Arburd Sands Ger Camp
Introduction
Surprisingly close to Mongolia’s capital, Ulaanbaatar, lie the northernmost reaches of the Gobi steppes—vast, treeless grasslands stretching beyond the horizon. Here, the open steppe slowly transforms into sand, culminating in the Arburd Sands, a 20-kilometer stretch of golden dunes dotted with traditional nomads’ camps. Nearby stands the striking Zorgol Hairkhan Mountain, a massive granite formation that rises abruptly from the plains. This sacred site, mentioned in the Secret History of the Mongols, is home to Argali Sheep (Ovis ammon) and, occasionally, Siberian Ibex (Capra sibirica). The area is rich in natural beauty, ancient legends, and history. This is place where Mongolian nomadic steppe culture thrives unspoiled. Herders live traditionally, raising horses, cows, sheep, goats, and camels across the land. The ger camp owned and managed by a local herding family renowned for their horse training skills. There are no other tourist ger camps nearby, making this an authentic and tranquil steppe experience. This self-guided journey is designed for independent travelers who prefer flexibility while keeping costs low.
| Trip Details |
|---|
| Arburd Sands |
| 5 Days / 4 Nights |
| 4 Days / 3 Nights |
| 3 Days / 2 Nights |
Trip Details
Activities
Day Hikes:
From the camp, you can walk or hike into the nearby sand dunes, which stretch for about 20 km. Wolves are known to use the dunes as a hideout, and their tracks can often be seen. You can also order a picnic lunch from the camp and explore in any direction. The surrounding steppe is equally fascinating, dotted with herders’ gers and grazing livestock.
Horse Riding:
This area is excellent for riding, hosted by one of Mongolia’s most renowned horse-training families. Rides can be arranged for an hour, half day, or full day at an additional cost. Picnic lunches are available from the camp. Serious riders are advised to bring their own hard hats and chaps. Full-day rides should be booked in advance.
Camel Riding:
Camels are available for optional rides in the dunes or out on the open steppe.
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. 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. 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 mid September
PRICE ex Ulaanbaatar:
3d/2n: USD 380 per person
4d/3n: USD 500 per person
5d/4n: USD 600 per person
Single Supplement: USD 50 per night
Private transfer: USD 150 per vehicle
Practicalities:
Transfers: Shared transfers operate daily at fixed times. Departure from Ulaanbaatar: 09:00 Return from camp:14:00. Travel time is approximately 2 – 3 hours by jeep or minivan. For added flexibility, a private transfer can be arranged at your preferred time for an additional cost
Staff: Camp has an English speaker camp manager to assist you for activities around camp
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.
Includes: All meals at camp. All overnights in double occupancy ger. Transfer to and out of camp on scheduled times.
Excludes: Activities at camp. Beverages. Transfers and accommodation in Ulaanbaatar.
Transfer schedule.
from UB: 09:00
from camp: 14:00
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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