Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park is a protected area in Mongolia, located in the south of the country near the Chinese border. This stunning region covers over 27,000 square kilometers and is a blend of desert, mountains, and unique wildlife, offering adventurers a chance to explore some of the planet's most breathtaking and remote landscapes.

Getting there: The nearest major city is Dalanzadgad, which is well-connected to Ulaanbaatar by both road and air. From Dalanzadgad, you can arrange for a private or shared jeep tour to the park.

Stops

Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is a vibrant city where modern life meets traditional culture. It serves as the perfect starting point for your journey into the Gobi Desert. The city boasts a mix of Soviet-era architecture, modern buildings, and traditional ger districts. Ulaanbaatar offers a fascinating glimpse into Mongolian life, past and present.

Sights

• Sukhbaatar Square: The central square of Ulaanbaatar, named after the hero of the Mongolian Revolution, it’s a great place to start exploring the city. The square is surrounded by important buildings such as the Government Palace and the Stock Exchange.
• Zaisan Memorial: A hilltop memorial with panoramic views of the city, honoring Soviet soldiers killed in World War II. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a great vantage point over Ulaanbaatar.

Dalanzadgad

Dalanzadgad, the gateway to the Gobi Desert, is a small town that serves as the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park. Nestled in the southern part of Mongolia, it’s a bustling hub during the tourist season, providing essential services and accommodations for travelers.

Sights

• Local Market: Experience the local culture and pick up some traditional Mongolian crafts and souvenirs. The market is a vibrant place where you can interact with locals and get a taste of daily life in Dalanzadgad.
• Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs): Just a short drive away, this site is famous for the discovery of dinosaur fossils and its stunning red sandstone cliffs. The area is also known for its striking beauty, especially at sunset when the cliffs glow a fiery red.

Gobi Gurvan Saikhan

Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, named after the "Three Beauties" of the Gobi mountain range, is a vast and diverse landscape offering stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife. The park encompasses desert dunes, canyons, and high mountain peaks, making it a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers.

Sights

• Yolin Am Ice Field: A narrow gorge known for its thick ice field that persists even in summer. The hike through the gorge offers stunning scenery and the chance to see various wildlife, including ibex and lammergeiers.
• Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes: Also known as the "Singing Dunes," these are some of the largest and most spectacular sand dunes in Mongolia. The shifting sands create a humming sound in the wind, and climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the vast desert landscape.

Good to Know

• Weather: The Gobi Desert experiences extreme temperatures, with very hot summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, offering more moderate temperatures.
• Language: Mongolian is the official language, but you’ll find English spoken in tourist areas.
• Currency: The currency is the Mongolian Tugrik (MNT).
• Transport: Renting a 4x4 vehicle or joining a guided tour is the best way to explore the park due to the rough terrain and vast distances.
• Safety: Traveling in the park can be dangerous, especially during the winter months. Visitors are advised to bring warm clothing, plenty of food and water, and to always carry a map and compass. It's also important to respect the park's rules and to avoid disturbing wildlife and other natural features.
• Accommodation: There are several options for accommodation within the park, including camping, yurts, and guesthouses. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
• Flora: The park is located in the desert region of Mongolia, and as such, its flora is mostly composed of xerophytic plants adapted to the harsh climate. These include species of saxaul, tamarisk, and various types of grasses and shrubs. There are also some areas within the park that support more diverse vegetation, such as the areas near the rivers and streams.
• Fauna: Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Some of the more notable species that can be found in the park include the Gobi bear, the argali sheep, the snow leopard, and the gobi ibex. There are also several species of birds that are unique to the area, including the lammergeier and the desert finch.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. The summer months are particularly great for seeing the unique flora and fauna of the region.

For Foodies

Mongolian cuisine is hearty and reflects the nomadic lifestyle of its people. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Buuz: Steamed dumplings filled with meat, often enjoyed during the Mongolian Lunar New Year.
• Khuushuur: Fried meat pies that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
• Boodog: A traditional dish where meat is cooked inside its own skin with hot stones, giving it a unique flavor.
• Airag: Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional and slightly alcoholic beverage.
• Mongolian Barbecue: Unlike what you might find in a restaurant abroad, the real Mongolian barbecue is a whole sheep cooked with hot stones inside its skin.

Exploring Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park offers an adventure like no other, with its breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you're hiking through ice-filled gorges, climbing massive sand dunes, or immersing yourself in local traditions, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime. So gear up for an unforgettable trip into the heart of Mongolia's natural wonders! 🌄🦅🐫