Sound the trumpets, come on: we’re off to the Great Mongolia for 12 days! Can you imagine how insanely amazing it is to sip fermented Mongolian milk while sitting on the ground in a yurt, around the stove, laughing with a local family?
On this epic group adventure trip, we explore the endless Mongolian steppe and live alongside nomads, adapting to their rhythms and traditions. With us is a local driver who helps us navigate the steppe aboard wonderfully battered, iconic vans called UAZ. With our small convoy, we camp in the desert and stay with nomadic families in their yurts, between the Gobi Desert and the central mountains.
The itinerary is epic. We start from Ulaanbaatar, the capital and the only real hint of civilization during the journey. Then we head straight into the desert to the Ikh Gazriin Chuluu reserve, take in the spectacular rock formations of Tsagaan Suvarga, look for the real Pikachu in the Yolyn Am Valley, and then forget what a shower is once we enter the Gobi Desert. And there’s more: the Orkhon Valley, the Erdene Zuu Buddhist monastery, and Tsenkher with its hot springs, reminding us by this point in the trip just how much we smell.
Then we do plenty of other things too, like eating communist ice cream, climbing dunes, and riding scruffy little horses. So, here’s the big recap:
🍌 Ulaanbaatar. 🍌 Ikh Gazriin Chuluu. 🍌 Yolyn Am Valley. 🍌 The Flaming Cliffs at Bayanzag. 🍌 The Gobi Desert. 🍌 Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, the White Lake. 🍌 The Khongoriin Els dunes. 🍌 The Central Mountains. 🍌 Erdene Zuu Monastery.
We don’t travel to say “I’ve been there,” but to feel “wow, I’ve changed.” We’re here to take you on the greatest adventure trip of your life. The one you imagine — and then some. Mongolia, here we come!
Experiences you'll live
Drink traditional Mongolian fermented milk, seated on the floor of the yurt around the stove.
Dinner with a nomadic family, in the middle of nowhere.
Climb the Khongoryn Els dunes in the Gobi for an unreal sunset at the top.
Crossing the steppe in a UAZ, wondering where the hell we’re going.
What we've got
(And the others don't, MUAHAHA)
Certified team leader with licensed tour escort qualification
You can depart from the airport you prefer
Collaboration with the University of Ulaanbaatar
Discover this gran trip
Check out the itinerary
1
the adventure begins
Day 1
We sink into our seats on a flight bound for Mongolia. Outside the window we see Siberia, the endless steppe, and the first gers. The excitement is building.And then… nothing, except hoping tomorrow comes quickly.
We sink into our seats on a flight bound for Mongolia. Outside the window we see Siberia, the endless steppe, and the first gers. The excitement is building.
And then… nothing, except hoping tomorrow comes quickly.
2
THE COMMUNIST ICE CREAMS OF ULAANBAATAR
Day 2
We land in Mongolia and settle into our hotel. The first thing we do in Ulaanbaatar is wash our armpits. Then we take a stroll among the suspicious Russians and the smiling Mongolians in Genghis Khan Square, and visit the saddest yet most important dinosaur museum in history.
Lunch is Mongolian street food and the infamous communist ice cream. We’re off to a bang!
Then we end the day at the capital’s lookout point, where we see how skyscrapers are replacing the city’s traditional tents. Of course, we’re rooting for the yurts.
We spend the night in Ulaanbaatar: it’s our first and last night of civilization.
We land in Mongolia and settle into our hotel. The first thing we do in Ulaanbaatar is wash our armpits. Then we take a stroll among the suspicious Russians and the smiling Mongolians in Genghis Khan Square, and visit the saddest yet most important dinosaur museum in history.
Lunch is Mongolian street food and the infamous communist ice cream. We’re off to a bang!
Then we end the day at the capital’s lookout point, where we see how skyscrapers are replacing the city’s traditional tents. Of course, we’re rooting for the yurts.
We spend the night in Ulaanbaatar: it’s our first and last night of civilization.
3
BARBECUE IN THE DESERT
Day 3
“Where we’re going, there are no roads” — a quote that couldn’t be more fitting. Starting today, we begin crossing the steppe aboard our beat-up UAZ vans. They’re old Soviet vans: dangerous and unstoppable, just like our intentions. After a few hours of driving, we arrive at the Ih Gazriin Chuluu reserve, where we hop among enormous Death Valley-style rocks: deep red and stretching as far as the eye can see. We end the day by setting up camp under the stars and cooking together the hottest barbecue in the desert. Cool? Yes, moderately cool.
“Where we’re going, there are no roads” — a quote that couldn’t be more fitting. Starting today, we begin crossing the steppe aboard our beat-up UAZ vans. They’re old Soviet vans: dangerous and unstoppable, just like our intentions.
After a few hours of driving, we arrive at the Ih Gazriin Chuluu reserve, where we hop among enormous Death Valley-style rocks: deep red and stretching as far as the eye can see.
We end the day by setting up camp under the stars and cooking together the hottest barbecue in the desert. Cool? Yes, moderately cool.
4
TSAGAAN SUVARGA. YOU KNOW IT, RIGHT?
Day 4
We wake up, have breakfast, and get ready to head to Tsagaan Suvarga—a name that might sound a bit mysterious at first*. In reality, it’s an incredible place in the Ulziit district. Here you’ll find spectacular rock formations that, after being shaped by the wind over thousands of years, have taken on striking pyramid-like forms—tall and slender, almost reminiscent of the spires of great architectural works.We spend the day driving across the steppe and through the mountains, until we reach our yurt. The plan for the evening: heavy blankets and steaming hot food.*You may still be wondering: so, was it really that mysterious after all?!
