Islay’s Travel to Western Mongolia across the Gobi to Altai

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Ulaanbaatar airport, followed by a transfer to a premium hotel in the heart of the city. Explore the vibrant capital as you gather supplies and get ready for your offroad journey. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the city’s modern restaurants, offering Mongolian food and international cuisine.

Leave the city behind and head south across the open steppe. Feel the excitement build as you spot herds of white-tailed gazelles and antelopes in the wild. Your first taste of offroad adventure leads you to the rocky Tuv Mountains, where you’ll set up camp under the stars.

Begin your journey south across Mongolia’s wide-open steppe, where the landscape slowly transforms into semi-desert. By midday, arrive at a hidden lake — a peaceful oasis home to rare bird species like cranes and eagles. Enjoy lunch by the water’s edge, surrounded by nature and silence. Continue on toward the dramatic granite formations of Bagaa Gazriin Chuluu, where ancient rocks rise like forgotten temples from the earth. Wander through weathered canyons and valleys steeped in legend. As the sun begins to set, drive further into the wild to reach your first wild camp, nestled beneath a rocky ridge and surrounded by herds of grazing horses. Under a sky full of stars, the true spirit of Mongolia reveals itself.

Traverse the shifting desert landscapes to Tsagaan Suvarga, the White Stupa cliffs. These stunning formations glow in shades of white, orange, and pink — remnants of an ancient sea. Watch the cliffs change color with the sunset, a magical sight in the middle of the desert.

Explore the gateway to the southern Gobi as you pass through Dalanzadgad, where a stop at the Gobi Museum of Nature and History reveals the ancient secrets of the desert — from dinosaur fossils to desert wildlife. Then venture into the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, where rocky ridges rise above the steppe. Saddle up for a horseback ride into Yolyn Am, a hidden valley carved between steep cliffs. Hike through the cool shadows and discover year-round ice tucked deep in the gorge. As the day fades, drive across dramatic highland canyons and set up camp in a wild, remote valley — where you may catch a glimpse of wild Gobi ibex on the surrounding peaks.

Head further west into prime snow leopard territory. While sightings are rare, you may spot ibex and argali sheep, the snow leopard’s prey. Stay overnight with a local herder family or camp in the wilderness, soaking up the remote beauty of the Gobi-Altai.

Reach the towering Khongoryn Els, the Gobi’s largest sand dunes. Hike to the dune crests, try sandboarding down the golden slopes, and witness one of the most spectacular sunsets over endless waves of sand.

Follow desert tracks to Orog Lake, an important habitat for migratory birds. Surrounded by sand dunes and distant mountains, it’s the perfect spot for nature walks, photography, and peaceful lakeside camping.

Continue your lakeside explorations at Buuntsaagan Lake, another hidden gem of the Gobi. Enjoy birdwatching, especially for cranes and herons, and take in the stillness of this vast desert oasis.

Travel to the spiritual Biger Sum and the Ulaan Yawar cliffs, or alternatively explore the majestic Burkhan Buudai Mountain. Both options offer breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into Mongolia’s rich nomadic spirituality.

Skirt the snow-capped Sutai Mountain and dive into the dramatic Khushuut Canyon. Hike beneath rugged rock faces and search for wildlife in this remote, untamed corner of Mongolia.

Reach Khovd, a historic crossroads of cultures. Wander the town’s lively markets, sample local delicacies, and see how Mongolia’s western peoples — including Kazakhs, Tuvans, and Uriankhai — blend their traditions.

Spend a day with a Kazakh eagle hunter and his family. Learn how they train their majestic golden eagles for traditional winter hunting, and gain deep insight into this rare and ancient art.

Continue to Ulgii, the heart of Kazakh culture in Mongolia. Explore its vibrant bazaars filled with felt goods, jewelry, and traditional crafts. Meet local artisans and enjoy hearty Kazakh cuisine.

Venture into the rugged Altai Mountains. Hike towards stunning glaciers fed by Mongolia’s highest peaks and feel the raw power of nature all around you.

Spend the day uncovering hidden waterfalls and crystal-clear alpine lakes tucked within the Altai range. Picnic beside turquoise waters and soak in the pristine wilderness.

Visit another traditional eagle hunter family, deepening your experience of Kazakh life. Share stories, try on traditional costumes, and witness eagle training demonstrations firsthand.

Travel to serene Uureg Lake, surrounded by snowy peaks. Visit the beautiful Tsagaan Shuvuut Waterfall nearby and spend the evening camping on the peaceful lakeshore.

Move east toward Khyargas Lake, a vast saltwater lake shimmering in the desert sun. Swim in its refreshing waters or simply relax along the remote, windswept beaches.

Hike up the Khorgo Volcano for panoramic views of Mongolia’s volcanic landscapes. Explore ancient lava fields and nearby caves that tell stories of fiery eruptions.

Arrive at Kharkhorin, the legendary ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. Visit the magnificent Erdene Zuu Monastery and trace the footsteps of Genghis Khan’s heirs.

Stay with a nomadic family living in the steppes. Ride horses across the grasslands, help milk yaks, and learn to cook traditional Mongolian food alongside your warm hosts.

Enjoy one last day on the open road, weaving through beautiful river valleys and green hills as you approach Ulaanbaatar. Celebrate your incredible journey with a night of comfort and good food back in the capital.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport. As your plane lifts into the sky, take a final glance at Mongolia’s endless steppes, knowing you’ll carry these memories with you forever.