Best Mongolia Tour Companies
15 Travel Providers meet your criteria (Providers 1 to 15 shown)
Premier
Exodus Travels
View Profile
Total Trips 597 Trips
Average Price
$ 312 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 15 – 15 days
Trip Prices $ 5,049 – $ 5,049
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Mongolia
1 Tours in Mongolia
Amalfi Coast Walking Holiday
This walking holiday was excellent and good value for money. From our pick up at the airport to the return trip was very well organised and great fun. The family run hotel up in the hills was a perfect base for this holiday and the food / staff were 1st class. Both our Exodus guide and local guides were knowledgeable and friendly
Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula
Exodus Adventure to Borneo & Malaysian Peninsula excelled my expectations as an outstanding holiday.
The Borneo experience of wildlife, knowledge then contrasted with the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, the history of Malacca & street food of George Town. Then to finish relaxation on the beautiful island of Langkawi.
Was a fantastic trip to amalfi coast…
Was a fantastic trip to amalfi coast our tour guide veriano was fantastic I would definitely book a trip with exodus again extremely well organised
Mongolia: Steppes, Deserts & Nomads - Naadam Festival
Trip Style: Small group tour
With over 47 years of experience with small group adventure travel, Exodus specializes in active cultural, walking & trekking, cycling and responsible wildlife tours. They offer more than 600 itineraries across more than 100 countries.
Adventure can take the form of serious and active adventures -- which may involve adrenaline-producing, off-the-beaten-path roughing-it trips to the most remote areas of the world -- or food and wine, premium (five-star), family, or cultural adventures to iconic destinations, which involve more comforts and amenities.
What Makes Exodus Stand Out?
Booking flexibility
Award Winning
Tailor made adventures
Responsible tourism
Expert guides with extensive past experience
Exodus understands that new difficulty that comes with traveling during the coronavirus. They are dedicated to offering flexible services so travelers can book with confidence. Travelers can feel safe when planning their next trip with Exodus’s promised refund guarantee, Covid-19 refund commitment and 21-day no fee flexibility.
The refund guarantee means that travelers will be refunded if they have to cancel for any reason. This also includes cancellations due to the coronavirus. Travelers can also transfer their trip for free up to 21 days before departure.
Creating great and adventurous trips is the top priority for Exodus. They offer many pre-planned tours, but they also work with travelers to add or change existing itineraries or even create one from scratch. This allows travelers to create the perfect trip that fits their travel style, schedule and budget.
Exodus is also dedicated to responsible travel in all of their tours. They strive to improve life for the planet, places and people they visit. Instead of meeting the base guidelines for eco-friendly travel, Exodus seeks more ways to leave a positive impact with their trips. This includes economic empowerment for local communities, reducing waste wherever possible and making lower carbon choices for their adventures.
Each trip is led by a knowledgeable guide who has extensive past experience which adds benefits to any trip. Before working with Exodus, many guides were professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists as well as mountain bike gurus.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Exodus?
All ages
Active travelers
Outdoor and nature enthusiasts
Exodus travelers are a diverse bunch, and average between 35-65 years of age. However, any age traveler is welcome. Exodus creates great packages and tours for families as well as fully customized trips created from scratch.
The Exodus traveler is very active, loves being adventurous, and will be less invested in luxury accommodations or a lot of museum time. You are game for anything, love the travel experience of getting to know a new destination through outdoor adventure, and learning about the culture from local guides and experts.
These trips are great for those who already have a base level of physical fitness, and enjoy meeting new physical challenges. Exodus provides physical fitness guides to show how much training you should expect to do prior to departure.
Top Destinations
Exodus leads 600 + trips spanning all seven continents. From African safaris, to walking and wine in Italy and France to the sun-drenched Croatian coast, to trekking Patagonia, wildlife cruises in the Galapagos and cycling in Vietnam, Exodus has built out their global presence and has active adventures in nearly any destination a traveler could desire.
Exodus Travel Style
Exodus tours are designed for the active and adventurous traveler. This means that most tours include activities such as walking, cycling and safaris. However, for travelers who enjoy cultural and culinary, there are tours and activities for you as well. Exodus offers cultural trips based around food, festivals or family to name a few.
These active adventures vary by way of difficulty from level 1-10, attracting casual cyclists and hikers as well as enthusiasts looking to really push their physical limits.
Travelers can choose from guided groups, private groups, self guided tours or solo traveling. Within each travel style, Exodus offers all the same activities from cycling to wildlife and provides the top itineraries for that specific style to help travelers find what’s best for them.
Most accommodations are charming and locally run with 2-3 star ratings. There are some premium departures available as well as unique accommodation experiences whenever possible. Exodus travelers don’t mind the lower level of luxury as the experience and destination is the highest priority.
Why Choose a Tour With Exodus?
If you love experiencing a new destination whether that’s through the culture, unique wildlife or beautiful outdoors through active and adventurous activities, then Exodus is perfect for you. You love that sense of discovery, of challenging yourself and want to travel responsibly.
Exodus offers great tours already fully packaged, but for the traveler that likes more control over their perfect trip, they offer customizable trips. Travelers get to choose not only the destination but each activity they will partake in to perfectly match their travel style and budget.
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Premier
Intrepid Travel
#1 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 1,029 Trips
Average Price
$ 314 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 15 – 15 days
Trip Prices $ 3,234 – $ 4,090
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Mongolia
4 Tours in Mongolia
Beware of intrepids Lack of Ethics
We were to travel with intrepid tours on a premium morrocco trip on sept 25,2023 However the 6.8 earthquake on September 10 made us rethink our plans. Would there be tremors? If we needed medical attention (we are seniors) would We be able to receive it? And we believed it was too soon to visit Morrocco when thousands of people just died in an earthquake. We did want to roll over trip to 2024.
We were told by Intrepid we needed to cancel two weeks before our trip started. That would have made sense in normal times, but this was not normal times whatsoever. There hadn’t been an earthquake in decades We were trying to get answers from intrepid, before deciding what to do.
We called and chatted multiple times and begged to have the trip rescheduled. Each customer service person said no and there was no opportunity to speak to a supervisor. It was a dead issue with intrepid.
Intrepid was totally nonnegotiable for allowing us to delay the trip. As far as they were concerned, the September 25 trip would depart with modifications. I asked what the modifications were. They couldn’t tell me. We spent thousands of dollars and no one knew what the modifications were but we were supposed to be willing to travel …really? I have been vocal on their Facebook page. No response from intrepid. Yes they had to ensure travelers in Morocco are safe, but they also should have had the manpower to address our concerns with the trip scheduled in two weeks
When we did cancel, they immediately posted openings on their website for the September 25 departure at a $200 discount so they kept our money, wouldn’t allow us to postpone the trip and aimed to sell our slot. Double dipping if you asked me,
I then read on intrepid‘s Facebook page that other people scheduled to take tours to Morocco around the same time as us got their trips rescheduled I was truly upset for company. The prices itself on its ethics, not treating each customer with the same rules is well unethical. I sent an email to the CEO in Australia and the general manager in North America. I saved in chat and emails with their customer service people I had evidence of our request to reschedule.
I finally got a response in two weeks. It was from an underling who didn’t answer my main question, which was why we weren’t offered the option to reschedule like others did. This person gave BS corporate speak about intrepid will apply what they learned to future trips, and thank me for my insight Why didn’t she answer my question and now with the war going on in Israel, Intrepid isn’t allowing future guests to reschedule the trip looks like they just d o what’s best for them in normal and abnormal Times
We had trip insurance but are still out thousands of dollars
Avoid this tour group at all costs
Balkan Adventure
Having travelled many times with Intrepid, I find the biggest stand out compared to other companies is having local, highly experienced guides. Our guide Dora who lead us seamlessly through the Balkans for 15 days provided so much in-depth knowledge of the history, culture and resilience of the people in the areas we visited, that I came away with a greater understanding and respect of the beauty of the people and the cities. Not to mention, knowing the best places to try traditional foods such as Burek and Klepe. Highly recommend this tour and travelling with Intrepid.
Samoa
The tour guide and our driver were amazing! Nothing was too much trouble, no question was ever stupid and safety and fun was the priority of each day.
The trip flowed smoothly as our guide and driver (Ado and Hardy) worked tirelessly to ensure we enjoyed ever experience available to us.
Mongolia's Naadam Festival
Trip Style: Small group tour
Wild Mongolia
Trip Style: Small group tour
Intrepid Travel - Quick Facts
Founded in 1989
No Single Supplement (rare exceptions)
Small Groups: max 16 on most trips (10 max during Covid-19)
Average Age: 48
Travel Style: Cultural immersion, adventure, overland, sustainable, and active
Accommodation Style: Camping, Hostels, 3 /4 star hotels, locally owned
Average Tour Price: $2,377
Top Regions: Asia, Africa, Europe, South America
Other Brands: Peregrine
Commonly compared with G Adventures »
Intrepid Travel is all about ‘real life experiences.’ With a name meaning fearless and adventurous, Intrepid offers nothing less than big travel adventures -- such as an 11-day hike through Papua New Guinea. However, Intrepid is broad-based enough to offer varied experiences such as food tours in Greece, complete with a visit to a Kalamata olive grove.
What Makes Intrepid Travel Stand Out?
Responsible travel
Industry experts
Authentic experiences
Small groups
Intrepid believes that with great travel experiences comes great responsibility. They are focused on responsible tourism which includes not only treading lightly but also making a positive impact on the destinations they send travelers to. As a Certified B Corp since 2018, Intrepid donates to grass root projects around the world, are a carbon-neutral business and are committed to animal welfare.
Travelers can rest assured when they travel with Intrepid because they will be in the hands of industry experts. Intrepid partners with local leaders to be guides for travelers. This gives travelers first hand experiences from someone who knows the area well.
