  • No special fitness level is required, but flexibility and an adventurous spirit are important.

5️⃣ How is the road condition?

  • Around 60–70% paved roads
  • Remaining sections are off-road steppe and desert tracks
    Mongolia is vast, so some drives are long but scenic.

6️⃣ What is the weather like in June?

June is one of the best travel months:

  • ☀ Daytime: 18–28°C
  • 🌙 Nighttime: 5–12°C
  • Occasional light rain in northern regions
  • Strong sun due to high altitude

Layered clothing is recommended.

7️⃣ Is Wi-Fi available?

  • Available in Ulaanbaatar hotels
  • Limited or no Wi-Fi in remote ger camps
  • Mobile data works in towns but not everywhere

This tour offers a great opportunity to disconnect.

8️⃣ What meals are included?

Most days include:

  • 🥞 Breakfast
  • 🥗 Lunch
  • 🍲 Dinner

Meals consist of Mongolian and international cuisine. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

9️⃣ Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Travel insurance covering:

  • Medical emergencies
  • Trip cancellation
  • Evacuation coverage

is highly recommended.

🔟 What currency is used in Mongolia?

Local currency: Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)

  • USD is sometimes accepted in city hotels
  • Credit cards accepted in Ulaanbaatar
  • Cash required in rural areas

1️⃣1️⃣ Can I charge my devices?

  • Electricity available in hotels
  • Ger camps usually provide electricity in evenings (limited hours)
  • Bring a power bank for convenience
  • Mongolia uses 220V, European-style plugs (Type C & E)

1️⃣2️⃣ Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, but:

  • Long driving distances may be tiring
  • Basic facilities in remote areas should be considered

Private customization is possible for families.
 

 

Detailed tour itinerary:

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