Mongolia Private

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     Wild Mongolia 

    Ulaanbatar - Hustain Nuruu NP - Hovsgol Lake - Gun Galuut Nature Reserv

    obi - Yol Valley NP - Naadam Festival - Moltsog Els - Flaming Cliffs + Extensi

    Private Expedition with Multiple Extensions and Customizable 

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    MurunUlgii

    Gun Galuut NPHustain Nuruu NP

    Hovsgol Lake

    Yol Valley NP

    Flaming Cliffs

    Rural Naadam

    Ulaanbaatar

     Three Camel Lodge (Gobi)

    Itinerary In Brief & Map

    Day 1: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar. Meet and greet by your local Master

    Guide, then transfer to check in at the centrally located Best Western

    Tuushin Hotel , Deluxe room. Meals Aloft.

    Day 2: Explore Ulaanbaatar in detail, including the Gandan Monastery,

    the National History Museum, and the Bogd Gegen Palace, before

    your welcome dinner. (B, L, D)

    Day 3: Drive one hour to Hustain Nurru National Park, stopping for

    birding along the way. Once at the Park, look for Przewalski’s or

    Takhi Horses and other wildlife, accompanied by a local naturalist.

    Overnight at ger camp. (B, L, D)

    Day 4: Drive to Ulaanbaatar and fly to Murun (1.5 hours). Drive 2.5

    hours to the beautiful Lake Hovsgol, stopping along the way to visit

    the Uushiggin Deer Stones and for wildlife observation. Enjoy a

    short and easy hike to the lake to look for more wildlife, observe the

    amazing local flora and meet nomad families. Overnight at a lakeside

    ger camp. (B, L, D)

    Day 5: Horse trek (optional) through the breathtaking Sariday

    Mountains and gain superb overviews of the Blue Pearl Lake. Meet a

    local family, enjoy a boat ride on the lake, and then participate in a ger

    building demonstration. You will be looking for a local shaman also.

    Overnight at Lakeside ger camp. (B, L, D)

    Day 6: Drive back to Murun stopping for wildlife observation and then

    fly back to Ulaanbaatar. Visit the Zanabazar Fine Arts Museum and

    then enjoy dinner at a fine restaurant. Overnight at the Best Western

    Tuushin Hotel, Deluxe Room. (B, L, D)

    Day 7: Enjoy a full day exploration of the Gun Galuut Nature Reserve

    Start with an easy hike to look for the endangered argali sheep

    white-naped crane, and much other wildlife. Enjoy lunch and then sa

    on the Kherlen River, looking for wildlife and cultural encounters. (B

    L, D)

    Day 8: In the early morning, fly to the Gobi (1.5-hour flight). Upon

    arrival, drive to the Yol Valley National Park to look for argali sheepSiberian ibex, and some native bird species. Drive to the award

    winning Three Camel Lodge. Dinner and overnight at the lodge afte

    a complete lecture about the Gobi. (B, L, D)

    Day 9: Explore the “Singing Sands” dunes in the morning. Visi

    Havtsgait Valley in the evening if time and energy permits, there

    you will see ancient rock drawing left by the early Gobi. Overnight at

    Three Camel Lodge. (B, L, D)

    Day 10: Early drive to the famous Flaming Cliffs, where you will board

    two-humped camels and ride towards some of the best archeologica

    sites (it is here that Dr. Roy Chapman discovered the first dinosau

    eggs the world had ever seen). You will then continue to Moltsog Els

    one of the few areas fully covered by sand in the Gobi. Overnight a

    Three Camel Lodge. (B, L, D)

    Day 11: Fly back to Ulaanbaatar and check in at the hotel. Enjoy some

    free time in the city (our hotel is centrally located) to photograph

    shop, and visit some cultural sites. In the evening, enjoy a farewel

    dinner with Mongolian dances and Khoomi (throat) singers. (B, D)

    Day 12: Transfer to the airport and fly back home.

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    Day 1: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar 

    Upon arrival in the Ulaanbaatar airport, you will be greeted by your Master Guide transferred to the 5 star

    Best Western Tuushin Hotel, ideally located less than a block away from the Great Chinggis Khaan Square,Government House, Opera House, Central Culture Palace and the Central Tower. Plenty of restaurants and

    shopping centers are within walking distance.