We wake up, have breakfast, and get ready to head to Tsagaan Suvarga—a name that might sound a bit mysterious at first*. In reality, it’s an incredible place in the Ulziit district. Here you’ll find spectacular rock formations that, after being shaped by the wind over thousands of years, have taken on striking pyramid-like forms—tall and slender, almost reminiscent of the spires of great architectural works.
We spend the day driving across the steppe and through the mountains, until we reach our yurt. The plan for the evening: heavy blankets and steaming hot food.
*You may still be wondering: so, was it really that mysterious after all?!
5
PIKACHU HUNT
Day 5
It’s always wonderful to wake up in the desert! This morning we head toward the Gobi region and stock up at the last outpost of civilization: beer, chips, and dried goat meat. All essential items for your survival. We aim to reach Yolyn Am Valley in the afternoon (so, Yolin PM... HAHA). It’s a long, deep gorge where we walk through the canyons with our feet above a river of ice. The valley is absolutely full of pikas, the real-life Pikachus. These tiny rodents spend all day running away from eagles, or from Poké Balls (and this is where the nerds rejoice).In the evening, we stay at a nomad camp, having dinner with them, chatting, and learning to appreciate their silences too. We sleep in a yurt again tonight. Perfect.
It’s always wonderful to wake up in the desert! This morning we head toward the Gobi region and stock up at the last outpost of civilization: beer, chips, and dried goat meat. All essential items for your survival. We aim to reach Yolyn Am Valley in the afternoon (so, Yolin PM... HAHA). It’s a long, deep gorge where we walk through the canyons with our feet above a river of ice.
The valley is absolutely full of pikas, the real-life Pikachus. These tiny rodents spend all day running away from eagles, or from Poké Balls (and this is where the nerds rejoice).
In the evening, we stay at a nomad camp, having dinner with them, chatting, and learning to appreciate their silences too. We sleep in a yurt again tonight. Perfect.
6
Humps in the Gobi Desert
Day 6
From here on, we probably won’t come across any more showers, so make peace with it: we’re going to smell. With our battered but trusty four-wheeled vehicles, we head deep into the desert. Our first stop is at the Flaming Cliffs in Bayanzag, stunningly beautiful red rock formations. An unbelievable landscape. We take a walk through canyons and scenic viewpoints overlooking the desert, keeping an eye out for dinosaur fossils to sell on the black market. Maybe you’ll earn back the cost of the trip. This is one of the most famous places in the world for the discovery of Jurassic remains! Next stop? Khongoryn Els, the highest and most famous sand dunes in Mongolia. WE ARE IN THE GOBI DESERT!!!! We spend the afternoon trying to reach the top of the dunes, an almost impossible task since with every two steps forward, you slide one back. Bent over with exhaustion, we finally make it to the top just in time for sunset over the Gobi below us. We’re in one of the coolest places in all of Mongolia! Tonight we camp beneath the dunes as guests of a nomadic family. Dinner features traditional nomadic food, followed by a night beneath the most incredible stars in the galaxy. Wooooow.
From here on, we probably won’t come across any more showers, so make peace with it: we’re going to smell.
With our battered but trusty four-wheeled vehicles, we head deep into the desert. Our first stop is at the Flaming Cliffs in Bayanzag, stunningly beautiful red rock formations. An unbelievable landscape. We take a walk through canyons and scenic viewpoints overlooking the desert, keeping an eye out for dinosaur fossils to sell on the black market. Maybe you’ll earn back the cost of the trip. This is one of the most famous places in the world for the discovery of Jurassic remains!
Next stop? Khongoryn Els, the highest and most famous sand dunes in Mongolia. WE ARE IN THE GOBI DESERT!!!!
We spend the afternoon trying to reach the top of the dunes, an almost impossible task since with every two steps forward, you slide one back. Bent over with exhaustion, we finally make it to the top just in time for sunset over the Gobi below us. We’re in one of the coolest places in all of Mongolia!
Tonight we camp beneath the dunes as guests of a nomadic family. Dinner features traditional nomadic food, followed by a night beneath the most incredible stars in the galaxy. Wooooow.
7
BUT WHERE ARE WE GOING?!
Day 7
We really don’t know this time. Today is a day of pure Mongolian travel. We watch the Gobi roll by beneath our wheels, making our way along the unmarked tracks we love so much. The journey toward the Central Mountains begins.In the afternoon we arrive in Arvaikheer, a Mongolian town through and through. We rest in a little hotel that proudly advertises having a shower. We take full advantage of it, and the whole country is grateful.
We really don’t know this time. Today is a day of pure Mongolian travel. We watch the Gobi roll by beneath our wheels, making our way along the unmarked tracks we love so much. The journey toward the Central Mountains begins.
In the afternoon we arrive in Arvaikheer, a Mongolian town through and through. We rest in a little hotel that proudly advertises having a shower. We take full advantage of it, and the whole country is grateful.
8
The Orkhon Waterfall
Day 8
Today we explore the Orkhon Valley, a place where nature still truly reigns supreme. This valley is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its picture-postcard landscape. Wow, once again. Here we visit the Orkhon Waterfall and even take a horseback ride to ford part of the river, just to reach the waterfall. Tonight we are once again welcomed by our Mongolian nomad friends, who host us in a yurt. Lift your eyes to the sky: how many stars can you count?
