Mongolia & Naadam Festival
Mongolia & Naadam Festival
$7889
Mongolia & Naadam Festival
21 Days Starting and ending in UK
Visiting: Ulaanbaatar, Gobi Desert, Khongoryn Els, Mt Khogno Khan, Kharkhorin, Mount Khogno Khan, Tsenkher, Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, Terelj National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
356
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 28
Age range:
12-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Mongolia, where adventure and culture intertwine. This tour invites you to explore the vast landscapes of the Gobi Desert, marvel at the majestic Singing Sand Dunes, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Ghorki Terelj National Park. Experience the rich traditions of Mongolia at the vibrant Naadam Festival, where you can witness thrilling events like wrestling, horse racing, and archery. Discover the historical Erdenezuu Monastery and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mongolian grasslands. With fully guided tours, all domestic transportation, and full board meals included, this adventure promises a seamless and enriching experience. From the bustling streets of Ulaanbaatar to the tranquil shores of the Great White Lake, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Mongolia.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - 4 : Fly To Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Dinner
Fly overnight to Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 5 : Gobi Desert
Location: Gobi Desert
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will fly to Dalanzadgad where you will visit the local market and dinosaur garden before transferring by 4WD to the ger camp near Gurvansaikhan (Three Beauty) National Park. You will then spend the day exploring Vulture Valley and the famed Eagle's Gorge, before driving back to the camp for a visit to a Mongolian family to learn about their lifestyle.
Day 6 : Khongoryn Els
Location: Khongoryn Els
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early start you will be travelling by 4WD to Khongoryn Els to explore the remarkable desert landscapes and beautiful sand dunes.
Day 7 : Flaming Cliffs
Location: Gobi Desert
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning is at leisure for you to explore. After lunch, continue to Bayanzag - more commonly known as the ‘Flaming Cliffs’. This afternoon sees a visit to the Gobi Dinosaurs Cemetery and an opportunity to explore the surrounding landscape.
Day 8 : Ongin Khiid Monastery
Location: Khongoryn Els
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will journey to the banks of the Ongii River, travelling through over-dry plains. On arrival, 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
Day 9 : Mt Khogno Khan
Location: Mt Khogno Khan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart for Mount Khogno Khan to explore the remains of the 17th-century monastery, the Uvgun Khiids, located at the foot of the mountain. The monastery offers views of the spectacular scenery so enjoy some time to explore the monastery and its surroundings
Day 10 : Kharkhorin
Location: Kharkhorin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to the ancient capital of Kharkhorin, situated on the Orkhon River. Here you will have the chance to explore the ancient sites within Kharkhorin and the memorable Erdene Zuu Monastery.
Day 11 : Tsenkher
Location: Mount Khogno Khan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy the morning at leisure before continuing to Tsenkher Jiguur. You will have more free time to relax in the hot springs and soak up the spectacular surroundings.
Day 12 : Khorgo Terkh
Location: Kharkhorin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will be heading towards the serene Great White Lake (Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur) to your ger camp which is located within one of the most beautiful areas of the famous Great White Lake and Khorgo Volcano. Why not take a walk up to the crater of the volcano for wonderful views, or stroll along the lake shore with excellent opportunities for bird and wildlife spotting. You will also visit Zayaiin Huree Monastery in Tsetserleg Town.
Day 13 : Jargal Jiguur
Location: Tsenkher
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a walk around the shores of the lake, which is home to a diverse variety of wildlife and birds and take in the breathtaking scenery. After lunch, continue to Jargal Jiguur known as ‘home of the yaks’, due to many local families seen herding yaks.
Day 14 - 15 : Lake Khovsgol
Location: Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is a long drive through Môron to Lake Khovsgol watching plains and glacial peaks pass by. Your ger camp is situated on the eastern shore of the lake. In the afternoon, take a walk to the forest and visit a reindeer breeding family, where you will be introduced to their way of life. You have the next day at leisure to explore freely.
Day 16 : Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival you will transfer to your hotel and have the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 17 : Naadam Eve
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning visit the Mongol Nomadic Show and Khustai National Park to learn about the nomads and their way of life. After lunch, return to Ulaanbaatar city for the Naadam Eve, visiting Central Square where you can view the Naadam Mongol costumes on display.
