Classic Mongolian Odyssey: The Naadam… (trip)

Classic Mongolian Odyssey: The Naadam Festival

  • Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
  • Culture & Nature
Mongolia, Asia

Contact provider for price14 DaysJuly
Boutique accommodations Exertion level: 3
Operator: Nomadic Expeditions 24 people max
Designed as a fascinating introduction to the people and culture of Mongolia, the Classic Mongolian Odyssey includes visits to traditional nomadic ger camps, exploration of a national park where wild horses run freely across the grasslands, and the chance to join in the excitement and celebration surrounding Naadam, Mongolia's National Games.

Wrestling, horseracing, and archery are the three competitions traditionally used to measure the courage and strength of Mongolia's nomads and warriors. Contemporary Naadam games showcase the impressive abilities of local athletes, and are a time when family and friends gather together to celebrate the short and joyful summer season.  

For an intimate and genuine cultural experience, travelers who join the Classic Mongolian Odyssey are invited to attend the Naadam games at the Gobi provincial center, a small town far removed from the increasing crowds of tourists who attend the games in Ulaanbaatar. The Naadam celebration, as well as trips to ancient monasteries and excursions into the desert and mountain foothills, will provide a quintessential glimpse of Mongolian life and landscapes.

Trip Highlights:
    Enjoy the celebrations and traditions surrounding the thrilling athletic events of the Naadam Festival
    Hike through Hustain Nuruu National Park, home of the last remaining species of wild horse
    Travel to the Flaming Cliffs, where legendary explorer Roy Chapman Andrews discovered the first nest of dinosaur eggs
    Visit Kharakhorum, site of the 13th-century capital of the Mongol Empire, and explore Erdene Zuu, Mongolia’s largest monastery
    Spend five nights at Three Camel Lodge, our award-winning eco-lodge in the Gobi

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Locations visited/nearby

Mongolia, Asia

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Special information

  • May accommodate certain types of disabilities. Contact the operator for more information.

Itinerary

Day 1 -     Arrive in Ulaanbaatar
Day 2 -     Visit Gandan Monastery, Natural History and National History Museums
Day 3 -     Fly to the Gobi Desert.
Day 4 -     Hike in the Yol Valley National Park
Day 5 -     Visit Tugregiin Shiree
Day 6 -     Fly back to Ulaanbaatar
Day 7 -     Drive to Gun Galuut Nature Reserve
Day 8 -     Visit Genghis Khan Statue and return to Ulaanbaatar
Day 9 -     Fly to the Lake Hovsgol
Day 10 -     Explore the lakeshores on horseback or on foot
Day 11 -     Attend Naadam Festival
Day 12 -     Attend Naadam Festival
Day 13 -     Fly back to Ulaanbaatar
Day 14 -     Depart

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