Mongolia Ring Road Selfdrive 16 Days Tour
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Route
Ulaanbaatar to Western Mongolia
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Travel
16 days
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Visit
Up to 15 Destinations
Price from $4036 USD
Exploring Mongolia's Diverse Landscapes: A 16-Day Adventure on the Ringroad
Mongolia, a land of endless skies and vast steppes, is a dream destination for those seeking unspoiled nature, unique cultures, and an adventurous road trip. Embarking on a journey to Western Mongolia and the Gobi Desert will bring travelers face-to-face with the country’s raw beauty, from soaring eagle hunters to otherworldly landscapes. Here's a guide to help you plan and savor this unique experience.
A road trip through Mongolia promises a blend of history, culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Drive along the newly build ring road in comfort with a modern Toyota Landcruiser and stay in ger camps, hotels, hot springs and with a nomadic family besides camping a few nights under the most clear sky full of stars.
With the right preparation and spirit of adventure, it can be an unforgettable experience. Safe travels!
Why Choose Avis Mongolia Tours
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Global presence with over 5000 locations in 165 countries.
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Comprehensive in-car amenities including camping and off-road gear in Mongolia.
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Latest car models such as UAZ Patriot and Toyota Landcruiser.
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Professional tour guides for optimal self-drive route planning and guided tours in Mongolia.
The Best Cars and Camping Gear
UAZ Patriot
- Air conditioned
- 5-Seat
- Manual
Toyota Landcruiser 250
- Air conditioned
- 5-Seat
- Automatic
Toyota Landcruiser 76
- Air conditioned
- 5-Seat
- Automatic
The vehicles come standard with top-quality camping equipment, featuring either a rooftop tent or a contemporary inflatable ground tent. They are also outfitted with various gadgets, including a camping shower, chairs, a table, and cooking and dining essentials.
Rooftop Tent
Spacious rooftop tent for up to 4 person with strong wind resistance.
Tents
Spacious and easy to set-up heavy duty tents.
Cooking
BBQ gear for campfire cooking and gas stoves ideal for a camping kitchen.
Table & Chairs
Table & Chairs Lightweight table and camping chairs ideal for dining and relaxing outdoors.
Sleeping & Hygiene
Camping showers or toilet tents, sleeping mattress and bed solutions.
Starlink Satelliete Internet
Access uninterrupted internet connectivity anywhere in Mongolia and a power solutions to charge electronics.
What is Included
Accommodation
Choose from three options:
- 1/ Hotel or Ger Camp for every night included
- 2/ Mix of hotel, ger camp and camping
- 3/ No accommodation included
Meals
Breakfast is included in all hotel stays. Groceries are excluded.
Team & Transport
24/7 Travel Manager, Tour Guide on Arrival Day, Airport Transfers
Activities
Wild horse and Deer observation during sunset, Horseback riding, Swimming in hot springs, Hiking on the extinct volcano, Visiting Erdene Zuu Monastery and the Kharakorum Museum, Camel ride, Camping near lakes, sandunes and high mountain peaks.
Trip Highlights
- Ancient Capital
- Camel riding on sand dunes
- Mini Gobi
- Volcano
- Lakes
Trip Itinerary
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Fly into Mongolia, settle in Ulaanbaatar and explore the city if you arrive early. You can add in optional activities to your day if you have time. Pick up your rental car and go out to buy groceries before you relax at a nice dinner in one of the many nice restaurants around the Choijin Lama Temple.
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Begin your adventure by packing your rental car and setting off on your journey. Your first destination is Khustain Nuruu, Mongolia's most famous national park, home to the world's only true wild horses and a variety of deer. As you drive westward out of Ulaanbaatar, you'll pass by intriguing Soviet-era relics. Make sure to visit Gandan Monastery, Mongolia's most renowned monastery, along the way. Once you've left the city's hustle, take a break for a picnic amidst the vast open spaces. Plan to explore the national park in the late afternoon; this is an ideal time as the setting sun creates a beautiful backdrop, and the wild horses are more active and visible. Camping close to Khustai Nuruu National Park to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and serenity of the area.
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Journey to Lake Ugii in Arkhangai for an unforgettable camping and horseback riding experience. This picturesque freshwater lake, renowned for its rich birdlife and serene beauty, is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Set up your camp near the lake's shores, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The clear waters and gentle breeze create a calming atmosphere. As part of your adventure, take part in horseback riding, a popular activity in the area. Riding through the scenic landscapes around Lake Ugii offers a unique way to explore the region's natural beauty.
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Leave the serene waters of Ugii Lake and embark on your next adventure towards the Hot Springs of Tsetserleg, located in the heart of Arkhangai province. This journey will take you through some of Mongolia's most picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses of rolling hills and vast open skies. Upon arriving in Tsetserleg, you'll find the hot springs nestled in a tranquil, natural setting, inviting you to indulge in a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The mineral-rich waters of the hot springs are not only soothing but are also believed to have healing properties, making them a perfect retreat for both the body and mind. Take your time to swim and unwind in these therapeutic waters, allowing the warmth to ease any travel fatigue. The Tsetserleg hot springs are a hidden gem, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience traditional Mongolian wellness practices.
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Drive North-West through the hills of Arkhangai Province, to see nomadic families along the road and to explore a volcano nested in beautiful scenery. Hike up the volcano for views like nowhere else before enjoying the White Lake and its nice spots to stay overnight.
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Follow the road west today passing gorgeous sand dunes at the mini Gobi Elsen Tasarkhai. Make a picnic stop at the sand dunes, ride camels and enjoy this beautiful place nested in between the steppes. Continue on the early afternoon to the ancient capital Karakorum to visit the old Erdene-Zuu Monastery and museum about Mongolian history.
