The Gobi Desert, located in Central and East Asia, is one of the world's most vast and fascinating deserts, covering an area of 500,000 square miles. Home to Bactrian wild camels, snow leopards, Prezwalsky horses and Gobi bears. apart from its numerous native animal species, the desert is famous for its fossilised dinosaur bones and eggs. The Gobi desert is silence and to get away is part of the charm. The seemingly never ending steppes (think dry grass prairie) and camel herders.
Mountain ranges with narrow canyons, among others the famous Yolin Am (Vulture Valley) with snow and ice even in summer. Highlights can included seeing sprinting gazelle across the steppes, making camp (Ger) with your new found friends and wondering up at the stars.
Despite its arid and barren landscape, the Gobi Desert is home to a wide variety of unique flora and fauna, as well as numerous historical and cultural sites. Here are some of the top things to see in the Gobi Desert:
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The Flaming Cliffs: The Flaming Cliffs, also known as Bayanzag, are a striking geological formation in the Gobi Desert, famous for the discovery of the first known dinosaur eggs in the 1920s. The cliffs get their name from the red and orange hues they take on during sunset, making them a popular spot for photographers and adventurers alike.
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Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes: These towering sand dunes, also known as the "Singing Dunes" due to the eerie sound they produce in the wind, are one of the most stunning natural wonders of the Gobi Desert. Visitors can climb to the top of the dunes for incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
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Yolyn Am: Yolyn Am, or the "Valley of the Eagles," is a deep and narrow canyon located in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains. The canyon is famous for its ice formations, which can last well into the summer months.
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Tugrugiin Shiree: Tugrugiin Shiree is a vast area of sandstone cliffs and canyons located in the eastern Gobi Desert. It is home to numerous petroglyphs and ancient rock carvings, some of which date back thousands of years.
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Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park: The Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the Gobi Desert, covering over 3,000 square miles. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, as well as numerous archaeological sites and natural wonders.
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Erdene Zuu Monastery: The Erdene Zuu Monastery is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, founded in the 16th century. The monastery is home to numerous temples, stupas, and other religious structures, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
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The Hongor Sand Dunes: The Hongor Sand Dunes are another stunning natural wonder of the Gobi Desert, located in the southern part of the country. These dunes are some of the largest in Mongolia, reaching heights of up to 800 feet.
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Bayanzag Petroglyphs: The Bayanzag Petroglyphs are a collection of ancient rock carvings located near the Flaming Cliffs. The carvings depict a variety of animals, as well as scenes from everyday life in ancient Mongolia.
In conclusion, the Gobi Desert is a vast and fascinating region, full of natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural treasures. Whether you're an adventurer, a history buff, or simply looking to explore the beauty of this unique landscape, there is no shortage of things to see and do in the Gobi Desert.