    The contrast between ancient traditions and a 21st-century democracy is most visible in Ulaanbaatar, where

    traditional gers and Buddhist monasteries sit side by side with modern high-rises. The rest of the day is used

    to recuperate from the flights and prepare for the adventures ahead.

    Overnight: Deluxe Room, Best Western Tuushin Hotel (Meals aloft)

    Day 2: Ulaanbaatar 

    After breakfast, you’ll visit Gandan Monastery, the seat of Buddhism in Mongolia. Woven through Mongolia’s

    nomadic culture is a rich Tibetan-Buddhist tradition with ancient shamanist practices still evident as well.

    Hundreds of Buddhist monasteries were destroyed during the Stalinist purges of the 1930s. Gandan, however,

    survived and continued to operate as a “showpiece” for government officials.

    In the afternoon, visit the National History Museum for an excellent overview of Mongolia’s history and culture

    The newly remodeled museum displays traditional implements of daily nomadic life including Stone and Bronze

    Expedition

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    Age artifacts, historical costumes of Mongolia’s minority tribes, sacred religious relics, as well as agricultural

    fishing and hunting equipment.

    Next, visit the Bogd Gegen Palace, home of Mongolia’s last theocrat, Bogd Jabtzan Damba Hutagt VIII, which

    displays elaborate ceremonial robes and other personal effects of Mongolia’s ‘8th Living Buddha.’

    In the evening, you will enjoy a traditional welcome dinner.

    Overnight: Deluxe Room, Best Western Tuushin Hotel (B, L, D)

    Day 3: Hustain Nuruu National Park 

    In the morning you will drive to Hustain Nuruu National Park, scanning the steppe en route for your first

    demoiselle cranes, cinereous vultures, and steppe eagles. Hustain is home to the last remaining species of wild

    horse, the takhi–also known as Przewalski’s horse.

    In 1994, twenty-five years after they became extinct in the wild, the takhi was reintroduced into the wild

    from zoo populations by the Foundation for the Preservation and Protection of the Przewalski’s Horse, a

    Dutch organization, which flew 16 horses from the Netherlands to Mongolia. Now, nearly 400 horses roam re

    introduction sites. After getting settled, you’ll make your first attempt to find some of these beautiful animals

    In addition to hosting the world’s largest wild herd of takhi, Hustain contains a great expanse of steppe that

    exists in a relatively undisturbed state and contains a nice variety of other habitats that make for good birding

    The abundance of marmots and smaller rodents often results in a nice variety of raptors such as upland buzzards

    saker falcons, and two or more species of eagles. You’ll always be on the lookout for takhi, of course, and you’l

    learn more about the status of the herds and the current conservation programs in the park.

    Overnight: Local Ger Camp (B, L, D)

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    Day 4: To Hovsgol Lake 

    In the morning, you will drive to the airport for your flight to Northern Mongolia. You will fly north to Murun (1.5

    hours), the capital of Hovsgol Province, and then continue overland to Lake Hovsgol (approximately a 2.5 hours

    drive with dust and bumps). En route, you will stop to visit Uushgiin Deer Stones, one of the best-preserved

    monuments of its kind in Mongolia. Dating back thousands of years, the Uushigiin Deer Stones are comprised of

    14 magnificently preserved deer stones, lined from north to south and often referred to as the “graveyard of

    deer stones.” The front stone is carved with a human face on top and is the only one to have been found.

    Awareness of the Uushigiin Deer Stones has increased recently as a result of the Smithsonian Institute’s

    research work at the site.

    Continue your drive to Lake Hovsgol. Mongolia’s largest lake by water volume, Hovsgol extends 85 miles in

    length and 18 miles in width. It is over 800 feet deep and contains 1-2% of the world fresh water. Though

    fed by over 90 rivers and streams, water exits the lake only through the Egiin River, which eventually flows

    into Lake Baikal in neighboring Siberia. Known as Mongolia’s “dark blue pearl,” Hovsgol remains untouched by

    industry and is situated among the most pristine forests, mountains, and meadows in the world. Birdlife and

    wildflowers abound, and you will have ample time to discover the lake’s secrets today. Your camp is surrounded

    by forest and sited between the main lake and a smaller pond with nesting horned grebes and other specialties

    of this boreal “taiga” eco-region.

    Spend the rest of the evening exploring the lakeshore on foot. Overnight in a lakeside ger camp.