Above all else, Intrepid strives to get its travelers off the beaten path and under the surface of the local culture. To accomplish this, group sizes are small, maximum of 16 on most trips. This allows for more use of local transportation and lodging, along with fostering cultural immersion. Intrepid also employs local English-speaking leaders who act more as a resource for local exploration than do typical ‘guides,’ shepherding groups from one place to another.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Intrepid Travel?
All ages
All types of travelers
Cultural enthusiasts
Intrepid is one of the early pioneers of the “adventure”-style guided trip. Despite its informal beginnings and emphasis on younger, highly adventurous travelers, Intrepid has expanded to a global company with a broad range of trips to fit all ages.
Intrepid divides its small-group trips into three separate styles of travel, all priced accordingly. “Basix,” for budget travelers, keep inclusions to a minimum and offer plenty of free time. “Original” journeys offer more included activities and hotels, while “Comfort” trips offer luxury experiences that include the highest level of included activities and standards of accommodation, as well as roomier vehicles. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is a style right for your specific desires.
The age range on Intrepid tours varies widely from tour to tour, and they are welcoming to all ages. The only exception to this are their 18-29 themed tours which are specifically for that age group.
Intrepid travelers have a real sense of adventure - whether this means hard adventure, or simply going deeper off the beaten path. Interacting with locals is an important factor when you travel, as is gaining a unique cultural perspective. A sense of fun is also essential, whether it means going out at night with your tour mates, trying new foods, or exploring the local markets.
Which is better? Intrepid Travel or G Adventures?
Commonly compared, both G Adventures and Intrepid Travel specialize in culturally immersive and off-the-beaten-path experiences. They are top companies to consider if you enjoy local & authetic travel and value having lots of free time during the itinerary. See our ultimate guide to decide which is right for you: Intrepid vs G Adventures, full comparison »
Top Destinations
Originally focused on small group adventure tours to Asia, Intrepid has expanded rapidly over the years, while maintaining its classic, adventurous, and immersive style. Today Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 different experiences in over 100 countries, on all seven continents. Regions with the most trips include Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe.
Does Intrepid Travel include flights?
While all your internal transportation is taken care of, often utilizing traditiona local methods such as tuk-tuks in Thailand, international flights to and from your home and the tour destination are not included. Their travel specialists can recommend where to look for flights however.
Intrepid Travel Style
Intrepid enjoys using local, unique forms of transportation. You might find yourself traveling by felucca in Egypt or in a tuk-tuk on the best Thailand tour of your life.
Accommodations, which could range from guesthouses to home stays, are also locally owned, allowing a more authentic taste of the region while contributing to the local economy.
There are a few broad travel styles to choose from when deciding on an Intrepid tour:
1. Basix - Budget travelers who don’t mind, and in fact prefer, simple accommodations - camping and homestays with basic amenities, and crave a lot of free time for exploring independently will love these tours. Public transportation is used exclusively so pack light! These trips often attract a younger crowd who love the idea of throwing a backpack on, keep plenty of room for the unexpected in their schedule, and allocate their travel funds towards spontaneous bus tickets and street food instead of museum tours and 5 star restaurants.
2. Original - These trips take the backpacker spirit of local immersion, incorporating all the benefits that come with going with a planned itinerary. This style is called “Original” because it’s the type of travel that put Intrepid on the map...pun intended. Accommodations are still simple and budget minded - often homestays are used to give you a true sense of place, personality, and culture. Mostly public transportation is used.
3. Comfort - Intrepid is known for the active adventure style of travel and these trips keep that mentality, with a few more creature comforts thrown into the mix. You can expect higher luxury accommodations that include a wider variety of included amenities, transportation is mostly private, though you can still expect to use some public transport, as is the Intrepid way. More meals are included in the trip price, and more group activities - which means a bit less free time to explore on your own.
Why Choose a Tour With Intrepid Travel?
Intrepid is a good tour company if you don’t mind foregoing some creature comforts for a truly authentic, local experience. If you enjoy meeting locals when traveling, sampling new and exciting foods, and traveling in mixed-aged groups of 10-16 people, Intrepid could be a good fit for you.
It’s important to note, sometimes “ample free time” can be a blessing and a curse. It sounds great on paper, but if you’re looking to maximize your dollar and your vacation time, be sure you understand the implications of having a lot of free time during your itinerary.
For some travelers this is an absolute requirement, but for others it can be tough to branch off and explore independently - you also need to make sure you allocate enough travel money for independent meals.
The tour leaders are great resources of information for how to spend your free time, but if you like having a full day scheduled from breakfast to dinner, Intrepid may not be the best company for you.
Lastly, if sustainable and responsible travel is important to you, Intrepid has poured millions of dollars into local economies, and has a very strong emphasis on responsible travel. So you can feel good knowing that your money helps support some of the innkeepers, vendors, and communities that you’ll meet along the way.
Is Intrepid Travel Safe?
Yes, Intrepid is a very safe company to travel with and they take the safety of their tour goers very seriously.
In response to Covid-19, Intrepid has reduced their group size to an average of 10 people. Their guides have been fully trained on new sanitation requirements and Covid-19 health and safety guidelines.
They have also implemented flexible booking options.
General Covid-19 Travel News
Some countries are beginning to reopen to international visitors, with entry restrictions, while others have remained closed.
Keep checking back regularly to keep up to date with the frequently changing situation of the coronavirus.
Want more information about travel safety and the coronavirus? Read about where it's safe to travel to in 2020 >>
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Premier
Topdeck
View Profile
Total Trips 36 Trips
Average Price
$ 193 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
They will do whatever they can to not…
They will do whatever they can to not honor their obligations
Best Tour Guide every so helpful an always switched on, best part was enjoying Long Drinks on the ferry Keep up the great work
Best Tour Guide every so helpful an always switched on, best part was enjoying Long Drinks on the ferry Keep up the great work
Really great tour overall, got pretty lucky with some of the activities cause they can be weather dependent.
Really great tour overall, got pretty lucky with some of the activities cause they can be weather dependent. Was not able to do black water and white water rafting on the north island or the Tongariro alpine crossing. Guy was extremely informative and was very flexible with changing plans if something didn't work out. Was a pretty good pace for most of the tour, aside from three places on the south island where we stayed for only night. Still saw the majority of the cool things around the island, would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore New Zealand!
Founded in 1973, Topdeck has been providing fun, adventurous trips around the world for 18-39 for over 40 years.
What Makes Topdeck Travel Stand Out?
Topdeck tour focuses on providing friendly and authentic guided group tours where like-minded 18-39 year old travelers can have amazing group experiences. There are several trip types to choose from, from camping, to immersive, to multi destination, to sailing.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Topdeck?
Sociable, adventurous, budget conscious 18-39 year olds are the kinds of traveler who will gravitate to Topdeck. Though they offer a few different distinct travel styles, there is definitely a sense of an ongoing party, with travel as the conduit and underlying shared interest.
If the idea of being around a group of similarly aged people - many of whom may be exploring internationally for the first or second time - being spontaneous, and meeting locals (often in the environment of bars or clubs) is unappealing, then Topdeck may not be your cup of tea.
Introverted travelers, or those for whom an extensively planned itinerary including many museums and historical sites is ideal, may want to hunt around before choosing a Topdeck tour.
That is not to dissuade the more observational traveler - who may very well find a group they gel with perfectly on a Topdeck tour. Only to caution that you will be surrounded by several extroverted personalities.
The bottom line is if you are game for anything, are traveling on a budget, and don’t mind fairly basic but comfortable accommodations and inexpensive meals - sometimes on the go - then you will enjoy the Topdeck tour experience.
Top Destinations
Topdeck has tours throughout the world, in Europe, Australia & New Zealand, North America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Topdeck Travel Style
The Topdeck travel style is tied quite specifically to their audience. These tours are great for youthful and energetic 18-39 year olds looking for a good time and to make new friends.
In the interest of keeping their tours affordable, travelers with Topdeck will need to make a few allowances. For example, hostels and hotels may be situated quite far away from the city centers. You can also expect some long travel days. The more of a good sense of humor and adventure you have, the more you’ll enjoy the experience.
Why Choose a Tour With Topdeck
Feeling the urge to connect with travelers in your age group, have fun, and make lasting friendships? Topdeck has over 40 years of experience in adventure travel, which has helped them create epic low cost trips for 18-30 somethings.
These tours are certainly not for those who prefer to take things slow. You will be running around, moving between a lot of places - which in some cases means very long bus rides - going out a lot, meeting new people, and staying active throughout your tour.
If your ideal travel experience is more methodical and planned out in nature, Topdeck may not be for you.
But if you are an adventurous and social travelers eager to absorb a new culture and make new friends, then hop on board!
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SITA World Tours
View Profile
Total Trips 575 Trips
Average Price
$ 393 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 6 – 6 days
Trip Prices $ 3,430 – $ 3,430
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Mongolia
1 Tours in Mongolia
Had a wonderful trip
I want to let you know that we had a wonderful trip and that your planning and arrangements were just perfect. We were VERY satisfied with your services and with everyone involved in our tour.
This adventure is a childhood dream come true
Amongst the packing, weighing, and pondering I want to extend my sincere appreciation to you for all of your support. This adventure is a childhood dream come true, the likes of which, is equally foreign to me. It is difficult to admit, but six months ago I didn't even know what cargo pants were. I know the "foreign" part has, at times, left me anxious, confused, and frustrated. And yet, your steady guidance has remained consistent and I am immensely grateful to you for that. You never made me feel as if my questions were irrelevant ...... OMGosh thank you so much for that Natalie. You are a credit to your profession and I am grateful you have guided me through this process.
I really loved the tours
South Africa is all by itself a magical place. When combined with people in the tourist industry who are competent, friendly and knowledgeable, a visit there can be very special. And ours was very special indeed...I really loved the tours that your company put together; they were really very well balanced.
Manila & Boracay Sojourn (first class)
Trip Style: Private guided tour
What Makes Them Stand Out?
