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19 Day itinerary in Mongolia, Asia

Taiga Trails: A Majestic Horse Trek to the Dukha Reindeer...

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Mongolia, commencing with the vibrant capital before venturing north to explore the dynamic Amarbayasgalant Monastery. Your adventure then takes you to the scenic Khovsgol province, where the crystal-clear Khovsgol Lake awaits. Immerse yourself in the ancie... Read More

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Olivier

By Olivier

Overview

Physical Difficulty

Demanding
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Recommended Age

Minimum 12
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Operated in

English, French

GUIDANCE

Tour Guide, Driver

starting point

Ulaanbaatar

trip type

Private

trip attributes

Indigenous culture

Meet local people

Hiking

Rural home stays

Culture & History

Nature & Wildlife

Start

Night

End

Highlights

1

Khövsgöl Lake and meeting a shaman

2

Horse trek in the taiga mountain and home stay with the Dukkha (Tsataan) reindeer herders

3

Home stay in tradtional yurt (ger) with a Mongolian nomadic family

4

Small Gobi on camelback

Itinerary

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Day 1

place Chinggis Khaan International Airport – Ulaanbaatar: City-tour

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar. You will be greeted by your team at Chinggis Khaan International Airport. Check-in at the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you will rest for few hours then meet your guide and driver at the hotel to have lunch in a Mongolian traditional restaurant. 


You will then pass through Sükhbaatar Square, the epicenter of Ulaanbaatar, on your way to the famous Tibetan-inspired Gandantegchinlin Monastery. Built in 1810, the monastery houses the magnificent 26.5-metertall gold-covered statue of Megjid-Janraiseg (Buddha in the form of Avalokiteshvara) at its core. Afterward, you will visit the Chinggis Khaan Museum to discover the history of the different Mongolian empires. 


Trip details: ~1h / ~60 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Hotel ***
Day 2

place Ulaanbaatar – Amarbayasgalant: Visit the Monastery

In the morning, your team will welcome you at your hotel. You will depart from the Mongolian capital to reach the Amarbayasgalant Monastery, one of the three largest monasteries in Mongolia. Built in the 18th century by the Manchu emperor Enkh Amgalan Khan, it is located in the Selenge province at the foot of Mount Burenkhan.


Trip details: ~5h ~6h / ~350 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Guest-yurt
Day 3

place Amarbayasgalant – Uran Togoo old volcano: Hiking to the crater

Breakfast in the yurt. You will continue your itinerary towards the place called Uran Togoo, passing through the cities of Erdenet and Bulgan. It is a region of extinct volcanoes, perfect for beautiful walks on the volcano summits. Lunch will be provided along the way. In the afternoon, you will arrive at Uran Togoo, where a hike along a forest path amidst Siberian larch trees will lead you to the crater. You will have the opportunity to observe a surprising variety of plants, as well as numerous birds and insects like the Apollo butterfly. You can then descend into the crater, where you will find a stunning small lake at its center, surrounded by lush vegetation.


Trip details: ~4h~5h / ~250 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Touristic yurt (ger) camp
Day 4

place Uran Togoo –Khövsgöl Lake

Breakfast in the yurt. In the early morning, you will hit the road towards Khövsgöl. You will arrive in Khövsgöl by the end of the day. Khövsgöl Lake is a true gem, stretching for 136 km in length, 36 km in width, and reaching depths of up to 267 meters. It holds 2% of the world's freshwater reserves (480.7 km3) and is nicknamed the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia" due to its incredibly clear and pure water, drinkable in nature. It is the second largest lake in Mongolia in terms of surface area, after Lake Uvs. You will have a lunch break at a small local restaurant on the way in  Moron.


Trip details: ~5h ~6h / ~400 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Touristic yurt (ger) camp
Day 5

place Enchanting Khövsgöl: Lakeside Adventures and Shamanic Encounters

Embark on a day of enchantment at Lake Khövsgöl, commencing with a breakfast in the heart of a traditional yurt. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the lake as your day unfolds with a blend of activities and relaxation.


Season-dependent offerings include thrilling mountain biking, serene kayaking, leisurely boat rides, and the captivating experience of horseback riding. Tailor your day to your desires and connect with the breathtaking natural surroundings.


As part of this extraordinary journey, your day schedule also features a unique opportunity to meet a local shaman . Delve into the spiritual traditions of the region and enrich your experience with this cultural encounter. To ensure a seamless adventure, consult with your guide on-site to arrange and pay for these activities (additional charges apply).


Trip details: 

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Touristic yurt (ger) camp
Day 6

place Khövsgöl – Tsagaannuur

Embark on an exhilarating journey after enjoying breakfast. Your adventure unfolds on an unpaved road leading to Tsagaannuur, the northernmost village of Mongolia, spanning a challenging 210 kilometers. Brace yourself for an 8 to 10-hour odyssey through the most demanding terrains Mongolia has to offer.


This rugged path, known as the toughest in Mongolia, will take you through dense forests, challenging mountain ascents, and crossings over formidable roots, presenting a true test of the prowess of Mongolian drivers. Traverse swampy landscapes that showcase the resilience of both nature and the skilled hands steering your journey.


