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. 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 Self-Guided |
| 4 Days / 4 Nights |
| 3 Days / 3 Nights |
| 2 Days / 2 Nights |
Trip Details
Day 1: To Ikh Nart
Depart Ulaanbaatar at 16:50 on the domestic night train to Tsomog, a remote train platform that feels like the middle of nowhere. Arrive at 23:10, where you will be met and transferred by vehicle (approx. 40 minutes) to Ikh Nart Rocks Ger Camp.
Days 2–3: Ikh Nart Nature 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. You can also visit 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: To Dalanjargalan & Return to Ulaanbaatar
After an early dinner, transfer 40 km to Dalanjargalan village in time for the night train back to Ulaanbaatar.
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 guestsin 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:
2d/2n: USD 380 per person
3d/3n: USD 500 per person
4d/4n: USD 600 per person
Single supplement: USD 50 per night
Private transfer: USD 250 per vehicle
Practicalities:
Transfers: Transfers operate daily on a fixed schedule. Departure from Ulaanbaatar is at 16:50 by domestic night train, arriving at the camp around 00:00 (midnight), including a transfer from Tsomog station. Return from the camp is at 20:00 by vehicle to Dalanjargalan village, connecting to the local night train back to Ulaanbaatar, arriving the next morning around 07:00.
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: Beverages. Activities at camp. Transfers and accommodation 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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