NEW

LOW

ER P

RIC

ES

MONGOLIA Nomads of the Steppes

July 8 - 23, 2015

16 Days • All Meals

Escorted by David and Roslyn Craig

Traditional Ger Housing

Set between the giants of China and Russia, the land of Mongolia really is quite unique. Our mind immediately thinks of Ghengis Khan and the extraordinary fighting skills of his hordes that resulted in the largest empire ever known to mankind. While those times are long gone, Mongolia is a land of vast open spaces inhabited by peaceful friendly people. Excluding the capital, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia has an extremely low population density. Mongolians have a distinct way of life, which they have followed for centuries. Nomadic herdsmen follow the grass and water with their movable dwellings (gers) facing temperature extremes (from 30° C down to -50°C). Their diet is based on mutton and dairy, provided by their herds. The local drink, airag, is fermented mare's milk. Last century the nomadic society was almost destroyed by communism. But in 1990, when Mongolia became a democracy, many people left the urban areas to resume their nomadic life, herding animals and living off the land. Our journey has been timed to include Naadam, the largest and most interesting festival in Mongolia. The gathering brings locals from across Mongolia into the capital. This is the best time to explore this amazing land.

July 8, Wednesday Canada / Beijing Tour members from across Canada gather in Vancouver for the overnight Air China flight to Beijing.

July 9, Thursday Beijing On arrival in Beijing, after arrival procedures, we will be met and transferred to our airport hotel. Langham Hotel (1 night) D

July 10, Friday Beijing / Ulaanbaatar After a good night’s rest, we fly to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital, set on the banks of the Tuul River and surrounded by majestic pine-clad mountains and blessed public squares, wide avenues, and parks. Today we will explore the city with visits to the Gandantegchilen Monastery (one of the few in Mongolia that was not destroyed by the communist regime), the Winter Palace of Bogd Khan and Genghis Khan Square. Ramada Hotel (3 nights) BLD

July 11, Saturday Ulaanbaatar / Naadam Festival This morning we will attend the inauguration ceremony of the Naadam Festival. The Nadaam (means game or competition) Festival or Eriyn Gurvan Nadaam is Mongolia’s largest event, lasting three full days. It highlights Mongolia's popular sports of horse racing, archery and wrestling. This gathering has been held for centuries as a form of a memorial celebration and annual sacrificial ritual, to honor various mountain Gods or to celebrate a special community

INCLUSIVE FEATURES

Roundtrip airfare to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from Canadian cities listed via either Toronto or Vancouver

Comfortable, but sometimes very basic Ger camp accommodations (see note below) as well as first class hotels in Beijing and Ulaanbaatar as indicated or similar

41 meals included as noted in the itinerary (shown as B - 14 breakfasts, L - 13 lunches, D - 14 dinners)

All gratuities and taxes for included services

Comprehensive insurance coverage

Services of our tour escort plus professional driver/guides in Mongolia

Airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value

TOUR ESCORTS

David Craig, President of Craig Travel, and Roslyn bring with them many years of travel experience both as escorts and as tour operators. After attending U of T and York University, David travelled around the world and lived in Australia for a number of years before returning to Canada and Craig Travel. For almost forty years he has devoted his working life to arranging and operating tours and cruises to scores of destinations around the world. An Australian by birth, Roslyn, has lived and worked in the business of travel for most of her life. For over three decades, David and Roslyn have led tours and cruises visiting over 100 countries and all seven continents.

ACCOMMODATIONS

The “Ger” is the traditional housing unit used for centuries in Mongolia and central Asia, perfectly suited to the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle. It consists of a lattice wooden frame over which is laid felt matting covered with canvas sheeting. Each has a single door which traditionally faces south. Our units will be used by one or two persons. “Ger” camps provide the best way to experience the countryside and the Mongolian nomadic way of life, each generally has a wooden floor, a wood burning stove (for heating), beds, chairs and a side table. Camps have shared bathroom facilities - basins, western toilets and showers with hot water. All camps will provide electricity in the common areas - washroom blocks, restaurant and some may have power in the rooms. Power may only be available during certain hours. Power will be available to charge batteries, etc. Camps also feature a restaurant, serving both Mongolian and western dishes. Some may also have a lounge, a shop and laundry facilities.

