Mongolia with Stephmylife

Dates

Jul 15–23, 2023

Group Size

8–16 Travelers

Duration

9 days, 8 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Your trip will explore the depths of the Mongolian Nomad, a culture of true adventurers, where travel has been embedded into the fabric of their tradition since before the times of Ghengis Khan. You will spend time learning from a local family in the rolling green hills of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park before embarking on your own nomad adventure into the rough and ruggedness of the Gobi Desert.
$2,899USD
$2,999USD
Jul 15–23, 2023
9 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Stephmylife
Stephmylife

Steph is a travel blogger and entrepreneur, who loves to see the world. She has spent the last 6 years traveling full-time, and sharing guides, tips, and advice with her followers on stephmylifetravel.com & @stephmylife.

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Trip Activities

  • Genghis Khan Complex Visit

  • Turtle Rock Hike

  • Ariyapala Meditation Temple Visit

  • Nomad Family Experience

  • Nomad Cooking Class

  • Tuul River Kayak

  • Walk the White Stupa

  • Yolyn Am Hike

  • Khavtsgait Petrogplyphs Hike

  • Flaming Cliffs Hike

  • Bayanzag Camel Ride

  • Domestic Flight to Ulaanbaatar

  • Ulaanbaatar City Tour

  • Zaisan Memorial Hill Visit

  • Mongolian Folk Concert

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels and yurts (single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 6 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

  • Domestic flight from Dalanzagad Airport to Ulaanbaatar Airport

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food & alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Mongolia, it’s been a long journey but you’ve made it to Ulaanbaatar! You’ll be transferred to your hotel to have an opportunity to settle in and freshen up before meeting your new travel buddies. Then head out for a local Mongolian welcome dinner and toast for adventures to come!

Airport Transfer

45 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide 3 transfers from Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN), between 9 am and 5 pm.

dinner

7:30 P.M.: Welcome dinner at local Mongolian restaurant.

Holiday Inn Ulaanbatar

Night 1/1

Overnight in Ulaanbaatar.

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Day 2

Info

After breakfast, you’ll leave the city behind and enter the endless expanse of Mongolia.

breakfast

7:30 A.M. to 8:30 A.M.: Buffet breakfast at the hotel is included.

Genghis Khan Complex Visit

1 Hour

10 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.: Visit the Genghis Khan Equestrian Complex and the impressive 130-foot-tall statue of the legendary leader.

lunch

12:30 P.M. to 1:30 P.M.: Lunch at the park is included.

Turtle Rock Hike

1 Hour

2:00 P.M. to 2:30 P.M.: Hike up to Turtle Rock before climbing 108 steps to the Ariyapala Meditation Temple for sweeping views of the park.

Ariyapala Meditation Temple Visit

1 Hour 30 Mins

3:00 P.M. to 4:30 P.M.: Your entrance to the Ariyapala Meditation Temple is included.

dinner

7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.: Dinner at the camp is included.

Yurt Camp Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

Night 1/2

Yurt camping at Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

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Day 3

Info

Today you will learn and explore Mongolia to discover the traditions of the Mongolian people.

breakfast

8:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M.: Breakfast at camp is included.

Nomad Family Experience

1 Hour

9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.: Enjoy this immersive experience as you will spend the morning with a Mongolian family and learn about their everyday life.

Nomad Cooking Class

2 Hours

10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.: You’ll spend your time with a Mongolian mother for a cooking class and learn how to make buuz, traditional Mongolian dumplings.

lunch

12:00 P.M. to 1:00 P.M.: Lunch after the cooking class is included.

Tuul River Kayak

2 Hours

3:00 P.M.: Grab a paddle and hop aboard a kayak and splash down the Tuul River. Sacred to the Mongols, the Tuul is generally called the Khatan (Queen) Tuul in Mongolian (~1-2 hours depending on group size).

dinner

6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.: Dinner at the camp is included.

Yurt Camp Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

Night 2/2

Yurt camping at Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

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Day 4

Info

After breakfast, it is a long scenic ride exploring Mongolia's vastness. You’ll leave the forest hills of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and watch the ecosystem transform in the expanse of the Middle Gobi Desert.

breakfast

6:30 A.M.: Breakfast at camp is included.

