Mongolia: Gobi Desert
Mongolia
South from Ulaanbaatar into the world's northernmost desert, the Flaming Cliffs where Roy Chapman Andrews discovered the first dinosaur eggs in 1923, the Khongoryn Els singing sand dunes, Yolyn Am's year-round ice canyon, and the nomad ger camps of the Southern Gobi. A 4WD expedition through the emptiest terrain on earth.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Ulaanbaatar
The world's coldest capital: Soviet blocks, Buddhist monasteries, and ger suburbs. Gandantegchinlen's 26 m indoor Buddha is unmissable.
- Mandalgovi
Gateway to the Gobi, where asphalt ends and the route becomes parallel tracks across open steppe. Camel herds outnumber residents.
- Flaming Cliffs
Red sandstone badlands where Roy Chapman Andrews found the world's first dinosaur eggs in 1923. The cliffs burn crimson at sunset.
- Khongoryn Els
The Singing Dunes: a 180 km sand range rising 300 m, rumbling audibly when wind crosses the crests. Camel riding to the ridge is essential.
- Yolyn Am
A narrow Gurvan Saikhan canyon holding ice year-round despite 40 C summers. Lammergeier vultures nest in the cliffs above the ice.
- Dalanzadgad
The Gobi's provincial capital and the route's southern hub, with the South Gobi Museum and the only paved airstrip for hundreds of kilometres.
Where to Eat
- Gobi Oasis RestaurantMongolian
Offers traditional Mongolian dishes with fresh local ingredients, providing a cozy dining experience in the heart of the Gobi Desert.
- Nomad's KitchenMongolian
Serves authentic Mongolian barbecue and dairy products, reflecting the nomadic culinary traditions of the region.
- Steppe Nomads RestaurantMongolian
Features a variety of Mongolian stews and grilled meats, offering a taste of the local nomadic lifestyle.
- Gobi Mirage RestaurantMongolian
Provides a selection of traditional Mongolian soups and dumplings, set in a rustic environment.
- Desert Delight CaféCafé
Offers a range of coffees and light snacks, perfect for a quick break during your desert adventures.
- Camel's Rest EateryMongolian
Specializes in camel meat dishes, providing a unique culinary experience in the Gobi region.
- Saxaul GrillBarbecue
Offers grilled meats and vegetables, cooked over saxaul wood for an authentic desert flavor.
Things to Do
- Gobi Gurvansaikhan National ParkNational Park
Explore diverse landscapes from sand dunes to mountains, home to unique wildlife like the snow leopard and Gobi bear.
- Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs)Historic Site
Famous for dinosaur fossils and striking red sandstone formations, offering a glimpse into prehistoric times.
- Khongoryn Els Sand DunesScenic Viewpoint
Climb the towering 'Singing Dunes' for panoramic views and experience the unique sounds of shifting sands.
- Yolyn Am (Vulture's Mouth) GorgeHike
Trek through a deep canyon known for its ice field that persists even in summer, and spot bearded vultures overhead.
- Dinosaur Fossil Excavation SiteMuseum
Visit active dig sites where paleontologists uncover ancient fossils, offering insights into Mongolia's prehistoric past.
- Camel Trekking in the GobiAdventure Activity
Experience the traditional mode of desert travel by riding Bactrian camels across the vast Gobi landscape.
- Nomadic Family VisitCultural Experience
Spend time with a local nomadic family, learning about their customs, lifestyle, and enjoying traditional hospitality.
Travel advisory
The Gobi has no paved roads between major sites and tracks disappear in sand and gravel. A Russian-built 4WD van with an experienced local driver-guide is the standard and strongly recommended approach. Carry extra fuel, water, and supplies as settlements and fuel stations are scarce.