Things to Do in Mongolia That You Won't Find in Any Travel Guides

Nestled between the vast expanses of Siberia and the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, Mongolia is a land of breathtaking contrasts and untamed beauty. Known as the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky,” it boasts over 250 sunny days a year, offering travelers a stunning backdrop of endless steppes, soaring mountains, and shimmering lakes.

But Mongolia is more than just a feast for the eyes; it’s a country rich in history, culture, and tradition. Here, nomadic herders still roam the landscape, preserving a way of life that has endured for centuries.

In this blog, we’ll dive into some of the most exciting things to do in Mongolia—perfect for families, adventurers, and anyone seeking to experience the true magic of this remarkable destination.

Things to do in Mongolia for a true taste of Nomadic life

Attend Naadam Festival

The origins of Nadaam can be traced back to the 13th century during the time of Genghis Khan. It was initially a military training event where warriors would demonstrate their skills. Over the centuries, it evolved into a national celebration, reflecting the spirit of independence and the resilience of the Mongolian people.

Celebrated on July 11th and 12th each year, the Naadam Festival coincides with Mongolia’s National Day, commemorating the country’s independence.

At its core, Nadaam is a celebration of Mongolia’s traditional sports: wrestling, horse racing, and archery. These activities are referred to as the “Three Manly Sports” and showcase the strength, skill, and endurance that are highly valued in Mongolian culture.

Attending Nadaam is truly one of the most unique things to do in Mongolia as the festival is a time for people to come together. They wear traditional attire (called deel), and participate in various cultural activities, including music, dance, and food.

In recent years, Nadaam has become a major attraction for tourists, offering them a unique glimpse into Mongolian culture and traditions.

Double Hump Bactrian Camel Ride

There’s nothing quite like a double hump Bactrian camel ride through the mesmerizing Gobi Desert. The double-hump Bactrian camel is one of Mongolia’s most iconic animals, perfectly adapted to the harsh and arid conditions of the Gobi Desert.

Climbing onto one of these gentle giants feels like stepping into a storybook. As the sun sets behind the dunes, the golden sand shimmers, and you can feel the rhythm of the camel’s gait beneath you. 

As you ride deeper into the heart of the Gobi, you might encounter a herd of wild gazelles darting across the landscape, or perhaps catch a glimpse of an eagle soaring overhead. The desert is alive with unexpected wonders, and you’ll feel a sense of adventure with every twist and turn.

It’s a magical experience that connects you with the nomadic spirit of Mongolia and hence deserves a special place in our list of things to do in Mongolia.

Visit the Dinosaur Excavation Site in Yol Valley

Yol Valley, located in the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, is not just known for its stunning ice-filled gorge that remains frozen even in summer, but also for its incredible contributions to paleontology. This remote and rugged part of the Gobi Desert is a treasure trove of fossils dating back to the Cretaceous Period, around 80-100 million years ago. 

The area became famous in the early 20th century when American explorer Roy Chapman Andrews led expeditions here, uncovering fossilized dinosaur eggs and skeletons. Andrews’ discoveries were groundbreaking and earned the Gobi a reputation as one of the richest fossil beds in the world. 

Imagine walking on the same grounds where dinosaurs once roamed, surrounded by towering cliffs and dramatic landscapes that have changed little since the age of the dinosaurs. The terrain itself is wild and awe-inspiring—vast, rocky, and desolate, with an otherworldly atmosphere that heightens the feeling of adventure.

Visitors may even have the opportunity to see fossilized dinosaur eggs and bones, carefully preserved in the sediment for millions of years. There are also guided tours led by local paleontologists or experts, who can explain the significance of the finds. Whether you’re with kids, who will be thrilled by the sheer idea of dinosaurs, or a solo traveler fascinated by history, this is truly one of the most unique things to do in Mongolia.

Stargazing in Gobi Desert

The Gobi Desert is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. With its remote location and minimal light pollution, the night sky here reveals itself to be truly breathtaking. After a day of exploring the desert’s rugged landscapes, you settle down at your ger camp, where the day’s heat has given way to the crisp, cool air of the evening.

If you ask me, you are not doing yourself justice if you don’t check off stargazing in the desert from the list of things to do in Mongolia. With no artificial lights around, the Milky Way stretches across the sky like a shimmering river of stars. You might even spot shooting stars streaking across the sky, adding a touch of magic to an already awe-inspiring sight. Some evenings, the Gobi’s crystal-clear air allows you to see planets like Jupiter and Saturn, or even the craters of the moon, with incredible clarity. 

Stargazing in the Gobi Desert is a magical experience, and it’s even more special when combined with staying in a traditional ger camp.

In the Gobi, time slows down, and the vastness of the sky feels almost infinite. Imagine lying under a blanket of stars, far from city lights, with nothing but the quiet hum of the desert night and the flickering glow of your cozy ger in the distance. How could you ever deprive yourself of such a breathtaking experience?

Spend a Day with a Camel Herdsman Family

Last but not – in any way- least thing to do in Mongolia to experience the true nomad life is spending a day with a camel herdsman family. It’s a journey into a lifestyle that has remained largely unchanged for centuries, offering you a glimpse into the daily routines and traditions of Mongolian nomadic life.

Imagine arriving at a remote ger camp in the Gobi Desert, where the wide, open plains stretch as far as the eye can see. A Mongolian herdsman and his family greet you with smiles, dressed in their traditional deel (Mongolian robes). 

Their home, a circular ger (also known as a yurt), stands sturdy against the vast, windswept landscape. Stepping inside, you’re welcomed with Mongolian milk tea—a warm, slightly salty beverage that’s central to the nomadic lifestyle—along with aaruul (dried curd snacks) or other homemade treats. 

You might also help with household tasks, like collecting firewood or preparing traditional meals. Cooking with the herder family is an experience in itself. Imagine learning to make buuz, traditional steamed dumplings, or a hearty dish like khorkhog, where mutton and vegetables are cooked with hot stones inside a sealed container. 

Despite the differences in your backgrounds, you’ll feel a deep connection to the family, bonded by the simplicity of shared human experiences—laughter, hard work, and hospitality. They’ll teach you not just about survival in the desert, but also about the profound peace and beauty of nomadic life.

This experience is perfect for families looking for authentic cultural immersion, making it one of the best things to do in Mongolia with kids as well.

So, what are you waiting for? Mongolia is calling your name! Whether you’re riding double-humped camels across the Gobi Desert, sharing stories around a campfire in a cozy ger, or marveling at the stars in a sky so clear it feels like you can reach out and touch the constellations, each moment here is a chance to create lasting memories.

The wild beauty of Mongolia awaits, and it’s time for you to explore its wonders. And what better way to do it than with Adventures Overland? So gather your family, embrace your adventurous spirit, and set out on an unforgettable journey to this magnificent land with us.