Gobi Desert tour by train is a unique way to explore Mongolia, combining scenic railway travel with unforgettable desert adventures. Begin your journey with memorable Mongolia train travel from Ulaanbaatar to Sainshand before continuing by 4WD vehicle into the heart of the Gobi Desert.
Discover dramatic landscapes including Ikh Gazriin Chuluu, Tsagaan Suvarga, Yol Valley, and the famous Khongor Sand Dunes. This carefully designed itinerary blends the experience of the Trans-Mongolian Railway Mongolia route with classic desert highlights, making this Gobi Desert train tour Mongolia an excellent choice for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.
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This Gobi Desert tour by train combines railway travel and overland exploration, offering a diverse journey across Mongolia’s southern landscapes. Expect comfortable train travel, scenic desert drives, moderate walking and hiking, camel riding, and cultural experiences at traditional ger camps. Daily drives vary in length, but the landscapes are constantly changing, making each day visually rewarding and memorable.
Transfer to Ulaanbaatar Railway Station and board the train bound for Sainshand. Enjoy a scenic railway journey lasting approximately 5 hours 22 minutes, passing endless steppe landscapes and small rural settlements.
Upon arrival, meet your local team and transfer to your hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Sainshand
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Drive toward the impressive granite formations of Ikh Gazriin Chuluu in Middle Gobi Province. Explore dramatic rock formations, hidden valleys, and scenic viewpoints.
Enjoy walking among the rocks and observing the peaceful desert surroundings.
Overnight: Tent Camp or Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue to Tsagaan Suvarga, one of Mongolia’s most famous geological landmarks. These towering limestone cliffs resemble ancient ruins and display stunning colors at sunrise and sunset.
Explore the cliffs and enjoy panoramic desert views.
Overnight: Ger Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive toward Yol Valley in Gurvan Saikhan National Park. Explore the narrow canyon on foot and experience its cool microclimate, even during warm seasons.
This area offers excellent hiking opportunities and beautiful scenery.
Overnight: Ger Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Khongor Sand Dunes, the largest dunes in Mongolia. These massive dunes are known for producing a unique sound when the wind moves the sand.
Enjoy camel riding and hike to the top of the dunes for breathtaking views.
Overnight: Ger Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin the return journey northward toward Middle Gobi Province. Enjoy scenic drives through vast desert landscapes with opportunities for photography along the way.
Overnight: Ger Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit Baga Gazriin Chuluu, another fascinating granite formation known for its unique rock formations and cultural significance.
After exploration, continue driving back to Ulaanbaatar, arriving in the late afternoon or evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Yes, this Gobi Desert tour by train is ideal for first-time visitors because it combines Mongolia train travel with visits to major Gobi highlights, providing a balanced introduction to Mongolia’s landscapes and culture.
Accommodation includes a hotel stay in Sainshand, traditional ger camps in the Gobi Desert, and a tent camp experience near Ikh Gazriin Chuluu.
The train journey from Ulaanbaatar to Sainshand takes approximately 5 hours and 22 minutes, offering scenic views of Mongolia’s open steppe landscapes.
Most days include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are typically served at ger camp restaurants or local dining locations, with vegetarian options available upon request.
Yes, camel riding is included at Khongor Sand Dunes, one of the highlights of this Gobi Desert tour by train.