    Overnight: Local Ger Camp. (B, L, D)

    Day 5: Hovsgol Lake

    Spend the morning horse trekking through the breathtakingly scenic Khoridal Saridag Mountains, bordering

    the western shore of Lake Hovsgol, where you will gain spectacular views of the lake from the mountaintop

    (vehicles will be available for those who do not want to ride).

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    You will then meet local nomadic families, learn details of their customs and traditions and to experience thei

    hospitality. You will look for a local shaman to gain insight into their ancient beliefs. There will also be the

    opportunity to kayak or enjoy a boat ride on the lake.

    In the late afternoon, you will enjoy a ger building demonstration, a traditional Mongolian dwelling. This activity

    will provide superb photo opportunities.

    Overnight: Local Ger Camp. (B, L, D)

    Day 6: Morning Birding and Ulaanbaatar Fine Arts 

    Today you will return to Murun for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar. On the way (if the flight time permits), you

    will stop at a lake that typically teems with waterfowl including specialties such as whooper swan, swan goose

    and ruddy shelduck.

    On arrival in Ulaanbaatar, visit Zanabazar Fine Arts Museum. Named in honor of Zanabazar, the renowned 17th-

    century artist and politician, who was also the first Buddhist leader of Mongolia, the museum contains one of

    the best collections of Buddhist art and artifacts in the world, including many of Zanabazar’s original works.

    Dinner at a local restaurant.

    Overnight: Deluxe Room, Best Western Tuushin Hotel. (B, L, D)

    Day 7: Gun Galuut Nature Reserve 

    After an early breakfast, you will head east from Ulaanbaatar. Though only two and a half hours from the

    capital, the recently established Gun Galuut Nature Reserve contains an extraordinarily beautiful River valley

    and mountain range surrounded by rolling steppe. Among the special natural attractions, you will hope to find

    here are a small population of the endangered argali sheep and the extraordinarily graceful white-naped crane

    which is even less common. There is also a chain of small lakes likely to hold an interesting variety of shorebirds

    and other water birds at this season.

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    You will enjoy an easy hike within the Gun Galuut Valley in search of argali or Marco Polo sheep and other

    wildlife, guided by the resident biologist of the reserve.

    After your hike, you may enjoy some splashing in the Kherlen River before your picnic lunch. You will then board

    your kayaks to float leisurely back to your bus, looking for birds and possibly meeting a nomadic family and

    their horses. We have chosen a slow-moving, flat water sector of the river for this activity. It is calm enough

    that your Master Guide will carry his basic camera gear on board. If you would not like to kayak, your 4x4’s will

    be available.

    Return to Ulaanbaatar (2.5 hours) for dinner at the hotel and an overnight stay with western style comforts.

    Overnight: Deluxe Room, Best Western Tuushin Hotel. (B, L, D)

    Day 8: To the Gobi, Yol Valley National Park 

    In the early morning, you fly south over vast steppe to the Gobi (1.5 hours), Mongolia’s southernmost province

    of the semi-arid desert. The Gobi holds many fascinations including sites of some of the most important

    paleontological discoveries of this century.

    Upon arrival, you will head for Yol Valley National Park, cradled within the Gurvansaikan (Three Beauties) range

    of the Altai Mountains. One reason to arrive early is to have the best chance to see the local herd of argali sheep

    and Siberian ibex while they are still foraging within view. Another is to take advantage of some of Mongolia’s

    best birding for species such as Pere’ David’s snow finch, Koslov’s accentor, wallcreepers, beautiful Rosefinch,

    and many others. You will then drive to the award-winning Three Camel Lodge.

    In the evening, if time and energy permits, you’ll drive to Khavtsgait Valley (45 minutes), site of ancient rock

    drawings left by early Gobi settlers more than 15,000-40,000 years ago. Hundreds of petroglyphs adorn rocks

    scattered on the top of the mountain.

    Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

    Overnight: Deluxe Ger, Three Camel Lodge. (B, L, D)

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    Day 9: Hongoryn Els/ Three Camel Lodge 

    Today you begin exploring the dunes known as the “Singing Sands” for the remarkable low-pitched groan that

    is emitted when the surface is disturbed by wind. We will have the opportunity to visit a camel-herding family

    and those who are interested can explore the area on the back of a Bactrian camel. Drive to the Three Came

    Lodge after lunch (4 hours).

    In the evening, if time and energy permits, drive to the Havtsgait Valley, site of ancient rock drawings left by

    early Gobi settlers for more than 15,000-40,000 years ago. Hundreds of petroglyphs adorn rocks scattered on

    the top of the mountain.

    Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

    Overnight: Deluxe Ger, Three Camel Lodge. (B, L, D)

    Day 10: Moltsog Els and Flaming Cliffs 

    In the morning visit Moltsog Els, one of the few areas covered by sand in the Gobi. This is also your opportunity

    to ride Mongolia’s two-humped camels.

    In the late afternoon travel to the legendary “Flaming Cliffs,” named for the red-orange sandstone that glows

    brilliantly at sunrise and sunset. It was here, in 1922 that Dr. Roy Chapman Andrews and his exploration teamdiscovered the first dinosaur eggs the world had ever seen and the fossil beds of the Gobi continue to produce

    an extraordinary variety of Cretaceous animal life including species new to science. One must not expect to see

    T. Rex skeletons protruding from the cliff face, but we usually manage to find a few ancient bone fragments.

    The Mongolian name for this area is Bayan Zag, which refers to an expanse of saxaul forest growing near the

    cliffs. This characteristic small desert tree is the foundation of a unique (increasingly threatened) habitat with

    some endemic species, and you will take time to explore it a bit.

    Overnight: Deluxe Ger, Three Camel Lodge. (B, L, D)

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    Day 11: Ulaanbaatar 

    You will depart very early this morning and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Enjoy the

    afternoon at your leisure. Your hotel is close to great craft shopping, cultural sites, and the most iconic buildings

    of the city. Lunch is independent.

    In the evening, you’ll watch a performance featuring traditional Mongolian dancers and khoomi (throat) singers

    followed by a farewell dinner at another excellent local restaurant.

    Overnight: Deluxe Room, Best Western Tuushin Hotel. (B, D)

    Day 12: Departure 

    After breakfast, transfer to the airport to take your homeward flight.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Extensions (Call us for details: 888 832 7280) 

     Altai Eagles (Post)

    Day 1:  Arrive in Ulaanbaatar.Day 2:  Fly to Olguii. Explore.Day 3:  Full day with Golden Eagle families.Day 4:  Fly to Ulaanbaatar. Join the Main MongoliaExpedition.

    NOTE:  If you would like to receive the pre-extensiondetails, please contact your Travel Agent orcall us at1-888-832-7280.

    ExtensionsKarakorum: Add threedays and visit the originalsite of the Mongol Capital.

    Siberia’s Lake Baikal:

    Add six days of nature andculture adventures, start-ing in Irkutsk.

    More: Add a few days inBeijing or Seoul, or takethe Trans Siberian train.Call us for more options.

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    Departures:  This expedition can depart on the day of your preference, between the last week of May tmid-September. Because we use the best ger camps and hotels, booking in advance is highly recommended.

    2016 Main Expedition Prices in private services for your party of 2 and up: Price: US$ 8211.00 (P/p based on double occupancy)Single supplement: US$ 1622.00Domestic Air: US$ 857.00Discount: Book 4 or more together and get US$ 500.00 discount per person

    2017 Main Expedition Prices in private services for your party of 2 and up:Price: US$ 8550.00 (P/p based on double occupancy)Single supplement: US$ 1695.00

    Domestic Air: US$ 908.00Discount: Book 4 or more together and get US$ 500.00 discount per person

    Note: All prices are in US$, per person, and based on double occupancy.

    Note 2: 2017 prices are estimated at the moment. If prices increase more than 5% over what is advertised hereregistered participants may cancel without penalties.

    Note 3: These prices do not apply for departures that meet the Naadam festival. if you would like to include aNaadam festival surcharges may apply. We recommend that you join our small-group fixed departure for NaadamCall your Travel Agent or us for details.

    Incl ud ed: 

    • Services of English-speaking local Head Guide.• Services of local guides.• All ground transportation (including airport transfers)• Window seats guaranteed when using 4x4.• Accommodations as noted.• All sightseeing, entrance fees, and visits as noted.• Meals as noted.

    • Bottled water at included meals, transfers and tours.• Services of transfer assistants, drivers, and local staff.• Gratuities for luggage porters, transfer assistants and restaurant staff.

