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Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am)

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Landmark
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Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am) (Mongolia)

Weather…

Yolyn Am, also known as the 'Valley of the Eagles' or 'Lammergeier Valley,' is a deep, narrow gorge within the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains of southern Mongolia. The valley is renowned for its unique microclimate, which historically allowed thick sheets of ice to persist on the canyon floor throughout the hot summer months. Its sheer rock walls rise hundreds of meters, and in the narrowest sections, sunlight rarely reaches the bottom. The name Yolyn Am refers to the Yol (Lammergeier or Bearded Vulture), a majestic bird of prey that nests in the high cliffs and has a wingspan of up to three meters. Located within the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, the area is a prime spot for spotting wildlife such as Siberian ibex and various rare bird species. In seasons with sufficient rainfall, small streams flow through the gorge, freezing solid in winter to create the famous ice fields. This natural anomaly within the arid Gobi landscape makes Yolyn Am a prominent highlight for visitors to the region.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-15-12-4411172018112-7-14
Rain mm23441222322416633

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Yolyn Am gorge can only be reached on foot or by off-road vehicle, with access seasonally limited. In winter, the gorge is often closed due to snow, but it is accessible in summer.
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Typical hours
The national park usually opens at dawn and closes at sunset - exact times vary by season. During summer months, the park is typically open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park, but a permit is required for drones. The spectacular rock walls and winter ice formations provide fantastic subjects.
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Time needed
The hike into the valley and back takes about three to four hours. If you also want to explore surrounding trails, plan for half a day.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with other attractions in Gurvan Saikhan National Park, like the Khongoryn Els sand dunes. Camel riding in the Gobi Desert is also a nearby experience.
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Getting there
The gorge is about 60 kilometers from Dalanzadgad, the gateway to Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park. It is best reached by off-road vehicle; organized tours are common.
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Insider tip
Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water, as there are no supplies in the valley. Visit the gorge early in the morning for the best light and fewer tourists.

Geography

Coordinates
43.48890, 104.05830

Facts

  • Located within the boundaries of Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park.
  • Famed for ice fields that traditionally lasted throughout the summer.
  • Named after the Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture) which inhabits the cliffs.
  • The gorge narrows significantly, blocking sunlight from the canyon floor.
  • Serves as a habitat for the Siberian ibex and other montane wildlife.
  • Includes a local museum at the entrance showcasing Gobi fauna and flora.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Gobi Camel BreedingGobi Camel Breeding6 km · SExplore →
DalanzadgadDalanzadgad41 km · NExplore →
Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag)Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag)42 km · SWExplore →
Ongi MonasteryOngi Monastery50 km · WExplore →
Ongi Monastery RuinsOngi Monastery Ruins53 km · WExplore →
White Stupa (Tsagaan Suvarga)White Stupa (Tsagaan Suvarga)77 km · NWExplore →
Gobi DesertGobi Desert106 km · NExplore →
Gobi Gurvansaikhan National ParkGobi Gurvansaikhan National Park118 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am) (3)

Yolin-Am Canyon📍 landmark

A narrow gorge in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains where thick ice fields often persist until mid-summer.

Iolyn am🌿 nature

Has views of the rugged cliffs of the 'Vulture's Valley', home to Lammergeier vultures and Siberian ibex.

Mukhar Shivert📍 landmark

A secluded valley known for its unique vertical ice formations and frozen waterfalls in the canyon.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is there really ice in summer?
Yes, ice can persist well into the summer.
What is the hiking path like?
Flat and easy, leading directly through the canyon.
Can you see wildlife?
Yes, pikas and often ibex.
Best time of day?
In the morning, before the day-trippers arrive.
Is entrance free?
There is a national park fee at the entrance.
Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am): where is it located?
Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am) is located in Mongolia.
Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am): what is there to see?
Highlights include Yolin-Am Canyon, Iolyn am, Mukhar Shivert.
Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Valley of the Eagles (Yolyn Am): why is it worth visiting?
Yolyn Am, also known as the 'Valley of the Eagles' or 'Lammergeier Valley,' is a deep, narrow gorge within the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains of southern Mongolia.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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