Ulaanbaatar: Chinggis Khaan Statue and Turtle Rock Day Tour

Travelers interested in Mongolia’s iconic landmarks and stunning natural scenery will find this day tour to be a well-rounded introduction. It combines visiting the world’s largest equestrian statue of Genghis Khaan, exploring the unique Turtle Rock, and hiking up to the tranquil Aryabal Monastery.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the affordable price offers great value compared to similar tours. Second, the experienced guides and drivers ensure a smooth, informative journey. Third, the tour’s flexibility, including optional horse or camel rides and eagle photo opportunities, adds a layer of authentic local flavor.

One thing to keep in mind is the long travel distances — around 160-170 km each way — which means a full day is dedicated to the trip. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor exploration, and cultural insights. If you’re after a comprehensive, reasonably priced introduction to Mongolia’s most famous sights, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Great value with competitive pricing and included essentials like fuel, guide, and taxes
• Expert guides fluent in English and Russian, adding cultural context and local insights
• Flexible experiences like riding a horse or camel and photo sessions with eagles
• Comfortable transportation in safety-certified vehicles with insurance
• Rich itinerary including top attractions, scenic views, and a taste of Mongolian culture
• Good for small groups that enjoy personalized attention and relaxed pace

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

This day trip from Ulaanbaatar promises a mix of colossal monuments, natural beauty, and cultural stops. It’s crafted for those who want a comprehensive taste of Mongolia without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. The tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, culture, and leisure, all wrapped in an affordable package.

We love the fact that the guides speak both English and Russian, making communication smooth for international travelers. Plus, the professional, on-time drivers contribute to a hassle-free day, especially considering the considerable distances covered. The tours are designed with safety and comfort in mind, with insured vehicles and transparent pricing — no hidden costs.

However, one thing to consider is the early pickup time around 7:00 AM, necessary to avoid city traffic and maximize sightseeing time. This means early risers will have no trouble, but night owls might find the early start a bit challenging.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, outdoor exploration, and engaging guides. Travelers who want to tick off Mongolia’s most iconic sights in one day without sacrificing comfort will find this tour very appealing.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive

Morning Pickup and Arrival at Genghis Khaan Statue

The day kicks off early, with pickup between 07:00-08:00 AM. This timing is crucial as it helps beat Ulaanbaatar’s traffic and ensures a full day of sightseeing. The first stop is the Genghis Khaan Statue Complex, arriving around 09:00 AM.

The Genghis Khaan Statue is a marvel — standing 40 meters tall, it’s the largest equestrian statue in the world. The site is well-organized, with an Archaeology Museum nestled inside the base. Here, you can learn about Mongolia’s history, admire the impressive sculpture, and capture photos dressed in traditional Mongolian attire. Reviewers mention the chance to see and take pictures with eagles and to try horse or camel rides, although these are optional extras paid directly to the owners, with costs ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 tugrik.

What’s special? The monument’s sheer size is breathtaking, and the views from the top offer a sweeping panorama of the surrounding steppe. Sheila, one reviewer, appreciated having extra time to explore behind Turtle Rock for photos, which suggests the guides are flexible and accommodating.

Mid-Morning Drive to Turtle Rock and National Park

At around 10:00 AM, the bus departs for Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, arriving at Turtle Rock by 10:30 AM. This uniquely shaped rock formation, resembling a turtle, is a well-photographed highlight. The rugged natural landscape invites photos and short walks, often enjoyed as a peaceful moment amid the tour’s busy schedule.

From reviews, we know the natural scenery here is a highlight, with many appreciating the opportunity to stretch their legs and take memorable photos. Jacklyn mentioned her guide, Jana, made sure everyone got to see all the stops despite rainy weather, highlighting the reliable and attentive service.

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Afternoon Visit to Aryabal Meditation Temple

Next, around 11:15-11:30 AM, the tour heads to Aryabal Monastery, set on a hill with scenic views. The hike up is moderate, and the monastery’s serene atmosphere offers a peaceful contrast to the morning’s more monumental stops. From the vantage point, you’ll get sweeping views of the valley below, perfect for unwinding and taking photos.

Reviewers note guides like MJ and Jana provided insightful comments about the site’s cultural significance, and that the views from Aryabal are genuinely breathtaking. The visit offers a moment of calm, meditation, and reflection, which many find adds depth to the day.

Lunch and Return to Ulaanbaatar

By 12:30 PM, you’ll begin the drive back to Ulaanbaatar. The group usually breaks for lunch around 1:00 PM, where options might include traditional Mongolian dishes served in a yurt or local eateries. Reviewers appreciated the flexibility here — some enjoyed home-style meals that complemented the day’s outdoor adventures.