     

    Not Included: 

    • International flights.• Excess baggage charges.• Gratuity for Local Head Guide and Driver.• Personal expenses and incidentals, such as, but not limited to, phone calls, e-mail, and laundry.• Trip cancellation, travel delay, and baggage loss insurance.

    Departures & Prices

     Join Us Now! 

    This is an opportunityreserved for just a few.

    Because we use thebest small ger camps,early booking is very

    important! To book contact us at: 

    888 832 7280

    [email protected] 

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    Important Note 

    The Wild Mongolia Expedition has been crafted in detail, following the ideal pacing for the destinationHowever, unpredictable circumstances such as weather, flight delays or cancelations, labor strikesroad conditions, traffic, hotel over-bookings, and other factors may force adjusting the program onsite. These events or realities are out of our control and an inherent risk when traveling, specially onexpeditions to this kind of remote destinations. Your Master Guides might also decide to alter theprogram in case opportunities to improve the cultural or wildlife experiences are found. Please notethat the Master Guides and hotels could change without notice due to unforeseen circumstances. Norefunds will be given for program changes beyond the control of New Paths Expeditions.

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    Expedition DetailsOur expeditions are designed for those who share our enthusiasm for discovering out-of-the- ordinary destinations

    The rewards of visiting a seldom-explored country require not only the spirit of adventure, but flexibility, and a

    willingness to accept local standards of amenities and services.

    Group Size 

    This expedition is private for you and your travel party.

    It may depart with 2 or more participants.

    We offer considerable discounts for booking of 4 or more participants (Please check the price page of this booklet)

     

    Customizable 

    This is itinerary has been crafted in detail, and we are convinced that it is the best possible Mongolia experience in

    the proposed time-frame. Despite the last, we would be glad to adapt it to your interests and needs. Through the

    decades that we have been operating expeditions in Mongolia we have done it all: Archeology focus trips, hardcore

    birdwatching, private plane luxury trips, multi-day hiking and horseback riding and even scientific expeditions in

    search of the elusive Snow Leopard.

    Please call us now if you would like to customize the itinerary.

    Guidance 

    All our private expeditions are guided by NPE’s selected Local Master Guides. All guides have no less than ten

    years of experience, are certified in guidance and first aids, most have master degrees, an impeccable record ofguest reviews, receive regular training by NPE and are delightful travel companions eager to share the details of

    their culture and nature. Most travel companies say that they have the best guides, few do. NPE was founded by

    Guides and Leaders who made their careers training other Guides and Leaders around the world. We know who

    are the best at each destination because we are the ones who trained them to enter the big leagues. You can be

    sure you will travel with the best of the best.

    Transport 

    During the expedition, we use a combination of local flights, tour bus (in Ulaanbaatar), and drives in 4x4 vehicles.

    When away from Ulaanbaatar, roads are bumpy and dusty. We use the very best vehicles in the country for this roadsThe longest drive is 3 hours.

    4x4’s: We use one to three-year-old Mitsubishi Delicas and Land Cruisers, driven by professional drivers and properly

    insured. All participants are guaranteed a window seat.

    Bus: Used during your Ulaanbaatar transfers and tours. It is the very best available, properly insured and driven by a

    certified driver.

    Flights: All domestic flights are with Mongolia Airlines. Schedules often change without notice. In the event of such a

    change, New Paths Expeditions will do its best to preserve the original itinerary to the extent possible.

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    Accommodations 

    In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital, you will stay in one of the best 5-star hotels, with your meals served in the

    hotel and local restaurants. During the expedition, you spend five nights in Ulaanbaatar.

    When away from Ulaanbaatar you stay at non-permanent ger camps. They offer an authentic experience of

    Mongolian culture.

    Gers are domed tents constructed of latticed walls covered by felt and canvas and supported by poles. This isthe traditional home of herdsmen who must move with their animals and, therefore, need an easily transportable

    abode that withstands harsh winters. Gers are heated by wood stoves with a smokestack through a hole in the

    center of the roof. In the summer, some of the layers of felt on the walls are removed. The beds are comfortable

    with mattresses on elevated wooden frames, clean sheets, pillows, and blankets. Meals are served in a camp

    dining room.

    Please note that the Ger camps in Hustain Nuruu National Park (1 night), and Lake Hovsgol (2 nights), use shared

    bathrooms.

