Things To Do
in Dalanzadgad
Dalanzadgad is a compact desert town in southern Mongolia that sits at the edge of the Gobi, serving as a practical base for spectacular landscapes. It functions as a gateway for day trips to dramatic canyons, singing dunes, and fossil-rich cliffs. The town blends nomadic hospitality with a stark, sun-drenched backdrop that shifts with the seasons.
From here, visitors commonly explore Yolyn Am Gorge, the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag, and the rolling Khongoryn Els dunes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You arrive at the small airport and are greeted by your local guide who helps you transfer to your ger camp nestled on the outskirts of town. You settle into your traditional ger and enjoy the crisp desert air while unpacking and resting. The quiet surroundings set the tone for an authentic Mongolian experience.
You explore Dalanzadgad’s compact town center, visiting the bustling market stalls and sampling local dairy products like airag and boortsog. Your guide takes you to the small regional museum where you learn about the geology and nomadic traditions of the Gobi. A local café offers hearty buuz dumplings for lunch.
Back at the ger camp, you dine on a home-cooked meal of roasted mutton and fresh vegetables. As night falls, you gather around a crackling campfire to listen to your guide’s Mongolian folk tales. Finally, you gaze up at the brilliant Milky Way stretching across the clear desert sky.
After an early breakfast of toasted bread and tea, you set off for Gurvansaikhan National Park, the “Three Beauties.” The drive takes you through rolling hills and rocky outcrops as you approach the park boundary. You pause at the park entrance to register and stretch your legs before entering the alpine valley.
You hike into the famed Yol Valley gorge, marveling at 30-meter-high ice-filled cliffs that loom overhead. Your guide points out marmots darting among the boulders and golden eagles soaring above. A packed picnic lunch beside a babbling stream refuels you for further exploration.
Returning to camp, you savor a warming soup prepared by the ger camp staff. The setting sun paints the surrounding hills in hues of pink and gold as you relax in your ger. A brief walk at dusk rewards you with the distant howl of wolves and the hoots of long-eared owls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥟Dumplings (buuz) in a casual eatery | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short town taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Guesthouse/hostel bed | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Gobi landscapes within reach from a quiet town
- Friendly locals and a low-key, authentic travel experience
- Limited dining and nightlife options after dark
- Occasional travel logistics can be challenging without a guide
- "Sain bainaa?" - Hello
- "Sain baina uu?" - How are you?
- "Bayarlalaa" - Thank you
- "Uuchlaaraa" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Mongol helээр ярьж чадах уу?" - Can you speak Mongolian?
- "Angli helээр ярьж чадах уу?" - Can you speak English?
- "Bi ойлгосонгүй." - I don't understand.
- "Дахиад нэг удаа?" - One more time?
Places to Visit in Dalanzadgad
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic, shaded gorge with ice formations in winter and dramatic rock walls; ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Iconic red sandstone cliffs famed for paleontological finds; stunning sunrise or sunset photography opportunities.
Massive, rolling sand dunes along the edge of the desert; great for wide-angle desert panoramas and camel photography.
Clear desert nights offer striking Milky Way and star photography with minimal light pollution from the town.
Food in Dalanzadgad
Dalanzadgad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings filled with meat and onions; widely available in markets and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A meat dish slow-cooked with hot stones in a sealed container; often prepared for gatherings and special meals.
Fried meat pastries similar to savory turnovers, popular as street food or in casual restaurants.
Fermented mare’s milk; a traditional refreshment, especially in warm weather and during nomadic gatherings.
Whole animal (often goat) cooked inside its hide, a regional specialty typically prepared by experienced cooks.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A central market offering dairy products, dried meat snacks, bread, and fresh produce; good for trying everyday Mongolian snacks.
Casual stalls near the market and main streets selling grilled meats on a skewer, dumplings, and warm beverages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a courteous nod or handshake. Show respect and generosity when invited to share food or tea; accept tea as a social gesture.
Ask before photographing locals, especially inside homes and ger camps. Dress modestly when visiting religious or cultural sites.
If invited into a ger, remove shoes when appropriate and follow the host’s lead for seating and tea.
Safety
Tipping in Dalanzadgad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Consider small tips for guides and drivers if service is good (5-10% in appropriate contexts).
Cash (MNT) is the most reliable method in town. Some places may accept USD or EUR, and a few hotels or cafes may take cards; ATMs are limited outside the capital.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cool nights; UV is strong, dust can reduce visibility, and dry conditions prevail. Bring sun protection, water, and light, breathable clothing.
Very cold temperatures, strong winds, and occasional snow; plan for layering, insulated outerwear, and hot drinks; some roads may be less accessible.
Mild days with variable weather; occasional wind and rain; ideal for photography but expect chilly mornings.
Cooling temperatures with clear skies; pleasant for trekking and sightseeing, though nights begin to feel cold.
Dalanzadgad at Night
Hiking in Dalanzadgad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along the shaded canyon with dramatic rock faces and seasonal ice formations.
Desert trek along the base or crest of the singing dunes, with panoramic desert views.
Short to moderate hikes around the Flaming Cliffs, with opportunities to photograph red rock formations.
Airports
How to reach Dalanzadgad by plane.
Small domestic airport serving flights to Ulaanbaatar and occasional charter routes; schedules can be limited and weather-dependent.
Main international gateway for Mongolia; from here, domestic connections can be made back to Dalanzadgad or other Gobi destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group in the region; traditional nomadic herding remains influential in rural life.
Many families move seasonally with livestock; their presence shapes local culture and hospitality.
International and domestic visitors, guides, and staff who support desert tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional and popular activity in the Gobi region, often arranged through guides and guesthouses.
A common way to explore the countryside and experience nomadic lifestyle; suitable for various levels of experience.
Cultural showcases often included in local events or lodge programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dalanzadgad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited in rural areas. Look for vegetable-based dumplings (buuz) or noodle dishes, request dairy-rich sides like milk tea, and ask for meals without meat. Communicate clearly with hosts to adapt traditional dishes; many soups and stews can be prepared with vegetables if asked.