Flaming Cliffs in the Gobi Desert: Fossils, Legends & Sunset Views

Welcome to Flaming Cliffs, one of Mongolia’s most iconic natural landmarks, located in the heart of the Gobi Desert. Known locally as Bayanzag, this remote desert site is famous not only for its blazing red rock formations but also for its historic paleontological discoveries, including the first dinosaur eggs ever found.
 

Whether you're a fossil enthusiast, a nature photographer, or a traveler seeking raw desert beauty, the Flaming Cliffs are a must-see destination. As a local guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from getting there to experiencing its rich history and geology.

📍 Where Are the Flaming Cliffs?

Country: Mongolia

Region: Ömnögovi (South Gobi Province)

Nearest Town: Dalanzadgad (about 100 km southeast)

Local Name: Bayanzag

Coordinates: 43.7167° N, 100.7167° E

Bayanzag means “rich in saxaul trees,” referring to the hardy desert shrub found throughout the region.

🌋 Why Are They Called "Flaming Cliffs"?

The cliffs get their name from the vivid red-orange glow they produce during sunrise and sunset, when the sun lights up the sandstone formations. From a distance, the rocks appear to be on fire, a view that has captivated explorers and travelers for over a century.

🦴 Fossils & Paleontology

📜 Historic Discovery

In the 1920s, American explorer and paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews led expeditions to Bayanzag. His team unearthed:

The first nest of dinosaur eggs ever discovered

Fossils of Protoceratops, Velociraptor, and other dinosaur species

Remains of prehistoric plants and animals

These finds made the Flaming Cliffs one of the most significant dinosaur fossil sites in the world.

🏛 Where Are the Fossils Now?

Many fossils are displayed at the Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs in Ulaanbaatar.

Some still lie buried in the sands of Bayanzag, making it a hotspot for researchers and adventure seekers alike.

Fossil collection without a permit is strictly prohibited. Visitors are encouraged to look, not touch.

🌄 What to See & Do at the Flaming Cliffs

1. Explore the Cliffs on Foot

Trekking trails wind through the canyons and plateaus

Short walks offer panoramic views of the Gobi Desert

Watch the cliffs “flame” at sunset—a top highlight

2. Dinosaur Site Visits

Look for fossilized bones and eggs embedded in the sandstone (do not disturb)

Visit interpretive signs explaining the area’s paleontological history

3. Ride a Camel Through the Desert

Experience the traditional way of traveling across the Gobi

Camel rides can be arranged through nearby ger camps

4. Stargazing at Night

With no light pollution, the Flaming Cliffs offer spectacular views of the Milky Way

Bring a tripod for astrophotography

5. Visit a Nomadic Ger Camp

Stay in a traditional ger (yurt) and learn about local desert life

Enjoy home-cooked meals, Mongolian tea, and hospitality

🛕 Nearby Attractions

Khongoryn Els (Singing Dunes) – Giant dunes about 180 km away

Yolyn Am (Vulture Valley) – Icy gorge in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains

Dalanzadgad Town – Capital of Ömnögovi, with markets and basic hotels

🚗 How to Get to the Flaming Cliffs

From Ulaanbaatar:

By Plane

Fly to Dalanzadgad Airport (1.5 hours)

Then travel ~100 km by 4WD (2–3 hours)

By Car

Overland trip via tour operator or rental

~8–10 hours of driving per day (at least 2 days total)

Most travelers visit the Flaming Cliffs as part of a Gobi Desert tour that includes multiple stops.

🏕 Where to Stay

✅ Nearby Options:

Ger camps offer a great mix of comfort and cultural immersion.

🍲 What to Eat

Meals at ger camps are simple but hearty:

Buuz – Steamed meat dumplings

Khorkhog – Mongolian BBQ cooked with hot stones

Tsuivan – Stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables

Airag – Fermented mare’s milk (try at your own risk!)

Bring snacks and extra water if you're hiking or camping independently.

📆 Best Time to Visit

🧳 What to Pack

Dust can be heavy in summer—bring a face mask or scarf if needed.

🧘 Cultural Tips

Respect the land: This is a protected heritage area.

Ask before taking photos of local people or gers.

Do not take rocks, plants, or fossils—fines can be severe.

Learn a few words of Mongolian; locals appreciate the effort.

✍️ Sample 3-Day Itinerary: Flaming Cliffs Adventure

🗓 Day 1: Ulaanbaatar → Dalanzadgad → Bayanzag

Morning flight to Dalanzadgad

Jeep ride through desert landscapes

Sunset at Flaming Cliffs

Overnight in a ger camp

🗓 Day 2: Explore Bayanzag

Morning hike through the cliffs

Visit fossil sites and lookout points

Camel ride across the dunes

Dinner with a nomadic family

Stargazing

🗓 Day 3: Return or Continue to Other Gobi Sites

Head to Khongoryn Els or Yolyn Am

Or return to Ulaanbaatar

🧠 Did You Know?

Roy Chapman Andrews, who discovered the fossils at Bayanzag, is often said to be the real-life inspiration for Indiana Jones.

“Velociraptor” fossils were first identified here—far from the jungles portrayed in movies!

The region's red rock formations are estimated to be 70 million years old.

🌟 Final Thoughts

The Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag are more than just beautiful—they’re a portal to Earth’s ancient past, set in one of the world’s most dramatic desert landscapes. Standing on the edge of the cliffs as the sun sets and the rocks ignite with color, you’ll understand why this place has inspired explorers, scientists, and travelers for over a century.

Whether you're here for the dinosaurs, the history, or the silence of the Gobi winds, the Flaming Cliffs promise an unforgettable adventure.