The Gobi Desert is located in Mongolia and covers over a half million square miles. Once traveled by Marco Polo, it is said to have been born as the result of a curse from a vengeful Mongolian lord. This desert is not the typical sand-covered land like deserts such as the Sahara. In the Gobi you well see barren territory everywhere. Rocky outcroppings and miles of gravel plains make up a good portion of the Gobi Desert

What You Will See

While traveling across the Gobi desert visitors will encounter a wonderful variety of animal life. Roaming the desert are rare Saiga antelopes, snow leopards, wolves and ibex. The region is home to the Gobi bear, the only bear that lives in the desert. Wild asses, untamed horses, Bactrians (two-humped camels) and gazelles add to the wildlife. The Gobi Desert is the perfect vacation destination for nature lovers.

Amateur archeologists and paleontologists will love the Gobi Desert, as well. Dinosaur bones are scattered all over the Gobi. You can often see these bones littering the plains. Visitors can spend time digging for these ancient animal remains.

You may also pass caravans of Mongolian shepherds. These hospitable people are nomadic and may even invite you to sit down and sip a special fermented drink made from mare’s milk.

Visiting Mongolia

If you are an American and are going to be there for less than 90 days you do not need a visa. Visitors have to check in on arrival and must have a valid passport. May through October is when most people choose to visit. During other times of the year the temperature can be extremely cold and the weather rough. And even during the tourist season the desert temperatures can drop drastically at night.

There are hotels, restaurants and guided tours available. You will want to bring United States traveler’s checks and have cash on hand, as well. You should plan on spending about $80 a day on food and lodging if you are sightseeing on your own. You can go cheaper if you are willing to share a Jeep and rough-it under the stars. Gasoline is a high-priced commodity in the area and it is not wise to consider driving your own vehicle around.