With over 80 years of experience and tour guide specialists that provide excellent customer service, SITA World Tours is a well-developed tour operator for remote and beautiful destinations. SITA offers group travel in different shapes and sizes including tailor-made tours for small groups and those who may have specific requests.
Who Travels With Them?
While it depends on destinations, the demographic tends to be adults between 50-70 years old or honeymooners who are going on a private trip. SITA World Tours can accommodate trips with only two individuals though the majority of the tours consist of 15-30 persons. The price range varies anywhere between $500-$8000 per person, depending on trip style.
Where Do They Operate?
SITA World Tours has many destinations all over the world from Asia and the Middle East to Europe, Australia, South America and more. Travel style varies from luxury trains, women only trips, and cruise extensions.
Why Travel With Them?
SITA World Tours has destinations all over the world and a very flexible customized program. They pay close attention to detail, ensuring each individuals needs and requests are catered to, and offer a wide range of trip types and styles.
Commonly Searched Together:
Compare SITA World Tours with these other tour companies
SITA World Tours vs Peregrine
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Preferred
Peregrine Adventures
#10 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 13 Trips
Average Price
$ 396 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Mongolia
3 Tours in Mongolia
Expect I'm not the only one
they are 'fair weather friends'
I did not receive so much as an email advising of changes in the cancellation policy, discovered when I contacted them to cancel.
I now receive automated emails/msgs as I attempt to work through this.
The email states I may contact them on 31 July to discuss the matter!....4 months away.
I'm absolutely stunned by how shoddy this outfit is....who knew?!
Out of pocket $4000.
Expect I'm not the only one.
Highly Recommended
Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
Highly Recommended
Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
With Peregrine Adventures, ‘anywhere is possible.’ Based in Australia, Peregrine has led small-group, ‘soft’ adventure-style trips worldwide for over 30 years. It was one of the first operators to employ local leaders, a practice that is now widespread in guided travel.
What Makes Them Stand Out?
While considering itself an adventure travel company, Peregrine promises to “smooth down the bumps and rough edges.” In short, it’s more about soft adventure with added comforts than roughing it. Group sizes are kept small, with no more than 16 travelers per trip. Its philosophy is that while “seeing the famous sites is a must, it’s those memories of wandering through a little village or sharing dinner with a local family that leave a lasting impression.” The small-group aspect allows for more time to absorb the nature of the places visited, and to make a minimal environmental impact on them as well.
Who Travels With Them?
While Peregrine is a global company, many of its travelers originate from Australia and New Zealand. However, their groups can be geographically diverse, with most travelers 50+ years of age.
Where Do They Operate? Peregrine offers a wide variety of exciting global destinations, with 200 trips across 80 countries -- spanning from Egypt to Turkey to Canada trips! The company is perhaps best known for its Himalayan trekking excursions to far-flung destinations including Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It was a pioneer in high-altitude trekking and these trips remain among their most popular today.
How Does it Work?
Most travel is by private, air-conditioned minibus, but you might find yourself on a houseboat in Kerala, India, a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, or a mountain lift on the best Switzerland tour you've ever experienced. Lodging and dining is at smaller, locally run hotels and restaurants. You might also dine with locals from time to time, and stay with local families or at campsites as well.
Why Travel With Them?
Peregrine is a good choice if you’re looking for a bit of a softer landing with respect to transportation and accommodations but still crave an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. If you’re looking for more individual travel, Peregrine will craft independent journeys, arrange self-guided walking and cycling tours, or arrange private group and tailor-made trips. It’s your choice. Peregrine also helps support various community and conservation projects via its ties with the Intrepid Foundation.
Tweets by PeregrineSpirit
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Alexander + Roberts
#19 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 302 Trips
Average Price
$ 391 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 12 – 12 days
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Mongolia
1 Tours in Mongolia
past cultures was outstanding.
The attention of our guide to our needs and assurance of our visiting all sites - his knowledge of the areas and history and insight into the present and past cultures was outstanding.
Paid In Full to Go Nowhere
I chose the small group China Sampler and paid in full in December 2018 for the April 2020 departure to get the $300 discount. After that it was just waiting and waiting and waiting. I was looking to start making airline flight plans to and return from China in April 2019. But when my travel agent contacted A&R she discovered that I was the only one signed up for the small group tour. This continued through the remainder of 2019. I actually called A&R direct one day to find out what was going on. I was then told about the 90 day out policy before they would cancel the trip. I asked a couple of times through my travel agent if A&R could just go ahead and cancel out the tour and refund my money, but was told there might be some last minute people to sign up for a trip to China. So basically A&R had my $5,000 plus fully paid fee to invest and use as they chose for over a year. January 10 or 20 was the 90 day before date I was told when a decision would be made to cancel. On January 9th I checked the website of A&R and saw by the small group tour for April 9-19 the words "Sold Out". So I'm thinking "Oh, maybe they did get enough last minute people to go?" So I sent my travel agent info on what airline flights I would like to take to China and back. The next day I was sent an email from my agent letting me know that A&R had cancelled the April small group trip to China for the dates I had selected. So the "Sold Out" descriptor apparently was an attempt to save face by not admitting they could not fill the small group trip with enough people to make the trip happen. Not a very "transparent" policy. About a month before A&R did offer to have me join the May China Sampler trip, but those dates did not meet my travel plans. I never received an apology directly from A&R. No offer for a discount on a future tour, nothing. Last time I will ever consider A&R for any type of tour.
Superb in both Seba Camp
The Tour Guides were superb in both Seba Camp (Joseph) and Little Makalolo Camp (Paul). We saw virtually every animal possible in closer proximity than we imagined possible. Accommodations great and food exceptional.
Mongolia’s Naadam Festival and Lake Baikal
Trip Style: Group tour
Founded in 1947, Alexander + Roberts holds the distinction of being one of the oldest guided tour companies around, and a founding member of USTOA. Unlike many tour companies, they focus equally on small group, private group, and customized travel.
What Makes Alexander + Roberts Stand Out
Historical legacy
Authentic experiences
Exotic and classic destinations
Local guides
Unique itineraries
Alexander + Roberts has over 70 years of tour experience. In fact, the company was the first to provide guided tours of the former Soviet Union during the Cold War era. Since then, A + R have been pioneers, traveling to new far-flung locations like Burma and Cuba before many other operators.
There can be a tendency for old and established guided travel companies to seem out of touch and stuffy, while also getting unwieldy if they try too hard to adapt to the modern traveler.
Alexander + Roberts has managed to remain firm to their classic yet innovative roots - an old fashioned charm comes across. You’ll find a blend of classic itineraries as well as more unique experiences and themes.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Alexander + Roberts?
Affluent travelers
50+ and Seniors
Couples
Active travelers
Alexander + Roberts is a US-based tour operator for the affluent traveler wanting to venture beyond the ordinary in a comfortable manner. A + R is best for those travelers looking for a small-group experience with an added element of luxury. They also offer private journeys, custom itineraries, and fully supported independent travel options.
This is not budget travel by any means. Unlike most tour companies today that don’t require a single supplement, they do (for most tours) at “only $700”. Many activities and meals are included on Alexander + Roberts small group tours.
So if you have more of an independent streak and would like some flexibility but aren’t interested in a private or tailor made trip, you may want to explore other tour companies that provide more free time during the itinerary.
If you’re looking for a professionally planned trip with expertise, luxury, and attention to detail baked into the price then Alexander + Roberts is a good place to start.
Top Destinations
A + R offers hundreds of trips on six continents, including Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. They also offer small-ship cruising in the Americas, Antarctica, Asia, and Europe.
Alexander + Roberts Travel Style
Small groups (16 max)
Private travel
Tailor made travel
Most meals and activities included
Alexander + Roberts purposefully keeps their tour group sizes small - maximum 16, for added flexibility and authenticity. Hotels are a mix of unique local and boutique properties, all with a touch of luxury. Most meals are included on their standard group departures and guides are local, with the in-depth knowledge that comes with it.
Why Choose a Tour with Alexander + Roberts?
If you’re looking for a refined experience that still gets you under the surface of a destination, then Alexander & Roberts could be for you. Their trips are not cheap, but do provide good value with many inclusions and years of experience in the industry.
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Cosmos
#17 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 156 Trips
Average Price
$ 175 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Mongolia
4 Tours in Mongolia
Cosmos? No
We've taken over 10 group tours using Cosmos and Gate1. This trip last month, 9000 was not very good.
-During booking, incorrect information was given about airport-hotel transfers
-The whispers (listening devices) didn't work from the get-go, so no whispers were used during the 13 day trip.
- Porters are no longer hired to bring your luggage to and from your room. (Very elderly had to handle their own luggage. Our friends had to help many of them.)
-A few days into the trip one couple left. At the end of the trip we found out they had covid. Cosmos did not let us know; a few people weren't feeling well and two of our friends then tested positive.
-One hotel was awful and not even up to "budget" standards
-Many of the stops had castles, churches... but were not included, so be sure to count that in when pricing.
don't plan to use Cosmos ever again. Gate1 is the best in my opinion. When my husband's passport was stolen, they assigned someone to go with him to the embassy, translate, etc...It was above and beyond what we expected

Terrible
Expectations were fairly high and they were still exceeded. We considered this the best trip we have ever taken and my wife and I have zero complaints.
Excellent Experience and Excellent Guide
I would highly recommend this company and some trips to Scandinavia and Baltic. The countries are amazing, the service and our guide Ausra Paukste was really the best ever. If you wish to visit this region consider Cosmos company.
Cosmos promises to “turn your travel dreams into reality” by offering affordable tours in several parts of the world. Part of the Globus group of travel brands, Cosmos has been running escorted tours for five decades since the 1960s. It touts its clout with hotels and other travel providers as a way of keeping down costs, with savings passed on to their customers. Most expenses are included in the tours, though you may be on your own for some meals and optional excursions.