Today we explore the Orkhon Valley, a place where nature still truly reigns supreme. This valley is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its picture-postcard landscape. Wow, once again. Here we visit the Orkhon Waterfall and even take a horseback ride to ford part of the river, just to reach the waterfall.
Tonight we are once again welcomed by our Mongolian nomad friends, who host us in a yurt. Lift your eyes to the sky: how many stars can you count?
9
THE MONGOLIAN BATHS
Day 9
The landscape has changed. Now, mountains and little passing lakes glide by outside the windows. We’re driving toward Tsenkher, which in Mongolian means: “we’ve arrived at an amazing place where, inside the Mongolian tent camp, there’s a river of hot thermal water where we can wash up and relax.” Incredible—all of that in a single word.We’ve earned a whole afternoon of relaxation, soaking in the hot water with a cold beer, haven’t we? Then dinner and an overnight stay at the tented camp. We’re exhausted and happy.
The landscape has changed. Now, mountains and little passing lakes glide by outside the windows. We’re driving toward Tsenkher, which in Mongolian means: “we’ve arrived at an amazing place where, inside the Mongolian tent camp, there’s a river of hot thermal water where we can wash up and relax.” Incredible—all of that in a single word.
We’ve earned a whole afternoon of relaxation, soaking in the hot water with a cold beer, haven’t we? Then dinner and an overnight stay at the tented camp. We’re exhausted and happy.
10
ALL SAINTS AT ERDENE ZUU
Day 10
Waking up in the yurts… what a wonderful feeling! This morning we drive to Kharkhorin, one of the most important cities in Mongolia (all of 8,000 inhabitants!). We leave the desert and the mountains behind to reach the Buddhist monastery of Erdene Zuu. Once we arrive, we spend a couple of hours inside the largest and oldest monastery in Mongolia, walking among the 108 stupas and temples, greeting the monks, and spinning the prayer wheels.After soaking up a good dose of holiness, we take a stroll around town, where we have dinner and spend the night. How much do we miss the yurt?
Waking up in the yurts… what a wonderful feeling! This morning we drive to Kharkhorin, one of the most important cities in Mongolia (all of 8,000 inhabitants!). We leave the desert and the mountains behind to reach the Buddhist monastery of Erdene Zuu. Once we arrive, we spend a couple of hours inside the largest and oldest monastery in Mongolia, walking among the 108 stupas and temples, greeting the monks, and spinning the prayer wheels.
After soaking up a good dose of holiness, we take a stroll around town, where we have dinner and spend the night. How much do we miss the yurt?
11
CIVILIZATION, MY LOVE!
Day 11
Today we officially return to civilization as we head back to Ulaanbaatar. After half a day’s drive, our driver—just as worn out as we are—takes us into the buildings of the “metropolis.” We say goodbye to our Mongolian friends (him and the cook) and enjoy the wonders of modernity at our hotel: electrical outlets, a bidet, and no dung on the floor. Oh yes! Evening in Ulaanbaatar and overnight stay at the hotel. We still miss the yurt very much.
Today we officially return to civilization as we head back to Ulaanbaatar. After half a day’s drive, our driver—just as worn out as we are—takes us into the buildings of the “metropolis.” We say goodbye to our Mongolian friends (him and the cook) and enjoy the wonders of modernity at our hotel: electrical outlets, a bidet, and no dung on the floor. Oh yes!
Evening in Ulaanbaatar and overnight stay at the hotel. We still miss the yurt very much.
12
CAST AWAY
Day 12
Today is a free day to wander around the city. We relax, do some Mongolian shopping, and end up like the guy from Cast Away when he’s finally rescued: we gorge ourselves on local food like there’s no tomorrow. Big celebrations in Ulaanbaatar to toast this crazy, epic journey that we somehow unbelievably survived. And then the time comes: we have to board a flight that will take us back home in the evening. It’s still too early to fully process it, but the question is already starting to surface: “Damn, what an experience have we just lived through?!” It was the trip you imagined — and then some.
Today is a free day to wander around the city. We relax, do some Mongolian shopping, and end up like the guy from Cast Away when he’s finally rescued: we gorge ourselves on local food like there’s no tomorrow. Big celebrations in Ulaanbaatar to toast this crazy, epic journey that we somehow unbelievably survived. And then the time comes: we have to board a flight that will take us back home in the evening.
It’s still too early to fully process it, but the question is already starting to surface: “Damn, what an experience have we just lived through?!” It was the trip you imagined — and then some.
Boring but important stuff to know
Deposit and registration
To sign up for the trip, you need to: 🍌 Pay a deposit, which will be indicated during registration, to confirm your spot. 🍌 The remaining balance must be paid 30 days before departure.
And what about the payment method? 🍌 You can pay by bank transfer. 🍌 You can pay by card. 🍌 You can pay for your trip in up to 12 installments with HeyLight.
Flight
🍌Your flight is included in the price, with departure from Milan or Rome. 🍌 You can also depart from other airports — just select them during registration. If you can’t find the airport you want, write to us and we’ll help you. 🍌 A No-Flight option is available. Basically, if you prefer to arrange your own flight, we’ll deduct the airfare from the trip price and you can book your flight independently. Then we’ll coordinate to meet at the destination. 🍌 Your flight times will be available in your personal area once you have completed your registration. 🍌 And who takes care of check-in? You decide! By default, you do it yourself, but if you prefer, we can handle it for you — just select this option during registration. 🍌Oh, and make sure to read all the FAQs related to flights at the bottom of this page.
Transportation and accommodations
🍌Vans: we will form a small convoy of UAZ Purgons, Soviet off-road vans, driven by our local drivers. In Mongolia there are no roads, but our drivers know the tracks perfectly and will always get us to our destination without us having to worry about a thing!
🍌Accommodation 1: we will sleep in yurts at nomadic camps run by local families. The tents are simple, there is not always electricity, and the bathroom is outdoors; however, they are comfortable, warm, and clean.
🍌Accommodation 2: we will spend حوالي 4 nights in hotels or guesthouses in double, triple, and quadruple rooms with shared bathrooms.
One thing: at Sto Gran Tour, we choose not to use hostels with dorm rooms or low-standard B&Bs, because we want to protect the quality of the trip.
One last thing: depending on availability or changes on the ground, alternatives to the proposed accommodations may be used. A double room is never guaranteed 100%. We have created a dedicated FAQ just below.
Luggage and equipment
🍌 You will be allowed one carry-on bag and one small backpack. 🍌 You can find the baggage size and weight limits in your personal area. 🍌 Checked baggage is not included. However, if it is not included in your airfare, you can add it in your personal area. 🍌 You can find the list of equipment to bring for the trip in your personal area. 🍌 No special technical clothing is required. Yippee!
Additional activities
Optional activities are experiences not included in the itinerary, which you can choose to add to personalize your trip. They’re amazing experiences, but they may not be for everyone. And that’s totally fine! Instead of being stuck with an “all inclusive” package and paying for things you’re not interested in, you have the freedom to choose.
🍌 You can book them during registration or later in your personal area. 🍌 It’s not required for the whole group to do the same activities. 🍌 For those who don’t join the optional activities, there is always a free alternative. It’s never a lesser option within the itinerary, so no one has to miss out on anything. 🍌 When specific equipment is needed for an activity, we’ll let you know.
If there are optional activities you’re excited about, we recommend booking them as early as possible. Especially if you’re traveling in high season, they often sell out very quickly. We don’t control ticket sales, so if spaces are no longer available, unfortunately there’s nothing we can do.
There’s also a dedicated FAQ in the section “You may have questions — we’re sure we have answers.” Take a look.
Entry requirements for the country
🍌 Before signing up for the trip, we recommend checking any entry requirements required by the country. You can do so here on the Viaggiare Sicuri website: https://www.viaggiaresicuri.it/find-country/country/MNG 🍌 It will be your responsibility (yep, it’s on you!) to make sure you meet all entry requirements for the destination country or countries. Sto Gran Tour accepts no responsibility in the event that entry to the country is denied. If you have any questions at this point, just ask us and we’ll be happy to help! 🍌 Any visa fees or government taxes will be at your expense.
Vaccinations and health
🍌 There are no mandatory vaccinations for traveling to Mongolia. 🍌 We are not doctors! So we cannot hand out medical advice left and right.
Call your doctor before you leave, so they can recommend any medical precautions or vaccinations you may need.
Meals
🍌 During the expedition, there will be an official cook, Sto Gran Cuoco! He’ll take care of our hungry bellies throughout the journey at our desert camps. The crews, in turn, will help the cook or the families hosting us.
🍌 Are you intolerant to anything? 🍌 Do you have any food allergies? 🍌 Are you vegetarian? Vegan? Pastafarian?! Do you only eat things that start with Z?!?
Nooo problem! Nooo problem! Food should never be a limit to your trip. Just let us know in advance, so the cook can make the necessary arrangements.
What's included, and what's not
Included in the trip price
Not included in the trip price
Common fund
What about shared expenses? How do they work? Traveling with stacks of local cash and doing the math on a calculator every night isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. So, we’ll spare you that stress: when you travel with us, it’s much easier.
Each participant takes turns paying shared expenses and recording them in the SplitUp app, which at the end of the trip splits them equally among the whole group. We estimate these costs will be between €50 and €80 for this trip, depending on the number of participants.
🍌 Tips for cooks and drivers. 🍌 The Trip Leader’s expenses.
Pick your extra activities
Customize your itinerary!
Great idea, with us you can. You can tweak every itinerary by adding the extra activities you want to do on the trip. We've tested and approved every single one. So instead of putting up with an "all inclusive" and paying for stuff you don't like, you're free to choose.
You might have questions, we definitely have answers
Deposit, balance and insurance
Here’s how payments work:
🍌 A deposit is due at the time of booking to confirm your spot.
🍌 The remaining balance is paid 30 days before departure, directly from your personal area.
🍌 You can pay by bank transfer, card, or in installments. Choose whichever option is most convenient for you.
🍌 We’ll show you the final trip cost, including any extras you select, during the booking process, in the confirmation email, and in your personal area.
🍌 Before departure, you can purchase cancellation insurance to cover your trip cancellation, provided the reason for cancellation falls within the covered cases listed in the insurance PDF. You can view and download this PDF during the booking process, before confirming the trip.
🍌 Purchasing the cancellation insurance we offer is not mandatory. If you feel it does not meet your needs, you can arrange your own policy and we’ll still be friends and travel buddies.
🍌 Sto Gran Tour accepts no responsibility if the reason for the participant’s trip cancellation does not fall within the cases covered by the insurance.
How air travel works
🍌 With us, your flight is always included in the trip price, departing from Milan or Rome depending on the departure date.
