A vast and lonely treasure, Mongolia occupies a space more than three times the size of France, yet its population is only a little over a third that of New York City! So it is no surprise that Mongolia is one of the least densely populated nations in the world.
We have been under its spell for a long time, dating to the days when it appeared in musty atlases as “Outer Mongolia.” So, it’s with great joy that we introduce people to this magnificent land during the off season. This trip incorporates two enchanting winter festivals: the boisterous Camel Festival in the Gobi and the Ice Festival at Khovsgol Lake, and since it is winter, the droves of tourists are refreshingly scarce – so we may relish the festivities without the crowds.
We begin with an excursion to Khovsgol Nuur (nuur means lake) – “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” a pristine wilderness of clear water, lush meadows and forest-covered mountains. Here we bask in the serene environment around the lakeshore and explore the region extensively by horseback or jeep. And on the surface of the frozen lake, we’ll join the local people at the annual Ice Festival.
Then it’s on to the heart of the Gobi. Beyond enjoying the ethereal landscapes, we have a chance to look for dinosaur bones, ride the two-humped Bactrian camel, and visit the sublime Yol Valley of the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains (part of the vast Altai Range). And, of course, there’s the Camel Festival. Thousands of the country’s finest camels show their mettle in races. There’s also camel polo, and even a camel beauty pageant!
We have been under its spell for a long time, dating to the days when it appeared in musty atlases as “Outer Mongolia.” So, it’s with great joy that we introduce people to this magnificent land during the off season. This trip incorporates two enchanting winter festivals: the boisterous Camel Festival in the Gobi and the Ice Festival at Khovsgol Lake, and since it is winter, the droves of tourists are refreshingly scarce – so we may relish the festivities without the crowds.
We begin with an excursion to Khovsgol Nuur (nuur means lake) – “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” a pristine wilderness of clear water, lush meadows and forest-covered mountains. Here we bask in the serene environment around the lakeshore and explore the region extensively by horseback or jeep. And on the surface of the frozen lake, we’ll join the local people at the annual Ice Festival.
Then it’s on to the heart of the Gobi. Beyond enjoying the ethereal landscapes, we have a chance to look for dinosaur bones, ride the two-humped Bactrian camel, and visit the sublime Yol Valley of the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains (part of the vast Altai Range). And, of course, there’s the Camel Festival. Thousands of the country’s finest camels show their mettle in races. There’s also camel polo, and even a camel beauty pageant!
Day 1: arrive in Ulaanbaatar • Day 2: visit the eagle hunters • Day 3: horse racing near Ulaanbaatar • Day 4: fly to south Gobi • Day 5: Gobi Camel Festival • Day 6: excursion to Yol Valley • Day 7: fly to Ulaanbaatar, connect to Khovsgol Lake • Days 8 & 9: Khovsgol Ice Festival • Day 10: fly back to Ulaanbaatar • Day 11: Ulaanbaatar sightseeing • Day 12: depart Ulaanbaatar
Festivals of Mongola: Winter Festivals
Trip Details
2012 Departures:
12 days
Activity Type:
Touring
Trip Price:From $4250
- February 28 - March 10
12 daysActivity Type:
Touring
Trip Price:
From $4250
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