    While in the Gobi, you will stay at the award-winning Three Camel Lodge, undoubtedly the best ger camp in

    Mongolia. You have secured Deluxe Gers for all expedition participants. These gers do include ensuite bathrooms

    You will enjoy three nights at this wonderful property.

    When to go 

    The recommended period to make this trip is between the last week of May to mid-September.

    Please note that if you would like to visit the Naadam festival, we recommend that you join our Rural Naadam

    fixed departure: Every year we offer a 12 guests expedition led by an NPE Senior Leader (20 years of experience

    at least, Masters Degree. The best of the best).

    If you still would prefer to keep your expedition private, and have it meet one of the Naadam festivals, be preparedfor surcharges and please make your bookings well in advance.

     

    Weather 

    With more than 260 sunny days a year, Mongolia is known as the ‘Land of Blue Sky.’

    Mongolia has an extreme continental climate with four distinct seasons.

    Winter lasts from November to February,

    Spring from March to mid-May,

    Summer from mid-May till late August,

    Autumn is in September and October.

    The cold weather in the north can last a month or two more than in the Gobi.

    During your expedition temperatures may vary on one day from the lowest average temperatures to the highest

    depending on the location and the time of the day. Days tend to be sunny, although you should be prepared for

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    the possibility of rain. Humidity levels in Mongolia are very low. A waterproof jacket and a fleece should be part

    of your luggage.

    New Paths Expeditions will mail you a detailed packing list 90 days before the expedition.

    Altitude 

    Ulaanbaatar: 4,300 ft.

    Hustain Nuruu National Park: 4,300 ft.

    Hovsgol Lake: 5,397 ft.

    Gobi (Bulgan): 3,963 ft.

    There are no concerns about altitude sickness during this expedition.

    Health 

    Mongolia is a third world country, and you will explore remote and undeveloped regions with limited medical services

    and access to prescription medication. Those who are using prescription medication should bring along enough

    medicine to last through the trip, with an addition of 5 days as a safeguard. Make sure you bring your medicines in your

    carry-on bag, rather than in your checked luggage.

    Consult your physician or health care provider for recommendations about health abroad. Show your provider this

    expedition dossier which includes the kind of activities in which you will be engaging, and the altitudes at which

    they will occur. Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Also, consult the CDC at wwwn.cdc.gov/travel for any

    additional warnings.

    No immunizations are required for entry into Mongolia from the United States or for reentry into the United States from

    Mongolia.

    You will be traveling by plane, and land cruisers or jeeps on bumpy roads. If you are susceptible to motion sicknessplease bring enough preventives to last for the duration of the trip. Pack basic health and first-aid needs, including any

    prescription drugs and vitamins you use, over-the-counter medications for common ailments such as colds or stomach

    disorders, aspirin or another analgesic, Band-Aids and topical antiseptic, insect repellent, and insect-bite relief products

    If you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses, please bring an extra pair. A strap to prevent accidental loss of

    eyeglasses may prove useful. Carry a list of the generic names of any drugs that you use. Standards of pharmacology

    vary greatly for medications produced abroad; please carry an adequate supply of your prescriptions, particularly

    since you will be traveling in remote areas. Always pack them in your carry-on. Carry with you an up-to-date record

    of your allergies or chronic medical problems so that emergency treatment, if necessary, can be carried out without

    endangering your health. 

    Food & Beverages 

    In Ulaanbaatar, there are a variety of international restaurants (and you visit some of the best in town). The city offers

    travelers more choices than what is available in the countryside.

    Mongolian traditional cuisine is typically meat-based and includes noodles, rice, and bread. Food is oilier than you may

    be used to. Although vegetables and fruits are not widely cultivated or consumed in Mongolia, most meals include

    potatoes, carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, or tomatoes. Fruit may be available fresh in Ulaanbaatar, but it is typically

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    canned in the countryside. Breakfast usually includes eggs, sausages, toast, tea, and instant coffee. Lunch is the main

    meal of the day and includes salad, a bowl of soup, and meat with rice or potatoes. Dinner usually consists of salad and

    meat with rice or noodles and vegetables.