Depart Camp

1 Hour

8:00 A.M. Depart Camp

lunch

1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M.: Lunch on the road is included.

Walk the White Stupa

40 Mins

4:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.: Arrive at Tsagaan Suvarga or the ‘White Stupa’ a 30-meter high white limestone rock formation whose cliff looks out into the tranquility and vastness of the Gobi.

dinner

6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.: Dinner at the camp is included.

Tsagaan Suvarga Yurt Camp

Night 1/1

Overnight in Tsagaan Suvarga

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Day 5

Info

Head further south into the desert and into Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. The park gets its name from the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains which loosely translates to the Three Beauties which make up the East, Middle, and West beauties.

breakfast

7:30 A.M. to 8:30 A.M.: Breakfast at camp is included.

lunch

1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M.: Lunch on the hike is included.

Yolyn Am Hike

1 Hour 30 Mins

3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.: You will hike into the green valley and ice gorge of Yolyn Am. The conservation area was originally protected to preserve birdlife so keep an eye out for eagles and vultures.

dinner

6:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M.: Dinner at the camp is included.

Mongol Gobi Camp

Night 1/1

Overnight in the Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag)

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Day 6

Info

You'll have the morning to relax and enjoy the gorgeous surroundings of the South Gobi from the Ger camp.

breakfast

8:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M.: Breakfast at camp is included.

Khavtsgait Petrogplyphs Hike

1 Hour 30 Mins

10:30 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.: You might have to brave some strong winds and hot sun but the climb to the top will reward you with views of the valley and petroglyphs that were created 4000-5000 years ago.

lunch

12:00 P.M. to 1:00 P.M.: Lunch at the camp is included.

dinner

6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.: Dinner at the camp is included.

Yolyn Am Yurt Camp (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Yolyn Am / South Gobi

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Day 7

Info

After breakfast, you’ll head east through the Gobi to the Bayanzag region where you’ll explore the Mongolian desert.

breakfast

8:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M.: Breakfast at camp is included.

lunch

1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M.: Lunch on the road is included.

Flaming Cliffs Hike

2 Hours

4:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.: Hike the sandstone rocks of Bayanzag are popularly known as the ‘Flaming Cliffs’, due to the reddish tint in the soil that changes into a myriad of fiery shades when touched by the sun. These cliffs are famous for the dinosaur eggs and fossils that were discovered there.

Bayanzag Camel Ride

1 Hour

5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.: Ride camels on the ancient routes through the canyons as you explore the desert.

dinner

7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.: Dinner at the camp is included.

Bayanzag Yurt Camp

Night 1/2

Bayanzag yurt camp

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Day 8

Info

Early this morning you’ll wave goodbye to the Gobi and hop aboard a plane back to Ulaanbaatar.

breakfast

Early morning breakfast at camp is included.

Domestic Flight to Ulaanbaatar

1 Hour 30 Mins

7:30 A.M.: Domestic flight to Ulaanbaatar (~1.5 hour flight)

Ulaanbaatar City Tour

1 Hour

Upon arrival back in Ulaanbaatar, take an all day city tour in a bus.

lunch

1:00 P.M.: Lunch during the tour is included.

Zaisan Memorial Hill Visit

1 Hour

5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.: Visit the Zaisan Memorial in Ulaanbaatar, which honors allied Mongolian and Soviet soldiers killed in World War II.

Mongolian Folk Concert

1 Hour

6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.: Meet your group for a farewell dinner with a Mongolian folk concert with traditional throat singing, folk dance, and cuisine.

dinner

7:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.: Farewell dinner

Holiday Inn Ulaanbaatar

Night 1/1

Overnight in Ulaanbaatar

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Day 9

Info

All good things must come to an end but only until our next adventure! You will be transferred to the airport to bid farewell to your travel buddies and Mongolia.

breakfast

8:00 A.M.: Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour 30 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide 2 transfers to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) on the last day.

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Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.