M O N G O L I A
executive summary by darmansjah
THREE CAMEL LODGEAt the edge ofa volcanic outcrop providing bright morning vistas across GobiGurvansaikhan National Park, Three Camel’s 50 gers(yurts) appear more like a herders’ village than a lodge. “Our approach has always been to embrace the culture,” says owner Jalsa urubshurow. “Local artisans crafted the roof of the main building without using a single nail, according to the tenets of Mongolian Buddhist architecture.” The lodge funds a range of conservation efforts, including replanting more than 6,000 native trees and shrubs to help prevent desertification. Hiking ,exploring paleontology sites, and bird-watching fill the days; later the chef’s open kitchen offers cozy meals such as steamed meat dumplings while the sun gives way to night skies brimming with stars. 50 rooms; from $350, including full board.