Nestled in the heart of Mongolia’s vast and remote Gobi Desert, the Three Camel Lodge offers a unique escape into the pristine wilderness. As the sun rises, casting an orange glow across the endless desert landscape, herders lead their flocks of sheep and goats to the nearby water well, providing a glimpse into the traditional nomadic lifestyle that defines this region.
Founded by Mongolian-American businessman Jalsa Urubshurow, the Three Camel Lodge aims to introduce visitors to Mongolia’s nomadic culture, where a quarter of the population still embraces this way of life. The lodge consists of 40 gers, traditional round dwellings made of wood, felt, and rope. Despite their simple interiors, these gers offer luxuries uncommon in nomadic homes, including private bathrooms with running water and electricity powered by solar energy.
Jalsa’s connection to Mongolia traces back to his childhood, where his father’s stories fueled his fascination with the country’s culture. In the early 1990s, with Mongolia opening its borders to international tourists, Jalsa founded Nomadic Expeditions, a travel services company providing tours in Mongolia and beyond. Inspired to create a lasting presence in the Gobi, Jalsa established the Three Camel Lodge in 2002.
The Gobi, known as the land of dinosaurs, holds significant cultural importance, boasting one of the world’s most crucial dinosaur fossil sites at Bayanzag. A short drive from the lodge, this site, also known as the Flaming Cliffs, continues to yield discoveries, preserving the mysteries of Mongolia’s prehistoric past.
The lodge offers proximity to diverse landscapes, including Moltsog Els, a unique area covered in sand dunes, and Yol Valley, home to diverse wildlife such as the bearded vulture. Guests can explore the Gobi Gurvan Sakihan National Park, a protected area rich in biodiversity, providing opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and birdwatching.
Despite its remote location, the Three Camel Lodge prioritizes sustainability, following pillars of sustainable stewardship, preservation, and community empowerment. The lodge has implemented eco-friendly practices, such as eliminating single-use plastic bottles, managing waste through composting, and relying on solar panels for energy. Local materials within a 50-mile radius are used for construction and decor.
With a commitment to authenticity, Jalsa emphasizes the importance of sustainable tourism based on hiring locally. Nearly 30 full-time Mongolian staff contribute to the lodge’s operations, aligning with its dedication to protecting the environment and sharing Mongolian culture.
The lodge’s sustainability efforts extend beyond its operations, with investments in the local community, including support for educational programs and collaboration with paleontological organizations for the protection of dinosaur fossils.
While reaching the Three Camel Lodge involves a challenging journey, with a seven to eight-hour drive from Ulaanbaatar or flights departing in the middle of the night, the unique and immersive experience it offers makes it a sought-after destination for those seeking pristine wilderness and cultural enrichment.
Jalsa envisions more government support to enhance logistics and extend the tourism season, making Mongolia’s hidden gem more accessible to travelers. With over 30 years of dedication to putting Mongolia on the map, the Three Camel Lodge stands as a testament to the beauty and cultural richness of the Gobi Desert.