We visited the folk museum in the city of Bayanhote, which had exhibits on local history and culture. This display on the local lifestyle shows how traditional weaving was done on a loom.

This exhibit at the museum shows ethnic Mongolians in traditional clothing churning butter and raising their flocks.

This display shows some masks that are worn by the Mongolians at certain times of year or for special events. The one on the left is an example of the influence of Tibetan Buddhism on the Mongols' belief system.

Group photo in the desert.

The group hikes along the narrow ridge of a dune.

The four-day excursion included jeep rides in the desert, hikes, and camel rides.

The skilled Mongolian drivers were able to maneuver the jeeps anywhere and everywhere in the desert!

We spotted a small lizard sunning itself.

Many of the desert-dwellers base themselves at an oasis and raise large flocks of goats.

Our campsite near the welcome greenery of an oasis.

Action shot!

In the heart of the desert, sand dunes stretched as far as the eye could see, with no sign of civilization.

The hard work of slogging up to the top of a dune in deep sand was rewarded by beautiful views.

Running down was a lot easier than the climb up!

The group enjoys fruit for a refreshing break in the desert.

A small house by one of the desert lakes.

The dunes make a beautiful backdrop against a clear blue sky.

A bird soars overhead. Many species of birds are attracted to the lakes in the region, making the area one of interest to bird watchers.

We climbed up on to the tallest nearby dune to watch the sunset.

A beautiful sunset silhouettes the sand dunes below.

Most of the hikes would be quite easy on firm ground, but hiking on sand is a bit tougher.

During these desert hikes, we tended to stay on the ridge tops, as they afforded the best views.

We even got to ride camels for an hour.

Jump for joy! Enjoying an exhilarating visit to the desert.