Gobi Desert, Mongolia

The Gobi Desert, one of the world’s largest deserts, stretches across southern Mongolia and northern China. It is a place of stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife. The Gobi is not a traditional sandy desert; it’s a cold desert with rocky terrains, grasslands, and occasional sand dunes.

 

Tourist Attractions in the Gobi Desert

  1. Khongoryn Els (Singing Sand Dunes)

    • Highlights: Towering dunes that “sing” when the wind blows; perfect for hiking, camel riding, and enjoying panoramic sunsets.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
    • Entrance Fee: No formal fee, though camel rides cost around $10-$15/hour.
    • How to Get There: Located about 180 km from Dalanzadgad, accessible by 4WD vehicles.

  2. Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs)

    • Highlights: Renowned for its orange-red cliffs, dinosaur fossils, and historical significance in paleontology.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
    • Entrance Fee: Around $3-$5.
    • How to Get There: 100 km northwest of Dalanzadgad, reachable by 4WD.

  3. Yolyn Am (Vulture’s Gorge)

    • Highlights: A picturesque gorge with a narrow ice-filled valley, perfect for trekking and bird-watching.
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
    • Entrance Fee: $3-$5.
    • How to Get There: About 60 km from Dalanzadgad, accessible by car.

  4. Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa)

    • Highlights: Stunning limestone cliffs with layers of colorful sediments that resemble a stupa.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
    • Entrance Fee: Around $2-$3.
    • How to Get There: Located approximately 400 km from Ulaanbaatar; best reached via organized tours or private vehicles.

  5. Hermen Tsav Canyon

    • Highlights: A remote and dramatic canyon known for its breathtaking views and dinosaur fossils.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • How to Get There: Accessible only with experienced guides and 4WD vehicles.

How to Get There

  • By Air: Fly to Dalanzadgad from Ulaanbaatar (1.5-hour flight). The town is the main gateway to the Gobi Desert.
  • By Road: A 10-12 hour drive from Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad via paved and unpaved roads.
  • Guided Tours: Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, accommodation, and activities.

How to Get Around

  • 4WD Vehicles: Essential for navigating the rugged terrain of the Gobi Desert.
  • Camel Rides: A unique way to explore areas like Khongoryn Els.
  • Guided Tours: Recommended for first-time visitors to navigate the vast desert and understand its history.

Popular Local Food

  1. Boodog: Whole goat or marmot cooked from the inside using hot stones.
  2. Khorkhog: A traditional Mongolian barbecue made with lamb and vegetables.
  3. Airag: Fermented mare’s milk, a signature Mongolian drink.
  4. Tsuivan: Stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables.

Top Nightlife Spots in the Gobi Desert

The Gobi Desert is not known for its nightlife. Instead, the focus is on connecting with nature. Stargazing is the primary nighttime activity, as the Gobi offers one of the clearest night skies in the world.

  • Where to Stargaze: Flaming Cliffs or Khongoryn Els dunes are perfect spots.
  • Entrance Fees: Free.

Sample Itineraries for the Gobi Desert

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Yolyn Am

      • Morning: Fly to Dalanzadgad and transfer to Yolyn Am for a trek through the ice-filled gorge.
      • Afternoon: Explore the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park.
      • Evening: Overnight in a ger camp.

Day 2: Flaming Cliffs and Khongoryn Els

      • Morning: Drive to Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs) to learn about the paleontological history.
      • Afternoon: Travel to Khongoryn Els for camel rides and sand dune trekking.
      • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Mongolian meal at the camp.

Day 3: Tsagaan Suvarga and Return

      • Morning: Visit Tsagaan Suvarga for its scenic limestone cliffs.
      • Afternoon: Drive back to Dalanzadgad and fly to Ulaanbaatar.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dalanzadgad and Yolyn Am.
Day 2: Drive to Bayanzag; explore dinosaur fossil sites.
Day 3: Explore Khongoryn Els, camel rides, and trekking.
Day 4: Visit Hermen Tsav Canyon for a day of exploration.
Day 5: Return to Dalanzadgad and fly to Ulaanbaatar.

 

Recommendations for Specific Activities

  • Photography: Capture the iconic Flaming Cliffs at sunrise or sunset.
  • Cultural Immersion: Stay in a ger camp and interact with local nomadic families.
  • Adventure: Trek through Yolyn Am or hike up the towering sand dunes.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Look for rare species like the snow leopard, wild camels, and ibex in the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park.

A journey to the Gobi Desert is an unforgettable experience, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.