gobi desert explorer

Asia
gobi desert
explorer
trip highligh­­­ts
Explore Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park
View the largest sand dunes in Mongolia at Khongoryn Els
Experience a camel ride with local nomads
Stay in local Ger camps
Trip Duration5 days
Trip Code: GCE
GradeAdventure touring
ActivitiesAdventure Touring and Day Walking
Summary5 day trip and 4 nights ger
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in our Gobi Desert Explorer trip. At
World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track
experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming
face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions
of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our
unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the
enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/4/2016 1:40:57 PM
why travel with World Expeditions?
Our vehicles and guides are the best available and to ensure the
smooth operation of all trips, our partners in Mongolia continually work
with us to improve our itineraries to ensure we are taking the ‘paths less
travelled’. Most importantly, our adventures always aim to benefit the
local people we interact with, safeguard the ecosystems we explore and
contribute to the sustainability of travel in the regions we experience.
Russia
Ulaanbaatar
gobi desert explorer
Mongolia
Extend your adventure in Mongolia with a visit to a local nomad family, a Khongoriin Els
camel ride and exploration of the largest sand dunes in the Gobi Desert
Dalanzadgad
Yolyn Am
China
trip dates
Departs daily from June to September
important notes
S - Surcharge
Note: - Similar dates in 2018
Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2016. For trips departing
after this date, the price will likely increase subject to
local inflationary pressures on operational costs.
trip cost
Joining Ulaanbaatar:$1799
All prices are per person
options & supplements
Single Supplement:
$130
S - Gobi Desert Explorer single traveller surcharge: $630
These short extensions usually operate for a minimum
of 2 passengers travelling together, however most can
be done if you are travelling alone (Single Traveller
Surcharge). If there are two or more people travelling
together who cannot or prefer not to share rooms
a single supplement cost will be applicable.
For competitive airfares and stopover ideas
to join this adventure, contact our expert staff
today to receive a detailed quote.
the trip
The world famous Gobi Desert is an astonishing region blessed with true remoteness and
rugged beauty. We explore the impressive Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, named for
the mountain range which flanks the eastern half of the park. It is also home to the largest
sand dunes in Mongolia at Khongoryn Els. Due to the sound the dunes make on a windy day
they are known as the ‘singing dunes’. We experience this region on a series of day walks,
jeep rides and a camel trek with local nomads, whilst staying in traditional ‘Ger’ camps with
Mongolian families.
at a glance
DAY 1ULAANBAATAR, FLY DALANZADGAD, TRANSFER TO GOBI GURVAN SAIKHAN
NATIONAL PARK
DAY 2TO KHONGORYN ELS SAND DUNES
DAY 3CAMEL RIDE AND FAMILY VISIT
DAY 4DRIVE TO GURVAN SAIKHAN MOUNTAIN, EAGLE VALLEY (YOL AM)
DAY 5FLY TO ULAANBAATAR, TRIP CONCLUDES
what’s included
4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners
Internal flight Ulaanbaatar/Dalanzadgad/Ulaanbataar valued at US$350
Expert bilingual guide
Medical kit
Twin share accommodation in traditional Ger camps
4WD jeep transport while in Gobi
Camel ride
All entrance fees and sightseeing as listed in itinerary
National park fees
Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the
adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the
local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of
cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have
chosen a policy not to ask for such payments.
detailed itinerary
DAY 1Ulaanbaatar, fly Dalanzadgad, transfer to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park
This morning you will meet your guide and transfer to the airport for the flight to Dalanzadgad,
the centre of the South Gobi province. The flight takes approximately one and a half hours, and on
arrival we will be met by our local driver and transferred to a ger camp for lunch.
In the afternoon we drive to the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park. The park lies on the northern
edge of the Gobi desert, and at nearly 27,000 square kilometres is the largest national park in
Mongolia. Our destination is the Flaming red cliffs at Bayanzag. This area is famous as the American
explorer and naturalist, Roy Chapman Andrews, led a series of dinosaur expeditions here in the
1920s. The dinosaur skeletons discovered during his expeditions are now kept in the Natural History
Museum of America.
Late this afternoon we head back to camp for dinner and our first overnight experience in a ger.
meals: L,D
2 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/4/2016 1:40:57 PM
gobi desert explorer
Extend your adventure in Mongolia with a visit to a local nomad family, a
camel ride and exploration of the largest sand dunes in the Gobi Desert
fast facts
Countries Visited:
Mongolia
Visas:
Yes*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Private Groups:
Private group options are
available for this trip*
Singles:
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Leader:
Expert local leader
Brochure Reference:
Active Adventures
*Ask our staff for more information.
DAY 2To Khongoryn Els sand dunes
Following breakfast we drive deep into the Gobi desert to the Khongoryn Els sand dunes. The ride
may be bumpy but you will be rewarded with incredible desert scenery of flat stony plains, outcrops
of vegetation, rugged rock formations, and herds of wild antelope racing across the plains.
The Khongoryn Els sand dunes - know as the ‘Singing Sands’, cover 965km², and are considered
some of the most spectacular in Mongolia. We spend the afternoon exploring this surreal landscapes
by 4WD.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 3Camel ride and family visit
Today is a rest day at the sand dunes. We will walk up to the sand hills, visit a local family and ride
two humped camels along the sand dunes. Riding camels is relatively easy with their gentle gait
and slow steady pace. Mongolians use bright, colourful, hand-made saddles for riding which sit
between the two humps of the camels. It is important not to frighten or upset the camels, so no wild
or sudden movements!
Tonight you can relax in camp and look at the stars in the clear Mongolian sky.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 4Drive to Gurvan Saikhan Mountain, Eagle Valley (Yol Am)
Today we will set off again by 4WD and drive to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan Mountain, Eagle Valley (Yol
Am). Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions in Mongolia, Yol Am is nestled deep within the
hills and is a haven from the desert heat. Some areas of the valley are continually sheltered from
the hot sun and house a large ice field that gradually melts away during the summer months. We
embark on a walk in the valley with plenty of time to stop, rest, and enjoy a packed lunch. If we
are lucky we will also see wild mountain goats jump high on the cliff walls and large birds of prey
circling overhead in the sky. Tonight we celebrate our final night in a nearby Ger camp.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 5Fly to Ulaanbaatar, trip concludes
After breakfast we will transfer to the local airport for our flight back to Ulaanbaatar. On arrival in
Ulaanbaatar we will be transferred to the centre of town, or your hotel, where the trip concludes.
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
important note
These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede
any information in the current brochure, including but not limited to the itinerary and price.
The itinerary should be seen as a guide only. This itinerary may change at any time due to
inclement weather, forces of nature and other circumstances beyond our control.
suggested extensions
Mongolian Panorama
Trans Siberian Explorer
In the Footsteps of the Nomad
country information
Mongolia is a vast country, dominated by the steppes to the north and the Gobi Desert to
the south. It is landlocked and with an average altitude of 1,580m (5,180 ft), it is one of the
world’s highest countries. Between the deserts are lakes, both salt and freshwater. Lake
3 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/4/2016 1:40:57 PM
gobi desert explorer
Extend your adventure in Mongolia with a visit to a local nomad family, a
camel ride and exploration of the largest sand dunes in the Gobi Desert
Hovsgol holds 2% of the world’s fresh water – so fresh you can drink it. The nomadic lifestyle in
Mongolia prevails even in the growing urban landscape around Ulaanbaatar, where gers (Yurt
is a Russian word for ger) are found between the crumbling Soviet style buildings. The ger is
the centrepiece of Mongolian traditions. The mobility of the tent suits the nomadic lifestyle, and
the layout of the interior is culturally significant. The door always faces the south and the rear
is reserved as a place of honour for guests, where a family altar is found decorated with family
photos and Buddhist images. The predominant religion of Mongolia is Buddhism, which has
been revived following the lifting of the ban on religion in 1990. Historically, Mongolia has had
close ties with Tibet through the Buddhist religion, and many similarities exist in the culture
and lifestyle of these two countries. Mongolian religion and their nomadic lifestyle are depicted
in their music, literature and artwork. Throat (or Khoomi) singing is a particular style of male
singing which requires special training, and involves several notes being released at once from
the base of the throat. Contortionism is also a Mongolian tradition, and dance performances will
often include a sequence. The language is Mongolian ‑ part of the Ural‑Altaic family which also
includes Finnish, Turkish, Uzbek and Korean. The language is written using the Russian Cyrillic
alphabet.
climate
June through July are rainy months, August is late summer. The region is alpine so daytime
temperatures can fluctuate between 10ºC and 25ºC, and evenings between 10 – 0 ºC. It can
snow on any day of the year in the mountains.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
accommodation on the trip
In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star, twin share properties that are
centrally located, atmospheric and reliable.