Day 18 : Naadam Festival
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today starts the highlight of your journey as you interact with locals and nomads, witnessing the Opening Ceremony of the Naadam Festival. The featured events you will see are wrestling, horseracing and archery. View the procession of the athletes, officials and monks as the first round of competitions in the wrestling tournament begin.
Day 19 : Naadam Festival Horse Race
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel outside the city to enjoy the second day of the Naadam Festival. An exciting day unfolds as you view the cross-country horseracing, also known as ‘tumnii ekh’ (leader of ten thousand). Cheer along with the locals as the athletes compete in a carnival-like atmosphere.
Day 20 : Ulaanbaatar At Leisure
Location: Terelj National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is yours to spend at leisure. Explore Ulaanbaatar at your own pace, whether this be shopping for souvenirs, enjoying a cultural show of relaxing in a local café.
Day 21 : Depart Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same day
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is included throughout the tour.
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Airport transfers at the destination are included.
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All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)
All domestic transportation, including internal flights, is included.
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Country Entry Visas
Country entry visas are included for EU and UK passport holders.
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Fully Guided
The tour is fully guided with daily tours included.
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International Travel
All international airfares are included.
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Local Taxes
Local taxes are included in the tour package.
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Meals – Full Board
All meals are included, except on day 22.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to all attractions are included.
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Departure Taxes and Current Fuel Surcharges
Departure taxes and current fuel surcharges are included.
What's Not Included
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes all domestic transportation, including internal flights, and airport transfers at the destination.
Accommodation
Chinggis Khaan Hotel
Located a 5-minute drive from the city centre, the 4-star Chinggis Khaan Hotel enjoys a quiet location in a primary residential area. All en-suite rooms are spacious and feature remote lighting controls, a minibar, cable TV, and a tea/coffee maker. The hotel also features an indoor swimming pool, massage and sauna services, karaoke rooms and a variety of superb dining options.
Khan Bogd Ger Camp
The Khan Bogd Ger Camp is situated close to the Eagle Valley among rocky outcrops and overlooking picturesque distant mountains. The traditional Mongolian gers all feature heating and communal bathrooms. Electricity is also available for periods throughout the day.
Khan Gobi Erdene Ger Camp
Gobi Erdene Ger Camp is located a short distance from the sand dunes of Khongoryn Els. Providing the best accommodation in Khongoryn Els, the camp comprises of 20 cosy gers, four luxury wooden houses and eight standard wooden houses. Facilities include a spacious communal dining room serving delicious Mongolian and European cuisine and electricity which is available for limited periods throughout the day.
Gobi Tour Ger Camp
A clean and comfortable ger camp located where the Gobi and Hangai regions meet, Gobi Tour Ger Camp is an immaculate, modern ger camp deep in the fossil preserving site of Bayanzag. From the camp, guests can walk into the area where it is believed the first dinosaur fossils were found. Other activities available include camel riding, archery, traditional Mongol games, and the chance to visit nomads."
Secret Of Ongi Ger Camp
The Secret of Ongi Ger Camp is situated next to the famous Ongi temple in Saikhan Ovoo sum, Dundgobi province. The camp has 45 cosy gers, accommodating up to 100 guests in the comfortable and relaxing traditional nomadic yurts. The camps superb restaurant offers tasty Mongolian and European flavours.
Bayangobi Ger Camp
Situated at the edge of the Mongol Els Dune Formations, Bayan Gobi Camp is a well-placed oasis for exploring the area around Khogno Khaan and Kharakorum. The layout and service is superb, and the duneside bar welcomes you for a sundowner drink. The Mongolian gers are well furnished, with shower and toilet facilities in a separate block. Meals are served in an excellent ger restaurant in the centre of the camp.
Munkhtenger Ger Camp
Munkh Tenger Ger Camp is located close to historic Karakorum. Accommodation consists of traditional Mongolian gers, all featuring heating and communal bathrooms. Electricity is also available for periods throughout the day.
