Ikhnart Rocks Wilderness Ger Camp
Introduction
A journey to Ikh Nartiin Chuluu in the Eastern Gobi is an intimate and unforgettable experience. The area offers a unique landscape of granite rock formations, semi-arid steppes, seasonal pools, and groves of elm and poplar trees.Ikh Nart is a community-managed nature reserve, jointly supported by local herders, the Denver Zoo Foundation, the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, and Nomadic Journeys. It is one of Mongolia’s richest Gobi wildlife habitats—home to around 1,000 Argali Sheep (Ovis ammon), the world’s largest wild sheep, and 200 Siberian Ibex (Capra sibirica). While sightings are not guaranteed, there’s a very good chance to observe these iconic species. The reserve is also a paradise for birders. It supports a healthy population of Cinereous Vultures (Aegypius monacha)—Asia’s largest vulture and a relative of the Andean condor—alongside a variety of other birdlife. The area is rich in archaeology, with petroglyphs, burial mounds, and ruins of Buddhist temples, revealing layers of Mongolian history. Walking or cycling tours offer the best way to explore Ikh Nart’s natural and cultural treasures at your own pace. The terrain allows for enjoyable hikes and short rock climbs, revealing sweeping views over the Gobi landscape. Mountain bikes, horses, and camels are also available at camp for more adventurous outings. Sunsets are particularly beautiful, casting long shadows over the granite hills.
| Trip Details |
|---|
| Ikhnart Rocks Wilderness Camp |
| 4 days / 3 Nights |
Trip Details
Day 1 – Journey to Ikh Nart
Pickup from your hotel in Ulaanbaatar and travel southeast by private vehicle (approx. 4.5 hours). The landscape gradually shifts from open grasslands to Gobi steppe. Upon arrival, check into your ger and enjoy free time to explore the surroundings.
Days 2–3 – Exploring the Reserve
Spend two full days exploring the Ikh Nart area by foot, horse, camel, or mountain bike. Wildlife sightings may include Argali Sheep, Siberian Ibex, Cinereous Vultures, and other bird species. Ongoing scientific studies by Mongolian and international researchers focus on these animals, as well as kestrels, small carnivores, and native plants. Your guide can also show you prehistoric petroglyphs, burial sites, and ruins of ancient temples. You may also meet local herding families, who migrate in and out of the area with their livestock depending on seasonal pastures.
Day 4 – Return to Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, depart camp and visit the Choiriin Bogd Mountains, where remote rock-face Buddha carvings can be seen. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route and return to Ulaanbaatar via a mostly paved road.
Low Impact Ger Camp:
Nomadic Journeys is committed to sustainable tourism, creating local jobs rooted in traditional livelihoods. These include the use of camel carts, packhorses, riding horses, and other herder services. The camp also purchases milk and dairy products from nearby herding families. Our Ikh Nart Rocks Ger Camp located right beside the Ikh Nart Nature Reserve. The camp accommodates up to 30 guests in double occupancy gers. Vehicles are parked a short walk away, maintaining the peaceful natural setting. Fully collapsible and it is designed to leave minimal environmental impact. The camp uses EcoLoo composting toilets, using a special blend of natural bacteria to break down waste, and shower gers where water is heated on wood-burning stoves. Electricity for the kitchen and refrigerator is generated by solar panels. All waste is separated and managed responsibly. The camp’s footprint is no greater than that of a traditional herding family—making it a true model of low-impact travel.
Itinerary Map
DATES ex Ulaanbaatar:
Daily June to September.
PRICE ex Ulaanbaatar:
2 members: USD 950 per person
Single supplement (3n): USD 150
Group discounts available on request for 4 persons or more.
Practicalities:
Transport:
Private jeep or minibus, depending on group size.
Staff:
An English-speaking guide accompanies you. The camp team includes a manager, cook, and local staff. Herders assist with horses and camel carts.
Meals:
Served three times daily in the restaurant ger: Buffet breakfast, 2–3 course lunches and dinners, tea and coffee are available throughout the day. Packed lunches for excursions can be pre-ordered.
Additional Services:
We can arrange Ulaanbaatar hotels, city tours, and transfers.
Includes:
- English-speaking guide throughout
- All meals outside Ulaanbaatar
- Accommodation in double occupancy gers
- All local transfers
- All activities in the camp
Excludes:
- Beverages
- Accommodation and transfers in Ulaanbaatar
What our guests say
We appreciate your feedback about our tours and services.
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Great place to stay and experience mongolian way of living, no tv, wifi, phone. Just nature and great company of the staff and livestocks of mongolia. The toilet is a hole in the ground covered by a shed. It is clean, but can be smelly to those used to city life. Not hot water supply, inform the staff that you like to hot water half an hour earlier so that they can boil it over camel dung 🙂
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Great place to stay and experience mongolian way of living, no tv, wifi, phone. Just nature and great company of the staff and livestocks of mongolia. The toilet is a hole in the ground covered by a shed. It is clean, but can be smelly to those used to city life. Not hot water supply, inform the staff that you like to hot water half an hour earlier so that they can boil it over camel dung 🙂
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