What to do and see in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia: The Best Multi-day Tours

April 18, 2022 Weston Hennigan

Located in the northern part of the country, high above sea level, Ulan Bator is the coldest capital city in the world. The cultural and business center of Mongolia, and a hub connecting the Trans-Siberian Railway with the Chinese rail system, Ulan Bator has become a thriving urban center in one of the most remote locations in the world. Visit the Tibetan-style Gandan Monastery, one of the few buildings in Ulan Bator to predate WWII and one of the few monasteries to survive the Soviet purge.
Restaurants in Ulaanbaatar

1. 4-Day Mongolia Gobi Desert Tour

Discover Mongolia Travel
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5.0 based on 7 reviews

Contrary to what most people think about the desert, the Mongolian Gobi desert is mostly vegetated, vast steppe, and home to a large number of camel herders. Due to its size and sparse habitation, it instantly brings tranquility and evokes mysteries to its visitors. During this trip,  the most highlighting components of this legendary desert will be revealed to you – Eagle Valley, Khongor sand dunes, and Bayanzag, which was home to dinosaurs many years ago. To ensure your comfort and satisfaction, a reserved round-trip ticket to/from the Gobi desert will be here for you.

Inclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Domestic flights, Accommodation in Mongolian Traditional Ger, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), English-speaking guide, Air-conditioned van, 1-hour camel riding

Exclusions: Travel insurance, Personal equipment, Optional activity cost, Alcoholic drinks

Reviewed By rebecca_ready

We spent the Lunar New Year with a local family. It was a truly incredible experience. We loved how gracious and welcoming our hosts were and are very appreciative that they included us in their traditions and celebration. We were really looking forward to this trip it and was the corner stone of our trip to Mongolia. It did not disappoint. Our guide, Ebo was amazing. He was funny and knowledgable. I really enjoyed the stories he shared of his experiences and life in Mongolia. He went above and beyond to help us when things were not going smoothly or expected. Oyuna, our trip coordinator was super knowledgable and provided great advice when planning our trip. Her communication when we had to rebook some trains and flights unexpectedly was great. She kept us in the loop as to what was going on an made us feel reassured that everything would be taken care of. Our driver had a impressive knowledge of the roads and directions. He was a skilled driver and made us feel safe in all conditions. We did unexpectedly have another couple join us on the trip last minute. They did confirm that we were ok with the change and refunded us some money because of it.

2. Golden Eagle Festival 2019 Tour

Kazakh Tour
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

This fantastic Golden Eagle festival combined cultural photographing tour takes place in Western Mongolia, on Altai mountains, one of the longest mountain chains in Central Asia. There are about 250 eagle hunters around Bayan Ulgii province. Every year about 100 eagle hunters participate to this Eagle festival with their specially trained Golden Eagles. Spectacular events include competitions based on speed, agility, and accuracy of these magnificent Golden Eagles and some great Kazakh traditional games such as Kokbar, archery and traditional horse racing etc are also organized on the festival days.  

Inclusions: Accommodation as per itinerary, English speaking local guide, Accommodations (including 1 night ger camp and hotel nights), All meals included which are mentioned in the itinerary, All related Transport - 4x4 Land cruisers, Airport transfers to and from flights, Camp Crew, No hidden fee, VAT included, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: International airfare,, airport departure taxes,, any meals not specified in full itinerary,, optional tipping or gratuities to camp crew and leader,, any additional hotel/ ger camp nights that may be necessary due to domestic airline schedule changes or other factors,, transport costs that may be necessary due to domestic airline schedule changes,, pre-trip expenses of medical immunizations,, visa fees,, travel insurance,, and other expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc)

Reviewed By bowiewiec

I was traveling to Altai Tavan Bogd with my mother. Before we joined the tour, Dosjan gave us good recommendation on choosing the tour. We were picked up by our tour guide Nurga and driver Arda in the airport. Then we met Dosjan for a brief description on the tour as he made some adjustment becoz of the weather. The scenery is so beautiful. we had a great time with the super nice crew. The chef cooked very well. My mother was a bit sick during the trip. The crew took care of us very well. Kazakh families we visited are all very nice and welcoming! The trip was so amazing! I would definitely recommend Kazakh tour if u travel to olgii!

