3-Week Mongolia Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 3-week Mongolia itineraries

Compiled by

SteffMongolia travel expert at TourRadar

• 18 Days in Mongolia, incl. Ulaanbaatar and Altai Mountains

  Covering 2,000km across Mongolia, this 18-day route includes 5 days of trekking. The path leads from Ulaanbaatar through Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, taking in Turgen Mountains' glacier, Uureg Lake, and Khoton Lake, with stays at Bayangol Hotel and traditional ger camps.

  

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  • Days 1-2

    Ulaanbaatar & Western Flight

    Plan to arrive in Ulaanbaatar by noon for the 2 PM city tour. You'll visit Sukhbaatar Square and experience traditional Mongolian music before a welcome dinner. Day 2 takes you on a 2.5-hour flight to Khovd. A 4-5 hour drive to Zuragt Davaa follows. If you get carsick, bring motion sickness medication for the bumpy roads.

    
  • Days 3-5

    Turgen Mountain Trek

    Spend three days trekking through Urd Turgen Valley, covering 15-17km daily across grasslands and boulder fields. One traveler shared: "The scenery was outstanding, and seeing a lifestyle that still exists this way was hard to believe!" Not confident about walking? You can hire a horse. Nights are in tented camps at 2,600m elevation. Pack a warm sleeping bag because nights get cold.

    
  • Days 6-7

    Uureg Lake

    This lake near the Russian border is perfect for summer swimming, though the water stays cold even in July. Bring quick-dry towels. Day 7 is flexible for weather delays or rest. It's a good time to meet local nomad families. Just remember to ask before taking photos and consider bringing small gifts like coffee or chocolate.

    
  • Days 8-10

    Journey to Altai Tavan Bogd

    The drive takes two full days, covering about 130km on rough roads at 25-30km per hour. You'll stay in traditional Kazakh gers near Ulgii town. At the national park, you'll be at 2,600m altitude. Take it slow and drink lots of water to adjust to the elevation.

    
  • Days 11-13

    High Altitude Trek

    This challenging section includes crossing Tahilt Pass at 3,200m. The climb is steep and often snowy. You'll need trekking poles and waterproof bags for cameras since afternoon storms are common. Pack camels carry the heavy gear, but keep a daypack for water, extra clothes and snacks. The trek ends with a visit to a Kazakh family to learn about their hunting culture.

    
  • Days 14-16

    Lakes & Local Culture

    Visit Khoton Lake to see the mix of forest and open steppes. The drive to Sagsai soum takes 6-7 hours. Bring something to do during the drive. Shop for crafts in Ulgii where prices are better than in Ulaanbaatar.

    
  • Days 17-18

    Return to Ulaanbaatar

    Book a late flight back to see the Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan on your last full day. The city offers modern hotels, quite different from the ger camps, making it a comfortable last stop before heading home on Day 18.

    

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• 17 Day Mongolia Itinerary, incl. Ulaanbaatar and Gobi Desert

  A 17-day route spans 9 Mongolian cities, from Ulaanbaatar to Olgii. Three nights at the Golden Eagle Festival, views of 985ft Khongoryn Els dunes, and stops at Erdene Zuu Monastery with its 108 stupas highlight the trip. Includes 14 lunches and 15 dinners.

  

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  • Days 1-2

    Ulaanbaatar & Terelj

    Start your journey in Mongolia's capital. Visit Sukhbaatar Square and the National Museum. Take a 2-hour drive to Terelj National Park on day 2 and stop at the massive 130-foot Genghis Khan statue. You'll meet a local nomadic family to learn about traditional dairy products. Pack warm clothes since nights get cold even during summer months.

    
  • Days 3-7

    Gobi Desert Region

    Catch an early flight to Dalanzadgad. A recent visitor shared: "The roads in the Gobi are barely tracks - prepare for very bumpy rides and bring motion sickness pills if needed." You'll explore the narrow Yolyn Am canyon and visit the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag, known for its dinosaur fossil discoveries. The massive Khongoryn Els "Singing Dunes" are next on your list. Bring a headscarf and sunglasses to protect against unexpected sandstorms.

    
  • Days 8-10

    Central Mongolia

    Get ready for long drives through the steppe to Arvaikheer and Kharkhorin. Some journeys take up to 11 hours. The historic Erdene Zuu Monastery requires modest dress with covered shoulders. Pack electronics in padded bags since roads are quite rough.

    
  • Days 11-12

    Wildlife & Capital

    Head to Khustain Nuruu National Park to spot wild Przewalski's horses. Early morning or dusk offers the best viewing opportunities. Back in Ulaanbaatar, watch traditional performances and shop for souvenirs. The State Department Store has more authentic items than tourist markets.

    
  • Days 13-15

    Eagle Festival

    Take a flight to Olgii in western Mongolia. A previous visitor noted: "The Eagle Festival was incredible - but temperatures can drop dramatically, so pack serious winter gear even in September." Watch eagle hunting shows and traditional games. Expect more basic ger camps than in other regions.

    
  • Days 16-17

    Return to Ulaanbaatar

    Use your final day for shopping. Look for quality cashmere and leather goods. Leave extra time to reach the airport since traffic in Ulaanbaatar can be heavy.

    

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• 17 Day Mongolia Itinerary, incl. Ulaanbaatar and Gobi Desert

  

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  • Days 1-2

    Ulaanbaatar & Naadam Festival

    Get adjusted to the time zone in Mongolia's capital. Experience the Naadam Festival opening ceremony at the National Sports Stadium with traditional wrestling, archery and horse racing competitions. Get ready for the long drives ahead since most days include several hours on varied terrain.

    
  • Days 3-4

    South Gobi Region

    Visit Baga Gazriin Chuluu to explore sacred granite formations and ancient monastery ruins. Move on to the impressive Tsagaan Suvarga cliffs showing dramatic colored sediment layers from the past 10 million years. Remember to pack layers since desert temperatures change a lot between day and night.

    
  • Days 5-7

    Gobi Desert Highlights

    Check out the ice-filled Yol Valley gorge early before the crowds come. See the huge Khongor sand dunes (climbing takes 40-60 minutes) and try a camel ride if you'd like. Make sure to catch sunset at the "Flaming Cliffs" of Bayanzag where dinosaur fossils were found.

    
  • Days 8-10

    Central Mongolia

    Travel to the Ongi River temple ruins and historic Karakorum, the ancient capital. Take time to relax in the Tsenkher hot springs. One visitor shared: "The hot springs between forested hills were the perfect break after long drives through the steppes."

    
  • Days 11-14

    Lake Khovsgol Region

    Travel north to Lake Khovsgol, known as "Mongolia's Blue Pearl." This 136km-long alpine lake offers hiking, horseback riding and visits to reindeer herders. Take two full days to explore the clean shoreline and nearby mountains. Book your activities early if visiting in peak summer.

    
  • Days 15-17

    Return to Ulaanbaatar

    See the Uran Togoo extinct volcano on your way back to the capital. Visit Khustai National Park to look for wild Takhi horses. Finish with cashmere shopping in Ulaanbaatar before you leave.

    

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