While we will use the best available camps in each area visited, not all camps are created equal, some will be decidedly basic in nature.

David & Roslyn on their travels through Namibia

endeavor. The festivities commence with a colorful parade of athletes, monks, soldiers, musicians and Mongolians dressed in Chinggis style warrior uniforms. This afternoon we will enjoy typical contests in and around the main stadium: wrestling, archery and anklebone flicking. Every year, 512 wrestlers compete for the Nachin or “Falcon” (those who win 5 rounds), Zaan or ‘Elephant” (those who win 7 rounds) and the title “Arslan” or “Lion” (the national wrestling champion who wins all nine rounds). If a wrestler wins “Arslan” twice, he receives the title of “Avarga” or “Champion”. This evening we will enjoy a Mongolian folklore concert before our Welcome Mongolian dinner at a local restaurant. BLD

July 12, Sunday Naadam Festival Naadam begins in earnest today and we are in for a real treat, watching the events and the people who come from across Mongolia. This morning we will drive to the horse racing field, to enjoy the competition and a number cultural performances. In horse racing, horses of six different age groups participate (2 to 6 years old) with the distance determined by the horse’s age. More than 700 horses can join a race with riders being as young as five. The first 5 horses to finish a race are called “Airagdakh” (sprinkled with airag). The title “Tumnii Ekh” of “Top Horse of 10,000” is given to the winning horse. Archery is another Naadam game which attracts many of the best archers from all over the country. The winner is given a title “Erkhiin Mergen Kharvaach” which means “Archer of Greatest Wisdom”. BLD

July 13, Monday South Gobi Desert Departing very early this morning, we fly into the heart of the Gobi Desert. Soaring over the vast steppes on a flight to the mystical Gobi, site of some of the most important paleontological discoveries of the 20th century. Over the next four days, we shall discover the wildlife and landscapes of the desert, home to Bactrian camels, Argali mountain sheep, and asker falcons, as well as rare species such as snow leopards and Gobi bears. On arrival we will be met by our driver guides and begin our journey. Stop in Gegeet Valley, the habitat of the elusive snow leopard. Travel to Yoliin Am (Eagle Valley) a dramatic chasm that cuts a narrow path through the foothills of the arid Altai Mountains. Set out on a hike through this lush spot, keeping your eye out for native vultures (lammergeiers), ibex, and gazelles. Later we shall visit the local natural history museum. (80km / 2hrs) Three Camel Lodge Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 14, Tuesday Khongoriin Els Sand Dunes Awaken early to watch the rising sun infuse the desert with glowing hues of orange and gold. After breakfast we drive to the Khongoryn Els, a 60-mile stretch of rippling sand dunes that soar up to 600 feet and trace the edge of the Altai range. Following lunch, we will encounter the “Singing Sands,” dunes known for the uncanny deep groan they emit when the dunes’ surface is disturbed. Next we shall experience some

