Yolyn Am Canyon is a narrow cut carved by nature in the Gurvan Saikan Mountains. The beautiful hiking trail is located in the deep Mongolian wilderness, and though it takes quite some time to get through the seemingly endless steppe and grasslands, it is actually worth your time and effort. Apart from stunning landscapes and breathtaking scenery, the area is known for a great variety of wildlife. The name Yolyn Am, which literally means "valley of eagles," speaks for itself. Besides noble golden eagles, the area is home to vultures and wild mountainous sheep named Argali. In the summer you will be able to delight in the sight of wildflowers ornating the rocky outcrops, and in the cold season, you can walk among the thick ice formations which often happen to remain there even in summer. Nevertheless, one should better avoid the two coldest Mongolian months, namely December and January, though the rest are beautiful.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Yolyn Am Canyon in Mongolia?
The period ranging from February to November is the prime time to visit Yolyn Am Canyon. Appreciating the assorted wildflowers during summer, and hiking are engaging activities during this period. Although December and January should be avoided due to Mongolia's absolute coldest months yet the canyon is accessible throughout the year. In winter, ensconcing thick ice formations make it distinctive. Show more
Where is Yolyn Am Canyon located in Mongolia?
Yolyn Am Canyon's location is in the Gurvan Saikan Mountains, situated in southern Mongolia's Gobi Desert that comes under the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. The trek takes you on a journey through the steppe and grasslands about 400 km south of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's capital city. Visitors behold the picturesque environment while making the drive toward the canyon from the city. Show more
What kind of wildlife can be seen in Yolyn Am Canyon?
In the Gobi Desert's acrid milieu, Yolyn Am Canyon enchants visitors with its flora and fauna that has adapted to the region's harsh conditions. A variety of species reside in this enchanted region, including soaring golden eagles and vultures, wild mountain sheep known as Argali, ibex, marmots, camels, and wolves. A pair of binoculars would be a wise investment for a better view of the wildlife in their natural habitat. Show more
How long does it take to get to Yolyn Am Canyon from the closest city?
Reaching Yolyn Am Canyon would take roughly 2-3 hours by taxi or private car from the nearest city of Dalanzadgad to its South, around 50 km. It takes a minimum of 12 hours to traverse the distance of 660 km from Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, by car before reaching the national park, making it an arduous but fulfilling journey. Show more
What are some unique features of Yolyn Am Canyon besides the hiking trail?
Yolyn Am Canyon, distinguished by its hiking trails, enchants its visitors with spectacular landscapes and breathtaking scenery. The walls of the canyon boast inscriptions and drawings displaying it's rich cultural heritage and prehistoric rock art. Horse and camel riding and birdwatching in the surrounding area are other popular activities. Moreover, the distinct ice formations that develop during winter often remain throughout summer, making it a distinctive feature. Show more
