The northernmost and closest sand dune areas to Ulaanbaatar are located at Arburd Sands in Bayan-Onjuul soum. It is a striking area of nomads, steppes and sudden sands dunes. Some 35 km away are also the Zorgol Hairhan Uul, gigantic rock formations rising from  the steppe. This is also the habitat of Argali Sheep and sometimes also Siberian Ibex.

In all, the Arburd Sands area is a half-day drive away from the capital and a natural Gobi escape. Nomadic Journeys has a low impact ger camp here, Arburd Sands Ger Camp. It is owned and operated by a local family who also regularly operate our Camel Treks and Gobi Steppe Rides. They are also famous horse trainers who participate in the annual Naadam Games. Their herd of horses is large and offers a good selection for both the amateur and the competent rider.

Location

The area is in the transition zone of Gobi steppes and regular steppe.

Activities

Dayhikes: From the camp you can walk or hike out into the dunes. Arburd Sands is around 20km long and is also a wolf hideout. Pugmarks of wolves can usually be identified. You may order a picnic lunch from camp and make day hikes in any direction. The steppe area is also a fascinating place to venture, since numerous herdsmen inhabit the area with their livestock. Included in trip cost.

Horse riding: Riding is exceptionally good here, since our hosts in the area belong to one of the most famous horse trainer families in Mongolia. Hourly, half day and full day rides are organized with local horsemen at an additional cost. Picnic lunch can be provided from the camp. Serious riders are best advised to bring their own hardhat and short chaps. Full day rides should be preordered.

Additional trips: Should you wish to consider a more in-depth trip in the area, please consult the Gobi Steppe Ride or the Camel Trek itineraries, which also include a stay at Arburd Sands. However, on these trips camping is also involved. Please ask for details on these trips.

Low Impact Ger Camp

Nomadic Journeys is committed to the principles of Responsible Tourism. We have entered into a concession agreement with the Bayan-Önjuul soum administration to bring  additional jobs into the area based on traditional livelihoods. These involve provision of camel carts, riding camels, packhorses, riding horses and labor. The camp purchases milk from the nearby herders. There is a maximum capacity of 28 guests in double occupancy gers. Vehicles are parked a short walk away from the gers. The entire camp is fully collapsible and does not have shower or WC blocks. The toilets are long drop style allowing for natural decomposition. Showers are organized in a small ger with hot water by portable showers.  All trash is separated. The camp can be relocated leaving no more impact on the area than a herdsman family would.  Arburd Sands Ger Camp is indeed a fully collapsible hotel.

Transfers

Operates on Tuesdays and Fridays and are thus subsidized as shared with staff. Departs 09:00 from UB and returns 14:00 from camp.  You may at all times order a private transfer at any time suitable to you. The drive from Ulaanbaatar to Arburd Sands with a 4WD vehicle is 3-4 hours.  The drive south is over treeless steppes.

Prices & Practicalities

Includes: All meals outside Ulaanbaatar. All overnights in double occupancy ger. Transfer to and from camp on scheduled dates.

Excludes: Laundry, imported drinks. Arrival and departure transfers and hotel nights in Ulaanbaatar.

Children: 1-4 years free. 5-12 years 50%.

DATES ex Ulaanbaatar
Every Tuesday and Friday 16May-26Sep

Transfer schedule: Tuesday/ Friday

from UB: 09:00
from camp: 14:00