Stories of Discovery & Wonder

13-Day Mongolia Ice & Camel Festival: Khuvsgul to Gobi Winter Adventure

Experience Mongolia’s winter extremes: frozen Khuvsgul Lake and its Ice Festival, then the Gobi’s Camel Festival, Flaming Cliffs and towering dunes in a packed 13-day cultural and geological circuit.

Ulaanbaatar, Ulaanbaatar•

13 days

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

The wind on the frozen shelf of Khuvsgul Lake cuts like a clean line; the ice dares you to step out and listen to its clear, glassy voice. Days later the same skin tightens with sun and sand at the Khongor dunes where Bactrian camels parade and local herders shape a different pace of life.

Before You Go

Dress in layers for wide temperature swings

March can bring -20°C at Khuvsgul and milder, windy days in the Gobi—use a moisture-wicking base, insulated mid-layer and windproof outer shell.

Footwear for ice and sand

Bring insulated, crampon-compatible boots for lake ice and lightweight hiking shoes for sandy dunes to prevent blisters and slips.

Carry cash and photocopies of documents

Small villages and ger camps take cash; keep passport copies separate from originals for festival check-ins and permits.

Hydration and sun protection

Thin air and reflective ice/sand increase dehydration and sun exposure—carry a thermos, sunscreen and UV sunglasses.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Deer stone clusters at Uushigiin valley—Bronze Age carved monuments off main roads
•Early morning views from the highest Khongor dune for ‘singing’ sand and sunrise contrasts

Wildlife

•Argali (wild sheep) in Gobi Gurvan Saikhan (rare sightings)
•Pikas and marmots in Yoliin Am canyon and alpine meadows

Conservation Note

Respect ger-camp waste practices and follow local guidance—fragile desert vegetation and fossil sites are vulnerable to off-trail damage.

Erdene Zuu monastery at Kharhorin stands on ruins of the 13th-century capital; Bayanzag’s Flaming Cliffs were pivotal in early 20th-century dinosaur discoveries.

What to Bring

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Insulated down parkaEssential

Keeps you warm during ice festival ceremonies and sub-zero nights in ger camps.

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Waterproof insulated bootsEssential

Necessary for walking on lake ice and protecting feet from cold and moisture.

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Daypack with hydration systemEssential

Carries layers, snacks, water and camera during hikes and festival outings.

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UV sunglasses and sunscreenEssential

Protects eyes and skin from strong UV on reflective ice and open desert.

Common Questions

How cold does it get during the Ice Festival?

Temperatures commonly range from -10°C to -25°C in early March; daytime festival activities may be milder but dress for severe cold.

What type of accommodation is provided?

Accommodations alternate between ger camps (nomadic family gers), small guesthouses and occasional overnight stays with local families; facilities are basic but warmed.

Are the festival events suitable for children?

Many events are family-friendly, but cold weather, loud ceremonies and long travel days may be challenging for very young children.

Do I need travel insurance or permits?

Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is recommended; park entrance fees and festival taxes are typically included, but check visa requirements for Mongolia in advance.