The tour concludes with a drop-off in Ulaanbaatar around 4:00 PM, making it a full but comfortably paced day.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Budget For

The tour price of $69 per person covers essentials: guide driver, petrol, road taxes, and transportation. Given the long distances covered (around 160-170 km each way), the price offers excellent value.

Extras are optional but worth considering for a more authentic experience: horse or camel rides, photos with eagles, and lunch, costing roughly 20,000 tugrik each. Remember, these are paid directly to the owners, so carry some cash.

Entry tickets to the Genghis Khan complex (~20,000 tugrik) and Aryabal Temple (~5,000 tugrik) are not included, but their prices are modest and reflect the sites’ popularity.

The tour is well-rounded for those who appreciate transparent pricing and the ability to customize their experience, especially with options for additional photos or rides.

Transportation and Guides: A Smooth Ride

Traveling in safety-certified vehicles ensures peace of mind, and the guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Many reviewers mention guides like Jana, MJ, and Gabriele, who blend knowledge, flexibility, and good humor — making the long drive more enjoyable.

Language capabilities in English and Russian broaden accessibility, and the tour’s small-group setting allows for personalized attention.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and riding.
• Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for outdoor stops.
• Carry water and snacks, especially since the day involves a lot of time outdoors and on the road.
• Download WhatsApp to stay in contact and ensure smooth pickup.
• Check the weather forecast to dress appropriately, especially for the hike to Aryabal.
• If vegetarian, inform the tour provider at the time of booking.

Authentic Experiences and Personal Touches

Reviewers highlight how guides like MJ and Jana make the tour feel personal and flexible. Gabi, for example, appreciated Jana’s care, and Lucia enjoyed the detailed cultural explanations. The opportunity to try traditional Mongolian clothes or hold a photograph with eagles adds an authentic touch often missed on larger, less personalized tours.

The option to ride a horse or camel, though paid separately, is a highlight for many. Jacklyn described her guide making sure everyone got to see and enjoy these experiences, which underscores the tour’s flexible, traveler-focused approach.

The Overall Value

For just $69, this tour offers a compact but comprehensive look at Mongolia’s most famous sights, with professional guides and comfortable transportation. You’ll see the monumental Genghis Khaan Statue, marvel at Turtle Rock, and enjoy a scenic hike to Aryabal — all in a relaxed, friendly environment.

The included extras, like museum visits and cultural insights, enhance the experience without extra cost, and the optional activities allow for deeper engagement if desired.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a well-organized, value-for-money day trip that covers Mongolia’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time. It’s ideal for those interested in history, culture, and outdoor scenery, who don’t mind a long day in the bus. Small groups and flexible guides make it perfect for travelers seeking a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere.

If you love stunning views, engaging storytelling, and authentic cultural moments, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s also great for first-timers eager to tick off the top attractions without the hassle of independent planning.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a good balance between cost, comfort, and memorable sights. It’s clear that guides like MJ and Jana prioritize making the experience meaningful and enjoyable, which shines through in the glowing reviews. The combination of monumental statues, natural beauty, and cultural stops creates a well-rounded introduction to Mongolia’s rich heritage.

While the long drive might not suit everyone, those who enjoy scenic routes and outdoor exploration will find this trip highly rewarding. The optional activities add an extra layer of fun, and the manageable group size ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed or rushed.

All in all, if you’re after an affordable, authentic, and thoughtfully organized day trip in Mongolia, this tour offers an excellent way to see some of the country’s most iconic sights with knowledgeable guides and a friendly atmosphere.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, but it’s best to advise at the time of booking so they can accommodate your dietary needs.

What is included in the price?
The price covers guide driver, petrol, road taxes, and transportation. Entrance tickets and optional activities like riding or eagle photos are paid separately.

How long is the drive each way?
The total distance is around 160-170 km each way, making for a full day of traveling and sightseeing.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, camera, water, and cash for extras or optional activities.

Can I pay for additional activities during the tour?
Yes, extra activities like riding or eagle photos are paid directly to the owners, usually between 10,000-20,000 tugrik.

Is the tour flexible if I want more time at certain stops?
Guides like Jana and MJ are known for their flexibility and can accommodate additional time if arranged in advance or during the tour.

This full-day Mongolia adventure combines iconic landmarks with natural beauty, cultural insights, and a friendly guide — all at a reasonable price for travelers eager to explore the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky.

You can check availability for your dates here: