Camel Trails and Bird Tales: Discovering Elsen Tasarkhai

If you’re craving a taste of Mongolia’s rugged landscapes without committing to a multi-day trek, the Camel Trails and Bird Tales tour offers a compelling day trip to the semi-Gobi region near Ulaanbaatar. While it won’t match the grandeur of the Great Gobi, it delivers plenty of authentic experiences—like camel riding, dune hiking, and birdwatching—in a manageable, budget-friendly format.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the chance to saddle up in the dunes—palpably more intimate than larger Gobi excursions. Second, the scenic drive through the steppe offers endless photo-worthy moments. Third, the visit to a local lake and opportunity for bird observation offers a peaceful contrast to the desert sands. However, a key consideration is the lack of an English-speaking guide—so clear communication with your driver becomes vital. This tour suits travelers who want a brief, authentic Mongolian experience without the hassle of extensive planning or long travel times.

Key Points

• Authentic camel riding in sand dunes offers a traditional experience.
• Beautiful landscapes along the scenic drive make for excellent photo opportunities.
• Birdwatching at the nearby lake adds a peaceful nature element.
• Flexible itinerary allows for dune hiking, photography, or relaxing in serene surroundings.
• Budget price point provides good value, especially considering included activities.
• Limited guided support means clear communication with the driver is crucial.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This tour, operated by Central Mongolia Tour, usually departs around 8:00 AM from Ulaanbaatar, offering a scenic 4-5 hour drive through the steppe to reach the semi-Gobi region known as Elsen Tasarkhai. The journey itself is part of the adventure—expect sweeping views of Mongolia’s vast, open plains, with ample opportunities for photos and just soaking in the expansive landscape. One reviewer noted, “The scenery from the car was incredible,” highlighting how the drive offers a window into the country’s rugged beauty.

The Camel Ride and Dune Exploration

Arriving around midday, you’ll saddle up on traditional Mongolian camels for a ride through the rolling dunes. This activity is a highlight for many—“riding on 2 beautiful camels,” as one visitor described—and a chance to experience the nomadic mode of transport firsthand. The 45-minute ride allows you to take in the vast, shifting sands and capture memorable photos. Several reviews emphasize the value of a friendly, knowledgeable driver—one called Angarag “excellent,” noting that the driver’s local insights made the experience richer, even if the language barrier was noticeable.

Hiking, Photography, and Relaxing

After the camel ride, your guide will likely take you to a nearby lake, where birdwatching is the main activity. Expect to observe various bird species in a tranquil setting, a rare treat in Mongolia’s semi-arid environment. This stop provides a contrast to the dunes—offering a chance to relax, hike, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery. One traveler shared, “We drank tea and milk with a nomad family, which added a personal touch to the experience,” illustrating how this part of the tour often includes interactions with local communities.

Optional Activities and Flexibility

There’s no strict schedule after the main activities, so you can choose to explore the dunes further, take photographs of the landscape, or just unwind. The tour generally wraps up around 7:00 PM with the drive back to Ulaanbaatar. It’s worth noting that, according to reviews, not all activities may be available during certain seasons or due to schedule constraints, so flexibility and an open mind will serve you well.

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The Value for Money

At $130 per person, this tour is quite affordable considering the activities included—camel riding, lunch, birdwatching, and hotel transfers. Many reviewers highlighted its excellent value, with one commenting, “The drive was long, but the scenery was worth it.” It’s a budget-friendly way to get a taste of Mongolia’s semi-desert environment without the need for multi-day arrangements or expensive Gobi tours.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers everything essential: hotel pickup and dropoff, transportation, camel riding, lunch, and activities at the lake. However, travelers should bring their own bottled water and consider travel insurance, as these are not provided. Since most drivers don’t speak English fluently, having your itinerary prepared in Mongolian or English will help avoid confusion.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 10 reviews indicates this tour is well-received. Travelers consistently praise the scenery, the friendly nature of the guides (or drivers acting as guides), and the authenticity of the experience. One reviewer, Matthias, noted, “Having a friendly English-speaking driver who could answer questions made the trip much better.” Others, like Stephan, appreciated the interaction with a nomadic family, which included drinking homemade tea and eating traditional baked cookies—adding a personal and cultural touch.

A few critics mentioned the long hours in the car—up to 11 hours round-trip—but most felt that the scenic drive and activities made the journey worthwhile. Some suggested that for those with limited time, this tour offers a solid introduction, while others recommended multi-day trips for a deeper experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to Mongolia who want to sample desert life without a lengthy commitment. It suits nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those interested in nomadic culture. It’s also well-suited for travelers on a budget looking for authentic activities, but who are okay with some long hours in transit and limited English support.

The Camel Trails and Bird Tales tour provides a cost-effective, authentic Mongolian adventure that balances scenic drives, traditional camel riding, and peaceful nature observations. It’s an especially good choice for those who want to see the semi-Gobi without the complexities or costs of a multi-day Gobi expedition. The guided experience is straightforward but enriched by the stunning landscapes and the chance to interact with local nomads.

Travelers who value scenic beauty and cultural authenticity will find plenty to enjoy here. The tour’s moderate price point makes it accessible, though it’s best suited for those comfortable with long car rides and basic communication.

This trip offers a meaningful glimpse into Mongolia’s semi-arid landscapes—perfect for travelers seeking something different, memorable, and genuine.

How long is the drive from Ulaanbaatar to Elsen Tasarkhai?
The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours each way, offering plenty of time for scenic viewing and photo opportunities along the way.

What activities are included in this tour?
The main activities are camel riding in the dunes, visiting a beautiful lake for birdwatching, and free time for hiking or relaxing.

Is there an English-speaking guide?
Most drivers do not speak English fluently, so travelers should prepare their itinerary in advance or communicate clearly. The driver acts mainly as transportation, with some local insights.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring bottled water, comfortable clothing for hiking, and a camera for capturing the landscapes and wildlife. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended, especially in the desert sun.

How is the food included in the tour?
Lunch is provided, and reviews mention it’s of good quality, often including traditional Mongolian dishes. Some reviews cite enjoying homemade or nomadic-style meals.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

You can check availability for your dates here: