We will begin the route at the New “Genghis” Khan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar (inaugurated on July 3rd, 2021, located 52 km / 32.3 miles away, about +2 hours’ drive depending on traffic), capital of Mongolia, with a warm welcome from the Samar Magic Tours team. This is one of the most fascinating routes in Mongolia. Afterwards, departure towards the N/E to visit the Equestrian Great Statue of Genghis Khan. At the base of the statue, visitors can see the replica of the Great Khan’s legendary golden whip. Tourists may take the elevator inside the statue, with the exit located at the height of Genghis Khan’s thighs, from where it is possible to walk up to the horse’s head and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the steppe. We will also visit a small Bronze Age Museum, located in the basement of the Equestrian Statue of Genghis Khan. Then, departure towards the N/E to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, located 1,600 meters above sea level, with high Mesozoic granite rock formations, mountains, steppes, alpine forests, and large rock formations of curious shapes from the Mesozoic era, such as the Turtle Rock. The Park was declared a National Park in 1993 and covers an area of 300,000 hectares. Later, departing, heading WEST to attend an Authentic Mongolian Nomadic Show, which demonstrates the traditional lifestyle of Mongolia’s nomads: the breeding and use of five types of livestock, moving from one place to another using ox carts, yaks, camels, and horses. A large part of Mongolia’s population still maintains a nomadic lifestyle, moving from place to place on horseback, camel, or yak, with their Gers and herds. An occasional encounter with one of these families and their way of life is an unforgettable experience. We emphasize that, in order to truly enjoy this, it is necessary to accept in advance the conditions previously described, let go of preconceived notions of how things “should” be according to our mentality, and remain open to what this country has to offer.
