Best of the Long Way Round with Thermal Comforts
5-9 Travelers:
$5,200 Per Person
10-14 Travelers:
$4,400 Per Person
Single Supplement:
$950 Per Person
Overview
Mongolia: The Full Circle A "Long Way Round" Odyssey with Thermal Comforts
The "Full Circle" is the balanced and compact odyssey of the "long way round," enhanced with thermal comforts. It traverses the contrast of the Mongolian landscape, from the plains of the Middle Gobi to the open steppe and alpine forests of the north. With an average daily ride of approximately 150–200 miles, we navigate a mix of desert tracks, mountain passes, and river crossings. This route is designed for those who seek the full spectrum of the steppe, where the arid silence of the south gradually gives way to the verdant valleys and larch-forested highlands of the central heartland.
The journey balances rugged adventure with cultural depth and restoration. Beyond the technical riding, the expedition offers a rare look into the nomadic soul of the country, moving from ancient monastery ruins to active, living temples. Each stage reveals a new facet of Mongolian life, from traditional nomadic hospitality to the therapeutic waters of natural hot springs. Supported by an expert team and a blend of ger camps and hotels, this tour is a profound encounter with one of the last true wildernesses.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar (UB)
Upon arrival in Mongolia's capital, Ulaanbaatar, you'll be greeted at the airport by your guide and driver. UB offers a striking blend of tradition and modernity, where contemporary architecture rises beside centuries-old monasteries and traditional dwellings. Your hotel, ideally situated downtown, places you within easy walking distance of Sukhbaatar Square, museums, and local shops.
Settle in, then enjoy a brief city orientation tour to get acquainted with UB’s unique charm before dinner.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 2
Meet the Team, Start the Ride
"After breakfast, the group will meet the support team and prepare the motorcycles for departure. The route heads south toward the Middle Gobi, a region characterized by semi-desert terrain and diverse flora and fauna. The majority of today’s distance is on paved roads, allowing riders to acclimate to the bikes before transitioning to off-road tracks for the final approach to the camp near Baga Gazriin Chuluu.
Overnight in ger camp."
Day 3
Settlements & Desert Tracks
"The journey begins with tracks leading to Mandalgovi, the provincial capital of Middle Gobi. After refueling and a picnic lunch, the route continues toward the 18th-century ruins of Ongi Monastery. Along the way, the group passes through Saikhan-Ovoo, a small district center known as a soum. A typical soum consists of essential government buildings, including a post office and an elementary school with dormitories for the children of nomadic families. Riding through these regional settlements offers a direct view of nomadic life and illustrates how residents travel vast distances to access basic services. The day concludes at the Ongi Monastery ruins. This historical site marks the religious heritage of the region and the impact of the 20th-century political purges.
Overnight in a ger camp."
Days 4
Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall
"Today we depart for Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall. This full day of off-road riding on dirt tracks provides a clear transition from the Gobi to the Steppe landscape. As the dry plains give way to lush greenery, the ecological shift is reflected in the livestock; the camel herds of the south are replaced by increasing numbers of horses and yaks. The route involves several small river crossings as the terrain becomes more varied. The day concludes at the waterfall, situated in Orkhon Valley.
Overnight in ger camp."
Day 5
Mountain Tracks & Hot Springs
"Today’s route leads toward the Tsenkher Hot Springs, passing through rolling hills and across several water crossings. After a refueling stop, the path enters the mountains along less-traveled tracks that weave through forested sections.
The goal is to reach a lush valley famous for its mineral hot springs by late afternoon to allow ample time for a soak in the natural thermal pools. These springs are a long-standing destination in the region, offering well-earned rest and relaxation after several consecutive days of riding.
Overnight in a ger camp."
Day 6
Open Valleys & Cultural Encounters
"The hot springs quest continues through a vast open valley, offering expansive views and numerous scenic photo opportunities. The route is short, designed to provide more direct interaction with nomadic families, allowing the group to experience traditional hospitality firsthand. These stops offer a unique perspective on the lifestyle of herders in the central heartland.
The journey concludes at the Ikh Ulaan Shivert Hot Springs. While less developed than Tsenkher, these springs are known for their high mineral content and therapeutic properties. The day combines steady riding with cultural visits, ending with another opportunity to soak in natural thermal waters.
Overnight in a ger camp."
Day 7
Forested Hills & Provincial Center
"The day begins by following the riverbank toward the expanse of the Mongolian steppes. After a refueling stop in a local town, the route heads north toward Bulgan. During this leg, the landscape transitions from open grasslands into rolling hills and pine forests. As the elevation and vegetation change, the livestock also shifts, with yaks and horses becoming more prominent. The day's ride concludes in the town of Bulgan, another provincial center, where the evening offers an opportunity to explore the local center and interact with residents.
Overnight in a hotel."
Day 8
Green Valleys & Ancient Temples
"The morning route traverses wide-open rolling hills and mountain valleys characterized by lush, green landscapes. The riding consists of gravel tracks that follow the river systems, passing through small villages and nomadic settlements.
In the afternoon, we reach the 18th-century Amarbayasgalant Monastery. In contrast to the ruins visited earlier, this is an active Buddhist center and one of the three largest in Mongolia. Set in a verdant mountain environment rather than the desert, the site features a largely intact temple compound that serves as both an architectural landmark and a place of worship.
Overnight in a ger camp."
Day 9
Final Tracks & Urban Return
"The final leg of the journey begins with winding tracks through the northern hills, marking the last section of off-road riding for the tour. The morning route passes through several small towns and nomadic settlements, offering a final view of the rural landscape before reaching the main paved road.
As the route nears the capital, the remote tranquility of the previous days gives way to increasing traffic and urban infrastructure. The transition from the wilderness to Ulaanbaatar provides a sharp contrast to the desert and mountain regions explored over the past week.
Overnight in hotel"""
Day 10
Capital Sightseeing & Culture
"The final day is dedicated to exploring the historical and cultural landmarks of Ulaanbaatar. Structured sightseeing visits provide deeper insight into the country’s heritage, bridging the gap between the nomadic traditions witnessed on the trail and the modern evolution of the capital.
The expedition concludes with a traditional Mongolian folk performance in the evening, showcasing throat singing and classical instruments. This is followed by a farewell dinner to celebrate the completion of the journey.
Overnight in a hotel."
Day 11
Departure & Reflection
"Following breakfast at the hotel, take a moment to reflect on the diverse terrain covered over the past ten days—from the expansive desert tracks of the Gobi to the technical mountain passes of the north.
An arranged transfer will provide transportation to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) for your international departure."
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