Things to do in South Gobi Desert
Discover the best attractions and experiences South Gobi Desert has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient and paleontological highlights that frame the Gobi's rich history.
Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs
Famed red sandstone cliffs where major dinosaur fossils were discovered in the 1920s.
Gobi Ovoos
Traditional stone cairns on hilltops used by nomads for blessings and rites.
Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa)
A dramatic multi-layered cliff offering sweeping desert views and striking colors.
Museums
Learn about the desert’s natural and cultural history at a few compact venues.
Gobi Desert Museum
A compact museum near Dalanzadgad highlighting the desert’s fossils, flora, fauna, and geology.
Dalanzadgad Local History Museum
Exhibits on nomadic life and the south Gobi region’s heritage.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites and religious landmarks connected to nomadic and Buddhist traditions in the desert.
Gobi Ovoos
Traditional cairns on hilltops; visit with respect to observe local spiritual practices.
Ovoos along the Gobi desert routes
Series of sacred cairns perched along desert ridges observed by travelers.
National & Theme Parks
Lose yourself in the raw beauty of the Gobi’s protected landscapes and dramatic dunes.
Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
A vast park known for towering dunes, canyons, and striking desert scenery.
Khongoryn Els (Singing Dunes)
Iconic wind-sculpted dunes where caravans and visitors ride camels.
Yolyn Am Gorge
A narrow canyon with a year-round ice pool and dramatic cliffs.
Neighborhoods
Base towns and notable areas for a desert itinerary.
Dalanzadgad
Provincial capital and gateway to the south Gobi’s camps and sights.
Bayandalai Soum Area
Rural area offering proximity to the dunes and desert landscapes.
Free Things to Do
Experience the desert’s magic with edge-of-camp adventures that require little planning.
Stargazing in the South Gobi
Clear desert skies reveal a glittering Milky Way away from light pollution.
Sunrise at Khongoryn Els
Watch the dunes glow as the first light hits the sands.
Hike to Yolyn Am viewpoint
Short hikes offer canyon views and wildlife watching.
Gastronomy
Try classic Mongolian desert dishes and nomadic specialties.
Khorkhog
Mutton cooked in a sealed pot with hot stones for a smoky, rich flavor.
Buuz
Steamed dumplings filled with meat and herbs, a desert staple.
Airag
Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional refreshment for travelers.
Nightlife
Evening experiences around desert camps and starlit skies.
Desert campfire with traditional music
Evening songs, stories, and music around a warm campfire.
Moonlit camel ride
Silent ride under a starry desert night.
Stargazing evenings at a ger camp
Relaxed night under an expansive Milky Way.
Entertainment
Active experiences and cultural performances.
Camel riding along the dunes
Longer camel trek to explore the desert landscapes.
Traditional Mongolian music and throat singing
Live performances at a desert camp.
Desert photography session
Golden hour photography along dunes and canyons.
Sports
Adventure activities suited to the arid environment.
Camel trekking
Multi-hour or full-day camel rides across dunes.
Hiking Yolyn Am Gorge
Trail to canyon viewpoints and ice pools.
Sand sledding on Khongoryn Els
Slide down the sun-warmed dunes for fun.
Off the Track
Immersive, low-touristy experiences with nomadic hosts.
Overnight in a traditional ger camp
Experience nomadic hospitality and desert life.
Nomadic family homestay visit
Learn about daily life, herding and cooking.
Remote desert jeep safari
Exploring less-visited dunes and rock formations.