Weather in Khongoryn Els

Khongoryn Els, Mongolia's famous 'singing sand dunes', rise up to 300 metres from the floor of the Gobi Desert, stretching for over 100 kilometres along the edge of the Altai mountains. Climbing to the ridgeline at sunset, with camel caravans crossing the dunes below and the sound of shifting sand giving the dunes their name, is one of the most striking experiences in Mongolia's southern Gobi.

Best areas to stay in Khongoryn Els

Khongoryn Els Dune Field

The main dune ridge, popular for sunset climbs and camel treks.

Khongor Village

A small settlement near the dunes with basic services and ger camps.

Zulganai Oasis

A small spring-fed oasis near the dunes, used as a camp by local herders.

Sevrei Mountains

Rocky peaks bordering the dune field, offering wider views over the Gobi.

Getting to Khongoryn Els

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Flights

Fly to Ulaanbaatar's Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), then take a domestic flight to Dalanzadgad followed by a 4x4 transfer to Khongoryn Els.

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From London

~14-16 hours total from London including the domestic flight and 4x4 transfer

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Getting around

4x4 vehicles with drivers cover the desert tracks; camels are used for exploring the dunes themselves.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Khongoryn Els?

May to September is best, avoiding the harsh winter cold; early mornings and evenings are most comfortable for climbing the dunes.

How do I get to Khongoryn Els?

Most visitors fly to Dalanzadgad and then travel by 4x4, as the dunes are several hours' drive across the Gobi from there.

What is Khongoryn Els known for?

Its towering sand dunes, which produce a distinctive 'singing' sound as sand shifts, and camel trekking across the dune field.

Can I ride a camel at Khongoryn Els?

Yes, camel rides are commonly arranged with local herder families camped near the dunes, offering a slower way to explore the area.

What language is spoken near Khongoryn Els?

Mongolian is the main language; tour guides typically handle communication with local herder families.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

Climbing Khongoryn Els at sunset was one of the highlights of our whole trip to Mongolia, the dunes seem to glow and you can genuinely hear them 'sing' as the sand shifts underfoot.

Gerel B. · August 2024

★★★★★

Camel trekking across the dunes with a local herder family was unforgettable, the scale of the dunes against the mountains behind is hard to capture in photos.

Tom S. · July 2023

★★★★☆

Tough drive to get there but completely worth it, stayed in a ger camp nearby and watched the stars at night, no light pollution at all.

Delgermaa Y. · September 2024