     

    For those with an adventurous palate, there are opportunities to sample traditional Mongolian foods. Dairy, flour, rice,

    and meat—traditionally goat, mutton, horse, beef, yak, and camel—form the basis of the Mongolian diet. Some traditiona

    dishes include: shorlog (Mongolian barbecue or shish kebab), horhog (roasted sheep), buuz (steamed meat dumplings),

    chansan mah (boiled meat on the bone), khuushuur (fried meat pies), and guriltai shol (mutton noodle soup).

    We can accommodate special dietary needs. Please let us know in advance. It may be useful to bring your own snacks

    protein bars, or gluten free products.

    Passports & Visas 

    All travelers require a valid passport to visit Mongolia. Your passport must remain valid for at least six months after

    the last day of your visit. Please be sure your passport has adequate space remaining for entry and exit stamps. We

    recommend that you make two photocopies of your passport photo page to be carried with you on the trip.

    U.S. & Canadian citizens do NOT require a visa to enter Mongolia. If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, and you are

    traveling to Mongolia via Seoul, you will only need a valid passport for entry into Korea.

    If you are traveling to Mongolia via China, and hold a passport from one of the below 51 countries, including US and

    Canada, and plan to stay in Beijing and/or Shanghai for 72 hours or less, you do not need to obtain a Transit Visa.

    - Albania, Argentina, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bru- nei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia

    Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan,

    Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic

    of Montenegro, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United

    Arab Emirates, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States.

    However, you can only stay in Beijing/Shanghai for 72 hours. You are permitted to leave the Beijing/Shanghai airportprovided you return within 72 hours and that you have proof of a flight ticket going to your next destination. You wil

    not be allowed to travel to other provinces and cities within China. If you have any questions, please call us immediately

    so we can determine your specific visa needs.

    International Flights 

    You expedition package does not include your international flights. We highly recommend that you purchase your

    tickets as soon as you make your expedition deposit.

    New Paths Expeditions would be glad to assist you in the purchase of your flight tickets through our partner HeatheQuiring, an expert in International Air Tickets with 30 years of experience. Her services involve a US $75.00 charge

    Heather will not only find you the best possible routes at the best possible prices, but she will also monitor updated

    information regarding your flights, and keep you apprised of any changes or difficulties. She will provide this service

    between the time the tickets are purchased and when you return home again. If you would like Heather’s help in

    purchasing your air tickets, just drop us a line to [email protected] or call us at 1-954-889-6865.

     

    International Arrival Procedures 

    Upon arrival in Mongolia, proceed through immigration en route to the baggage claim area. After collecting your

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    luggage, pass through customs. Our representative will be waiting for you just outside the customs area with a New

    Paths Expeditions sign, and will transfer you to your hotel. Please note that early arrivals and late departures may force

    extra transfer charges.

    Domestic Flights & Luggage Limits 

    As can be seen from the itinerary, some flights will be needed in Mongolia, and these are charged separately. New

    Paths Expeditions will purchase these flights for you as soon as we receive your deposit, to assure that space will be

    available. Please keep in mind that these domestic tickets are non-refundable, and they will be charged on your fina

    invoice, or deducted from your deposit in case you cancel your expedition.

    Please note that for flights within Mongolia the baggage allowance is 33 pounds total, or 22 pounds for a checked

    and 11 pounds for a carry-on. Excess baggage weight is charged at approximately $1-2 for every pound over the limit

    Please note: you may leave luggage in storage at the hotel in Ulaanbaatar during portions of the itinerary since you wil

    be returning to Ulaanbaatar after each visit to the countryside. You should bring a bag with you, such as a light- weigh

    duffel (with a lock), for the purpose of storing extra items if you plan to do so.

    Travel Insurance 

    Anyone, traveling abroad, should always make certain that they have a travel insurance policy that covers trip

    cancelation, trip interruption, loss and delay of luggage, medical emergencies, evacuation, and repatriation. We

    will be glad to help you in obtaining a policy through our partner Heather Quiring. Please contact us at 1-888-

    832-7280.

    Money 

    Mongolian currency is called the Tugrug. Mongolian currency can be readily obtained from hotels as well as from

    major banks. The exchange rate is approximately 2,032 tugrugs to one US dollar (On March 2016). Your Guide wilprovide assistance in exchanging money.

    U.S. dollars are accepted in many places in Mongolia, but you should plan to pay for incidentals and small souvenirs

    with local currency and in cash. Past travelers have exchanged $100 to $500 (depending on what they planned to

    buy). All US bills should be in good conditions. Old, faded, or ripped bills will not be accepted. The fifties and 100s

    will only be accepted if they are newly issued (after 2000), and crisp bills.