Cosmos started out offering value-priced European coach tours for budget-minded travelers, and now has added North American, South American, and some Middle East and North African destinations as well. Religious-themed tours of southern Europe and Israel as well as holiday season tours are all part of the mix.
The company emphasizes that when you tour Europe, for example, you’ll stay like Europeans do, eat like Europeans do, and “share the European view of Europe.” That generally means comfortable but not luxury hotels, well-chosen neighborhood restaurants, varied means of transportation, and guided sightseeing of all the “must-see” sites, with extended stays in key cities. Cosmos also offers plenty of free time to explore on your own, a way of personalizing your group tour a bit.
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Preferred
National Geographic Expeditions
#22 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 63 Trips
Average Price
$ 714 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 10 – 24 days
Trip Prices $ 5,995 – $ 67,950
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Mongolia
3 Tours in Mongolia
Inconsistent information, No Refund
We booked a National Geographic expedition Holland and Belgium by River. The promotional literature promised a 14-day deposit refund window. The “invoice” was marked “non-refundable” deposit. We completed the National Geographic Traveler Information. About 8 days later we received the “Travel Agreement” to be signed. We both approved and signed the National Geographic documents. A Cruise Line Travel agreement was enclosed but had no signature line. This document contained language which was unacceptable. We submitted the signed NatGeo documents. The following day we canceled the trip due to the unacceptable Cruise Line language. Cancellation was made 12 days after booking and no deposit was returned. We were told on the phone that the refund deadline was triggered by the 14 day window OR signatures on the Travel Agreement which ever came first. This was NEW information. To date, we have received NO refund of our $1000. We cancelled our trip within the advertised 14 day window.
Highly recommend! It was a trip of a lifetime!
We had not had the pleasure of traveling with National Geographic and was not sure what to expect. The trip went beyond what we could have possibly imagined! The staff were attentive and the guides were knowledgeable. There was not a time that we felt unsafe or that our needs were not being met. The trip was very fast paced which allowed us to experience each destination. Their timing was perfect with scheduled excursions and meals. We took the trip in October 2019 and then COVID entered our world and brought our trips to a stand still. I am now planning some trips for this year with hopes of a healthier world to travel!
Cancel my trip but no refund
This company canceled my trip due to COVID but failed to refund all money so I am out $1500 for Lindblad portion, and will never travel with NatGeo again. They have lost my trust as a company that puts travelers best interests first.
The Human Journey: Tracing Legendary Peoples & Sacred Places
Trip Style: Private guided tour
Private Expedition: Mongolia
Trip Style: Private guided tour
Mongolia Photo Expedition
Trip Style: Group tour
In 1999, National Geographic launched their own tour company component: National Geographic Expeditions. Since then they have expanded to offer trips on all 7 continents in over 60 destinations. Recently they partnered with G Adventures to provide even more variety to their devoted customers.
What Makes National Geographic Expeditions Stand Out?
Multiple modes of travel
Expert guides and photographers
After hours and special access to sites
With National Geographic, you can travel by small, expedition-style ships; classic train journeys; land tours; active adventures; photo tours; family-oriented trips; or private, independent expeditions based on your desires and budget.
Wherever you go with National Geographic, which has been in the tour business for 15 years, you can expect doors to open: entry to research sites, archaeological digs, private homes or special events.
Many expeditions are accompanied by a National Geographic expert or expert team who share their knowledge and passion for a region and help make each experience enriching and unforgettable.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With National Geographic Expeditions?
Photography enthusiasts
All ages
Adventurous minded
Nature lovers
History buffs
Life long learners
National Geographic is one of those special brands that has managed to successfully straddle the line between “your grandfather loves them” and “your eighteen year old sister loves them”. They cover a wide range of topics, themes, and travel styles, with the educational aspect always prevalent yet not overbearing.
If you love feeling like an explorer and an adventurer when you travel, and love learning about the world from experts in a variety of fields, National Geographic is the perfect place for you. This is a company for those who want to dig deeper, like getting the inside story from multiple perspectives - historical, cultural, political, economic, scientific and more.
National Geographic trips are great for families, and you can choose a private tour or a family friendly group, where hands on activities will widen your children’s worldview in innumerable special ways.
National Geographic trips are also extremely popular with photographers - novice photographers will enjoy their photography-centric tours, while many dedicated hobbyists can be found on their other trip styles as well.
If you’re the kind of traveler who sacrifices the space for a pair of shoes in your suitcase for another lens or photography accessory...you’ll be right at home on a trip with National Geographic Expeditions.
In the same way that National Geographic magazine has always inspired and furthered conversation and discourse, so too do their trips. The spirit of learning about the world is intertwined in every itinerary, so if you consider yourself a lifelong student, you should definitely consider traveling with National Geographic Expeditions.
Top Destinations
National Geographic Expeditions go all around the world, and cover almost every travel style imaginable. One might think they have a favoring of the more “exotic” locations but an impressive number of United States and European tours are offered as well as farther reaching destinations. National Geographic Expeditions in the Galapagos are especially popular.
Regardless of where you travel, you will be sure to get off the beaten path and discover unique cultural landmarks, meet interesting people, and enjoy a sense of adventure.
Small-ship expeditions, done in conjunction with Lindblad Expeditions, can take you to Antarctica, the Galapagos and points beyond. Classic train journeys include the Trans-Siberian and trains through India, Spain, and Switzerland. Active adventures might take you hiking in Bhutan or meeting Berbers in Morocco. Land tours could take you to Tanzania, Peru or the Grand Canyon.
National Geographic Expeditions Travel Style
The travel style with National Geographic Expeditions has an aura of old fashioned exploration with a modern twist.
National Geographic Expeditions is a family friendly outfit, offering a wide range of prices and trip styles. Trips vary from mid range budget to higher. Physical level is usually light to moderate.
By virtue of their longstanding presence in the world, National Geographic has a wide reaching global network to lean on for incredibly unique and authentic lodging options, knowledgeable guides, and VIP access to historical and archaeological sites.
They have several broad travel styles you can choose from:
Land Trips - National Geographic Land Trips are immersive explorations, often covering nature and wilderness points of interest such as national parks. They also dive into ancient cities and cultures, with trips exploring everything from monks in Burmese mountainside temples to the lives of nomadic Mongolian peoples. Most trips are around 11 days and physical level is between light and moderate, with some trips featuring moderately challenging hikes in various altitudes.
River Cruises - a relatively new addition, Nat Geo now offers around 7 river cruises in Europe covering the Danube, Rhine, and Douro. Currently they also have 1 river cruise in Asia, along the Irrawaddy. These trips are typically between 7 - 11 days and feature wine tasting, history tours, and very light physical activity.
Private Expeditions - If you and your family, significant other, or a few close friends are looking for a more intimate travel experience than a group of strangers, Private Expeditions are a great way to travel. These trips are customizable, and can be crafted to perfectly suit your interests and dates.
Photography Trips - National Geographic has consistently featured award winning travel photography. They run regular contests for those inspired by the thousands of groundbreaking and historic photographs taken by journalists and travel photographers around the world. On National Geographic photography trips you can actually learn tricks of the trade from real-world photographers and improve your skills.
Train Trips - Travel was revolutionized with the implementation of the railroad, allowing people to travel in what was then a rapid pace from destination to destination. Today this ideal has been flipped on its head, and train travel is a leisurely paced excursion allowing time to relax and appreciate the slower meandering through beautiful countrysides. National Geographic train trips cover the classics, such as the Trans-Siberian railway and the Rocky Mountain railroad. Accommodations are comfortable, around a premium level, with options to upgrade.
Active Expeditions - For those who enjoy a bit more of an adrenaline pumping and active travel experience, National Geographic also has trips for you. These trips feature multiple active outings, such as kayaking, hiking, and caving. Expect to explore the outdoors covering unique natural phenomena and gaining insight into how and why the landscape has been shaped the way it has. These trips also feature cultural insights, just to a lesser extent.
Family Expeditions - National Geographic is the perfect company to travel with when you have curious and adventurous youngsters eager to see the world. They will learn about other cultures, people, food, nature and wildlife from experts with “cool jobs” that might even inspire lifelong interests and perhaps influence a career. These trips are specifically designed to be hands on, allowing everyone to get involved and learn about how things work.
Private Jet Trips - For a luxurious and more lengthy travel experience, nothing beats a Private Jet tour. A dedicated team will be with you, and you’ll experience all the best that National Geographic has to offer from local guides to premiere accommodation. These trips are in a very high budget range, but if it’s in your wheelhouse - it’s a superb way to travel and cover a lot of ground.
Journeys - Part of a partnership with G Adventures, these trips are adventurous and immersive small group excursions imbued with the spirit of National Geographic. The best of two top travel worlds!
Why Choose a Tour With National Geographic Expeditions?
When you travel with National Geographic you are participating in and contributing to a spectacular legacy. Over the years National Geographic has cultivated a reputation for being about cultural exploration, scientific advancement, and broadening perspectives.
Their travel experiences are perfect for anyone wishing to get back to the roots of what adventurous, experiential travel really means and enjoy discovering the world from multiple angles.
Really one of the best parts about traveling on a tour with National Geographic Expeditions is the sheer breadth of knowledge, personal and professional experience their guides bring to the table. They help provide richly detailed context, historical information, and dive into the details of local life, by showing and doing as well as explaining. You the traveler will have the true experience of getting to know a place from the inside out.
If that wasn’t enough of a reason, proceeds from your trip price go towards supporting National Geographic’s ongoing nonprofit work in conservation, exploration, education, and cultural preservation.
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Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)
#23 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 19 Trips
Average Price
$ 290 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 16 – 16 days
Trip Prices $ 4,595 – $ 4,595
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Mongolia
1 Tours in Mongolia
Trip of a Lifetime
Our recent Tanzanian Safari was indeed the trip of a lifetime. Saw the big 5, met the wonderful locals and spent 5 days in the Serengeti. Saw many lions, zebras, giraffes and other wonderful animals. Spent time with local school children who were so welcoming. Put this trip on your bucket list!
