Nomads and Naadam a Mongolian Adventure

Day 1 - Friday 26 June 2026

Melbourne to Ulaanbaatar (Meals Inflight)

Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel.

Your tour hostess and fellow travellers will meet you at the designated departure point at Melbourne Airport for your flight to Ulaanbaatar.

Day 2 - Saturday 27 June 2026

Melbourne to Ulaanbaatar (in-flight meals)

Arrive in Mongolia’s capital Ulaanbaatar!

Upon arrival, we will be met by our local guide and transferred to our hotel.

This evening, there will be a tour introduction at the hotel to learn more about travelling in Mongolia.

Ulaanbaatar city: Occupying one-third of the country’s population, Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is also the largest city. It was built along the Tuul Gol River and is surrounded by picturesque mountains, with the city centre occupied mainly by Soviet-style high-rise apartments. The majority of the population still lives on the outskirts of the town in traditional Ger (circular felt tents), which is the country's most identifiable symbol.

Accommodation: Chinggis Khaan Hotel or similar

Day 3 - Sunday 28 June 2026

Ulaanbaatar (B, L, D)

This morning after breakfast we'll start our explorations with a visit to Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Mongolia. Gandan Monastery means ‘great place of complete joy’, and is the largest, most significant monastery in the country. Building began in 1838 and today there are over 150 monks in residence. Lining the walls of the temple are many images of the Buddha of Longevity, Ayush.

Later, we explore the Museum of Mongolian History for insight into the culture of Mongolia. The museum aims to preserve Mongolian culture through the display of historical, ethnographical and cultural objects ranging from 800,000 years ago to the end of the 20th Century.  Afterwards, have delicious lunch at local restaurant.We will then visit the Museum of Fine Arts - this fine-arts museum has a great collection of paintings, carvings and sculptures, as well as other rare religious exhibits such as Buddhist statues,
representing the best display of its kind in Mongolia.

Later, visit Feltart Workshop, to learn and craft our own art and learn more about the process of knitting in the Mongolian way.

Accommodation: Chinggis Khaan Hotel or similar

Day 4 - Monday 29 June 2026

Ulaanbaatar – Tsagaan Suvarga (B, L, D)

This morning we head south to the Gobi Desert across the steppes of Mongolia. We have lunch at Mandal Gobi town and meet local women craft beautiful handmade textiles and souvenirs.  Continue on to Tsagaan Suvarga, known as the White Stupa Cliffs. Arriving in the late afternoon, watch as the sunlight paints the cliffs in shades of pink, orange, and gold. In the evening, explore this dramatic natural wonder — hike along its rugged trails, capture stunning photographs of the surreal landscape, and soak in the quiet beauty of the desert at sunset.

Accommodation: Tsagaan Suvarga Ger Camp (standard Ger) or similar

Day 5- Tuesday 30 June 2026

Tsagaan Suvarga - Dalanzadgad - Gurvan Saikhan NP (B, L, D)

Today, travel to Dalanzadgad, the lively capital of South Gobi province. Begin your visit at the newly built Gobi Museum, a striking modern complex that brings the desert’s story to life. Wander through its fascinating exhibits — from towering dinosaur skeletons unearthed in the Gobi sands to displays celebrating the region’s unique culture, wildlife, and geology.

Enjoy lunch at one of the town’s popular local restaurants before diving into the colorful atmosphere of the Dalanzadgad Bazaar. Here, you’ll find everything from handwoven goods to the latest imports — a vibrant reflection of the province’s prosperity, fueled by nearby mining ventures. Meet an inspiring local businesswoman who has built her livelihood in this dynamic environment, and learn about modern life in Mongolia’s desert frontier.

In the late afternoon, drive an hour through sweeping desert scenery to reach our Ger Camp, nestled in the tranquil Survan Siakhan Mountains. Check in and unwind amid the peaceful surroundings — the rest of the day is yours to relax, take a gentle stroll, or simply soak up the stillness of the Gobi sunset.

Accommodation: Khanbogd Ger Camp(standard Ger) or similar

Day 6 - Wednesday 1 July 2026

Yolyn Am – the Vulture Valley (B, L, D)

Today we spend a leisurely day at Yol Valley, enjoying the serene beauty of the dramatic landscape. This is a perfect opportunity for us to relax, take in the tranquility of the Gobi Desert, and explore the area at our own pace. Here choose to go for optional hikes, photograph the spectacular mountain scenery, or simply unwind at the camp.

Those interested can venture back into the gorge for a morning walk to spot local wildlife, such as mountain ibex, argali sheep, and various birds of prey. For photography enthusiasts, the shifting light over the valley and surrounding peaks offers excellent conditions for capturing memorable images. This unstructured day allows us to experience the magic of the Gobi at your own.
After lunch drive to the Khongor sand dunes for an amazing sunset.

