Bulgan Province offers a rich tapestry of Mongolian landscapes and cultural experiences, making it a fantastic destination for travelers eager to explore both nature and heritage. What sets Bulgan apart is its diverse terrain—ranging from Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes to rugged mountains and serene lakes—creating a perfect backdrop for a variety of tours. We especially love the From Ulaanbaatar: Mini Gobi, Wild horse – Terelj tour, which combines the thrill of wild horses with the chance to see Chinggis Khan’s giant statue, all wrapped into a manageable 3-day adventure. It’s a great way to see Mongolia’s iconic scenery without a long haul.
If you’re after a more relaxed, intimate experience, the Camel Trails and Bird Tales offers a fascinating look at the semi-arid dunes and birdlife. For those pressed for time but wanting to hit key sights, the 4-day Gobi in express provides a swift yet comprehensive taste of the desert’s highlights, including iconic landmarks like the Baga Gazariin Chuluu and Ovgon Monastery. For a shorter but equally engaging outing, the Best 2 Day Great adventure offers a quick dive into Elsen Tasarkhai and Khar Khorin, perfect for travelers with limited time. Finally, the Overnight Nomadic Herders Experience invites you to live like a Mongolian herder—an authentic peek into traditional life with home-cooked meals and local customs. Each of these options showcases a different facet of Bulgan’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
1. From Ulaanbaatar: Mini Gobi, Wild horse – Terelj tour
At number one is this 3-day adventure combining desert scenery, wild horses, and cultural sights. Starting from Ulaanbaatar, this tour explores the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, where the sprawling mini Gobi landscape offers a quintessential Mongolian desert experience. A highlight is the chance to see the Khustai Nuruu wild horses, also known as takhi, which have been reintroduced after near-extinction. You’ll learn to ride horses and camels, two traditional Mongolian modes of transport, making it both fun and authentic. The tour culminates in a visit to the giant statue of Genghis Khan, a must-see landmark for any visitor.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of adventure and comfort—its 5-star rating on just three reviews speaks to its quality. Participants rave about the stars at night, the variety of local meats tasted, and the unique opportunity to see Mongolia’s iconic wild horses in their natural habitat. Given the price of $599 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience packed into three days, suitable for those with limited time but a big appetite for Mongolian culture. Be prepared for some physical activity, and bring your camera for unforgettable landscapes.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a compact, richly immersive experience highlighting Mongolia’s iconic wild horses and desert landscapes with a cultural twist.
2. Camel Trails and Bird Tales: Discovering Elsen Tasarkhai
For a more leisurely exploration, the Camel Trails and Bird Tales offers a relaxed immersion into the semi-Gobi Desert’s dunes and lakes. This tour provides the opportunity to ride camels, an activity that’s both fun and uniquely Mongolian. You’ll hike through rugged sand dunes and visit a beautiful lake, where birdwatching is a key highlight—ideal if you enjoy observing wildlife in serene natural settings.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 10 reviews, this experience is praised for its authenticity and scenic beauty. Many visitors appreciate the chance to observe birds in their habitat and the peaceful pace of the tour. The cost of $130 makes it accessible for travelers wanting a day or two of adventure without overcommitting. The tour’s focus on nature and wildlife makes it suitable for bird lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and anyone wanting to enjoy Mongolia’s dune landscapes without the full desert trek.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you prefer gentle activities, wildlife observation, and scenic landscapes, all within a manageable day trip or short stay.
3. 4 Day Gobi in Express Short Time
If your schedule is tight but you want a comprehensive Gobi experience, the 4-day Gobi in express offers a whirlwind tour from Ulaanbaatar that hits all the major highlights. Experience the Elsen Tasarhai Sand Dunes, the Baga Gazariin Chuluu rock formations, and the Ovgon Monastery, a peaceful religious site nestled among the hills. The tour also features a camel ride and a walk on the sand dunes, giving you both adventure and cultural insight.
What sets this tour apart is its ability to cover significant landmarks in a short time—reviewers note it as a “great way to see the Gobi if you’re pressed for time.” Staying with a local family in a ger hostel adds a layer of cultural authenticity, allowing for genuine interactions. The experience of watching sunrise and sunset at the White Stupa creates magical moments that linger long after the tour ends.
Priced at $760 per person, it’s a good investment for travelers who want deep exposure to Mongolia’s desert landscapes and landmarks without stretching their schedule. It’s best suited for those comfortable with quick-paced travel and physical activity.
Bottom Line: A smart choice for travelers with limited time who want a rich, full experience of Mongolia’s desert and mountain landmarks.
4. Best 2 Day Great Adventure / Join Tour
For travelers short on time but eager to experience Elsen Tasarkhai and Khar Khorin, the Best 2 Day Great adventure delivers in just a day or two. This tour offers a camel ride in the sand dunes, exploring the Orkhon River sights, and a visit to a local family to understand Mongolian rural life. It also includes a stop at Khar Khorin, the ancient capital, and the Erdene Zuu Temple, Mongolia’s oldest monastery.
Rated 5/5 based on one review, this tour is praised for its compact itinerary and rich experiences packed into a short period. It’s perfect if you want a quick cultural and natural fix without committing to longer trips. The small-group size allows for personalized experiences, and the opportunity to learn about Mongolia’s history and nomadic lifestyle is a highlight.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers with limited time seeking a deep-dive into Mongolia’s history, culture, and landscapes in a short, engaging format.
5. Mongolia: Overnight Nomadic Herders Experience
Finally, for those yearning for an authentic cultural experience, the Overnight Nomadic Herders Experience offers a chance to live with a herder family for a night. In just about 3 hours, you’ll learn about traditional family routines, sampling local foods, and learning about Mongolian customs firsthand.
This tour is less about sightseeing and more about deep cultural connection. Visitors often comment on the warm hospitality and the chance to gain a genuine appreciation of nomadic life. It’s perfect for travelers interested in cultural exchange rather than active sightseeing or adventure sports. As it is relatively short and affordable, it also makes a great add-on to other tours or a quick culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a meaningful, intimate experience of Mongolia’s traditional nomadic lifestyle without a long commitment.
How to Choose Which Tour Is Right for You
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a comprehensive desert adventure and are comfortable with longer trips, the 4-day Gobi is your best bet. For those with just a day or two, the Great adventure offers a packed itinerary, while the Camel Trails suits nature lovers seeking a relaxed pace.
Budget-conscious travelers may find the Camel Trails and Bird Tales a great value, especially if they want a close-up of birdlife and scenic dunes. Those interested in culture should consider the Overnight Nomadic Herders, which involves staying with a local family.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak travel seasons like summer, when these tours fill quickly. Check the included activities—such as camel rides, visits to historical sites, or home stays—to match your interests and fitness level. Remember, Mongolia’s landscape is demanding, so pack appropriate clothing and be ready for adventure.
Final Thoughts
Bulgan Province offers a wide array of experiences, from wild horse watching to cultural stays with nomads. For a quick but rich taste of Mongolia’s desert landscapes and history, the 4-day Gobi is a top pick. If you prefer a more relaxed, wildlife-focused outing, the Camel Trails and Bird Tales fits the bill. And for those who want to dive deep into tradition, the Overnight Nomadic Herders offers a genuine cultural connection.
No matter which experience you choose, early booking and preparing for outdoor conditions will ensure a smooth and memorable adventure. Bulgan’s landscapes and living traditions await, so pick the tour that best matches your curiosity and schedule—and get ready for an authentic taste of Mongolia.