Sain uu! Welcome to Ulaanbaatar, capital of Mongolia. After a private transfer to your hotel in the centrally located neighborhood of Bayangol, take some time to relax after your long journey before getting together with your fellow intrepid travelers in the early evening for a welcome dinner of traditional Mongolian dishes. 

Wake up in Ulaanbaatar and fuel up for a morning spent delving into Mongolia's rich Buddhist heritage at the illustrious Gandan Monastery. A Lama guide will provide illuminating insights into daily life here, as you wander the sacred grounds where over 150 monks reside. Grab lunch at the airport and hop on a short flight to Dalanzadgad. Upon arrival, your driver will whisk you away to your hotel, leaving the evening free to unwind over a delicious dinner at a traditional local restaurant, energized for the adventures that lie ahead in the Gobi's ethereal realm.

Kick off the day amid the undulating Moltsog sand dunes, their golden slopes punctuated by pockets of snow—a desert dreamscape. Connect with local camel herders, glimpsing their nomadic ways over a home-cooked lunch. Then, it's off to the famed Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag, where you'll tread in the footsteps of paleontological pioneers. After exploring the informative museum, follow well-trodden trails for an hour-long hike into this fossil hunter's paradise that's yielded wonders like the legendary ‘fighting fossil,’ depicting a Protoceratops locked in mortal combat with a Velociraptor. As evening falls in Dalanzadgad, savor local flavors for dinner before being swept up in the revelry of a camel herders' singing contest, and an impromptu dance party. 

Get ready to experience the lively spectacle of Mongolia's annual Thousand Camel Festival today. This vibrant celebration champions local crafts, community and heritage, with exhibitions showcasing exquisite camel wool products and ancient petroglyphs. Prepare for an array of entertaining events—from camel polo matches and the grand camel parade, where locals showcase their finest beasts, to the best looking camel (and human couple) competition and fashion shows dedicated to fine cashmere apparel. Between the lively festivities, savor camel milk delicacies and admire displays of unique snuff bottles crafted by local artisans. As the first day of the festival draws to a close, enjoy an adorable concert put on by the village school children.   

Brace yourself for another rip-roaring day at the Thousand Camel Festival! The action kicks off with more pint-sized jockeys racing their fuzzy steeds across the desert sands. But the real thrills await in the camel skill contests, where hardened nomads showcase their legendary talents. Watch in awe as they effortlessly load entire gers onto the beasts' sturdy backs, or lasso and mount ornery bulls—a true test of brawn and bravery! The pageantry continues as lavishly bejeweled camels strut their stuff in hopes of claiming the ‘fairest camelid’ crown. As dusk falls, gather for the climactic awards ceremony and closing festivities, celebrating these "ships of the desert" and the nomadic culture they enable.

Venture into the otherworldly Mukhar Shivert Gorge, where nature's icy artistry awaits. A short but scenic hike unveils towering rock formations enclosing a remarkable year-round glacial flow. Marvel at the vast trench, its floor blanketed in glassy blue ice crafted over eons. At the gorge's end, a breathtaking frozen waterfall stands still amongst the frosty wonderland. After reveling in the glacial splendor, refuel over a hearty local lunch in Dalanzadgad. Then, it's off to the bustling capital Ulaanbaatar. 

Behold the Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue today —the world's largest equine statue. This 40-meter steel beast depicts the legendary Genghis Khan astride his mighty steed, facing eastward toward his birthplace as the sun's first rays crest the horizon. Ascend into the statue's chest, traversing its neck to the horse's head, where panoramic vistas of the Tuul River Valley and Khan Khentii Mountains unfurl. Pause for a locally-flavored lunch. Then it's off to Terelj National Park, a wonderland of granite peaks, forested slopes, wildflower meadows, and whimsical rock formations. Follow trails to the meditation temple perched above the valley, affording breathtaking views. Bed down in the national park tonight in a ger camp with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. 

Return to the capital, Ulaanbaatar, today to learn more about Mongolia’s most famous ruler. After refueling with a local lunch, you'll step into the newly built Chinggis Khaan Museum, a treasure trove housing over 10,000 original exhibits spanning from the Hun Empire to the dawn of the 20th century. Marvel at the artifacts that once adorned the lives of kings and nobles across Mongolia's nomadic states. Then, ascend to the Zaisan Monument, a towering communist-era relic emblazoned with murals celebrating the friendship between the USSR and Mongolia—all while taking in panoramic vistas of the city below. Enjoy some leisure time this afternoon before regrouping tonight  for a farewell dinner celebrating your Mongolian escapades with your fellow adventurers.

Our epic journey comes to an end today. Should you wish to spend more time exploring Mongolia’s myriad of wonders, check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Mongolia for itinerary inspiration. Bayartai until our next adventure!