DAY 1. ARRIVAL IN MONGOLIA - BAGA GAZARIIN CHULUU

• Dinner

Land in Ulaanbaatar airport. Upon arrival, meet the local guide and driver, board the vehicle, and head straight into the northern fringes of the Gobi Desert. After approximately three hours, arrive in Baga Gazariin Chuluu, or in English – the small place of the stones, a marvelous geological oddity, characterized by impressive rock formations. If time permits, get to enjoy a short evening hike to see the sun setting over the stunning rock formations. Then, set in for a first night in the cozy yet simple Mongolian version of a lodge, consisting of traditional felt-made dwellings the nomads of Central Asia often refer to as yurt, and the Mongolians call- ger.

DAY 2. IN THE DEPTH OF THE GOBI DESERT

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Begin the day with a visit to Delgeriin Choir Monastery. Historically, Baga Gazariin Chuluu was the setting to one of Mongolia's most important monasteries, headed by Zava Damdiin, a religious leader, philosopher, and artist. Unfortunately, the original monastery was destroyed during the anti-religious purges of the 1930s, led by the communists, and Zava Damdiin Rinpoche himself was executed in 1937. However, in the year 2000, a young and promising lama (monk) was recognized as Zava Damdiin's reincarnation, and in 2005 he re-established a monastery in the historical site where his predecessor's temple once thrived. After visiting the temple, board the vehicle and continue the road trip to Dalanzadgad, the administrative center of the South Gobi Province. Once a remote desert town, it today serves as the center of logistics for the developing mining industry. Over the last decade, massive exploration operations have revealed an abundance of precious metals and minerals in the Gobi Desert. Thus, the once peaceful desert is being trampled by excavators, monster trucks, and massive drills- all hoping to make a quick fortune. Luckily, most of these mines are far from the eye. Still, their environmental impact can be seen and felt throughout the massive desert. From Dalanzadgad, take another one and a half hours' drive to the 'Gobi's Beauties' Nature Reserve. Once at the reserve, head to the 'Vulture's Valley'- a beautiful oasis at the foot of the 'Three Beauties' Mountain range. As the sun's rays do not reach the small stream at the creek's basin, it is kept frozen during the beginning of summer (until early July). Hence, the place is commonly dubbed as the 'Gobi Glacier.' Take a leisurely hike along the beautiful stream, and, if lucky, get to see some of the wildlife inhabiting the reserve. In the afternoon, set in the camp at the mid of the vast desert plains.

DAY 3. YOLIN AM - KHONGORIIN ELS SAND DUNE

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

This morning, embark on the five-hour drive through the Gobi's typical cold desert landscape - so-called because the Gobi receives its moisture in the form of snow - to the mighty Khongoriin Els Sand Dune. En route, pause by Khavtsgait, an ancient place of worship marked by tremendous petroglyphs. This is also a magnificent viewpoint over the desert's expansive plains. Arrive at the dune in time to climb its mighty walls of sand and explore the towering dunes on foot. If the breeze is blowing just right, one might hear the dunes beautifully sing. The wild desert plants at the edges of the sands are beautiful in their own sculptural way, and the small creek running along its northern face creates fantastic photographic opportunities. At dusk, drive to the camp by the dunes.

DAY 4. KHONGORIIN ELS – BAYAN ZAG

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Check out the camp and drive to the place known to westerners as The Flaming Cliffs. Bayan Zag (Rich with Saxaul) is famed for its red sandstone cliffs, which take on beautiful red and orange hues during sunset. The area is also recognized as one of the world's largest dinosaur graveyards. In 1921, the American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews discovered at Bayan Zag some of the most astonishing Paleontological findings of the last century, ending an ages' long debate on whether dinosaurs have been reptiles or mammals. Arrive at the site around lunchtime and spend the afternoon exploring the cliffs on foot while waiting for the sunset to set the cliffs ‘aflame'; if weather permitting, of course. After sunset, drive to the camp for the night.

DAY 5. BAYAN ZAG - ONG MONASTERY

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Board the vehicle for the long drive north, out of the arid Gobi Desert. In the early afternoon, arrive at Ong Monastery, nestled by the Ong River. Though the monastery is relatively small in size nowadays, the site's name refers collectively to a cluster of monasteries, temples, and Buddhist universities that were thriving here during the 18^th and 19^th centuries, serving as one of the largest Buddhist centers throughout the country. Unfortunately, like most religious institutes in Mongolia, the entire complex was destroyed during the anti-religious purges of the 1930s. It is believed that some 200 monks were executed during these purges, and the surviving monks were forcibly conscripted to the Mongolian People's Army. However, in recent years, local communities and various religious institutes' efforts have resulted in reconstructing the main stupa, leading to its inauguration back in 2004. Arrive in the afternoon at the camp and take a hike through the ancient complex to appreciate its massive scale and witness the ongoing restoration works.

