Arburd Sands
- the near Gobi -
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The northernmost and closest sand dune areas to Ulaanbaatar
are located at Arburd Sands in Bayan-Onjuul soum. It is a striking
area of many nomad's, steppes and sudden sands dunes. Some 35 km way are
also the Zorgol Hairhan Uul, gigantic rock formations in the steppes.
Habitat of Argali Sheep and some times also Siberian Ibex.
In all, the Arburd Sands area is a half day drive
away from the capital and a natural Gobi escape. Nomadic Journeys low
impact ger camp, Arburd Sands Ger Camp, here. It is owned and operated
by a local family that regularly operates our Camel Treks and Gobi Steppe
Rides. They are also famous horse trainers in the annual Naadam Games
and their herd of horses is large and offers a good selection of horses
for both the amateur and the competent rider.
 Location
The area is in the transition zone of Gobi steppes and regular steppes.
Activities
Dayhikes: From the camp you can stray into the sands. Arburd Sands
is in all 20km long and it is also a wolf hideout. Pugmarks of wolfs can
usually be identified. You can order a picnic lunch from camp and make
day hikes in any direction. Steppe areas are also fascinating ventures,
since numerous herdsmen inhabit the area with their livestock. Included.
Horse riding: Riding is exceptionally good here, since our host's
in the area belong to one of the most famous horse trainer families of
Mongolia. Hourly, half days and full day rides is organized with local
horsemen. Picnic lunch can be provided from the camp. Serious riders are
best advised to bring their own hard hat and short chaps. Full day rides
should be pre ordered. USD 25 p.p. full day; USD 15 p.p. half day and
USD 5 per hour.
Camel Riding: Camels are available at camp, you can try this for
half a day at no additional cost.
Additional trips: Should you consider a more in depth trip in
the area, please consult the Gobi Steppe Ride or the Camel Trek itinerary,
that also include a stay at Arburd Sands, however on these trips camping
is also involved. Pls. ask for details of these trips.
Low Impact Ger Camp
Nomadic Journeys is committed to the principles of Ecotourism and have
entered into a concession agreement with Bayan-Önjuul soum administration
to bring about some additional jobs into the area based on traditional
livelihoods. These involve provision of camel carts, riding camels, packhorses,
riding horses and labor. The camp purchase milk from the nearby herders.
The camp has a maximum capacity of 20 guests' in double occupancy gers
and vehicles are parked away from the camp.
The entire ger camp is fully collapsible, and it has a small wooden building for shower.
The toilets are long drop style allowing for natural decomposition.
Showers can be organized in the outdoors with hot water by portable showers
and a shower tent that is provided.
All trash is separated. The camp can be relocated leaving no more impact
on the area than a herdsman family would. Arburd Ger Camp is indeed a
fully collapsible hotel.
Transfers
Transfers operated on Tuesdays and Saturdays are subsidized and shared
with staff. Transfer times are variable but usually departs 09-11.00 and
returns after lunch. You can at all times order a private transfer at
any time suitable to you. The entire drive from Ulaanbaatar to Arburd
Sands with a 4WD vehicle is 3-4 hours. The drive south is over treeless
steppes.
Photo by Tore Sahlin
Prices & Practicalities
PRICE ex Ulaanbaatar
Saturdays 4d/3n: USD 195 p.p.
Tuesdays 5d/4n: USD 240 p.p.
Additional costs:
Single Supplement USD 20 per night.
Extra bed incl. meals: USD 20 per night.
Transfer on another day: USD 76 per person if two people.
USD 50 p.p. person if 3 people are sharing etc.
Includes: All meals outside Ulaanbaatar. All overnights in double
occupancy ger. All meals including American breakfast. Transfers to and
from any location or hotel in Ulaanbaatar proper on a Tuesday or Saturday.
Excludes: Laundry, imported drinks. Additional day including all
meals and taxes.
Children: 1-6 years free. 7-12 years 50%.
DATES ex Ulaanbaatar
Every Tuesday and Saturday 10Jun-20Sep
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