🍌 For an additional fee, you can choose a different departure airport. For example: Catania, Naples, Bologna, London… your call. And if you can’t find your airport, just write to us.
🍌 The group may have different flight schedules, depending on airline availability and the order in which participants book.
🍌 We’ll let you know your flight times in your personal area as soon as they become available.
🍌 Booking for two people does not include seats next to each other on the plane, as this is a paid extra. However, you can request and add it from your personal area.
🍌 Unless otherwise stated, the flight booking does not include checked baggage. If you really, really want to add it, alright then! You can add it from your personal area.
🍌 If you are absent at the airport on the day of departure due to personal unforeseen circumstances, delays or cancellations of connecting flights or other means of transport, you will need to reach the destination independently on another flight at your own expense. We’ll help you find a flight, provided you buy the first round of beers when you catch up with us.
Flight not included option
If you’d prefer to arrange your own flights, no problem! You can select the “without flights” option when you sign up. We’ll deduct the flight cost from the trip price, and that’s it. Please note:
🍌 With the “without flights” option, airport transfers are not included.
🍌 With the “without flights” option, domestic/internal flights are still included and arranged by us.
🍌 With the “without flights” option, we ask you to share the flight times you plan to book, so we can confirm whether they are compatible with the rest of the group.
🍌 With the “without flights” option, before purchasing your flights you must wait until the trip is confirmed. If you buy them before confirmation, we will not refund the airfare portion.
Types of accommodation
We’ll stay in yurts at nomadic camps run by local families. The tents are simple, there isn’t always electricity, and the bathroom facilities are outdoors; however, they are comfortable, warm, and clean. We’ll then spend about 4 nights in hotels or guesthouses, in double, triple, or quadruple rooms with shared bathrooms.
The accommodation setup is also outlined in the “Important (and slightly boring) things to know” section under “Accommodation.” Depending on the departure date and the specific trip, the arrangement shown on the website may differ from what is described here. For this reason, you will never see it stated that a specific room type (whether double, triple, or quadruple) is guaranteed with 100% certainty. This is simply because we do not always have full control over our suppliers’ availability. It’s important to keep in mind that on a group trip, sharing is part of the travel experience: along with an incredible adventure, you may also end up sharing rooms and bathrooms.
If having a double room is absolutely essential for you, please write to us before departure. That way, we can avoid issues or misunderstandings on both sides. Deal?
The Sto Gran Tour Team Leader
When you travel with Sto Gran Tour, there’s always a Tour Leader with you. We don’t work with polished bloggers who turn travel into social media content, and we don’t collaborate with people who just want a free trip. Our Tour Leaders are certified guides: experienced, passionate men and women, as well as licensed tour escorts.
What exactly do they do on the trip, you ask?! Well, the Tour Leader coordinates the group throughout the journey, handling logistics, providing continuous support, and building team spirit, without being a traditional tour guide. They are not a nature guide, but they make sure each part of the trip runs according to plan, as far as possible depending on circumstances and the group’s needs. They share useful tips about the itinerary, help manage schedules, and make it easier to organize each day. A saint, basically. They’re the go-to person for questions, unexpected situations, and logistical needs. In short: like a super-functional Swiss Army knife who’s always on the ball.
Group and travel companions
Groups usually consist of 4 to 17 people, led by a Trip Leader. The exact number varies depending on the trip. The average age on our trips is usually between 25 and 45, with a few exceptions.
In general, people in the group come from all over Italy and are open-minded travelers who love new experiences. You don’t need to be an experienced traveler, and you don’t need to have joined a group trip before. It doesn’t matter whether you’re traveling solo, with your girlfriend, or with your brother. What really matters is the spirit you bring: the desire and curiosity to explore and experience the world. It’ll be what you imagine — only even more.
One month before departure, we’ll open the Wazzzzup group so you can start getting to know the other participants. You’ll find the Sto Gran Gruppo link in your personal area.
We confirm and activate the trip once there are at least 4 to 6 participants. If we don’t reach the minimum number, you can change your date free of charge to the closest available departure — either for the same destination or a different one. Or you can request a full refund. So when will you know whether the trip is confirmed or not? One month before departure, when we total up the number of participants.
P.S.
Are you cursing us because you’d love to travel with us, but think you’re outside the age range? Write to us — maybe we can still travel together anyway. And in the worst-case scenario, at least you can insult us in person.
Group confirmation
Group confirmation
Our trips are almost always confirmed. For groups that are still pending confirmation, we will send you periodic updates through your personal area. If we do not reach the minimum number of participants (generally 3), you may change your date free of charge to the nearest available departure, either for the same destination or for another one, or receive a full refund. For trips with only one departure date, the "Trip Status" is shown.
How extra activities work
You can customize your trip with extra activities, which you can choose either when you sign up or later on. Please note that:
🍌 If an activity is canceled by the provider, you will be refunded.
🍌 Any special equipment required for each activity will be provided on site.
🍌 You can also choose activities after signing up and add them from your personal area for an additional €5.
🍌 We cannot guarantee activity availability if you add them close to departure.
🍌 During high season, such as New Year’s and summer, we cannot guarantee activity availability unless you book them well in advance.
🍌 Activity prices may increase at the providers’ discretion.
One more thing: the activities are organized by local providers, and we at Sto Gran Tour are not responsible for changes, availability, or cancellations.
Travel itinerary and changes
Even if you are joining an organized trip, the spirit is that of a true road trip. Absolutely! It’s a real journey: unexpected events, pleasant unplanned moments along the itinerary, stops, weather-related obstacles, and more. In practical terms, what does this mean?
