Huhhot 4D3N Inner Mongolia Grassland and desert nature tours

Travelers craving a mix of breathtaking scenery, authentic culture, and a touch of adventure will find this 4-day private tour from Hohhot to be a compelling option. With a focus on less touristy spots and personalized attention, it promises an immersive experience in some of Inner Mongolia’s most iconic landscapes — from rolling grasslands to rugged deserts.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see less crowded areas, the expert guidance that enriches every stop, and the balance of cultural and natural sights. Our favorite parts include the chance to watch traditional horse races, explore ancient monasteries, and walk across vast deserts. However, a key consideration is that meals and accommodations are at your own expense, so budgeting accordingly is important for a truly seamless experience.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate tailored experiences, are comfortable with self-arranged meals, and want to explore without the constraints of large group tours. It’s perfect for those seeking a personalized adventure that combines scenic beauty with cultural insights.

Key Points

• Private and customizable tour for a more intimate experience
• Affordable price point considering the inclusion of transportation and guiding
• Focus on authentic sights like the Dazhao Temple and Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum
• Less touristy grasslands and deserts for a more genuine feel
• Flexible itinerary adaptable to weather and interests
• Highly praised guides known for their knowledge and friendliness

What to Expect from the Hohhot Inner Mongolia Tour

This tour, costing around $250 per person, offers a well-rounded experience of Inner Mongolia’s diverse landscape and rich culture over four days. It’s designed to give travelers a taste of the region’s vast open spaces, spiritual sites, and unique traditions. The tour is private and customizable, meaning your group can explore at your own pace, and guides are adept at tailoring the day’s activities based on your interests and weather conditions.

Day 1: The Vastness of Xilamuren Prairie

The adventure kicks off with a visit to Xilamuren Prairie, a less touristy area arranged by the local guide to ensure a more authentic experience. Here, you’ll witness the expansive grasslands, where sheep, horses, and cattle graze freely, creating a quintessential Mongolian scene.

The highlight? Watching a traditional horserace or Ndam show, if you visit during the summer, which is a lively display of local sports and culture. The guide, Chaolu, is praised for selecting spots away from crowds, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty undisturbed. Expect about 8 hours at this location, with entrance fees included, leaving plenty of time to soak in the scenery and perhaps snap some memorable photos.

Day 2: Spiritual Insights and Scenic Peaks

Day two offers a more cultural angle with a visit to Wudang Zhao Monastery in Baotou. This striking Buddhist temple is known for its traditional architecture, carvings, and tranquil courtyards, offering a peaceful retreat into spiritual traditions. Reviewers highlight the serenity of the site and the opportunity to learn about local Buddhist practices.

Alternatively, if you’re inclined to natural scenery, an optional stop at Chunkun Mountain provides lush forests and panoramic vistas, perfect for nature lovers. The guide is flexible, and entrance fees are included, making this a hassle-free cultural or scenic experience.

Day 3: The Deserts and the Yellow River

The third day is dedicated to exploring the Kubuqi Desert and Xiangshawan, two of Inner Mongolia’s most distinctive desert landscapes. The Kubuqi Desert, less crowded than some other desert areas, offers the chance to walk on dunes, take photos, and enjoy various desert activities (although activities like camel riding are self-paid).

A highlight is the drive along the Yellow River, China’s second-largest river, which is visible en route and offers a striking contrast against the arid sands. For those interested in entertainment, Xiangshawan is a 5A-rated tourist area with attractions reminiscent of a desert theme park.

Day 4: Honoring the Legend – Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum

The final day takes you to Ordos, where Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum stands as a tribute to the legendary Mongolian leader. The site is a powerful reminder of the region’s history and offers a chance to reflect on the Mongolian spirit. The guide mentions that this visit takes about 2 hours, and entrance fees are included, making it an easy, meaningful conclusion to your trip.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

The glowing reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and flexibility. Chaolu, in particular, is described as a friendly, attentive guide who is eager to share local stories and point out hidden gems. Many mention how he takes them to less touristy spots and offers authentic experiences, such as trying local foods or enjoying traditional music.

One reviewer notes, “Chaolu was a great guide. He took us to less touristic places, gave us great advice to try local food and listen to traditional music, and was flexible and attentive.” Others highlight the stunning views of snow-capped mountains, deserts, and grasslands, describing the scenery as “magical” and “breathtaking.”

The value of having a private, customizable tour is clear; travelers appreciate the personalized pace, flexibility for weather changes, and focused attention from the guide.

Extra Insights from Reviews

Several reviewers mention the delicious Mongolian food and tapas they enjoyed, along with the opportunity to listen to traditional Mongolian music during the trip. The tour’s focus on less crowded, authentic sites means you’ll get a more genuine feel of Inner Mongolia, rather than the typical tourist spots.

Transport, Duration, and Group Size

Transportation is handled via air-conditioned minivans, with airport pickup and drop-off included, ensuring comfort and convenience. The tour is designed for groups of 3-50 people, with a note that smaller groups below three might be rejected, but most travelers will find this inclusive.

The tour spans 4 days, with each day structured to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed. The start time is 9:30 am from the designated meeting point, and the tour concludes back at the same location.

Cost and Value

While the price is $250 per person, considering that it includes private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees to key sites, it offers good value. Meals and accommodations are additional, but the tour’s flexibility allows you to manage your budget according to your preferences.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Book in advance, as the tour is popular, often booked 119 days ahead.
• Bring weather-appropriate clothing — the region’s climate can vary greatly from grasslands to deserts.
• Prepare for physical activity — some sites involve walking across dunes or uneven terrain.
• Budget for meals and accommodations — these are not included, and the quality varies.
• Use the provided meeting point for an easy start, and communicate with your guide if you have specific interests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after an authentic, flexible experience of Inner Mongolia, this tour is a great pick. It’s ideal for adventurers who enjoy scenic landscapes, culture enthusiasts eager to explore spiritual sites, and those who prefer a private guide to maximize their time. The tour’s focus on less touristy spots makes it perfect for travelers seeking genuine local experiences.

The Sum Up

This 4-day private tour from Hohhot offers an excellent balance of nature, culture, and history. Its emphasis on customization and authentic sights ensures you’ll get an intimate look at Inner Mongolia’s many faces—from grasslands and deserts to ancient monasteries and legendary mausoleums.

The knowledgeable guides, praised for their friendliness and flexibility, elevate the experience, transforming a sightseeing trip into a meaningful journey. While meals and accommodations are at your own expense, the overall value lies in the personalized service and carefully curated destinations.

Best suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed, tailored itinerary and want to explore beyond the crowds. Whether you’re a nature lover or a culture seeker, this tour offers a comprehensive, memorable taste of Inner Mongolia that’s sure to stay with you long after the trip ends.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned minivan, with pickup and drop-off at the airport included.

What’s the group size?
It’s a private tour, but it can accommodate groups of 3 to 50. Smaller groups below three may be rejected.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, entrance tickets to sites like Xilamuren Prairie, Wudang Zhao Monastery, Kubuqi Desert, and Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum are included in the price.

What should I budget for meals and accommodations?
Meals and overnight stays are not included, so plan additional funds based on your preferences.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but physical activity at desert and grassland sites may require walking on uneven terrain.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable, allowing your group to focus on what interests you most.

What time does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 9:30 am. The itinerary is flexible, and the guide can modify plans based on weather or your interests.

Is this a good choice for photography?
Absolutely. The landscapes, especially at sunrise and sunset, are fantastic for capturing memorable images.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of authentic experiences, expert guides, and flexibility makes it a standout choice for exploring Inner Mongolia away from the typical tourist spots.