Viking will for the first time begin offering guests destination-focused experiences in Mongolia with the new Spirit of Mongolia extension program.

The five-night, fully guided pre- or post-extension will allow guests to further immerse themselves in the rich traditions of the region, from the ancient city of Ulaanbaatar to the Gobi Desert. The Spirit of Mongolia and a variety of other pre and post extensions, including Hong Kong and Beijing, are available for Viking’s new China itineraries: Best of China, China Discovery, Classic China & the Coast and Wonders of China.

“We were proud to announce our new China ocean voyages recently, and we are now pleased to offer guests our first experiences in Mongolia,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Our guests are curious travellers who are interested in experiences that broaden their minds. With its geographic diversity and incredible history, Mongolia is an extraordinary destination making it a natural extension to our new China itineraries.”

Guests booked on the five-night Spirit of Mongolia Pre or Post extension will begin their journey in the city of Ulaanbaatar, where they will meet their Viking Representative and explore the sites of the city – including the Chinggis Khaan National Museum, Mongolia’s largest and most contemporary cultural institution, then step behind the scenes for a look at fossil specimens and more in the paleontology lab.

After a day exploring the city, guests will continue their journey on to Dalanzadgad, where they will transfer to the award-winning Three Camel Lodge, an eco-lodge nestled in the foothills of the Altai Mountains in the Gobi Desert near the Gurvan Saikhan National Park. Here, guests will enjoy comfortable accommodations in their own ger, an authentic yurt updated with modern amenities.

For three days, guests may partake in lodge activities at their own pace including archery, a camel safari or an exploration of the famous Flaming Cliffs. Guests can also choose to join fellow early risers for a sunrise trek through the desert hills with a naturalist guide or take in panoramic views of the steppe from Bulagtai Mountain to examine ancient petroglyphs. Alternatively, guests can learn the secrets of making buuz (steamed dumplings) from the lodge’s Mongolian chef. Following their time in the Gobi Desert, guests will return to Ulaanbaatar for additional exploration for one night before continuing their journey home or embarking on their Viking voyage in China.

The five-night Mongolia extension is priced online at AU$8,299 per person. Details can be found here.

In addition to the new Spirit of Mongolia extension, Viking is offering four other immersive Pre and Post extensions for guests looking to explore more of China. The new, fully guided extensions range between three and four nights, and are offered in the iconic cities of Hong Kong and Beijing, as well as some of the natural beauty of Guilin and Suzhou. The additional extensions include:

• Beijing – Delve into the mysteries of Beijing, one of history’s great capitals and home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Forbidden City and Great Wall. Optional excursions offer an opportunity to be immersed in this multilayered city’s eclectic mix of China’s ancient past and bold future. The 3-night extension is available on the China Discovery itinerary.
• Hong Kong – Delve into one of the world’s foremost metropolises with an extension in Hong Kong. Admire the captivating cityscape and soak up its blend of tradition and modernity, culture and commerce. An optional excursion to Macau allows for more opportunities to experience China’s lively southern coast. The 3-night extension is available on the Classic China & the Coast and China Discovery itineraries.
• Hong Kong & Guilin – Explore two versions of China – the urban spectacle of Hong Kong and the enchanting natural beauty of Guilin. Admire the towering skyscrapers and energy of Hong Kong, a metropolis steeped in commerce and culture, while tranquil Guilin captivates with karst mountains, serene rivers and ancient caves. The 4-night extension is available on the Classic China & the Coast and China Discovery itineraries.
• Suzhou & Wuxi – Discover Suzhou and Wuxi, famed for their exquisite gardens, canals and embodiment of ancient charm. Visit UNESCO-listed classical gardens, stroll ancient alleyways, gain insight into the region’s legacy of silk making, cruise the scenic Grand Canal and view one of China’s largest Buddha statues. The 3-night extension is available on the China Discovery itinerary.