My favorite OAT adventure
I went to this adventure with my sister-in-law and we had the absolute best time! Our guide were all amazing and our trip leader Martin was exceptional! My sister-i-law had a fall the day we were to meet our group and Martin helped us navigate the urgent care, got her stitched up and stayed by our side until she was tucked into our room. What a waRead more about review stating My favorite OAT adventurey to meet your trip leader but also we knew we were set up with a caring and kind man from the start! This was a truly unique adventure with large cities and also the most serene scenery on earth!
I write this in the mist of the recent pandemic and hope that as soon as this all settles down we can take another trip with OAT. It will be hard to match this trip but we will try!
Be careful
Booked for July and gave them $12,000. They talked us into early arrival and then come back to us a two months later saying we can't offer. We have to keep our airlines a day early and now need to find transfer and hotel on our own. Would cancel but would lose $2,000 trip insurance. They talked us into us to arrive early and now cancelling and saying you are on your own. Can't imagine what else will go wrong.
Mongolia & the Gobi Desert
Trip Style: Group tour
Founded in 1978, Overseas Adventure Travel specializes in small group and small ship adventure tours. Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) is now part of the Boston-based Grand Circle Corporation, which also includes Grand Circle Travel and Grand Circle Cruise Line.
Quick Facts
Founded in 1978
Very welcome to solo travelers - Free or low single supplement
Average Tour Price - $4,538
Average Tour Duration - 15 Days
Small Groups - between 10 and 16 travelers, max of 24 on small ship cruises
Travel Style - Culturally immersive and local experiences. Walking between 3-6 miles a day
Age Range - Primarily 50+
What Makes Overseas Adventure Travel Stand Out?
Solo traveler friendly
Cultural immersion
Grand Circle Foundation
Overseas Adventure Travel is solo traveler friendly. They offer free or low single supplements. OAT understands that solo travelers desire to follow their own schedule, desires and needs. They help handle all the details to make sure your trip is affordable, easy and enjoyable.
A major focus of OAT is cultural immersion. Travelers can expect to visit local schools, churches, and homes (where you might be treated to a home-cooked meal). Experienced guides -- all fluent in English -- lead groups off the beaten path when possible.
OAT strives to give back to the world they send travelers around. A portion of all proceeds goes to the Grand Circle Foundation, which supports cultural and educational programs in the countries visited.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Overseas Adventure Travel?
Ages 50+
Solo travelers
Cultural enthusiasts
OAT specializes in small group tours around the world serving Americans aged 50 and older. They appeal to the old fashioned - the fact that they still offer a physical catalogue is testament - and their travel style reflects an appreciation of the classics coupled with an adventurous spirit to explore each destination deeper and from a local perspective.
Overall, prices fall into the moderate range, and are especially a bargain for solo travelers, who can save substantially by not having to pay for single supplements. Accommodations are designed to be both comfortable as well as unique and in keeping with the local spirit of the destination. If your hostelling days are over but you feel too adventurous for a standard hotel, OAT will be a great company to travel with.
OAT travelers are those with a passion for culture. They don’t just want to see a destination, they want to experience it. For these travelers, spending a day in a Maasai village in Kenya, eating dinner with a local family in Chile's oasis town and interacting with local musicians at the bustling Libertad Plaza in San Salvador, Belize is a welcomed adventure.
Top Destinations
OAT operates tours all over the world, specializing in remote, off the beaten path destinations. African safaris are an especially popular offering, though you can also travel to Japan, India, Peru, Iceland, Vietnam, Albania, or Morocco, to name just a few of its far-flung destinations. OAT also runs small-ship cruises through the Galapagos, on the Amazon, and along the Turkish coast.
OAT Travel Style
With Overseas Adventure Travel you’ll find a combination of transportation and accommodation styles, but all with an element of comfort. Groups are small, with a max of 16 (24 on small ship cruises).
Accommodations vary, but generally favor being local and non-traditional over a basic centrally located hotel. Their exact words are “emphasis on authenticity, rather than amenities”.
Their style is all about unique and meaningful cultural interaction. While you’ll learn the history and see the famous sights, their true focus is about people and connections. This means you’ll enjoy meals with local families, like you’re just a friend over for dinner; visit schools and see the amazing work being done in small communities. The visceral understanding and perspective that comes from learning to cook traditional meals and make traditional crafts is what you’ll find on an OAT tour.
Why Choose a Tour with OAT?
OAT offers a unique up close and personal experience, guaranteeing that its groups will never exceed more than 10-16 travelers. A spirit of spontaneity is part of what makes traveling with OAT special, as they strive to take advantage of every interesting opportunity during a trip.
Traveling with Overseas Adventure Travel allows for an in depth cultural travel experience in comfort. Many opportunities exist for travelers to find deals, and it’s a great way to meet new friends in a similar age range.
If you traveled extensively in your youth and are not ready to slow down, but perhaps are looking for a few more logistical ducks to be taken care of for you, OAT could be the perfect fit. They offer a variety of options for more independent minded travelers, as well as ample free time to explore and plan your own adventure during cruise port stops and on their group tours.
Alternatively, if this is your first travel experience, OAT will be a great starting point. You’ll gain cultural insights, meet locals, as well as hit on all the best tourist sites that provide cultural and historical context to your destination.
Overseas Adventure Travel Covid Safety Precautions
Through December 31st 2020, Overseas Adventure Travel is offering Risk Free booking. You can transfer your departure with all change fees waived.
Some countries are beginning to reopen to international visitors with entry restrictions while others have remained closed. Stay up to date and see a full list of which countries are open »
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Discovery Tours by Gate 1
#20 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 1 Trip
Average Price
$ 473 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Mongolia
1 Tours in Mongolia
I think this was our best Gate 1 trip yet!
I think this was our best Gate 1 trip yet! Sites and activities were wonderful. Our tour manager, Paul, was absolutely great. His pride and enthusiasm for his country, as well as his broad ecological and historical knowledge, made the trip interesting and informative. I also appreciated the activity level which was higher than most trips.
Our Mexico trip was our 14th Gate 1 trip
Our Mexico trip was our 14th Gate 1 trip and it was perfect as usual. Baccho, our tour manager, was excellent, attentive to our needs, and filled almost every minute with great activities and additional optional walking tours.
A section of Gate 1 tours, Discovery Tours provides immersive cultural experiences for budget minded travelers.
What Makes Discovery Tours Gate 1 Stand Out?
They are dedicated to keeping their travel groups small (max 22) in order to provide a culturally rich experience that everyone on the tour can enjoy to the fullest. They stress the intimate and immersive nature of their itineraries which visit unique destinations around the globe.
Their focus on small groups allows them to offer interesting and off the beaten path activities and accommodations, as well as a high level of personalized attention from the guides.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Discovery Tours Gate 1?
Groups are international, typically attended by the 35-50+ age range. This is quintessential small group travel. You’ll have a dedicated professional guide - often a local - and an expert in the country.
If you enjoy a well rounded tour that focuses just as much on meeting locals and visiting off the beaten path spots as on the tourist highlights, then a Discovery Gate 1 tour would suit you nicely.
The balance of sightseeing to more unique experiences means their a great option for first time travelers or a repeat visit to a country you want to see again.
Tours are budget conscious - many activities are included with some optional excursions available for an extra fee allowing you to somewhat cater your own experience.
Top Destinations
Discovery Tours travel to multiple countries around the world in the Americas, Europe, Asia & the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, and Africa.
Discovery Tours Gate 1 Travel Style
Gate 1’s Discovery Tours brand, combines the budget mindfulness of Gate 1 with the exclusivity of their Signature Collection to provide an immersive, culturally rich small group travel experience.
Group size is no larger than 22, and typically the average is more like 12-15 people. This allows for much more intimate and unique experiences when it comes to meals, accommodations, and activities.
It also means there is more room for spontaneity, such as stopping the bus to hop out and enjoy a local market before continuing on to your next destination.
Many activities and excursions are already included in the itinerary, which is relatively unusual for these more budget minded travel options. That said, not all excursions are included - which gives you the flexibility to pick and choose how you’d like to spend your time.
A lot of activities during the tour are designed to be hands on, providing a real glimpse into the culture. Ample free time is provided as well, where you can spend some time exploring on your own.
While you will hit the major sites, the balance is definitely more heavily weighted on off the beaten path experiences - meeting locals and enjoying a more authentic view of the destination.
Why Choose a Tour with Discovery Tours Gate 1?
This is a group tour experience for people who have an adventurous spirit but are looking for a nice balance of being taken care of and independence. Each trip offers a number of optional sightseeing tours for purchase, to further provide context to your destination.
Or you can choose to explore on your own. If a small group tour experience almost anywhere in the world is what you’re looking for, give their extensive list of itineraries a browse.
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Gate 1 Travel
#13 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 779 Trips
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Mongolia
1 Tours in Mongolia
Uncaring and Greedy Company
I'm very disappointed in Gate 1's lack of empathy and flexibility in allowing rescheduling of a trip to a Muslim country the week after the recent attacks in Israel. There have been many active protests and government support of Hamas at the destination. Visits to mosques and Jewish religious sites were included in the tour and no additional security was being offered by Gate 1.
I was more than willing to postpone my trip or apply my total payment to another future trip. Instead, I lost over $4000 for the trip, airfare, excursions and transfers and was not given any other option but to forfeit more than 90% of my payment. I was also misled (by two separate agents) to believe that I would be refunded my airfare minus a $250 penalty. Instead, I now have a credit for a sum uncertain with no way to access it with an airline that only goes to one destination.
The tragic events in recent days should warrant the ability to make changes in travel plans without excessive penalties. Gate 1's policies are unreasonable given the unprecedented times we are living in.
I have been on 12 gate 1 trips, many guest I meet are repeat gate 1'ers
I have been on 12 gate 1 trips, they provide excellent value, great 4 star hotels, well informed tour guides, all for the lowest prices that I have found.
Very disappointed with Gate 1
Very disappointed with Gate 1.
We’re scheduled to tour Egypt in November. However, due to the the conflict that’s happening now with Israel in Palastine/Gaza and the West Bank, we are justifiably concerned about our safety.
Our trip is fully paid, but we had humbly requested to reschedule for a later date to travel (Not asking for a refund) just to reschedule. Unfortunately for us Gate1 outright denied our request disregarding our concerns. The Arch insurance that’s offered through Gate1 essentially only covers Gate1.
Founded in 1981 with three employees and based in suburban Philadelphia, Gate 1 now employs more than 200 people worldwide with offices in 20 countries, ranging from Hungary to Cambodia, Argentina to Israel.
What Makes Gate 1 Stand Out?
Escorted tours & river cruises
Good value
High quality guides
Gate 1 offers a variety of tour packages and river cruises around the world, promising to provide exceptional value for the price. They focus on North American travelers who seek “high quality, yet affordable” guided trips, with accommodations ranging from superior tourist to moderate deluxe class.
They have a lot of different choices when it comes to destinations, durations, and inclusions. Most tours have additional offerings for meals, activities, and excursions available for additional fees.
Traveler reviews for Gate 1 oscillate between 5 star and 1 star experiences. Those that have had an excellent time cite the tour pacing, guides, and extensive sightseeing opportunities as positives.
Those for whom these same factors contributed to a negative experience may have had higher expectations than is available or offered for the competitive budget prices that Gate 1 is known for.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Gate 1?
All ages
Low to mid budget travelers
Those open to simple accommodation and meal plans
Gate 1 is the perfect travel choice for families, couples, and friend groups seeking a cost efficient journey. As Gate 1 is a strictly budget minded brand, it’s important to be fully aware of the trade-off when you choose to travel with them.
You will see a lot, and be out and about visiting several sites - however keeping costs low is one of their main priorities. This means hotels will be basic, meals won’t be 5 star, and your coach will have fewer amenities. In addition tours with Gate 1 feature several optional add ons and sightseeing tours, not included in the base price. Average tour price is around $2,000, often less.
If you’re flexible, open minded, and are interested in maximizing your sightseeing above all else, Gate 1 could be for you. Knowing what to expect is key for enjoying the trip to the fullest.
Top Destinations
Gate 1 trips cover much of the world, including destinations in North, Central, and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Itineraries focus on the top sights, historical attractions, and national parks.
Gate 1 Travel Style
In a nutshell, the Gate 1 travel style is “see a lot for a little”. Hotels and accommodations are usually 3 star hotels. Expect basic comforts, with fewer amenities available. However if you’re the kind of traveler for whom a bed and some coffee in the morning is a fine trade-off for busy days outside and tons of sightseeing, the trade-off will be worth it.
You will be met on the ground with a dedicated tour leader, available to assist throughout your travel experience.
Escorted group bus tours are a big part of their business - between 24-42 people. These coaches are again, more utility focused than amenity focused, but you will be comfortable. And in general bus tours take frequent stops to allow for stretching legs and using of facilities.
Gate 1 also offers small group tours (with a maximum of 22 people), river cruises on two continents, independent city stays and fly and drive packages, rail packages, customized vacations, and combination bus/cruise tours -- something for almost everyone interested in a budget vacation.
Why Choose a Tour With Gate 1?
For the budget traveler, Gate 1 is a fantastic choice. They offer several types of trip package to choose from, including rail, river cruise, and small group tours, at competitive rates. Their escorted tours are extremely popular, and customers repeat trips with them regularly.
While Gate 1 is the primary brand, and they are all about giving a positive and packed international travel experience on a budget, other brands associated with Gate 1 are more premium focused. These include the Signature collection, offering luxury tour options and smaller groups.
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Avalon Waterways
#15 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 215 Trips
Average Price
$ 378 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
River Cruise Line
Trips in Mongolia
2 Tours in Mongolia
On a river cruise from Zagreb to Black…
On a river cruise from Zagreb to Black Sea on Avalon Impression there was little to fault the 4+ star boat, the food and the crew (with the notable exception of one quite senior member of the catering staff who occasionally forgot he is in a service capacity as he heatedly ordered passengers and fellow workers about, causing anger and distress in both groups - I am sure that those on the 9th September sailing will know of whom I make this comment and suspect this is not the first time that his behaviour has been noted). Cabins, public rooms, service, shore visits and food were all for the most part exemplary. Not so the hand dealt to those staff on the ground (boat and shore) - and passengers - by back office management. On a journey described on Avalon's website as a "9 day river cruise" and "inclusive of accommodation, meals and free wine with lunch and dinner" only 5 days were spent actually cruising on the river and on only 5 days were all meals provided (1-2 on the other 4). The same cruise sold as "From Croatia to the Black Sea (at Constanta)" stopped some 70 km short of the port and the sea with an optional 3 hour bus/ walking tour of Constanta - which is not what was expected (an Avalon map of the journey indeed showed the journey as completed via the Danube/Black Sea canal - an engineering marvel to which many were looking forward). Staff on board were left surprised at the expectation of mooring on Constanta, saying there "just wasn't time". Thus a £5000 (rack rate) "9 day river cruise to the Back Sea" offered morphed in reality into a "5 day river cruise way short of a promised destination" of questionable value for money. At best misleading and deeply disappointing. Enough to drop this from a 4 star experience to 1 star
Probably not consciously deceitful but perhaps Operations and Marketing should talk details before extravagant claims are made and the inevitable disappointment follows. Surely Operations sign off on advertising claims is the norm these days? Not it seems at Avalon. No big deal for most of our fellow passengers I guess. But, sadly, we will not be travelling with Avalon again, even though almost all their people shone. Ah yes. One more thing. The wines were indeed free and generously dispensed but the quality quite poor - and no choice other than "red or white". A feeling of penny pinching.
My wife and I received an offer of free…
My wife and I received an offer of free cruise and air tickets in return for attending their promotional in the Detroit area. We attended on July 12, 2023, Conf. # TS181. Upon leaving we were told that we did not qualify because we arrived late, were older than 72 years of age, and did not meet the income requirements. None of these requirements were stated on the invitation. If this is the way the company works, I certainly cannot recommend it.
the people were great i liked the size…
the people were great i liked the size of the ship
Travel Impressions
#36 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Global Operator
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
AfricaExperts by Goway
#39 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Air by Pleasant
#40 Pick of 50 Mongolia Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
1-15 of 15 Providers Shown
15 Provider(s)
Reviews Write a Review
This was simply a magnificent holiday in a wonderful country. Cycling eleven
days in a row is a bit tough and the terrain can be challenging, but it is
worth the effort. The landscape is vast and photographs cannot do it justice.
I never tired of seeing herds of horses, running free in this never ending
scenery.
On the practical side, the tents were of top quality, the bikes were of
equally good quality, the crew of 8 were brilliant and the group of cyclists
were great company. The meals were well balanced and a credit to our cook. NK
our leader was probably the best group leader I have experienced in my many
Exodus adventures. We even had a shower tent with warm water when possible.
September brought us varied weather conditions, with cold mornings, some
rain, snow on the mountains, hail, high winds and plenty of sunshine.
I would recommend this holiday especially if you want to get away from busy
cities and experience real peace and quiet.
I never tired of the horses running alongside us. The herds of yaks and cows
and enormous flocks of sheep and goats are equally impressive. Large birds of
prey can be seen regularly.
The night skies are incredible.
NK was magnificent. His organisational skills, his pleasant manner and his
love of Mongolia is inspirational. My luggage failed to arrive when we landed
at Ulaan Baataar, but NK assured me that the luggage would arrive before we
boarded the overnight train. He arranged this and my luggage arrived.
The excellent Gala Dinner on our last night was a very pleasant surprise.
Our team consisted of NK, two other cyclist guides, three drivers, a cook
and cook's assistant.
Take a good quality sleeping bag.
The camping is very good and nothing to fear.
We all became very slick at erecting our tents and taking them down.
When wild camping, toilets can be a bit of a worry. In Mongolia we had a
western style toilet in a tent.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
October 2018
This was simply a magnificent holiday in a wonderful country. Cycling eleven
days in a row is a bit tough and the terrain can be challenging, but it is
worth the effort. The landscape is vast and photographs cannot do it justice.
I never tired of seeing herds of horses, running free in this never ending
scenery.
On the practical side, the tents were of top quality, the bikes were of
equally good quality, the crew of 8 were brilliant and the group of cyclists
were great company. The meals were well balanced and a credit to our cook. NK
our leader was probably the best group leader I have experienced in my many
Exodus adventures. We even had a shower tent with warm water when possible.
September brought us varied weather conditions, with cold mornings, some
rain, snow on the mountains, hail, high winds and plenty of sunshine.
I would recommend this holiday especially if you want to get away from busy
cities and experience real peace and quiet.
I never tired of the horses running alongside us. The herds of yaks and cows
and enormous flocks of sheep and goats are equally impressive. Large birds of
prey can be seen regularly.
The night skies are incredible.
NK was magnificent. His organisational skills, his pleasant manner and his
love of Mongolia is inspirational. My luggage failed to arrive when we landed
at Ulaan Baataar, but NK assured me that the luggage would arrive before we
boarded the overnight train. He arranged this and my luggage arrived.
The excellent Gala Dinner on our last night was a very pleasant surprise.
Our team consisted of NK, two other cyclist guides, three drivers, a cook
and cook's assistant.
Take a good quality sleeping bag.
The camping is very good and nothing to fear.
We all became very slick at erecting our tents and taking them down.
When wild camping, toilets can be a bit of a worry. In Mongolia we had a
western style toilet in a tent.
Read More
days in a row is a bit tough and the terrain can be challenging, but it is
worth the effort. The landscape is vast and photographs cannot do it justice.
I never tired of seeing herds of horses, running free in this never ending
scenery.
On the practical side, the tents were of top quality, the bikes were of
equally good quality, the crew of 8 were brilliant and the group of cyclists
were great company. The meals were well balanced and a credit to our cook. NK
our leader was probably the best group leader I have experienced in my many
Exodus adventures. We even had a shower tent with warm water when possible.
September brought us varied weather conditions, with cold mornings, some
rain, snow on the mountains, hail, high winds and plenty of sunshine.
I would recommend this holiday especially if you want to get away from busy
cities and experience real peace and quiet.
I never tired of the horses running alongside us. The herds of yaks and cows
and enormous flocks of sheep and goats are equally impressive. Large birds of
prey can be seen regularly.
The night skies are incredible.
NK was magnificent. His organisational skills, his pleasant manner and his
love of Mongolia is inspirational. My luggage failed to arrive when we landed
at Ulaan Baataar, but NK assured me that the luggage would arrive before we
boarded the overnight train. He arranged this and my luggage arrived.
The excellent Gala Dinner on our last night was a very pleasant surprise.
Our team consisted of NK, two other cyclist guides, three drivers, a cook
and cook's assistant.
Take a good quality sleeping bag.
The camping is very good and nothing to fear.
We all became very slick at erecting our tents and taking them down.
When wild camping, toilets can be a bit of a worry. In Mongolia we had a
western style toilet in a tent.
Tour Cycling in Mongolia
The tour was well organised and covered everything promised in the brochure.
The knowledgeable local guide enabled us to learn about Mongolia. Even the
cancellation of a local flight transfer was turned into an adventure.
The sights of the Gobi desert.
Discovering that Mongolia was better than I imagined it would be
Excellent, A wiberaul ambassador for Mongolia,.
A visit to the National Museum in Ulan Batur
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
October 2018
The tour was well organised and covered everything promised in the brochure.
The knowledgeable local guide enabled us to learn about Mongolia. Even the
cancellation of a local flight transfer was turned into an adventure.
The sights of the Gobi desert.
Discovering that Mongolia was better than I imagined it would be
Excellent, A wiberaul ambassador for Mongolia,.
A visit to the National Museum in Ulan Batur
Read More
The knowledgeable local guide enabled us to learn about Mongolia. Even the
cancellation of a local flight transfer was turned into an adventure.
The sights of the Gobi desert.
Discovering that Mongolia was better than I imagined it would be
Excellent, A wiberaul ambassador for Mongolia,.
A visit to the National Museum in Ulan Batur
This trip was a real adventure. Mongolia is a stunning country and we saw
breath-taking and different landscapes during our visit, as well as animals
galore.
However, it's billed as 2, a leisurely to moderate trip. This is true in the
sense that there isn't much walking involved. However, there is a very great
deal of driving, most of it off-road, and some very long driving days. The
off-road vehicles we travelled in were ok, but not that comfortable - this is
Mongolia afterall! - and the sheer amount of driving took its toll.
Although there was some downtime during the trip, it wasn't till day 8 that
we got a half-day to ourselves.
And don't forget that Mongolia is 1300m above sea-level in the capital, and
we went up to 2000m elsewhere, and the UK body takes a good time to adjust to
that altitude.
This trip was a real adventure. Mongolia is a stunning country and we saw
breath-taking and different landscapes during our visit, as well as animals
galore: herds of sheep and goats, herds of horses, camels and yaks and, a
highlight for me, the Takhi horses. Other highlights were Karokorum and the
Ger camp we stayed in there, where a local musical group came to perform for
us specially. We also enjoyed the trips to the Singing Dunes just before the
storm came in, the Flaming Cliffs and the trek into the Yolyn Am gorge.
There had been a lot of rain and several cars got stuck on the approach, but
our drivers were great. They got us through and also helped to pull others
out. At one point, in the middle of the Gobi Desert in temperatures of 40
degrees, they replaced a broken driveshaft on our vehicle! Visiting the
gorge is billed as a walk, but there are horses to hire there, which my
partner and I chose to do. It made the trek really memorable.
Odka was very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and generally helpful. There was
one issue which she was unable to help with and said I should contact Exodus.
As we were without wifi or mobile phone signal, this wasn't possible at the
time. However, once I was able to contact the office, the issue was sorted
very promptly.
This trip is billed as 2, a leisurely to moderate trip. This is true in the
sense that there isn't much walking involved. However, there is a very great
deal of driving and some very long driving days off-road, so be aware of
this, especially if you have a back problem, as did one member of our group.
The off-road vehicles we travelled in were ok, but not that comfortable -
this is Mongolia afterall! - and the sheer amount of driving took its toll
physically. Although there was some downtime during the trip, it wasn't till
day 8 that we got a half-day to ourselves, so I wouldn't say downtime
balanced out the driving. And remember that Mongolia is 1300m above
sea-level in the capital, and we went up to 2000m elsewhere. The UK body
takes a good time to adjust to that altitude.
There was no shortage of food and we were very well fed throughout. It was
generally set meals, but the Gobi Erdene Ger Camp, where we stayed two nights
(Day 7 and 8), had a good and varied buffet option.
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
A
Anonymous
October 2018
This trip was a real adventure. Mongolia is a stunning country and we saw
breath-taking and different landscapes during our visit, as well as animals
galore.
However, it's billed as 2, a leisurely to moderate trip. This is true in the
sense that there isn't much walking involved. However, there is a very great
deal of driving, most of it off-road, and some very long driving days. The
off-road vehicles we travelled in were ok, but not that comfortable - this is
Mongolia afterall! - and the sheer amount of driving took its toll.
Although there was some downtime during the trip, it wasn't till day 8 that
we got a half-day to ourselves.
And don't forget that Mongolia is 1300m above sea-level in the capital, and
we went up to 2000m elsewhere, and the UK body takes a good time to adjust to
that altitude.
This trip was a real adventure. Mongolia is a stunning country and we saw
breath-taking and different landscapes during our visit, as well as animals
galore: herds of sheep and goats, herds of horses, camels and yaks and, a
highlight for me, the Takhi horses. Other highlights were Karokorum and the
Ger camp we stayed in there, where a local musical group came to perform for
us specially. We also enjoyed the trips to the Singing Dunes just before the
storm came in, the Flaming Cliffs and the trek into the Yolyn Am gorge.
There had been a lot of rain and several cars got stuck on the approach, but
our drivers were great. They got us through and also helped to pull others
out. At one point, in the middle of the Gobi Desert in temperatures of 40
degrees, they replaced a broken driveshaft on our vehicle! Visiting the
gorge is billed as a walk, but there are horses to hire there, which my
partner and I chose to do. It made the trek really memorable.
Odka was very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and generally helpful. There was
one issue which she was unable to help with and said I should contact Exodus.
As we were without wifi or mobile phone signal, this wasn't possible at the
time. However, once I was able to contact the office, the issue was sorted
very promptly.
This trip is billed as 2, a leisurely to moderate trip. This is true in the
sense that there isn't much walking involved. However, there is a very great
deal of driving and some very long driving days off-road, so be aware of
this, especially if you have a back problem, as did one member of our group.
The off-road vehicles we travelled in were ok, but not that comfortable -
this is Mongolia afterall! - and the sheer amount of driving took its toll
physically. Although there was some downtime during the trip, it wasn't till
day 8 that we got a half-day to ourselves, so I wouldn't say downtime
balanced out the driving. And remember that Mongolia is 1300m above
sea-level in the capital, and we went up to 2000m elsewhere. The UK body
takes a good time to adjust to that altitude.
There was no shortage of food and we were very well fed throughout. It was
generally set meals, but the Gobi Erdene Ger Camp, where we stayed two nights
(Day 7 and 8), had a good and varied buffet option.
Read More
breath-taking and different landscapes during our visit, as well as animals
galore.
However, it's billed as 2, a leisurely to moderate trip. This is true in the
sense that there isn't much walking involved. However, there is a very great
deal of driving, most of it off-road, and some very long driving days. The
off-road vehicles we travelled in were ok, but not that comfortable - this is
Mongolia afterall! - and the sheer amount of driving took its toll.
Although there was some downtime during the trip, it wasn't till day 8 that
we got a half-day to ourselves.
And don't forget that Mongolia is 1300m above sea-level in the capital, and
we went up to 2000m elsewhere, and the UK body takes a good time to adjust to
that altitude.
This trip was a real adventure. Mongolia is a stunning country and we saw
breath-taking and different landscapes during our visit, as well as animals
galore: herds of sheep and goats, herds of horses, camels and yaks and, a
highlight for me, the Takhi horses. Other highlights were Karokorum and the
Ger camp we stayed in there, where a local musical group came to perform for
us specially. We also enjoyed the trips to the Singing Dunes just before the
storm came in, the Flaming Cliffs and the trek into the Yolyn Am gorge.
There had been a lot of rain and several cars got stuck on the approach, but
our drivers were great. They got us through and also helped to pull others
out. At one point, in the middle of the Gobi Desert in temperatures of 40
degrees, they replaced a broken driveshaft on our vehicle! Visiting the
gorge is billed as a walk, but there are horses to hire there, which my
partner and I chose to do. It made the trek really memorable.
Odka was very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and generally helpful. There was
one issue which she was unable to help with and said I should contact Exodus.
As we were without wifi or mobile phone signal, this wasn't possible at the
time. However, once I was able to contact the office, the issue was sorted
very promptly.
This trip is billed as 2, a leisurely to moderate trip. This is true in the
sense that there isn't much walking involved. However, there is a very great
deal of driving and some very long driving days off-road, so be aware of
this, especially if you have a back problem, as did one member of our group.
The off-road vehicles we travelled in were ok, but not that comfortable -
this is Mongolia afterall! - and the sheer amount of driving took its toll
physically. Although there was some downtime during the trip, it wasn't till
day 8 that we got a half-day to ourselves, so I wouldn't say downtime
balanced out the driving. And remember that Mongolia is 1300m above
sea-level in the capital, and we went up to 2000m elsewhere. The UK body
takes a good time to adjust to that altitude.