3. National Parks Excursion

Mongolian Ways - Mongolia Tours & Travel
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

This excursion to two national parks a short distance away from the capital is an excellent extension to any trip whether you just want to see the unique settings of Terelj and Gun Galuut, unwind and play after a hard trek, or explore some of the landscapes of Central Mongolia after a trip to the Gobi or the far west.

Inclusions: Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast

Exclusions: Expenses of personal nature (laundry, communications, food and beverages beyond those provided), Gratuties

Reviewed By BorisBoris84

Everything just worked out on this tour i did in nov 2019. Actually mongolian ways was one of the few actually offering during this offseason time of the year. Both guide and driver have proofen excellent organizational, driving, translating skills and made everytjing possible. One night for example was really cold so they spontanipusly organized a warmer place for the next day. A lot was organized according to the situation which gave maximum flexibility. We visited places which are not usually on the tourists list as for example a coal mine. I was never pressured to hurry up or and still everything worked out because the dtiver was so well connected with the locals. And of course... the sights I saw where amazing.

4. Mysteries of the Gobi Desert

Mongolian Ways - Mongolia Tours & Travel
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

The great Gobi desert covers one third of Mongolia’s territory. Hundreds of years ago the desert was part of the main trade route between East and West, with camel caravans crossing the vast steppes loaded with perfumes, spices, and other goods. Today the Gobi is a mixture of rare wildlife, intriguing landscapes, and nomads in constant search of grazing land for their herds. We will explore the secrets of the Gobi – an ice canyon, sand dunes, oases, dinosaur graveyards, and nomadic life. Transport will be by 4X4 vehicles and the distinctive two-humped Bactrian camel.

Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Accommodation as per program, Drinking water, Private 4WD vehicle, Local English speaking guide, All entrance fees as per program, All transfers

Exclusions: Travel expenses to/from Mongolia, Travel Insurance, Mongolian visa, Excess Luggage, Gratuities

Reviewed By codyp802

My girlfriend and I came to Mongolia for 4 days and used Mongolian Ways following a recommendation. Our trip was only for a short period of time but Tsoggy helped us tailor our itinerary to make the most of what we wanted to do and see in such a short (cold!) time. We were met by Sarul, our guide, who was an excellent bank of knowledge and really made sure that we were comfortable and happy throughout the trip. We were able to see and experience so much in such a short period (without it seeming tiresome), which is testament to Tsoggy and the rest of the team organising excellent activities and making sure everything goes to plan. We had an amazing time and would highly recommend for anyone going to Mongolia for even a quick visit. We will definitely be back to explore more and cant wait to travel with you again. Thanks for everything!

5. 2 day Mongol nomadic and National Parks tour

Discover Mongolia Travel
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4.8 based on 5 reviews

The national parks are the must-see most popular destinations for first-time visitors. Just imagine Khustai National Park by Takhi, with its stately and beautiful wild horses and ample opportunities for various outdoor activities such as bird watching, hiking and photography. On the way you will enjoy Nomadic shows to see traditional living way of Mongolian nomads and culture for the past period. The next day you will be visiting Terelj National Park, where the nature is articulated in a great combination of sheer granite mountains, open fields and river. Visit to the tallest horseman statue in the world, dedicated to Mongolian legendary emperor – Chinggis Khaan - is also included in your tour.