Accommodation: Gobi Erdene Ger Camp (standard Ger) or similar

Day 7 - Thursday 2 July 2026

Khongor Sand Dunes – Bulagtai Valley (B, L, D)

After an early breakfast, travel by 4WD for 4-5 hours to Khongoryn Els, the location of Mongolia’s largest sand dunes. Witness the remarkable desert landscapes and explore the sand dunes both by 4WD and on foot. The hike will take at least 2 hours return.For the more adventurous, climb to the top for fantastic views. We also have an option to do some camel riding (with a helmet and camel guide) for 1 hour.
In the afternoon, set out for the Bulagtai Valley, a striking landscape of rugged mountains and wide open plains in Mongolia’s South Gobi region. The name “Bulagtai” is thought to derive from the Mongolian word for “spring,” or perhaps from the graceful sable that once roamed these parts, both fitting symbols for this serene place. As we drive, watch the desert scenery unfold — soft, wind shaped hills giving way to rocky ridges and hidden oases that hint at the valley’s life-giving waters.

Accommodation: Gobi Mirage Ger Camp (ensuite Ger) or similar

Day 8 - Friday 3 July 2026

Bayanzag – Flaming cliffs (B, L, D)

This morning is yours to continue exploring the boundless beauty of the Gobi Desert — 

After lunch, set off by 4WD across the desert plains to the legendary Bayanzag, better known as the Flaming Cliffs. This world renowned site earned its name from the deep red and orange hues that blaze across the rocks at sunset. Spend the afternoon visiting the Gobi Dinosaur Cemetery, where groundbreaking paleontological discoveries were made, and explore the dramatic surrounding landscape.

Tonight enjoy a sunset dinner 

Accommodation: Gobi Mirage Ger Camp (ensuite Ger ) or similar

Day 9- Saturday 4 July 2026

Bayanzag – Ongi (B, L, D)

Today we spend the day travelling onwards to the banks of the Ongii River, a journey of approximately 4-5 hours, some of which is on jeep trails over dry plains where there are no direct roads.
On arrival, check into our Ger camp close to the Ongii River and visit the ruins of two famed monasteries, the Barlim Khiid to the north and the Khutagt Khiid to the south. Combined they form the complex known as Ongiin Khiid Monastery.

Accommodation: Secret of Ongi Tourist Camp (Standard Ger) or similar

Day 10 - Sunday 5 July 2026

Ongi - Orkhon River Valley (B, L, D)

Today we take a scenic drive to the Orkhon River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its sweeping grasslands and deep cultural roots in Mongolia’s nomadic history. We journey across rugged dirt tracks taking around 4.5–6 hours, with stunning views of rolling hills, winding rivers, and herds of grazing livestock along the way.

Upon arrival, set out on a hike to the magnificent Orkhon Waterfalls, also known as Ulaan Tsutgalan, a breathtaking cascade formed by ancient volcanic eruptions and earthquakes nearly 20,000 years ago. Here, the river plunges 20–27 meters  into a dramatic basalt gorge, creating a spectacular natural amphitheater. 

Accommodation: Durvun Berkh Ger Camp (Standard Ger) or similar

Day 11 - Monday 6 July 2026

Orkhon River Valley - Karakorum (B, L, D)

This morning, drive to Karakorum, the fabled 13th century capital founded by Genghis Khan and once the heart of the vast Mongol Empire. If time permits, make a stop at the serene Shankh Monastery, one of Mongolia’s oldest and most historically significant Buddhist monasteries. Here, you may have the opportunity to quietly observe the monks’ daily chanting rituals — a moving glimpse into Mongolia’s deep spiritual traditions.

In the afternoon we explore the Karakorum Museum, home to fascinating artifacts that trace the rise and fall of the ancient capital, from imperial treasures to everyday relics of nomadic life. Continue to the Orkhon River Valley viewpoint, where sweeping vistas capture the essence of Mongolia’s historic heartland.

Accommodation: Urguu Ger Camp (Standard Ger) or similar

Day 12- Tuesday 7 July 2026

Kharkhorin (B, L, D)

For our second day at Kharkhorin, we'll enjoy a slow and relaxed morning.

Later in the morning we visit Erdene Zuu Monastery. The Erdene Zuu Monastery is probably the earliest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. Built in 1585, it is located in Kharkhorin, Övörkhangai Province and is now included within the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape World Heritage Site. This site involves walking over rough, uneven surfaces.  
Later In the afternoon we visit a Nomadic family to learn about their lifestyle and taste Mongolian dairy products.  

Tonight enjoy a mongolian BBQ experience.

Accommodation: Urguu Ger Camp (Standard Ger) or similar

Day 13 - Wednesday 8 July 2026

Karakorum – Hustai NP via Khugnu Khan Mountain (B, L, D)

After an early start we visit the Erdene Khamba monastery and enjoy some hiking. Erdene Khamba monastery is located in Khugnu Khan, a magnificent mountain area in Mongolia, illustrating unique and beautiful natural scenery encompassing a mixture of mountainous and fertile pastures, plain steppe and Gobi desert where located ancient mythical and greatly significant two monasteries and ancient crave mound.