DAY 6. ONGI MONASTERY - THE ORKHON VALLEY

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Complete the drive out of the desert and reach the Mongolian steppes. Here there is a great variety of birds of prey, including vultures, eagles, and falcons, always on the watch for a meal. While driving up north, the scenery gradually shifts from arid steppes to the fertile green grasslands typical to the Khangai Mountains, Mongolia's second-largest mountain range. After lunch, head into an area dominated by volcanic scenery along the Orkhon River Valley. A UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape, the valley has served as the center of several kingdoms and empires that ruled much of Central Asia for centuries. The UNESCO committee states: "Collectively, the remains in the site reflect the symbiotic links between nomadic, pastoral societies and their administrative and religious centers, and the importance of the Orkhon valley in the history of central Asia." (UNESCO website). Disembark the vehicle by the dramatic canyon formed by the mighty Orkhon River, Mongolia's longest river, and enjoy some time at leisure by the beautiful Red Waterfall. Late in the afternoon, arrive at the ger camp nestled deep within the Orkhon Valley.

DAY 7. THE RED WATERFALL - KHARKHORIN

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

From the camp, take a 1-hour's walk (or a 20 minutes drive) through volcanic landscapes. Continue walking along the beautiful volcanic canyon through which the Orkhon River flows. End the walk by a pool at the bottom of the Red Waterfall. For the brave at heart, a cool swim awaits! From here, drive to the summer camp of a nomadic family for a morning of an up-close encounter with the ancient nomadic culture of Mongolia and the realities of the common people of Mongolia. Hear from them about their challenges, their hopes, and their thoughts about life in Mongolia in the 21st century. Early in the afternoon, stop by Shankh Monastery, established back in the mid-17th century by the Zanbazar, Mongolian’s most revered religious leader, and the 1st Jebtsundamba Khutuktu – head of the Tibetan Buddhism sect in Mongolia. Tour this historic cultural and religious site before heading south. From here, it is only a short drive to Kharkhorin. Built by Chinggis Khan about 800 years ago, Kharkhorin, better known as Karakorum, was famed throughout Asia as the capital of the Mongol Empire. Within the walls of this spectacular city, kings were chosen, laws made, and the fate of the next city to be conquered was determined. Before reaching the city, Ascend to a hill overlong the entire town. The turtle rock located here marks the ancient boundary of this once glorious city. Enjoy the view of the city before pausing by the phallic rock, to which couples that have difficulty bearing a child come to pray for fertility. At dusk, ascend to the Monument of Empires, erected to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the coronation of Chinggis Khan as the king of all kings of the steppes. Explore the site, depicting the history of three of the largest steppe empires that were first formed here, and enjoy the marvelous view of the sun setting over the sacred Orkhon valley before setting in the camp for the night.

DAY 8. KHARKHORIN – TSENKHER HOT SPRINGS

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

In the morning, visit the Karakorum Museum. This museum holds a permanent display of various archeological findings and compiles a picture of how the city looked like during the reign of the Mongol empire. Then take a walk through Erdene Zuu Monastery, one of the country’s oldest Buddhist monasteries, in time for the morning puje – the chanting of Tibetan prayers while playing traditional musical instruments. After lunch, leave Kharkhorin, and drive on to the region the Mongolians often refer to as the 'horse herders' paradise' for its lush grasslands and open valleys. Drive through thick pine forests to Tsenkher hot springs, where water flows out of the ground at about 80°C (176°F). After setting in the camp for the night, enjoy a relaxing soak at the open hot-water pools under the Mongolian million-star sky!

DAY 9. HIKING AROUND TSENKHER

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Today take a short drive to the trailhead for today's hike. The hike is a truly enchanting walk up a stream, hopping from one boulder to another to the top of a hill for a fantastic view of the surrounding valleys. In this part of Arkhangai, the wildflowers are plentiful. In addition, it is likely to see families cutting hay for winter fodder for their animals. From here, hike back down through a thick pine forest to the vehicle, and then take the return drive back to camp to enjoy another night of soaking in thermal water pools.

Day 10. TSENKHER – TSETSERLEG – TERKHIIN TSAGAAN LAKE

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Drive out of the hot springs and pass through Tsetserleg, the provincial capital. Here, take an easy walk to the seven-meter-tall statue of Lord Buddha, and enjoy the view over the town, commonly known as the most charming of all cities throughout the country. Take a quick walk through the local market before lunch. Early in the afternoon, continue west, pausing by the hundred branches tree. Although this strange-looking tree has been burnt in recent years during a shamanic ceremony, the site is still considered holy and is worshiped by local people. The thousands of Khatag – silk-made pray scarves – hanging on the trees in the forest are a vivid testimony to the site's religious significance. From here, take a short walk to a good observation point for the Chuluut Canyon before driving to the foot of Khorgo Volcano. Climb for about 30 minutes to the top of the volcano for a view of its perfect crater and the surrounding lava fields. Wrap up the day at a beautiful pilgrimage site on the shores of Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake. From here, drive to the camp by the lake’s shores.

