The Gobi desert extends from northern Inner Mongolia – an autonomous region of China – to southern Mongolia, and covers an area of approximately 1,300,000 km² (not quite what you would describe as small!).
The Gobi desert extends from northern Inner Mongolia – an autonomous region of China – to southern Mongolia, and covers an area of approximately 1,300,000 km² (not quite what you would describe as small!).
Marc Sigala
Seasoned Traveller
5
The Gobi is one of the world's largest deserts. Extending across northern China and southern Mongolia, it accounts for almost a third of the latter country's land area.
My suggestion
The Gobi Desert is extremely vast, so head for just two or three main sites and arrange your sightseeing trips from there. Bear in mind that most parts of the Gobi are rarely visited and the availability of organised transport is dependent on demand.
Marie Cavalié
Seasoned Traveller
4
The Gobi Desert is an impressive region that boasts a remarkable landscape. A moment of inspiration, where a rich palette of colours paint the surrounds.
My suggestion
Carefully plan any trip to Mongolia in advance, because if you're solo travelling without a vehicle it's not the easiest country to navigate. As I unfortunately found out for myself.
So hop on a bus and head off to see some unusual rock formations! The moment you're out of the capital, nature takes over and buses wind their way past the steppe until they reach the Gorkhi Terelj National Park, home to clusters of majestic rocks that dominate the landscape.
With its infinite landscapes and silent expanses, Mongolia offers its visitors a retreat from the world. You can focus on yourself, harmonise with nature and appreciate the freedom of nomadic life; a world where every element plays an essential role.
A nomadic people with Turkish origins, the Tsaatan are reindeer-herders. They live in the Mongolian Taïga and as far as the border with Russia. Going to meet them is like discovering a whole new world; you'll be captivated by their distinctive lifestyle.
With hair-raising sports and plenty of colour, this event is the most eagerly awaited of the year. A national celebration of independence, this is one festival that no Mongolian wants to miss. Cloaked in deels, the traditional Mongolian outer dress, participants spend the 11th and 12th of July either taking part in a variety of games or cheering on their favourite competitors.