The Gobi Desert is a huge area of about 1.3 million square kilometers that covers a large portion of southern Mongolia and northern China.

I had the privilege of visiting the Gobi Desert during a camping tour around Mongolia in 2024. Despite living in Dubai for a great deal of my childhood, this desert was unlike anything in the Middle East, comprising unique landscapes where Mongolia’s various terrains interject and co-exist.

Sand, Grass, and Mountains!

The most shocking view of the Gobi Desert is where vast fields of grassy plains and wavy sand dunes can be seen side-by-side, as though the terrains of Europe and the Middle East have joined in some alternate universe. In addition, the backdrop of rocky mountains adds another unique element to the picture, again, a piece of terrain that you wouldn’t typically see in a desert landscape.

Camel Galore!

There are many areas where you can ride a camel around the Gobi Desert, giving you a chance to see unique views up and down the sand dunes without exhausting yourself on foot. These double-humped camels are extremely comfortable to sit on, almost like a natural pillow that cushions your back and keeps your posture good throughout the ride!

Mongol Soldier Cosplay!

To spice things up, why not cosplay as a Mongol soldier from the Genghis Khan era while you’re here? For a small price of something equating to 10 USD, you’ll be assisted into the outfit and can even carry some cool weapons to show off with. It’s a perfect opportunity to get some spectacular Gobi Desert shots that you’ll remember for a lifetime!