TRIP SUMMARY
Join us on an exclusive journey to discover Mongolia with Dr. Christopher Atwood from the University of Pennsylvania, one of North America’s top Mongolian experts. This trip covers history, nomadic culture, and geography, offering a deep dive into Mongolia’s wonders.
Starting in eastern Mongolia, you’ll trace the footsteps of the Great Mongolian Empire’s founders, visiting hidden historical sites linked to Chinggis Khan. Next, venture west to the stunning Altai Mountains, rich with ancient heritage, pristine landscapes, and authentic nomadic experiences. Then, head south to the Gobi Desert, a land of dinosaurs and snow leopards, focusing on its natural history.
Throughout the journey, Dr. Atwood will provide insightful talks, while you enjoy fishing, trekking, and horse or camel riding. You’ll stay in expedition-style tents and traditional gers, immersing yourself in the adventure.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Who is this trip perfect for?
- History enthusiasts fascinated by the Mongol Empire and Chinggis Khan’s legacy.
- Travelers seeking an in-depth educational experience with expert insights.
- Adventure seekers eager to explore Mongolia’s diverse landscapes.
- Wildlife and nature lovers interested in Mongolia’s unique flora and fauna.
- Cultural explorers wanting to immerse themselves in authentic nomadic life.
- Photographers looking for breathtaking scenery, from the Altai Mountains to the Gobi Desert.
- Active travelers who enjoy trekking, horseback riding, and camel riding.
What to Expect?
- Expert-Guided Exploration – Special lectures and discussions with Dr. Christopher Atwood.
- A Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey – A rare chance to travel with one of the leading Mongolian scholars.
- Historical Discovery – Visits to key sites linked to the rise of the Mongol Empire.
- Natural Wonders – Explore Mongolia’s national parks, ancient rock paintings, and stunning wildlife.
- Cultural Immersion – Authentic encounters with nomadic families and their traditions.
MEET THE LEADER
Dr. Christopher Atwood, a frequent visitor to Mongolia since his first trip in 1989, enjoys exploring the countryside during his free time. He is the Chair and Professor of Mongolian and Chinese Frontier and Ethnic History at the University of Pennsylvania. His current research focuses on reconstructing lost Mongolian sources from the Mongol Empire and developing a new framework for understanding Central Eurasian nomads’ social history. Dr. Atwood has authored several notable works, including Young Mongols and Vigilantes in Inner Mongolia’s Interregnum Decades, The Encyclopedia of Mongolia and the Mongol Empire, and an English translation of The Secret History of Mongolia.
MAP & ITINERARY
Upon arrival at the Chinggis Khan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, meet your national guide and transfer to your hotel. After resting in your hotel room, enjoy a brief city tour including a visit to the Zaisan Hill where you can get a bird’s eye view of the city. This old Soviet period relic is a popular place for locals to hang out and offers a great view of the entire city. In the evening, meet Dr. Atwood and enjoy a welcome dinner at one of fine local restaurants. (Hotel Bayangol or similar; D)
In the morning, depart southeast toward Delgerkhaan (approx. 300 km), a small county with fewer than 3,000 residents. Upon arrival, visit several nearby historic sites, including Khuduu Aral, the famed site where Chinggis Khan was enthroned in 1206 in The Secret History of the Mongols. We can also visit a nearby spa and hot spring where Mongolians take medicinal cures. Later in the day, settle into camp, enjoy dinner, and rest for the evening. (Approx. 5-6 hours driving; Field camp; B, L, D)
After breakfast, take a short drive or hike to explore nearby archaeological sites, including the site of Awraga, where a temple to Chinggis Khan was erected under Kubilai Khan, and with a small museum. There is also a monument to the famous Secret History of the Mongols, near the “Seven Hills” (Doloon Boldog), where the work was composed. In the afternoon, stop by a local herding family’s home to enjoy tea and gain insight into traditional nomadic life. (Field camp; B, L, D)
Drive to western Khentii province and arrive at your campsite near the stunning Baldan Bereeven Monastery, set beside a peaceful larch forest. In the evening, explore the monastery grounds and surrounding Buddhist relics, an excellent introduction to Mongolia’s Buddhist heritage.
Overnight in tents. (Approx. 5–6 hours driving; Tent Camp; B, L, D)
After breakfast, we began driving to Khar Zurkhnii Khukh Lake, a sacred
place for Mongolians as it was here that Genghis Khan was coronated. As
the crew begins making camp, we will visit the lakeshore and listen to Dr.
