Hongor Els

The towering Hongor Els dunes are located in the far south of Mongolia and stretch for 120 miles, and are known as the ‘singing sands’ after the whining noise the wind creates when shaping the dunes. The dunes reach a height of 800m and seem to appear from nowhere as the surrounding landscape is so contrasting, with a river running through lush green vegetation and level plains.

Popular excursions in this area include a camel ride across the Hongor River and into the dunes. Those with more energy to burn should clamber to the summit of the dunes to be rewarded with a spectacular view over the Gobi scenery – especially recommended at sunset to watch the sands and cliffs change colours with the sinking sun.