Inclusions: Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Overnight accommodation, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Exclusions: Accommodation in Ulaanbaatar, Travel insurance, Personal equipment, Optional activity cost, Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Reviewed By rebecca_ready

We spent the Lunar New Year with a local family. It was a truly incredible experience. We loved how gracious and welcoming our hosts were and are very appreciative that they included us in their traditions and celebration. We were really looking forward to this trip it and was the corner stone of our trip to Mongolia. It did not disappoint. Our guide, Ebo was amazing. He was funny and knowledgable. I really enjoyed the stories he shared of his experiences and life in Mongolia. He went above and beyond to help us when things were not going smoothly or expected. Oyuna, our trip coordinator was super knowledgable and provided great advice when planning our trip. Her communication when we had to rebook some trains and flights unexpectedly was great. She kept us in the loop as to what was going on an made us feel reassured that everything would be taken care of. Our driver had a impressive knowledge of the roads and directions. He was a skilled driver and made us feel safe in all conditions. We did unexpectedly have another couple join us on the trip last minute. They did confirm that we were ok with the change and refunded us some money because of it.

6. Mongolia In 3 Days

Rara Avis Travel
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4.7 based on 3 reviews

Once served as the capital of Mongolian Empire and an essential station of the Silk Road, Karakorum city has much more to share than its current physical appearance. Mongolian largest and the historically most significant religious and cultural center – Erdenezuu monastery – is operating as a museum there. On the way, you will visit the renown Semi-Gobi desert and meet spend a day with the camel herders.

Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, All taxes, fees and handling charges, Environmental Management Charge (Reef Tax), All meals, All activities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Travel Insurance (available to purchase), Gratuities

Reviewed By Dvoe5

We did a day tour yesterday and it was fantastic! We visited Terelj National Park, turtle rock, a monastery with chanting monks, went to a great lookout over the city, the Ghengus Khan Statue and museum and has a tasty lunch with a nomadic family in their ger, complete with an ox drawn carriage ride across the snow. It was a really cold day and snowing in the morning, but the minivan was warm inside and the driver was very good and safe. Our guide was very friendly, knowledgeable and had perfect english. Everything went to plan and our 12 and 14 year old children really enjoyed the day as much as we did! We would highly recommend this day tour.

7. Trans-Siberian Express

Mongolian Ways - Mongolia Tours & Travel
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4.0 based on 1 reviews

The Trans-Siberian Train- a term that thrills adventurers of all kinds. Of the different branches of the Trans-Siberian Train, the Trans-Mongolian is the most traveled route, mainly due to the fact that in one journey one could explore three different countries, and three different distinct cultures. But long train rides over the vast open Siberian taiga and tundra might just not meet the preferences of many travelers. We have thus designed a trip that focuses on the true real gems of this long train ride. Our journey begins by Lake Baikal of Russian Siberia, on to the land of the Mongol Nomads, and ends in Beijing, the Chinese capital. Featuring two of the most spectacular sections of the Trans-Mongolia railway, and with enough time to explore at ease the unique culture and spectacular sites along the route, this is the perfect trip for those wishing to combine an iconic train ride with up-close encounters with local cultures.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Accommodation at hotels selected including breakfast, Train tickets for the train rides segments indicated in the program on a half-compartment basis, Transfers by private A/C vehicles at each train stop, Meals as indicated in the program, English speaking guide at each train stop, Entry fees for all shows and sightseeing as per program

Exclusions: International airfare to Irkutsk, and from Beijing, Travel Insurance, Russian Tourist Visa, Mongolian Tourist Visa, Chinese Tourist Visa, Food, meals or drinks aboard the train, Excess luggage, Gratuities

Reviewed By BorisBoris84

Everything just worked out on this tour i did in nov 2019. Actually mongolian ways was one of the few actually offering during this offseason time of the year. Both guide and driver have proofen excellent organizational, driving, translating skills and made everytjing possible. One night for example was really cold so they spontanipusly organized a warmer place for the next day. A lot was organized according to the situation which gave maximum flexibility. We visited places which are not usually on the tourists list as for example a coal mine. I was never pressured to hurry up or and still everything worked out because the dtiver was so well connected with the locals. And of course... the sights I saw where amazing.