    In Hustain Nuruu and Hovsgol, only cash is accepted. In Ulaanbaatar and the Gobi (Three Camel Lodge) credit card

    may be used.

    There are ATMs available in Ulaanbaatar at the main branch of the Trade & Development Bank, State DepartmenStore, and most hotels. If you plan on using this method to access money from your bank back at home, contact

    your bank prior to travel to make sure that your ATM card does not have international restrictions.

    Visa and MasterCard credit cards are accepted at major hotels, cashmere stores, and antique shops. Other types o

    credit cards, including American Express and Discover, are not widely accepted. Personal checks are not accepted

    anywhere in Mongolia. Additionally, before returning home, you may choose to convert tugrugs back to US dollars

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    Electricity 

    Electrical power in Mongolia is 220 V, 50 Hz. Plugs in Mongolia require a two-pin socket with round pins. Bringing

    an international travel adaptor is recommended. Please note that at ger camps electricity is limited to a few hours

    per day. Your Guide will inform you of the times when electricity will be available to recharge your batteries.

    Internet 

    Wireless Internet access is available at the hotel in Ulaanbaatar. However, no internet access is available in the

    countryside.

    Shopping 

    Shopping opportunities are quite interesting. Items include camel hair and cashmere sweaters, camel woo

    blankets, traditional silk tunics, leather dolls, felt slippers, leather boots, handmade jewelry, landscape paintings

    plaster copies of temple masks, carpets, Mongolian vodka, books, and traditional musical recordings. Most shopping

    opportunities will be in Ulaanbaatar although it is possible to purchase handicrafts in the countryside.

    Ger camps often stock their gift shop with locally crafted goods, such as felt slippers and camel or yak wool

    products. The purchase of these products helps to support local families and the rural economy, more so than

    purchasing similar crafts in the capital.

    All purchased items made from gold, silver, or precious stone, or which appear to be antiques, need to be certified

    “exportable” by a special certificate, which you need to obtain from the store where the purchase is made. If such

    certificate is not obtained, your items may be confiscated by customs and lost. Under no circumstance should you

    purchase or export fossilized items or uncertified antiques from Mongolia.

    Gratuities All tips for luggage porters and waiters at restaurants are included in your package. Tips for your Local Master

    Guides and Drivers are not included. Gratuities are not mandatory. Despite the last, guests always ask about

    tipping guidelines, and the information below should be taken as that, just guidelines:

    Mongolia Master Guide: US $8.00 to $10.00 per day.

    Drivers: US $3.00 to $5.00 per day.

    In case you decide to tip, Guides and Drivers can receive US dollars or the local currency. Please note that your

    service providers cannot cash checks or credit cards.

    ADDING YOUR TIPS TO YOUR BILL: if you wish to include all tips in your invoice, just let us know at the time of

    booking.

    Deposit 

    To book, contact your Travel Agent or us at [email protected] or call us at 1-888-832-7280.

    A deposit of US, $1,500.00 per guest, is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance will be charged

    120 days before the expedition begins.

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    Using your deposit, New Paths Expeditions will purchase your domestic air tickets to guarantee your seats in

    the needed flights. Please note that even though New Paths Expeditions will purchase your domestic air tickets

    these tickets are not included in the package, and their cost will be added to your final invoice. In case you cance

    your expedition, due to airline policies we will not be able to refund the cost of the tickets, nor we will be able to

    transfer them to another expedition participant. The cost of the ticket will be deducted from the deposit.

    Cancelations 

    If you wish to cancel your reservation, it must be done in writing as an email. Cancelation charges will be applied

    depending on the timing of the cancelation:

    A $500.00 cancelation charge will be applied if you cancel between the time you made the deposit and 91 days

    before departure. (Plus the domestic ticket cost)

    Half the total cost of the expedition will be charged if you cancel 90 to 61 days before departure.

    There will be no refund available if cancelation is made 60 to 0 days before the expedition begins.

    We highly recommend booking as soon as possible.

    To book now, contact your Travel Agent or call us at1-888-832-7280.

    Or email us at [email protected].

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    www.npexpeditions.com

    Call us: (+1) 888 832 7280

    [email protected]