DAY 11. TARVAGTIIN MOUNTAINS

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Leave the camp for a drive along Mongolia’s most beautiful off-road trail. Begin driving along the shores of Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake before ascending towards a mighty mountain pass at 2,350 meters (7,710 feet) above sea level. From here, the trail winds through vast grasslands, narrow valleys, along crystal clear streams, and over mountain passes. Perfect graze and plenty of water call for many pastoral nomadic families to set up their summer camps along these flourishing meadows. Late in the afternoon, reach the shores of Zuun, a beautiful alpine lake. Enjoy the sunset by the lake, and then take another 30-minute drive to a camp hidden in a beautiful valley between the mountains.

DAY 12. TARVAGTIIN MOUNTAINS – MURUN – LAKE KHOVSGOL

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Leave the charming camp for one last mountain pass at 2,197 meters (7,208 feet) above sea level. From here, glide to the city of Murun, the provincial center for Khuvsgul Aimag (province), lying by the Delgermurun mighty river at 1,280 meters (4,200 feet). Stroll through the local market, stop for lunch, and then continue driving north to Erkhil Lake. This is where a wide variety of waterfowl stop on their long journey from the Siberian tundra to the warm countries of southern Europe and Africa. Take a walk to watch the birds, and submerge in the serenity of this little-visited lake. From here, take a short drive to an ancient burial site of a civilization that inhabited these plains back in the Bronze Age. The unique tombs they have left behind are beautifully carved with reindeer motifs and other ceremonial artifacts the dead would take with them on their journey to their next life. Board the vehicle and continue the ride to Lake Khuvsgul, arriving at the camp by the lake's shores in the afternoon. Set in the camp, and if time permits, take a first easy hike through the thick forest and along the beautiful lake.

DAY 13. HIKE TO KHYASAA AND HORSE RIDING BY KHOVSGOL

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

From the camp on the lake, drive to the end of the motor road for a beautiful (and rather challenging) three hours' hike to the top of Khyasaa. At the end of the one-and-a-half hours' steep climb, arrive at Khyasaa (Mongolian for "steep cliff") for an unparalleled view over the lake. The trail passes through a pine forest, grasslands, and beautiful carpets of flowers. At the trek's end, back by the lakeside, enjoy a picnic lunch before driving back to the camp for an afternoon horseback riding trip to the foot of the massive mountains surrounding the lake.

DAY 14. FLIGHT TO ULAANBAATAR

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, take the approximately three-hour drive back to Murun. Here, board the flight to Ulaanbaatar. Once in the Mongolian capital, head to the city center, where modern high-rises are quickly built amid soviet-era blocks. Check in at the hotel and take a tour of the city. Begin with the National History Museum, which holds a permanent exhibition on the different civilizations that have inhabited the territory of Mongolia from prehistoric times to the present. This exhibition includes a significant display of objects from the era of the Great Mongol Empire. Then take a walk through the central square. Right at the heart of the square, see the figure of D. Sukhbaatar, one of the heroes of the communist revolution of the 1920s, boldly raising his arm towards the statue of Chinggis Khan, the nation's forefather whose name was not allowed to be mentioned during the 70-year communist reign. In a very apt fashion, the square is surrounded by buildings of distinctively different architectural styles. Some are clear evidence of the city’s socialist past, while others serve as a striking testimony to the country’s path to development. After touring the square and its surroundings, head to the hotel for the night.

DAY 15. EXPLORING THE MONGOLIAN CAPITAL CITY

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Leave the hotel on foot and head to the city center, where modern high-rises are quickly built amid Soviet-era blocks. Begin with a visit to the National History Museum, which holds a permanent exhibition on the different civilizations that have inhabited the territory of Mongolia from prehistoric times to the present. This exhibition includes a significant display of objects from the era of the Great Mongol Empire. Then, take a walk through the central square. Right at the heart of the square, see the figure of D. Sukhbaatar, one of the heroes of the communist revolution of the 1920s, boldly raising his arm towards the statue of Chinggis Khan, the nation's forefather whose name was not allowed to be mentioned during the 70-year communist reign. In a very apt fashion, the square is surrounded by buildings of distinctively different architectural styles. Some are clear evidence of the city’s socialist past, while others serve as a striking testimony to the country’s path to development. After lunch, visit the Choijin Lama Temple. Once the private temple of the Mongolian king, it is today one of the most beautiful Tibetan-Buddhist museums worldwide. The museum holds a well-curated collection of rare Buddhist artifacts that can be seen nowhere else, all displayed in a beautiful early 20th-century temple locked amid modern skyscrapers. In the evening, attend a traditional folk concert featuring unique Mongolian art forms before enjoying a farewell dinner in one of the city’s finest restaurants before reverting to the hotel for the night.

DAY 16. DEPARTURE FROM ULAANBAATAR

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Chinggis Khan Airport for the international flight out of Mongolia.