From Baotou: 3-Day Tour to Ordos and Yulin

Discovering Inner Mongolia: A 3-Day Tour from Baotou

Planning a trip to Inner Mongolia? This 3-day tour from Baotou offers a compelling mix of desert adventure, cultural experiences, and historical insights. From riding camels across vast sands to learning about the region’s ancient peoples, it’s a trip packed with authentic sights and memorable moments.

What we especially like about this experience are its diverse activities—camel riding through stunning dunes, visits to museums and historical sites, and witnessing traditional Mongolian wedding performances. The local cuisine, with a Mongolian-style lunch, adds flavor to the journey, and the scenic landscapes are sure to impress. That said, the tour might feel a bit rushed for those wanting a slower pace, especially with multiple site visits in just three days.

This experience is best suited for travelers craving a rich culture combined with a bit of adventure. It appeals to those interested in history, local customs, and stunning desert scenery, but might not be ideal for travelers with mobility restrictions or those seeking a more relaxed, leisure-focused trip.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience with camel rides and off-road fun
• Cultural insights through museums and traditional performances
• Variety of landscapes, from sands to historical sites
• Convenient logistics with transportation included, but hotel drop-off not covered
• Value for money considering site entrance fees, guided commentary, and activities
• Possible physical demands—be prepared for walking and temperature changes

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Baotou to Xiangshawan and Ordos

Your journey begins with a pickup from your Baotou hotel, setting the stage for a day filled with adventure and cultural discovery. The highlight of the first day is the Xiangshawan Desert, also known as Resonant Sand Bay. The vast dunes are the perfect backdrop for a camel ride, which many reviews say is a “must-do” for the full desert experience. Riding a camel through the sands offers a chance to really feel the scale and silence of the desert, making for some unforgettable photos and moments of calm.

Alongside the camel riding, there’s off-road driving—an activity that adds a dose of adrenaline and offers different views of the landscape. The visit to Liansha Island Resort provides a break from the dunes, with opportunities to relax and enjoy the scenery. Many travelers note that the desert scenery is spectacular, with some describing it as “otherworldly” and perfect for photography.

After lunch at a Mongolian-style restaurant, the tour visits the Ordos Museum. Here, you’ll get a solid overview of the region’s history, including exhibits on the Xiongnu culture and local costumes. The museum’s collection helps contextualize the landscape and the heritage that has shaped Inner Mongolia.

The day wraps up at the Ulan Mulun Lake, where the Music Fountain Square offers a delightful evening show. Visitors often mention how the combination of natural beauty and lively fountains makes for a peaceful yet lively atmosphere to end the day.

Day 2: From Ordos to Yulin via Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum

The second day kicks off with a visit to the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan. This site is significant for its cultural importance and the opportunity to learn about the legendary leader’s impact on the area. Many reviewers highlight the well-maintained grounds and the chance to see the Mongolian wedding performance, which adds a layer of authenticity and entertainment.

Next, you’ll explore the Sulde Altar, a sacred site that offers insights into Mongolian spiritual practices. The tour then continues with a local lunch, giving you a chance to taste regional flavors.

In the afternoon, the journey moves towards Yulin, where the Yulin North Tower awaits. Watching the sunset here offers a spectacular view of the city and surrounding landscape, appreciated by travelers for its tranquility and panoramic scenery.

Day 3: From Yulin to Jingtai Wave Valley and Back

The final day starts early with a trip to the Jingtai Wave Valley, an area renowned for its unique geological formations. You’ll explore the Flame Danxia, Water Danxia, and Earth Danxia, each offering striking natural formations and excellent photo opportunities. Many guests say that the undisturbed beauty of this area makes it worth the early wake-up.

A local lunch is included before returning to Baotou or Ordos, depending on your travel plans. The overall pace of the last day is more relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the natural scenery without feeling rushed.

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Practical Details and Value

Transportation & Comfort

All transportation during the tour is by air-conditioned vehicle, which is vital in the hot desert climate. The group sizes tend to be manageable, providing a comfortable atmosphere with plenty of opportunity for interaction and questions. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, travelers should arrange their own accommodation and transportation to/from the tour meeting point.

Cost & What You Get

At $875 per person, the tour offers a fairly comprehensive experience packed into three days. The price includes all entrance fees, camel rides, meals at local restaurants, and a professional driver. While the cost might seem high, it reflects the inclusive nature of the trip, covering transportation, activities, and cultural experiences.

Things to Consider

Travelers should be prepared for desert conditions—bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. The tour involves a fair amount of walking and exposure to the sun, so comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes are recommended. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, wheelchair users, or travelers over 70, mainly due to physical demands and terrain.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the real strengths of this tour is its focus on authentic Mongolian culture. Watching a traditional wedding performance at Genghis Khan’s Tomb isn’t something typical travelers get to see every day, and many reviews mention how lively and genuine the performances are. Plus, the museum visits help you understand the region’s history beyond superficial tourist spots, making it a more meaningful experience.

The desert camel ride is often highlighted as the highlight, with travelers describing it as “surprisingly serene” and “a bucket-list moment.” The landscape of the Jingtai Wave Valley provides a less-visited, yet equally stunning, natural wonder that’s worth the early wake-up call.

Local Flavor and Practical Tips

During the trip, you’ll taste traditional Mongolian cuisine, which is hearty and flavorful—think roasted meats, dairy, and simple yet satisfying dishes. Many travelers say the lunches are a highlight, giving a taste of local life.

To make the most of the experience, bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and hydration supplies. Wear layered clothing to handle temperature swings, especially in desert areas where mornings and evenings can be cool while days are hot.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip suits adventure lovers with an interest in culture and history, especially those eager to see desert landscapes and Mongolian traditions firsthand. It’s a great choice for travelers who enjoy guided excursions, cultural performances, and scenic natural sites but don’t want to worry about planning logistics.

However, if you prefer a slower, more leisurely pace, or need accommodations suited for mobility or comfort issues, this might not be the best fit. The physical demands, especially the desert activities and site walking, mean it’s best for active travelers in good health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle for all scheduled activities and site visits.

Are entrance fees included?
All site entrance fees are covered in the tour price, so there are no surprise costs at the gate.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes suitable for desert conditions, and a hat. It’s advisable to wear sturdy shoes for walking.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.

How long are the activities each day?
Most days are paced to balance sightseeing and travel, with site visits, meals, and rest periods. Expect some early mornings and full days.

Can I participate if I can’t walk long distances?
The tour involves walking and some physical activity, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or back problems.

Is there an opportunity to learn about local culture?
Absolutely. The visit to the museum, the wedding performance, and interaction with local guides offer authentic cultural insights.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day tour from Baotou offers a well-rounded glance into the heart of Inner Mongolia’s stunning deserts and lively traditions. With camel rides, cultural visits, and picturesque landscapes, it’s a fantastic option for those craving a mix of adventure and cultural discovery. While the pace is active, the variety of sites and experiences provides good value, especially if you’re eager to see key highlights without the hassle of planning.

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply someone looking to experience a different side of China, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s especially suited to travelers who want an immersive, guided experience that balances natural beauty with cultural authenticity.

In summary, this tour is a solid choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing, culture, and a bit of desert adventure in Inner Mongolia. Its value lies in the thoughtfully curated sites, local experiences, and scenic diversity—delivered in a comfortable, all-inclusive package that simplifies logistics and maximizes your time exploring.

Note: For more options, similar adventures can be found here.

You can check availability for your dates here: