ARB 50 Year Trips

For our second international 50th anniversary trip, ARB ventured into the heart of Mongolia and the Gobi Desert, uncovering a land where ancient traditions meet untamed landscapes.

From the bustling streets of Ulaanbaatar to the sweeping steppes, rugged mountains, and vast desert dunes, this journey pushed adventure to a whole new level. Dusty trails, endless horizons, and nights spent under star-filled skies reminded us what true off road exploration is all about.

Each day offered something extraordinary – sharing meals with nomadic families, climbing the towering “singing” dunes, and tracing the path of ancient explorers across the desert’s fiery red cliffs.

Want to see how the adventure unfolded? Explore the full Mongolia itinerary below and discover each day’s highlights!

DAY 1: ULAANBAATAR → ELSEN

Leaving the bustle of Ulaanbaatar behind, the convoy ventured west toward the Khugnu Khan mountains and the golden dunes of Elsen Tasarkhai. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the group arrived at Khugnu Khan Ger Camp some 300km later, where warm showers, hearty meals, and a traditional Mongolian barbecue cooked with red-hot stones awaited. From camel rides through the dunes to learning local customs, this first leg of the journey set the tone for an unforgettable adventure through Mongolia’s wild heart.

ARB Tip: Stock up on groceries and water in Ulaanbaatar and make sure you have a reliable GPS and recovery gear before you begin your journey.

DAY 2: ELSEN → ONGI MONASTERY

Today’s 320km route crosses vast plains and corrugated tracks, so good suspension is a must. A coffee stop at Khaan Buuz near Elsen Tasarkhai offered a taste of Mongolia’s famed steamed dumplings, before refuelling at Saikhanovoo village and heading south to the historic Ongi Monastery. The day ended at Ongi History Camp with a traditional dinner and lively folk show.

ARB Tip: Try airag (fermented horse milk) for a traditional local experience and refuel whenever possible as fuel stops are few and far between.

DAY 3: ONGI MONASTERY → BAYANZAG (FLAMING CLIFFS)

Heading approx. 200km deeper into the Gobi, we reach Bayanzag, famous for its Flaming Cliffs – a spectacular red-sandstone formation renowned for its dinosaur fossil discoveries. Stop by the Flaming Cliffs Visitors Centre before arriving at Mongol Gobi Camp, which was our base for the night. If you have time, visit some nearby attractions such as Yol Valley known for its year-round ice formations and Khermen Tsav, which is a remote canyon with striking geological formations. As night falls, stargazing here is unmatched, with the desert sky putting on a dazzling display.

ARB Tip: Pack good walking shoes and spend the afternoon exploring the cliffs on foot, taking in the fiery hues that inspired their name.

DAY 4: BAYANZAG (FLAMING CLIFFS) → HONGOR CAMP

A shorter but unforgettable drive today took us to the Khongor Sand Dunes, known as the “Singing Dunes” for the sound they make when the wind shifts the sand. Enjoy a camel ride across the dunes or test your fitness with a climb to the summit for panoramic desert views. We checked into Gobi Erdene Camp, perfectly positioned for sunrise and sunset views and as night fell, we were fuelled with dinner and conversation around camp as the perfect way to round out the day.

ARB Tip: Navigation can be tricky so ensure your GPS is fully functional.

DAY 5: HONGOR CAMP → ULAANBAATAR

An early departure saw the convoy begin the long 800km return journey to Ulaanbaatar, make sure you air up your tyres as most of the route back is on asphalt roads. Along the way, stop at the Vultures’ Nest viewpoint or grab a bite at a local café near Dalanzadgad before continuing north. Recommended pit stops include Baga Gazariin Chuluu, where striking rock formations rise among grazing herds, or Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa), an impressive eroded cliff that resembles the ruins of an ancient city.

ARB Tip: As the expedition draws to a close, find time to celebrate wrapping up five incredible days across Mongolia’s diverse landscapes.

Experience the Mongolia journey through our lens and see what adventure looks like in one of the world’s most remote places!

MONGOLIA

THE TRIP

DAY 1: ULAANBAATAR → ELSEN

DAY 2: ELSEN → ONGI MONASTERY

DAY 3: ONGI MONASTERY → BAYANZAG (FLAMING CLIFFS)

DAY 4: BAYANZAG (FLAMING CLIFFS) → HONGOR CAMP

DAY 5: HONGOR CAMP → ULAANBAATAR

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