Continue to Hustai, and visit the information center and view the Takhi wild horses . Hustai National Park with an approximate 3-hour drive east through beautiful open steppe landscapes. Khustai is internationally renowned as the home of the last truly wild horse species in the world — the Przewalski’s horse, or takhi, once thought extinct in the wild and successfully reintroduced to its native habitat. Upon arrival, visit the Khustai National Park information center and museum to learn about the history of the park, its wildlife conservation programs, and the reintroduction of the takhi.
In the afternoon, venture into the park in 4WD vehicles to spot the Przewalski’s horses in their natural environment, alongside other wildlife such as red deer, marmots, and various birds of prey. Enjoy a gentle hike through the rolling hills and valleys of the park for scenic views and photo opportunities. Return to the Ger camp in the evening for dinner and relaxation under the starry steppe sky.

Accommodation: Hustai Ger Camp (Standard Ger) or similar

Day 14 - Thursday 9 July 2026

Hustai NP – Mongol Nomadic Show – Ulaanbaatar (B, L, D)

This morning, transfer to the Mongol Nomadic Show, an immersive cultural experience that brings to life the traditional lifestyle of Mongolia’s herding families. Running from mid May to the end of October, the show beautifully demonstrates ancient customs that continue to thrive today,  from the setup of a Ger and traditional herding techniques to the use of camels, horses, and yaks in daily life.

Discover how Mongolian nomads have, for centuries, sustained their livelihoods by breeding the five main types of livestock — horses, camels, cattle (including yaks), sheep, and goats all while migrating across the vast steppes in search of rich pastures. It’s a vivid celebration of resilience, adaptability, and harmony with nature.

Afterward, transfer back to Ulaanbaatar, where we'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking in to our hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or begin exploring the capital at our own pace.

Accommodation: Chinggis Khaan Hotel or similar

Day 15 - Friday 10 July 2026

Naadam Eve – Ulaanbaatar City (B, L, D)

In the morning,we join the vibrant celebrations of National Costume Day, a special event held annually as part of the Naadam Festival lead-up. On this day, locals dress in their finest traditional Mongolian garments, or deel, and fill Sukhbaatar Square and the streets of Ulaanbaatar with color and culture. We’ll have the opportunity to visit the square, mingle with residents in their national dress, and witness the rich heritage of Mongolia come alive through costumes, folk performances, and informal gatherings

Accommodation: Chinggis Khaan Hotel or similar 

Day 16 - Saturday 11 July 2026

Naadam Festival – Ulaanbaatar City (B, L, D)

One of the special features we will encounter over the next 2 days is experiencing first-hand the annual Naadam Festival.

The highlight of our journey begins as we mix with locals and nomads alike to witness the Opening Ceremony of the Naadam Festival at Central Stadium. Here we can see featured events that include wrestling, horse racing and archery. We will have the chance to view the procession of the athletes, officials and monks, as the first round of competition in the wrestling tournament begins. Tickets to all arenas are allocated by the local Government tourist authority in the weeks leading up to the opening ceremony; therefore, the exact program for the festival cannot be given until during our trip.

After the grand Opening Ceremony, the first round of wrestling and archery is held in the afternoon at Naadam Stadium. Please prepare your bag each day to contain everything you may need for the day – sun hat, sunscreen, drinking water and plenty of camera memory, etc., at a minimum. It is usually hot at this time of year, and the seats are not under cover, so we will be exposed to the sun all day. Valuables must be kept in the hotel safe or under your clothes in a money belt, as we will be walking through huge crowds on our way in and out of the stadium stands. Lunch either at a local restaurant. or boxed picnic style.

In the evening dinner at a local restaurant.

Accommodation: Chinggis Khaan Hotel or similar

Day 17 - Sunday 12 July 2026

Horse Race - Naadam Festival second day (B, L, D)

Today, we'll travel approximately 50km outside the city to enjoy the second day of the Naadam festival.

A thrilling day unfolds as we view the cross-country horse racing. Also known as ‘tumnii ekh’ (leader of ten thousand), this certainly is sought after amongst the younger competitors. Cheer along with the locals as the athletes compete and be enthralled in the carnival-like atmosphere where we will have the opportunity to visit the horse trainers’ tents and meet the trainers and jockeys.
Lunch will be either boxed meals or a local restaurant.

Accommodation: Chinggis Khaan Hotel or similar

Day 18 - Monday 13 July 2026

Ulaanbaatar – Terelj NP - Chingis Khan Statue Complex (B, L, D)

This morning, travel to Terelj National Park, stopping on route to visit the Chinggis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex. Spend the afternoon exploring the area, enjoying the alpine scenery and seeing Turtle Rock.

Chinggis Khan Statue Complex Standing 43m tall, the statue was erected of Genghis Khaan sitting on a horse, it is said to be pointed in the direction of his birthplace.  We will enjoy lunch in the restaurant in Terelj NP.   After lunch we visit a local businesswoman who creates traditional Mongolian handicrafts.

This evening enjoy Folklore concert followed by a farewell dinner. 

Accommodation: Chinggis Khaan Hotel or similar

Day 19 - Tuesday 14 July 2026

Depart Ulaanbaatar (B, in-flight meals)

Today we will have some time at leisure and later, we will be transferred from our hotel to the airport.

Board our flight for the trip home.

Day 20 - Wednesday 15 July 2026

Welcome home

Welcome home!

Thank you for joining us for our latest adventure.

We look forward to welcoming you back.