traditional Mongolian hospitality at the home of a camel herding family. Take a ride on a Bactrian camel if you wish. End the day with the sunset on this stunning and remote desert landscape. (210km / 5 hrs) Gobi Erdene Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 15, Wed Tugrugiin Shiree / Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs Mongolia is home to some of the worlds most brilliant fossils. In Tugrigiin Shiree paleontologists discovered the famous “Fighting Dinosaurs” in the 1970’s. In the afternoon we head to Bayanzag, also known as the Flaming Cliffs. Here, brilliant red sandstone harbors a treasure trove of dinosaur fossils and eggs. Look for fossils and hike into the gorge enjoying the breathtaking views of the desert. (160km / 4 hrs) Three Camel Lodge Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 16, Thursday Ongi Temple Ruins Heading north this morning we drive to Ongi Temple ruins, located in the middle of Gobi region. As we move north we move away from the sand desert and into the steppes with low rolling hills. After getting settled in our ger camp, we shall make a short trek into the hills where the temple ruins are located. Dating from 1730, Ongi Monastery was one of the largest Buddhist Monasteries with more than 1,500 monks and was the most important Buddhist centre in the Gobi. In its prime there were two monasteries and over 30 temples, most of which were destroyed during the socialist purge in the 1930’s. We shall have ample time to explore temple ruins and stupa remains, and to learn of the communist destruction as well as the new efforts to restore the order and keep old traditions alive. (150km / 4hrs) Ongiin Nuuts Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 17, Friday Orkhon Valley / Nomad Family We continue our journey through the Gobi, driving to Uurtiin Tohoi (a fresh water spring) and Temeen Chuluun (noted for the rectangular tombs of the Bronze Age) in the Khanghai Mountains. The scenery changes from rolling steppes and broad valleys into a mountainous region marked by rugged lava rocks. An UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Orkhon Valley was the cradle of the Mongolian nation and the site of numerous cities, and palaces. Enjoy a drive through the valley and take short walks in search of ancient rock paintings and burial mounds dating from 300BC. This afternoon we will visit a nomadic family that herd yaks and breeds horses. Meet the family and begin to understand more of their nomadic life on the open steppes. Enjoy yak dairy products and watch them being milked. Sample the traditional national drink airag, made from fermented mare’s milk. (380km / 6+ hrs) Talibuun Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 18, Saturday Orkhon Valley / Kharakhorum Town We will drive along the Orkhon Valley north to Kharakhorum, which contains the ruins of the 13th century capital of the Mongolian Empire. It was here that Genghis Khan and his sons consolidated the empire that would become the largest in the world. After lunch, we will visit the newly opened museum dedicated to the history and military campaigns of the Mongolian Empire. Nearby we shall visit Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist Monastery, Erdene Zuu which dates from 1586. Regretfully much of it was destroyed by the Communists in 1937. Enjoy its stunning architecture and admire the valuable religious relics in its museum. Nearby we shall find Turtle Rock before continuing to the ruins of an ancient Turkish city in the Khoshoo Tsaidam Valley, which dates from the 8th century. A new museum (built by modern Turkey) examines the Turkish influences in Mongolia. (100km / 2-3 hrs) Munkhtenger Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 19, Sunday Tsenkher Hot Spring This morning we cross the Khangai Nuuru Mountains through a series of passes until we reach “the paradise of the

Watch the events of the Naadam Festival. Photo credit V.Idor

Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars (per person)

Land Only (Join / Leave at hotel in Ulaanbaatar) ...... $5,395 Vancouver ................................................................ $7,295 Victoria ...................................................................... $7,485 Calgary ...................................................................... $7,565 Edmonton ................................................................. $7,665 Saskatoon / Regina ................................................... $7,695 Winnipeg .................................................................... $7,785 Toronto / Ottawa / Montreal ....................................... $7,995 Halifax ....................................................................... $8,095 St John’s .................................................................... $8,245 Single Supplement .................................................... $1,335

.Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Airfares and related costs are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Land only price excludes all international airfares, taxes and associated land arrangements in Beijing.

Tour price is based on sharing a twin-bedded room at hotels. Prices are based on a minimum 20 members and on rates, taxes and fees effective August 2014. Prices are subject to change due to factors beyond our control.

The price includes the cost of comprehensive insurance ($320 - $388pp) for passengers up to and including 74 years on departure date (rate varies by the cost of the trip). Cost supplements will apply for members aged 75 - 85 (from $195 - $402pp). Clients 86 years and older and/or residing outside Ontario - please contact our staff for procedures. This insurance is effective from the date of purchase and carries limitations on pre-existing medical conditions. Discuss insurance coverage before booking.

Please check our website for the most current information. Refer to enrollment form for general information and conditions. Final payment will be due April 2, 2015.