Shiveet Mankhan Ger Camp
Located within the sum of Tsenkher, in the Arkhangai province, the Shiveet Mankhan Ger Camp was created in 2001 and hosts 2 open swimming pools for guests to enjoy. A restaurant and massage facilities are also available.
Maikhan Tolgoi Ger Camp
The Maikhan Tolgoi Ger Camp is located on the shore of the Great White Lake and 7 km from Khorgo Extinct Volcano, providing traditional cosy gers for guests. The tourist camp also features a ger shaped restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. The camp receives mobile signal, allowing guests to call and connect to the internet.
Jargal Jiguur Ger Camp
Jargal Jiguur tourist ger camp is located in the valley of Khunjil and Ider Rivers of Khuvsgul province. Jargal Jiguur tourist ger camp is on the main route to famous tourist destinations such as the ruins if the ancient Mongolian capital city Kharkhoru and the erupted volcanic mountain of Khorgo Park. The Mongolian gers provided feature cosy bedding, ensuring that all guests have a very comfortable, pleasant stay.
Alag Tsar Ger Camp
Alagtsar tourist camp is located right on the shore of Khuvsgul Lake where the Alagtsar flows into the lake. The Mongolian gers are brightly painted with pine, and feature cosy bedding. A spacious restaurant is also provided serving excellent, fresh, local food.
Juulchin Bayalag Ger Camp
Located in one of the most beautiful places of Mongolia, Juulchin Bayalag Ger Camp is surrounded by a spectacular view of mountains and forests, and feature comfortably set traditional gers. Guests are served Mongolian, Asian, and European cuisine at the camp with facilitated showers and restrooms also provided.
Experiences
Mongolian Folklore Show
Immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of Mongolia as you enjoy a Mongolian folklore show, featuring old music traditions such as throat-singing and horsehead fiddles, dancing and performing arts.
Naadam Festival
The Naadam Festival represents the heritage of Mongolia with competitors participating in archery, wrestling and horseback riding. Enjoy the opening cultural performance, and cheer for the participants alongside locals.
Mongolian Ger Camp
Amongst the dramatic landscapes of Mongolia's steppe, receive a warm welcome from a local family as they show you around their ger camp home and introduce you to their nomadic life as livestock herders.
Check out our Q&As
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What activities are included during the Naadam Festival?
During the Naadam Festival, you will witness the Opening Ceremony and see traditional events such as wrestling, horseracing, and archery. You will also view the procession of athletes, officials, and monks as the first round of competitions in the wrestling tournament begins.
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What can I expect to see at the Genghis Khan Statue Complex?
At the Genghis Khan Statue Complex, you will see the impressive equestrian statue of Genghis Khan. The visit includes exploring the surrounding area and enjoying the alpine scenery, including Turtle Rock.
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What is the significance of the Flaming Cliffs?
The Flaming Cliffs, also known as Bayanzag, are famous for their striking red-orange color and are a significant paleontological site where many dinosaur fossils have been found. You will have the opportunity to explore the surrounding landscape and visit the Gobi Dinosaurs Cemetery.
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What wildlife might I see at the Great White Lake?
At the Great White Lake, you can expect to see a diverse variety of wildlife and birds. The area offers excellent opportunities for bird and wildlife spotting, especially if you take a walk along the lake shore.
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What is unique about the Khongoryn Els sand dunes?
The Khongoryn Els sand dunes, also known as the Singing Sand Dunes, are remarkable for their size and the unique sound they produce when the sand moves. You will explore these beautiful desert landscapes during your visit.
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What cultural experiences are included in Ulaanbaatar?
In Ulaanbaatar, you will visit the Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Mongolia, and explore the Museum of Mongolian History and the Museum of Fine Arts to gain insight into Mongolian culture.
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What can I learn from visiting a Mongolian family in the Gobi Desert?
Visiting a Mongolian family in the Gobi Desert provides an opportunity to learn about their traditional lifestyle, including their customs and daily activities, offering a unique cultural experience.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.
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Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?
Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.
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What is 'Happy to Share'?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.
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Do you allow children on your tours?
We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.