🍌 The program, as well as the order of the days, may change.
🍌 Nature is in charge. We do not provide refunds of the amount paid for program changes due to weather conditions.
🍌 Mechanical issues can happen. We do not provide refunds of the amount paid for program changes caused by mechanical problems (for example, a flat tire, a blown fuse, a broken window, a stolen side mirror, and things like that).
🍌 If travel days or activities are missed because of bad weather or issues caused by suppliers, we will try to make them up if the group agrees to the new travel solution and only if the Tour Leader considers it feasible.
🍌 The layout/size of the means of transport and accommodations may change from what is indicated in the travel program due to local availability.
How adaptable do you need to be
A four-star place here might come with scratchy towels and a gurgling drain. And a place without even a single star might serve the best dinner of the whole trip. Ratings are local, and so are the standards used to measure them. In practice, this means:
🍌 Cleanliness may sometimes fall short. Tell the Tour Leader and we’ll step in, but don’t expect a polished seaside hotel on the Romagna Riviera.
🍌 We work directly with suppliers, without middlemen, and that helps us solve a lot of issues. That said, we don’t control other people’s timing, so do factor in some waiting now and then.
Then there are the nights when we stay as guests with local families. And guests really means guests: it’s their home, not tourist accommodation. We ask permission before taking photos, take off our shoes if requested, eat what is served to us, and say thank you.
Good manners and respect are the foundation of exploring the world, always!
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Imagine you’re right in the middle of the steppe. It’s dark, freezing cold outside, and the sky is packed with stars. You’re in a yurt with a spoon in your hand and a bowl of steaming hot Mongolian soup. Someone in the group is trying to start a fire with two stones, someone else has just made friends with the nomadic grandmother hosting us and is now drinking fermented mare’s milk as if it were limoncello. Some have already given up and crawled into their sleeping bags, while someone else is sitting right next to you asking, “So, where do you think the bathroom is?” Spoiler: there isn’t one. You think back to this morning, when you were riding one of the scruffiest horses you’ve ever seen to ford the Orkhon River and reach that incredible waterfall. How insanely amazing was that?
The Great Mongolia is everything you imagine—and then some.
Our documentaries
Episode 1: Mongolia
Episode 1 Mongolia
This is the story of a journey through Mongolia. Leaving the last city behind us, we travel into a land without roads or fences, where the open space seems endless. We want to understand what life is like in one of the least populated places in the world.
The first stop on our Mongolian journey in our series "Slow Travels," every Sunday on Kilimangiaro on Rai 3.
In the previous episode, our journey through Mongolia began. Today, the steppe gives way to the desert: we move forward among dunes, rocks, and isolated camps, trying to keep pace with those who have always traveled these lands.
The second chapter of the Mongolian journey in the series "Slow Travel", every Sunday on Kilimangiaro on Rai 3.
The journey continues northward. The climate and the landscape change, and with them so does the way of life of the families we meet: horses, herds, and a kind of hospitality that needs no appointment.
The third chapter of the Mongolian journey in the series "Slow Travel", every Sunday on Kilimangiaro on Rai 3.
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Second trip with Sto Gran Tour and once again my expectations weren't let down! Thanks to a great group, a great team leader (Alberto) and an enchanted Lapland, even the -30° and the little mishaps turned into memories and stories to laugh about. The experiences on offer were all authentic and completely out of the comfort zone, which in my opinion is what you look for in a trip like this, a trip I'll always carry in my heart while waiting for the next one 💝
Cristina Intrieri
February 2026
Best experience ever
One of the best experiences of my life! I've done plenty of group trips, but this one beat them in every way! A team leader (Cate) full of enthusiasm and passion, perfect organization and better accommodation than many others! Not to mention all the extras. Thank you, Sto Gran Tour really is a great blast, but thanks above all to our Great Team Leader 🍌
Miriam Forte
November 2025
A truly memorable first trip to Japan
I joined the trip with my partner and it was our first time in Asia. The experience went beyond expectations. The itinerary was carefully planned, and credit also goes to our tour leader, Michele, who enriched every stop with clear explanations and his enthusiasm for Japanese culture. The route offered a really pleasant balance between cultural visits, discovering the local food and moments immersed in nature. The group we shared the trip with was a nice surprise too: curious, engaged people with a genuine desire to enjoy every moment. All in all, an experience I'd absolutely recommend to anyone who wants a first introduction to Japan that's well structured and engaging at the same time!
Fabio Rosato
November 2025
An exceptional first experience
An unforgettable experience in Vietnam: even though I left on my own, I immediately felt at ease with all the other participants (18 people). Very beautiful places, excellent organization, even considering that three days had to be rescheduled because of a typhoon that hit the central part of the country. Several bus transfers, some of them hours long, due to the shape of Vietnam itself, but we knew about it before departure. Team leader Roberto: a great person and an excellent professional. Happy I took part, I'd leave again tomorrow.
Matteo Monteverdi
January 2026
My first group trip
It was my first group trip, and I was really satisfied with the organization and with how the trip was structured! Fantastic group, and what can I say about the guide: fantastic and super active! She showed us wonderful places and told us about Iceland from the heart!
Mirco Pieralisi
January 2026
Hakuna Matata!!!