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Leaving the ancient, dormant Khorgo volcano in Arkhangai, the journey meanders towards the serene destination of Numrug in Zavkhan. Here, under the vast Mongolian sky, one can immerse themselves in the peacefulness of nature, with the gentle lapping of lake waters and a perfect backdrop for a night in the wilderness. This segment of the journey is not just a travel from one place to another, but a transition into a realm where nature's untouched beauty reigns supreme.
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Nestled in the heart of Zavkhan, your camping adventure takes you to the stunning Bayan Lake, a gem of fresh water set amidst the breathtaking landscape. As you settle down by its serene shores, the contrast of the lake's tranquility with the majestic Bor Khyariin Great Sand Dunes nearby offers a unique and captivating experience. Here, at Bayan Lake, you are not just camping; you are immersing yourself in a rare convergence of desert and water, where each sunrise and sunset creates a spectacle of light and shadow across this extraordinary landscape.
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Set up camp near Otgontenger in Zavkhan province, the tallest peak of the Khangai Mountain range and it is the only mountain with glacier on top. This mountain is revered in Mongolian folklore for its sacred status. This camping site presents a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Otgontenger, renowned for its imposing stature and panoramic views, offers a tranquil yet adventurous outdoor experience. As you camp in its vicinity, you can explore the diverse local flora and fauna characteristic of this region. The area around the mountain is a testament to Mongolia's rich ecological and cultural landscape, providing opportunities for both relaxation and exploration. By night, the clear skies offer spectacular stargazing opportunities, with the mountain's silhouette adding to the dramatic nighttime scenery. This camping trip near Otgontenger isn't just an escape into nature; it's an immersive experience in a region deeply intertwined with Mongolian heritage and natural splendor.
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After departing from the majestic Otgontenger, your journey continues towards Altai Town, a welcoming destination where you can take a restful break. Here, you will stay in a local hotel, offering a comfortable and serene environment to unwind and rejuvenate. The hotel in Altai Town provides a perfect blend of modern amenities and traditional hospitality, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing stay. This interlude allows you to recharge, both physically and mentally, before embarking on the next leg of your adventure.
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Embark on a camping trip to Bayankhongor Province and discover the striking Buun Tsagaan Lake, a unique saltwater lake known for its distinct white appearance from a distance, which inspired its name meaning "Whole Bunch of White." This camping destination is a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a remarkable array of bird species. With 96 different birds migrating over Buun Tsagaan Lake, it offers an exceptional opportunity for bird watching. Among the most notable species are the Dalmatian Pelican, Swan Goose, Pallas’s Fish Eagle, Relict Gull, the Houbara Bustard, and the Asian Dowitcher. These diverse birds, each with their unique characteristics and behaviours, make the lake a vibrant and dynamic spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. As you set up your camp near this serene lake, you'll be immersed in an environment that is not only visually stunning but also rich in wildlife, offering a memorable experience in the heart of Mongolia’s natural beauty.
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Unwind at the Khujirt Hotel and Spa, a tranquil retreat offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Indulge in the hotel's array of spa treatments, designed to rejuvenate your body and mind after a day of exploration. The spa's use of traditional Mongolian techniques and natural, locally-sourced ingredients ensures an authentic and holistic experience. Alongside the soothing spa services, the hotel also offers an exciting horseback riding activity. Embrace the opportunity to connect with Mongolia's equestrian heritage as you ride through the stunning surrounding countryside, guided by experienced locals. Whether you're seeking relaxation at the spa or adventure on horseback, the Khujirt Hotel and Spa promises a memorable and enriching stay.
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Experience the unique blend of desert and lush landscapes at Elsen Tasarkhai, known as the Mini Gobi, in Mongolia. This serene destination is perfect for camping, offering a peaceful environment to unwind under the starlit sky. Witness the stunning transformation of the sand dunes into a shimmering golden hue at sunset, enhancing your outdoor adventure.
A highlight of your visit is the camel trek across these dunes. Embrace the rhythm of traditional Mongolian nomadic life as you ride, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and discovering the rich cultural heritage of Mongolia's nomads.
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On this final day of your road trip, you'll be driving back to the bustling modern city life of Ulaanbaatar. Your journey takes you through Lun and then into downtown Ulaanbaatar, where you will return your rental car in the evening.
Savor your last night in Ulaanbaatar by exploring its vibrant nightlife. Indulge in the plethora of modern restaurants and bars the city has to offer.
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Today marks the conclusion of your incredible 16 days Mongolian adventure. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have the opportunity to explore more of Ulaanbaatar before you leave. Take a moment to unwind at a local swimming pool, or visit the Zaisan Monument for a panoramic view of the city. Alternatively, you could enjoy a final glimpse of Ulaanbaatar from one of the rooftop bars, such as those atop the Shangri-La or Blue Sky buildings.
If time allows and you haven't yet experienced it, consider a visit to the Choijin Lama Temple, a serene and culturally rich site. Afterwards, you'll make your way to the airport, carrying memories of a lifetime from Mongolia.
Book a travel consultation and let's turn your travel vision into reality.
Customer Reviews
Real independent reviews of the Mongolia Ring Road Selfdrive 16 Days Tour by our guests.
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Billy 5/5
We did a self drive tour which was quite an experience on Mongolian roads. The itinerary was perfect and the vehicle was in excellent condition. Avis-
mongolia.com was able to accommodate our changing needs and itinerary due a medical condition.Reviewed on 30 Sep 2024