Day 01 : Ulaanbaatar
Arrive in the Mongolian capital by train or air. Transfer to the hotel.
Day 02 : Drive south
A.m. Drive to the south over the treeless steppes. In the afternoon we reach Senjit Hairhan, some giant rock formations visibly standing up straight from the surrounding steppe. Here we meet with the camel herdsmen. Put up camp on the steppe. Scan the ridges of the surrounding hills and rocks for Argali Sheep (Ovis ammon), the largest wild sheep in the world. All wildlife viewing requires a great portion of luck. Overnight in tents.
Day 03 - 05 : Camel trek
We will trek for a two full days across the treeless steppes meeting nomadic herdsmen families on the way. Our hosts in the area are relatives to one third of the local population. During the last day we will trek through Arburd Sands, a 20 km long sand dune. Strange enough, a good number wolves - being wary of man - have taken refuge in these dunes and can sometimes be seen. We have brought one ger (yurt) that will be our mobile restaurant. Tents, all provisions and a cook are provided. All equipment will be loaded on to camel carts. There will be one or two riding camels so that we can try some riding as well. Herdsmen will follow the carts. We will make contact with other herdsmen. We will no doubt be invited into the gers, and learn about their ancient lifestyle. Overnight in tents and the last night at Arburd Sands Ger Camp.
Day 06 : Bogd Khan Mountain
A.m. drive back to Ulaanbaatar. On the way we will visit the Bogd Uul Biosphere Reserve and the site of the ruins of Manzhir monastery. This is the southernmost taiga of the area, and we will get up into the hills andsome nice forests. Red deer (Cervuselaphus) can usually be seen here. Back in Ulaanbaatar check into the hotel. Overnight.
Day 07 : Departure
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