Mongolia
Land of the Dinosaurs
In this classic school trip to Mongolia, we explore the geology, history, and pre-history of one of the world’s most inhospitable landscapes - the Gobi Desert. Together with some of the world’s most pre-eminent minds in paleontology, we discover petroglyphs, dinosaur fossils, old-world creatures, and the human cultures that have subsisted through the ages as the survivors of the Gobi. This itinerary also covers hands-on studies of Mongolia’s cultural treasures and arts.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and meet your program leaders at the airport.
Transfer to your hotel and check-in. Enjoy a traditional Mongolian welcome dinner.
Day 2
Visit the White Rock Center and attend a presentation on the basics of paleontology and geography by a renowned Mongolian paleontologist. Take your newfound knowledge and expand it at the Paleontological Laboratory of Mongolia by diving into a hands-on exercise.
Day 3
Fly over to the Gobi Desert, an expanse featuring mountains, sand dunes, and fossil-rich beds. Learn about the history of the real-life Indiana Jones, legendary paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews who was the first to uncover a dinosaur egg in the region through a workshop.
Day 4
Embark on a journey to Tugregiin Shiree, a site jointly explored by Mongolian and Polish scientists in the late 1960s and early 1970s, famed for the "Fighting Dinosaurs" discovery. Explore the white sandstone escarpment, hunting for ancient dinosaur fossils. After a local camp lunch, visit the legendary Flaming Cliffs, a century-old treasure trove of fossils. Following in Roy Chapman Andrews' footsteps, investigate the cliffs, and savor a mesmerizing sunset view before returning to the ger camp.
Day 5
Experience the Mongolian nomadic way of life, intimately shaped by its vast landscapes, harsh climate, and cherished traditions with a camel herder family! Students will divide into groups, enjoying camel rides, crafting wool ornaments, and trying their hand at milking.
In the afternoon, try an authentic Mongolian BBQ (Khorkhog) for lunch and partake in thrilling activities such as racing up shifting sand dunes and Capture the Flag.
Day 6
Explore Yoliin Am (Valley of the Vultures), a narrow gorge offering a unique blend of Mongolia's diverse landscapes. Visit the local Natural History Museum and engage in a scientific study of the valley's wildlife, including the Lammergeier.
Yoliin Am is home to various wildlife, including the endangered snow leopard, wild sheep (argali), ibex, and numerous bird species. Play "Spot-the-wildlife" as you walk, with extra points for rare animal sightings.
Day 7
Fly back to Ulaanbaatar at the conclusion of our Gobi adventure. Enjoy a personal exploration of the capital city with our assistance and local insights.
Before the farewell dinner, join Art Hour to express your creativity on canvas, capturing memories uniquely. The farewell dinner, held at the hotel, celebrates trip achievements and learnings, including special prizes for activity winners.
Day 8
We conclude our adventure through Mongolia. Transfer to the airport to take the flight home.
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