8. 2 Day Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve with HomeStay at Nomadic Family

Ulaanbaatar, Ulaanbaatar Travel Mongolia
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1.0 based on 2 reviews

Gun Galuut is well worth a visit.  Gun Galuut Nature Reserve is a local protected area in Tuv province, 130km east of UB, for conservation of global threatened species. It comprises of 3 zones: tourism, limited, and core zones, which are the ecosystem of steppe, rocky mountain, small lakes, river, streams and wetland, and it is about 20000 hectare. With the help of the local ranger, there is a good chance that you will spot argali sheep.  Apparently the very best time to see them is during the rutting season when they only have one thing on their minds!  There is other good wildlife around too and we saw plenty of marmot as well as several foxes and White-Naped Crane. The area is the state combined from diversity of ecosystem although it owns comparatively small area. The harmonized complex of high mountains, steppes, rivers, lakes and wetlands as well are kept enough as its original condition.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Local guide, Driver/guide, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Transportation Included, Overnight accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Exclusions: Personal equipments, Optional activity cost, Travel Insurance, Gratuities

Reviewed By patleck

Bachi was fast to collect money. December 2019, I made a full payment for the Mongolia tour in May 2020. Under the agreement, I can have 100% refund when I cancelled before April 2020. Due to Covid, I need to cancel the tour in March and asked for refund. After numerous emails and empty promises from Bachi, 9 months have passed and U never get my money back. In addition, he is now uncontactable. While I understand that tourism could be worst hit by Covid. The least he could do is to reply me - and if he gives a date - to honour it.

9. Crystal Clear Khuvsgul Lake Tour 5 days

Shine Zuuch Travel

CRYSTAL CLEAR KHUVSGUL LAKE     4 NIGHTS/ 5 DAYS Northern Mongolia is a main travel destination of Mongolia.  The highlight of Mongolia's Northern provinces, an alpine region bordering the forests of Siberia, is pristine Khuvsgul Lake, known as Mongolia's "dark blue pearl and Darkhad valley - there are over 200 lakes surrounded by high mountains covered with forest and extensive marshland, which is a home of reindeer people -Tsaatan ethnic minority.  Many ethnic groups of Mongolia live in this region. Especially you can see tsaatan (reindeer herders) people's life. Also there are many unique cultural, historical and natural sights.

Inclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, 4 nights accommodation, Professional guide, Hotel pickup, Private transportation

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Reviewed By Tarorororo

If you want to experience real Mongolian nomadic life, you should choose this company. I stayed for two nights in Ger, a 2-hour drive from Ulaanbaatar. The host family was very warm. They are not touristized and do not have a fixed program. You can touch the local life that has not yet been urbanized. If you are worried about water and food, you can buy it in the city on departure.

10. 2-3 days Roadtrip to the Energy Center with a rental Camper Van

Escape to the Energy Center! Visit on the way the outstanding Genghis Statue and discover the unique nature of the Gobi region under the stars in the Burdene Bulag National Park on this self-guided road trip with a modern camper van. You could pick up your vehicle in the morning from a selection of locations in Ulaanbaatar or directly from the airport. A road map with driving instructions is provided along with the vehicle.

Inclusions: Rental vehicle, Whether traveling alone or with a loved one you can be assured that this camper van (2014 or newer models) will be easy to drive and give you the comforts of traveling with ease, ready for leisure and adventure. This camper-van is equipped with the basic needs for your “leave society behind” trip, which includes: automatic transmission, sleeping mat for two, 4 Seats, luggage space for 2 big bags, gas stove with 4x 300ml gas canisters, cooler/refrigerator, water tank with sink, pots, pans, cookware, dishes and cutlery for 4, bed sheet, USB connection/ charger, CD Player & Radio, MP3/ Auxiliary outlet, Internet and Wifi Spot, unlimited km/miles, third Party Liability Insurance included, Passenger & Vehicle Insurance (available on request). *Please note offered price is applicable per 24 hours. **Shower/WC not included and this is not a 4x4 vehicle., Road map and driving instructions

Exclusions: Entrance fees to attractions, Cost of fuel, Food and drinks, Personal expenses, USD$500 security deposit, Sleeping bags, please bring your own! Any consumables like water, food, beverage, fuel items except 4x 500ml gas bottles. The Camper Van and its accessories should be returned clean, otherwise a USD $50 washing fee applies. USD $500 security deposit.

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