Exciting trip to Kenya! Andrea made us live the "safari" to the fullest, cheerfully carting us from one animal to the next (he even knew the exact number of hairs on their bu...). Almost everything worked and even the hiccups were handled like a pro. Fantastic group, as only happens on unforgettable trips.
Amerigo degli Atti
January 2026
Unforgettable Lapland
A perfect experience from every point of view! A trip lived 100% that met all my expectations! Visiting Lapland means putting yourself to the test, and I can say that without the organization, but above all without the involvement of our leader Alberto, I would have backed out. Alberto balanced every phase of our trip, staying serious while bringing a great spirit of involvement. His presence made all the difference! Every phase of our trip went smoothly, with no issues in timing, transfers or organization. Even for the little hiccups a quick and effective solution was found. I'd choose Sto Gran Tour again for my next trip with my eyes closed.
Rosita Pavone
August 2026
Scotland tour, August '26
It lets you drive all over Scotland and its gorgeous islands, focusing on its natural wonders, which you enjoy through scenic treks: the right balance between effort and views, doable for everyone. Yes, it will rain and it will be fantastic. Our tour leader Alberto was attentive to everyone's needs, balancing the sights of the towns we visited, Edinburgh above all, with the beauty of the land and the right dose of lightness, alternating effort and breaks to recharge.
Dario Conti
March 2026
Trip to the Lofoten
It was my first group trip and it far exceeded my expectations. Besides the breathtaking landscapes, I have to say everything was organized down to the smallest detail, from the very nice and comfortable accommodation where we stayed to the itinerary and the activities chosen. Our team leader Nic was very well prepared and patient, ready to solve any hiccup and always offering us alternatives on what to do. With a group made up only of women, he managed to create a unique harmony. I recommend everyone travel with StoGranTour! See you on the next trip together ❤️
Giulia Ottaviani
January 2026
Trip to Morocco 🇲🇦
My first trip with Stograntour couldn't have gone better! I was lucky enough to live a very intimate experience, traveling with a tiny group of wonderful people. Morocco is marvelous and gave us intense emotions. The itinerary was well structured: we went from snowy mountains to the desert, crossed hills of argan trees to reach the immense ocean, and then ended up in the chaos, but also the chill, among the rooftops and gardens of Marrakech. Along the way we met fantastic people. In particular, I won't forget Jawad's welcome and generosity and the beautiful experience at his home. We were guided flawlessly by Rob, a perfect team leader: professional and passionate, but above all a true travel companion. Always smiling and helpful, sensitive and attentive. Thanks to everyone, and see you on the next adventure!
Cristina F.
October 2025
Sto Gran Kenya
My first solo trip, and I couldn't have had a better guide! The legendary Cruz in the Bush took me among lions, giant animals, breathtaking sunsets and ocean waves. He knows every corner of Kenya, almost as if it were his home. If you need someone to rely on, trust him. There's never a shortage of laughs, but I won't spoil anything else: meet him in person and you won't regret it.
Denise Camboni
January 2026
Unique experiences
I've traveled with StoGranTour three times, visiting South Africa, Iceland and Morocco. On all three trips I met extremely well-prepared and knowledgeable guides, with a truly impeccable wealth of knowledge about the land, the flora and the local cultures. I warmly recommend traveling with them to anyone who wants to live a unique experience, thanks to itineraries and experiences planned down to the smallest detail and to fantastic tour leaders.
Chiara Nordera
January 2026
Fantastic trip to Vietnam
Back from a fantastic trip to Vietnam with Chiara, a flawless tour leader, always present and ready to talk things through with the group for any decision to be made. Wonderful places, between the chaos of the cities and the quietest, most magical green of nature. This is my third group trip and the first with Sto Gran Tour: really well done, with excellent organization.
Fabio Niero
December 2025
Iceland with Nic
A fantastic experience! The trip was beautiful, well organized and with a great variety and diversity of experiences. All made even more exciting thanks to Nic, his contagious enthusiasm for adventure and his ability to keep the group together.
Mariangela Viceconte
May 2026
Sta Gran Cappadocia 🇹🇷
I'm writing this review just back from a fantastic trip to Turkey (Istanbul + Cappadocia), what can I say, I couldn't have asked for better! It wasn't my first time with SGT and, as I'd already seen in the past, the trip definitely lived up to my expectations. A special thanks to our super team leader Marco Rotunno, who made us experience these magical places at their best ✨🫶🏼
Letizia Callegari
March 2026
Lapland, hunting for the northern lights
I did the trip to Lapland organized by Sto Gran Tour (Dec–Jan) and the experience was excellent from every point of view. The itinerary was carefully planned: well-spread activities, zero downtime and the chance to truly live the essence of Lapland. From the northern lights to the husky excursions, every moment was handled with professionalism and care. Federico, our coordinator, was very knowledgeable, helpful and always ready to share fun facts about the area. I also really appreciated the punctuality and clarity of the organization: transfers, excursions and equipment always perfect. It's a trip I'd recommend to anyone who wants to experience Lapland without stress, with the reassurance of a serious organization and a level of care that really makes the difference. Sto Gran Tour passes with flying colors: an unforgettable experience.
Antonio
March 2026
Trip to Morocco
I left for Morocco at the end of March for my second trip with Stograntour and once again it was an all-round positive experience. The real added value for me is the organization, flawless and never trite in an itinerary that always goes a bit beyond expectations, and the skill of the team leaders: Ilaria was perfect! The group worked really well too, I'm taking home a great memory and I'm already thinking about the next trip!