A ger is a circular felt tent used by nomadic people. Warm in winter and cool in summer
offering you an awesome cultural experience. The ger camps provide basic but comfortable
accommodation.
Gers in the camp typically include four beds around the perimeter, with a wood burning stove
and low table in the centre of the ger. These potbelly stoves can generate quite a temperature
inside. Wooden floors are generally provided.
4 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/4/2016 1:40:57 PM
gobi desert explorer
Extend your adventure in Mongolia with a visit to a local nomad family, a
camel ride and exploration of the largest sand dunes in the Gobi Desert
There are basic shower and washing facilities available and hot water is supplied to all gers (a
reliable hot water supply cannot always be guaranteed and you should be prepared for this).
Washing facilities are separated into men’s and women’s shower and toilet blocks. All bedding
is provided at the ger camps.
The Mongolian ger is the traditional home of the nomadic people and has been since the days of
Ghengis Khan. Thankfully, for foreigners, the customs of a ger since those times have become
less rigid, still it is a good idea to be aware of certain rules and customs when visiting a ger.
Mongolians are extremely generous and welcoming in their nature and do not expect foreign
visitors to know all of the local customs, however, we believe it is common courtesy to become
acquainted with some of these customs and try to follow them as much as possible. Please
remember that you are a guest in someone’s home and as such behave with the appropriate
consideration and respect to your hosts. Hospitality is the rule of the steppe, but we have to be
very careful to ensure to be sensitive to the etiquette.
The Mongolian ger is the focal point for the nomadic peoples’ family and social life. Any guest
who cares to pay the family a visit will be greeted warmly and immediately offered a cup of tea.
Guests should enter the ger, without knocking, and step over the threshold with their right foot.
Guests are traditionally sat on the left hand side of the ger, while the host will sit at the top of the
ger. Often the family would like to place their guests in the honoured position at the top of the
ger and it is acceptable to accept this honour. Once seated you will be offered tea by your host,
accept the tea with you right hand, with you left hand placed under the elbow of your right arm
to support it. As a sign of respect always make sure your sleeves are rolled down if you have a
long sleeved shirt on. After tea, food will often be offered. This is usually placed in large bowls
in the middle of the ger and guests are requested to help themselves. If it is a special occasion
home made vodka or “airag” (fermented mare’s milk) will be offered. Usually this is done by the
host sitting in the middle of the ger and passing one cup out to his guests. The guest should
drink from the cup and then return it to the host. It is appropriate if you place your ring finger of
your right hand in the bowl before drinking and three times, offering the vodka, symbolically, to
the gods, by sprinkling it in the air.
If you would like to walk around the ger please do so in a clock‑wise direction and never across
the middle of the ger. Please never step over food or someone’s feet. When leaving the ger it is
appropriate to offer the host a small gift in appreciation for the hospitality offered.
what you carry
In your daypack you will need to carry warm clothing, a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear,
valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip‑eze etc.
equipment required
Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is
provided in the pre‑departure information provided on booking).
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose
and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety
may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have
seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus
transfers or specialised transport such as ‘tuk‑tuk’s’ could be another. Where seat belts are not
provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times.
what’s not included
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Aerated and alcoholic drinks
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gobi desert explorer
Extend your adventure in Mongolia with a visit to a local nomad family, a
camel ride and exploration of the largest sand dunes in the Gobi Desert
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips & Gratuities
Excess luggage charge on domestic flights
International airfares & departure taxes
Visa costs
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
trip grading
You will visit remote areas where facilities may be basic. Many of these trips involve some
camping or basic lodging. These adventure tours will often involve long journeys and rough
roads. Sightseeing and optional day walks are often included and these days may involve up to
5 hours of physical activity. To enjoy these adventures we suggest you are reasonably fit and
healthy with an active lifestyle.
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise
the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural
Australian National Travel Industry’s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible
Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible and sustainable travel is provided to all
World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received
your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our
website www.worldexpeditions.com
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and
developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are
sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure
it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise.
If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your
consultant or travel agent.
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These
special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced
and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for
many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can
organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even
work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from
itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and
adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our
website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
6 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 10/5/2016 12:58:15 PM
gobi desert explorer
Extend your adventure in Mongolia with a visit to a local nomad family, a
camel ride and exploration of the largest sand dunes in the Gobi Desert
trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There
are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space
on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure
services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The
demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
social networking
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how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non
refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or
if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your
booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also
help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get
you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that
you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip.
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