As a rule, we prioritise using local guides wherever possible but there are some occasions where this isn't possible.
Yes, we have a recommended partner for eSIMs and once you've made your booking you'll receive details to give you a little discount as a thank you for travelling with us.
Our trips run April to October, as this is the best time to go.
April and October would be great if you want to avoid the heat. However, bear in mind that Uzbekistan can have temperatures in the late 20s even during shoulder season, but cooler than the +30-40 degrees during summer.
We'd definitely recommend extra layers for the night by the lake as temperatures can drop significantly at night (below 10 degrees).
We do have a partner for booking trains which we have recently partnered with. It may require a few overnight stops along the way to get to Central Asia, but the journey will be worth it. Please send us an email to customerservice@explore.co.uk and we will see what we can offer.
It is not a requirement, no - we have it as an option in the Orkhon Valley, but if you'd rather choose your own feet over horsepower that's absolutely fine!
All camps provide hot water and electricity; however, in remote areas these may operate at set times, and sometimes electricity is available only in a central building.
They run around the first half of July. Naadam itself is usually on the 10th of July.
It's about 1,300 - 1,600 metres. Although we're not varying too much, as Mongolia is generally just at that altitude, so there's not much change, and Ulaanbaatar gives a chance to get used to it if needs be.
It absolutely does - on day 2 of our standard itinerary.
We use 4x4s, usually Mitsubishi Delica, they're comfortable, but also very capable of driving across the steppe and the desert. So, typically we're in a convoy of 3-4 cars.
It can easily be combined with any of the surrounding places – China, South Korea, Japan are all only short flights away.
We are currently working on an additional itinerary for the Philippines. If you’d like to be the first to know about new tours and further information, sign-up to get our emails.