There was no shortage of food and we were very well fed throughout. It was
generally set meals, but the Gobi Erdene Ger Camp, where we stayed two nights
(Day 7 and 8), had a good and varied buffet option.
A fabulous trip to a very interesting country. Thoroughly recommended, but
please note the reservations about travelling discomforts, below.
Probably climbing the singing sand dunes. The views were astonishing.
Odka was wonderful. She never stopped smiling and she was always looking
after us and ensuring we were comfortable, well-informed, well-fed and
well-watered.
The website explains that there is a lot of travelling involved with this
trip. That is inevitable, given the size of the country and the distances
between the various places to be visited.
What is perhaps not made clear enough is the fact that the journeys in the
desert are almost entirely off-road and the distances make in necessary to
travel at quite high speeds. You can be hurtling along at 50, even nearly 60,
m.p.h. for many hours on packed sand, gravel or stone with bumps, jumps,
swerves and sudden braking. After 10 or 11 hours of this, we felt shaken, not
stirred, and had aches and pains to remind us of it.
If you go on this trip, you will see some remarkable places and have some
wonderful experiences. But do be warned about the discomforts of the
travelling. Everything else was good, great, often excellent.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
August 2018
A fabulous trip to a very interesting country. Thoroughly recommended, but
please note the reservations about travelling discomforts, below.
Probably climbing the singing sand dunes. The views were astonishing.
Odka was wonderful. She never stopped smiling and she was always looking
after us and ensuring we were comfortable, well-informed, well-fed and
well-watered.
The website explains that there is a lot of travelling involved with this
trip. That is inevitable, given the size of the country and the distances
between the various places to be visited.
What is perhaps not made clear enough is the fact that the journeys in the
desert are almost entirely off-road and the distances make in necessary to
travel at quite high speeds. You can be hurtling along at 50, even nearly 60,
m.p.h. for many hours on packed sand, gravel or stone with bumps, jumps,
swerves and sudden braking. After 10 or 11 hours of this, we felt shaken, not
stirred, and had aches and pains to remind us of it.
If you go on this trip, you will see some remarkable places and have some
wonderful experiences. But do be warned about the discomforts of the
travelling. Everything else was good, great, often excellent.
Read More
please note the reservations about travelling discomforts, below.
Probably climbing the singing sand dunes. The views were astonishing.
Odka was wonderful. She never stopped smiling and she was always looking
after us and ensuring we were comfortable, well-informed, well-fed and
well-watered.
The website explains that there is a lot of travelling involved with this
trip. That is inevitable, given the size of the country and the distances
between the various places to be visited.
What is perhaps not made clear enough is the fact that the journeys in the
desert are almost entirely off-road and the distances make in necessary to
travel at quite high speeds. You can be hurtling along at 50, even nearly 60,
m.p.h. for many hours on packed sand, gravel or stone with bumps, jumps,
swerves and sudden braking. After 10 or 11 hours of this, we felt shaken, not
stirred, and had aches and pains to remind us of it.
If you go on this trip, you will see some remarkable places and have some
wonderful experiences. But do be warned about the discomforts of the
travelling. Everything else was good, great, often excellent.
The nothingness of the desert was full of life. We just needed to be shown
it. Talking with three ladies in their own gir was such a good explanation
of a lifestyle we couldn’t fathom before this. The gir camp sites were well
run and 12/14 days we had excellent meals tho I would take some bottle of my
choice of sauce next time. The driving distances were very long on 2 days. In
11 hours you can’t have a bad back or any hint of travel sickness. I am on
my 19 th exodus trip and at 70 found these really hard work even tho it was
unimaginably interesting. My respect for the huge Mongolian empire grew and
all I wanted to see was a dinosaur...we saw bones and eggs!
The guide was of vital importance at the Naadam festival He showed how
centuries of skills were being displayed to a slowly modernising country. A
real time-warp holiday!
Naadam festival , seeing a well in the Gobi desert supplying water from
nowhere for 300 goats. The hugeness of the country.
As a young man he is learning very fast to become a caring and knowledgable
guide
Take a rain mac and factor 50! Warm pyjamas and fleece you can sleep with and
nudity.
Don’t always expect electricity ty or any internet/ phone contact. Revel in
nothingness.
Don’t do this as your first wilder exodus trip.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
August 2018
The nothingness of the desert was full of life. We just needed to be shown
it. Talking with three ladies in their own gir was such a good explanation
of a lifestyle we couldn’t fathom before this. The gir camp sites were well
run and 12/14 days we had excellent meals tho I would take some bottle of my
choice of sauce next time. The driving distances were very long on 2 days. In
11 hours you can’t have a bad back or any hint of travel sickness. I am on
my 19 th exodus trip and at 70 found these really hard work even tho it was
unimaginably interesting. My respect for the huge Mongolian empire grew and
all I wanted to see was a dinosaur...we saw bones and eggs!
The guide was of vital importance at the Naadam festival He showed how
centuries of skills were being displayed to a slowly modernising country. A
real time-warp holiday!
Naadam festival , seeing a well in the Gobi desert supplying water from
nowhere for 300 goats. The hugeness of the country.
As a young man he is learning very fast to become a caring and knowledgable
guide
Take a rain mac and factor 50! Warm pyjamas and fleece you can sleep with and
nudity.
Don’t always expect electricity ty or any internet/ phone contact. Revel in
nothingness.
Don’t do this as your first wilder exodus trip.
Read More
it. Talking with three ladies in their own gir was such a good explanation
of a lifestyle we couldn’t fathom before this. The gir camp sites were well
run and 12/14 days we had excellent meals tho I would take some bottle of my
choice of sauce next time. The driving distances were very long on 2 days. In
11 hours you can’t have a bad back or any hint of travel sickness. I am on
my 19 th exodus trip and at 70 found these really hard work even tho it was
unimaginably interesting. My respect for the huge Mongolian empire grew and
all I wanted to see was a dinosaur...we saw bones and eggs!
The guide was of vital importance at the Naadam festival He showed how
centuries of skills were being displayed to a slowly modernising country. A
real time-warp holiday!
Naadam festival , seeing a well in the Gobi desert supplying water from
nowhere for 300 goats. The hugeness of the country.
As a young man he is learning very fast to become a caring and knowledgable
guide
Take a rain mac and factor 50! Warm pyjamas and fleece you can sleep with and
nudity.
Don’t always expect electricity ty or any internet/ phone contact. Revel in
nothingness.
Don’t do this as your first wilder exodus trip.
An amazing trip to an amazing country.
The tour programme was well-planned and interesting and I enjoyed the variety
and contrast of the experiences from the busy Nadaam to the
sparsely-populated wide open spaces of the steppe and desert; the sense of
having travelled long distances during the day, followed by a reminder of how
small we are under the billions of stars in the clear night sky; and the
opportunity to enjoy the sophisticated accomplishments of the singers,
musicians and contortionists, as well as the raw beauty of the sand dunes.
Namjaa was an excellent tour leader, who was knowledgeable, calm, friendly,
good-humoured and responsive to the group's requests. For example, at our
request he organised for us to visit a nomadic family that was less used to
receiving tour groups, as well as a cashmere factory shop.
* Be prepared for some very long drives (11 hours) across bumpy tracks.
* You will not go hungry on this trip. On the contrary, the food was
plentiful (often four courses at lunch and the same again for the evening
meal) and the lunchtime and evening meals started with a delicious salad.
* Mongolia is the world's second largest producer of cashmere, so take some
extra money and treat yourself (and/or someone else) to a gorgeous, easy to
carry gift.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A
Anonymous
August 2018
An amazing trip to an amazing country.
The tour programme was well-planned and interesting and I enjoyed the variety
and contrast of the experiences from the busy Nadaam to the
sparsely-populated wide open spaces of the steppe and desert; the sense of
having travelled long distances during the day, followed by a reminder of how
small we are under the billions of stars in the clear night sky; and the
opportunity to enjoy the sophisticated accomplishments of the singers,
musicians and contortionists, as well as the raw beauty of the sand dunes.
Namjaa was an excellent tour leader, who was knowledgeable, calm, friendly,
good-humoured and responsive to the group's requests. For example, at our
request he organised for us to visit a nomadic family that was less used to
receiving tour groups, as well as a cashmere factory shop.
* Be prepared for some very long drives (11 hours) across bumpy tracks.
* You will not go hungry on this trip. On the contrary, the food was
plentiful (often four courses at lunch and the same again for the evening
meal) and the lunchtime and evening meals started with a delicious salad.
* Mongolia is the world's second largest producer of cashmere, so take some
extra money and treat yourself (and/or someone else) to a gorgeous, easy to
carry gift.
Read More
The tour programme was well-planned and interesting and I enjoyed the variety
and contrast of the experiences from the busy Nadaam to the
sparsely-populated wide open spaces of the steppe and desert; the sense of
having travelled long distances during the day, followed by a reminder of how
small we are under the billions of stars in the clear night sky; and the
opportunity to enjoy the sophisticated accomplishments of the singers,
musicians and contortionists, as well as the raw beauty of the sand dunes.
Namjaa was an excellent tour leader, who was knowledgeable, calm, friendly,
good-humoured and responsive to the group's requests. For example, at our
request he organised for us to visit a nomadic family that was less used to
receiving tour groups, as well as a cashmere factory shop.
* Be prepared for some very long drives (11 hours) across bumpy tracks.
* You will not go hungry on this trip. On the contrary, the food was
plentiful (often four courses at lunch and the same again for the evening
meal) and the lunchtime and evening meals started with a delicious salad.
* Mongolia is the world's second largest producer of cashmere, so take some
extra money and treat yourself (and/or someone else) to a gorgeous, easy to
carry gift.
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