Eleonora Tronconi
November 2025
10 fantastic days in India
This was my fourth experience with Sto Gran Tour and once again I came back truly enthusiastic. A special thanks goes to our guide Chiara, a precise young woman, attentive to everyone's needs, reliable and always available, who accompanied us with professionalism, great passion and friendliness. The tour was organized impeccably: well-studied itineraries, perfect timing and a management of the trip that let us enjoy every moment without worries. I warmly recommend Sto Gran Tour to anyone looking for a serious, competent organization that brings out the best of every stop thanks to the professionalism of its guides. An experience to remember!!
Nicolò Verando
April 2026
Namibia with Federica :)
I joined a trip to Namibia with Federica at the end of April 2026; besides her flawless organization, I want to praise her excellent preparation and her passion, which made this trip unforgettable. Very happy with the group of people I had the pleasure of meeting too! It was a rich trip in many ways, and what can I say about Namibia, it's undoubtedly a wonderful place!
Alessia
July 2026
Staff always on the ball
The staff was always available and quick to answer my questions. I had to change my departure date and didn't have the slightest problem. Our tour leader was wonderful, took us to every stop and even more. The travel group was a great mix and we had a blast!
Bruna Musu
May 2026
The best trip I've ever...
The best trip I've ever taken. Not only for the place, which is breathtaking, but for the group and our guide, Roberta, Bibi to her friends. Yes, friends, because on this trip a fantastic synergy is created, thanks not only to the personality of each participant but also to Bibi's ability to involve everyone. Bibi was an amazing guide, she looked into everything, from the restaurant to every single grain of lava, so that we could experience Iceland to the fullest, passing on her enthusiasm and sensing, in every single moment, the mood of the group and the needs of each of us.
Mariateresa Vigilante
November 2025
Fuerteventura in November with Bibi!!!
The tour was absolutely positive and well organized, the itinerary complete and balanced, also taking winds and tides into account. Every day had something special: a sunset, a hidden spot, a fun fact about the place... Our team leader Bibi was simply fantastic. The fact that she has lived in Fuerte for a while was certainly a big plus: it let us experience the island authentically, with a few surprising unplanned moments too. At the same time she was very professional despite being "at home", which is not a given and was much appreciated. We felt Fuerteventura a little more ours thanks to her too, as she took us by the hand to every place with sensitivity and friendliness.
Francesca Stanco
July 2026
Ring Road in Iceland
The itinerary let us discover incredible and very different landscapes, alternating waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black beaches, small villages and scenery that seems to belong to another planet. The added value was the group and our coordinator Nicola Ferrucci, a real expert and in love with Iceland. Thanks to him we had unforgettable experiences and visited places off the most touristy spots… he told us legends, curiosities and anecdotes that only someone passionate who knows the place perfectly can know.
Chiara Giammaroli
March 2026
If you're thinking about it, do it!
A wonderful experience, cleverly divided into daily goals; I never imagined I could visit so many spectacular places in a single day despite the distances. Our guide Sara was marvelous, super prepared and ready to solve any problem. I recommend this experience to those traveling solo too. The places we rested in were excellent as well, both for comfort and for their position to see the aurora.
Serena
April 2026
Thank you Sto Gran Tour!
My experience in Vietnam with Sto Gran Tour turned out to be magical. I loved every second of our trip and appreciated the organization and the attention to detail. The difference was certainly also made by Giulia, our team leader, from whom I learned so much: right from the start she proved very professional and knowledgeable. I'd do it again a thousand times. Thank you Sto Gran Tour!
Valeria Maresca
August 2026
Madeira with Marco
It's my second trip with StoGranTour and once again I was satisfied. I found the organization punctual and well structured, with clear directions and the peace of mind of being able to rely on the people in charge. My compliments go to our team leader, Marco Rotunno, who contributed a lot to the success of these eight days. He was engaging but never intrusive, kind, funny and always available, attentive to everyone's needs. An experience I recommend to those who love trekking and active holidays and, above all, to those who want to let themselves be surprised by a landscape, the beauty of a sunrise or a starry sky.
Simona Giordanengo
November 2025
Sta Gran Review
The assistance and support I received from the organization before departure were excellent and allowed me to arrive prepared on the first day of this adventure. (Even with a few refunds, everything was clear and simple.) During the trip, the skills and practical abilities of our team leader proved to be the key to making us enjoy the experience to the fullest: from handling the unexpected to organizing the downtime, from helping build the bond between travel companions to supporting each member's individual needs. I'm coming home from this trip very satisfied and sure that, if in the future I choose to take on another similar adventure, "Sto Gran Tour" will definitely be the first travel company I'll consider.
Marco Milan
April 2026
Japan on the rails
This had been my dream trip since I was a child, so I left with high expectations… but it still managed to exceed them. I chose StoGranTour because it seemed the tour most in line with my way of traveling, and it turned out to be the right choice. The organization was excellent: every day had a well-structured program, with the chance to make small changes based on the group's needs. Plus, at the end of the activities, we always had some free time to explore on our own. The itinerary was carefully planned, but the real added value was our guide, Michele. With his passion and enthusiasm for Japanese culture, he made every visit interesting and never heavy. His explanations were clear and full of fun facts, some tied to the world of anime and video games, creating original connections with what we were seeing. We also really appreciated his choice of restaurants: he had us try excellent food in authentic places we would hardly have found on our own. Another thing that struck me positively was the group: on these trips you never know who you'll end up sharing the experience with, but I got along really well, which made everything even more enjoyable.