To reserve your places on this tour, complete the enrollment form, indicating the tour and your home city, and forward it with your deposit of $600 per person plus insurance premium to:

CRAIG CANADIAN GROUP TRAVEL LTD

1092 Mount Pleasant Road Toronto ON M4P 2M6 Tel: 416-484-0926 or 1-800-387-8890 / Fax: 416-484-8143

Email: tours@craigtravel.com / www.craigtravel.com

REV04FEB15

CT RATING 4 - Very Challenging: This journey involves a number of walks and treks often over rough terrain so is only suited to those with NO mobility issues. In addition accommodation will be primitive, food will be basic with very limited choices (they will not be able to cater to special dietary needs) and roads will be rough with some long uncomfortable drives. All members need to be prepared for the reality of rustic travel in Mongolia.

horse breeders”, an area known for its lush grasses and wide valleys. Once again we will be amazed by the ever changing landscapes and the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Our destination is the to Tsenkher Hot Springs, a region of once active volcanoes which still provide a number of excellent and refreshing hot springs. This afternoon we will be free to enjoy this natural spa, to relax in a hot pool or to hike up to the source of the spring. Water temperatures range up to 82C. Later we may want to relax with a massage (extra cost). (140km / 3.5hrs) Duut Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 20, Monday Tsenkher / Ogii Lake This morning will be spent driving across the steppes en route to Ogii Lake, located in the wetlands region. The afternoon has been left free to enjoy some activities on or by the lake. Options include swimming, horseback riding, sailing or fishing. There is also excellent bird watching; it is not uncommon to see swan, geese, white spoonbills or Dalmatian pelicans. Alternatively you can go for a trek or visit a Nomadic family and watch them making felt items from sheep wool. (140km / 3 hrs) Khatan Ogii Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 21, Tuesday Khustain Nuruu (Hustai) National Park This morning we will visit the ruins of the White Palace of Mongolian Queen Madai Taigol and her illustrious son, Prince Tsogt Taij, dating from 1740’s. Continuing onto Hustai (Wild Horses) National Park set around Mount Khustai. It was to this park that the takhi, the original wild horses of Mongolia were re-introduced in 1992. A local biologist guide will introduce us to the park and the work being done there. After lunch we will explore the park, visiting a spring where the takhi come daily. (380km / 5 hrs) Khustai Ger Camp (1 night) BLD

July 22, Wednesday Ulaanbaatar Enjoy your breakfast and some time for your own leisure this morning. Following lunch at the camp, we will head back to Ulaanbaatar in the early afternoon where we will visit the National History Museum (providing excellent insights into the origin and long history of the nomadic tribes and Mongolia). If time permits you might want to visit the Dinosaur Museum, Fine Arts Museum and/or maybe the Naran Tuul Market. This evening we will gather for our Farewell Dinner. (80km / 2 hrs) Ramada Hotel (1 night) BLD

July 23, Thursday Ulaanbaatar / Beijing / Canada All too soon our journey draws to a close as we make the long journey home, flying via Beijing and Vancouver to our homes across Canada. By advance arrangements, members can arrange to extend their adventure with a few nights in Beijing. B

A NOTE ON TRANSPORTATION

Travel will be in small 4WD Mitsubishi vans or similar, vehicles best suited to the environment. Our trucks are capable of carrying up to 8 persons (driver plus 7 guests) but we will carry a maximum of one driver and 4 guests per vehicle, with the balance of the interior used for luggage and supplies. A typical day will see us driving between camps in the morning, arriving at our next camp in time for lunch. The afternoon will be utilized at the new camp for exploring the surrounding sites. Approximate distance between camps and travel times are estimated on the daily itinerary, subject to local conditions. Roads are often dirt tracks across the desert or plain, and will be dusty so surgical style masks are suggested. The experience can be absolutely breathtaking as we discover magnificent viewpoints while we move across the rolling steppes and treeless tundra.

A Taste of Beijing

Extend your stay in Beijing with two nights at the Beijing New World Hotel. Explore on your own or customize your Beijing experience as you wish and explore one or all of the many ancient treasures this city has to offer. Discover The Great Wall, Forbidden City, wonderful parks and markets, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace, and so much more! Contact us for full rates and details.