Atwood’s insights into this historical place. (Approx. 5-6 hours driving; Tent Camp; B, L, D)
After breakfast, we will begin the journey back to Ulaanbaatar. Enroute we
will stop at Chinggis Khan Equestrian Statue – the largest of its kind in the
world. Upon arrival in UB, check-in to your hotel. Dinner is independent.
(Approx. 210 km driving; Hotel Bayangol or similar; B, L)
In the morning, fly over central Mongolia to reach western Mongolia’s Bayan Ulgii province(2.5 hours), home to the legendary eagle hunters. Upon arrival we will enjoy some local refreshments and then begin driving to Altai Soum. Upon arrival we will meet our host eagle hunter family and settle into our camp. (Approx. 4-5 hours driving; Tent camp; B, L, D)
After breakfast, meet your host and enjoy a special photo session with the eagle hunter and his golden eagle set against the Altai Mountains. Learn how these magnificent birds are trained, cared for, and bonded with their handlers. After lunch, you may join the hunter for a scenic horse ride in the valley, where he will demonstrate traditional eagle hunting techniques. In the evening, visit the hunter’s home and enjoy a traditional Kazakh meal.
(Tent camp; B, L, D)
Spend a relaxing day experiencing authentic nomadic life. Join your hosts in their daily tasks such as herding yaks and milking livestock. In the afternoon you may continue to explore the surrounding area and observe the natural rhythms of nomadic life, from animal husbandry to traditional crafts. (Tent camp; B, L, D)
After breakfast, bid farewell to your host family and drive back to Ulgii city. Upon arrival check into your local hotel, you may spend the rest of the afternoon for last minute sightseeing and shopping. In the evening enjoy dinner in a fine local restaurant, followed by a traditional Kazakh performance. (Local Hotel, B, L, D) Approx. 4-5 hours of driving.
After an early morning breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, check-into your hotel and the remainder of the day is free for resting. Dinner is independent.
(Hotel Bayangol; B, L)
After an early morning check-out, transfer to the airport for your flight south to the Gobi Desert. Upon arrival, drive to your ger camp for a short rest. After lunch, drive to moltsog els otherwise known as the mini sand dunes. It is here where we will meet a local camel herder, who will introduce us to nomadic life in the Gobi, afterwards if you wish to do so we can go for a short camel ride along the sand dunes or walk depending on your choice. ( Ger Camp, B, L, D)
In the morning, visit Yol Valley in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, known for its dramatic canyon, lingering ice, Lammergeiers, and wildlife such as Ibex and Argali.
In the afternoon, explore the Flaming Cliffs, the famed red sandstone site of major dinosaur fossil discoveries and the historic expeditions of Roy Chapman Andrews. Enjoy sunset views before returning to the ger camp.
(Ger Camp; B, L, D)
After breakfast, we will drive to Dalanzadagad for our return flight to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, we will transfer to our hotel. The afternoon is free for lunch minute sightseeing and shopping.In the evening, enjoy a traditional Mongolian cultural performance followed by a farewell dinner at a fine local restaurant.
(Hotel Shangri La or similar; B, L, D)
PRICING
- Domestic flights & land transportation using Toyota Land Cruiser
- Accommodations
- in a standard room at hotels,
- gers in the countryside based on a twin occupancy
- expedition style camping in the countryside;
- Airport arrival and departure transfers
- Sleeping bags and mats
- All meals indicated as B, L or D
- All entrance fees
- Guest lecturer’s Mongolia land expenses and participation
- English speaking national guide
- Bottled water and unlimited supply of boiled waters
- International airfare;
- Personal laundry;
- Drinks not mentioned in the itinerary;
- Travel insurance;
- Medical evacuation costs;
- Excess baggage charges;
- Visa fees;
- Gratuities;
- Photography and video fees
- Any other item not mentioned as included.
PHOTOS & REVIEW
My husband Joe and I participated in a Mongolia Quest / university trip/expedition/adventure in May/June 2024. We had a fantastic experience that words cannot do justice. Wild horses, gers, wildlife, sand dunes, camels, landscapes, and endless skies. And the Mongolia people with their hearts and smiles that lend such incredible warmth, authenticity, and genuine sincerity. The Mongolia Quest guides and drivers were outstanding! We were well taken care of from the time we landed in Ulannbaatar, Mongolia until we departed. Traveling with Mongolia Quest is an immersive experience…