A well-deserved break awaits in the village of Ulaan Uuul, where you'll relish a delicious lunch to replenish your energy for the road ahead. Throughout this arduous yet awe-inspiring route, be prepared to witness breathtaking scenes that unfold, treating you to panoramic views and unrivaled natural beauty. This expedition not only challenges the limits of terrain but also paints an unforgettable picture of Mongolia's diverse landscapes.


Trip details: ~8h ~10h / ~210 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Guest-house
Day 7

place Horseback trek from Tsagaannuur to Zun Taiga

Following a hearty breakfast graciously provided by our host at the guesthouse, we embark on a scenic 20-kilometer drive to the horse riders' rendezvous—the starting point of our unforgettable horse trek. Depending on the season, the Dukha (Tsataan) camps are situated between 20 to 50 kilometers from Tsagaannuur. In the summer months, our journey spans approximately 40 to 50 kilometers, taking 6 to 9 hours to complete.


En route, you'll traverse diverse landscapes, including forested hills, marshes, swamps, lichen-covered forests (a favorite of reindeer), and rocky paths, ascending to nearly 3,000 meters. This adventure promises a unique encounter with all four seasons simultaneously—basking in the sun, navigating through rain showers, and perhaps even braving an ice storm, all set against the backdrop of permanent ice shields.


Get ready for a transformative experience as you navigate through these ever-changing terrains, embracing the challenges and rewards of an expedition that encapsulates the dynamic beauty and unpredictability of nature.


Trip details: ~6h ~9h / ~50 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Tent camping and / or Ortz (teepee)
Day 8

place Zuun Taiga : Immersion with the Dukha reindeer herders

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast prepared by your tour guide in the cozy ortz, followed by a leisurely stroll through the camp where you'll encounter the enchanting reindeer. Prepare to be captivated by their friendly demeanor, as they may even accompany you through the camp, creating a unique and memorable experience.


As you explore, immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Dukha community. Discover intricately crafted handiwork and delve into the world of traditional medicine, where wildflowers and plants gathered from the surrounding hills are transformed into remedies with ancient wisdom. This immersive encounter promises not only a visual feast of craftsmanship but also insights into the natural remedies that have been passed down through generations.


Trip details: 

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Tent camping and / or Ortz (teepee)
Day 9

place Zuun Taiga: Immersion with the Dukha reindeer herders

As your immersive experience with the Dukha community comes to an end, seize the opportunity on your final day to venture into the surrounding hills, where wild reindeer roam freely. Visit families in their ortz, gaining firsthand insights into their daily lives and witnessing the art of dairy preparation, perhaps even lending a hand in milking the reindeer. The result? A taste of the most exquisite milk you'll ever encounter—an elixir so renowned that some people travel to their camp expressly for a sip and purchase.


For an added adventure, embrace their traditional mode of transportation by mounting a majestic reindeer for a ride. And if the stars align, you might have the chance to meet one of the camp's shamans, offering a glimpse into your future. This day promises an immersive farewell, blending cultural exploration, culinary delights, and the unique thrill of reindeer encounters.


Trip details:

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Tent camping and / or Ortz (teepee)
Day 10

place Horseback trek from Zun Taiga to Tsagaannuur

Today marks the bittersweet farewell to our newfound friends at the camp. As we gather with the horse guides, we embark on the task of loading our camping gear onto the horses, signaling the beginning of our ascent from the camp valley. This time, we might opt for a unique route, navigating through the expansive larch forest to eventually arrive at the horse herders' home in Tsagaannuur.


The journey promises a challenging climb, but the lush surroundings and the camaraderie with the horse guides make it a memorable experience. By late afternoon, we anticipate returning to the welcoming embrace of the guesthouse in the village. The evening unfolds as an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture, offering a chance to explore and discover the charming facets of the village.


Trip details :  ~6h~9h / ~50 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Guest-house
Day 11

place Tsagaannuur – Mörön

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the guesthouse before embarking on our journey back south, retracing the scenic route we took earlier. Our destination is Mörön, the vibrant capital of the Khövsgöl aimag. The return journey promises even more opportunities to capture breathtaking moments through your lens, ensuring a memorable visual experience.


Trip details: ~8h ~10h / ~210 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Guest-house
Day 12

place Mörön – Uushigiin Uver (Deer Stones) – Shine ider

Enjoy breakfast at the guesthouse. You will begin your journey towards the heart of Mongolia. Make a stop at Uushigiin Uver (20 km from Mörön) to visit one of the world's largest deer stone sites. The Uushigiin Uver complex dates back to the Bronze Age and features over 14 deer stones and several ancient Khereksurs (tombs).


Trip details: ~4h ~5h / ~300 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Touristic yurt (ger) camp
Day 13

place Shine Ider – Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur

Enjoy breakfast at the camp. Depart for Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur Lake. Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, known as the "White Lake of Terkh River," is situated at an altitude of 2060 meters. It is the jewel of Arkhangai and one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. It was formed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Khorgo. The lake is home to numerous pike and other fish species. This area remains untouched, and you may encounter axis deer, marsh deer, wild boars, ducks, or great cormorants.

Dinner and overnight stay with a nomadic family in a yurt.


Trip details: ~5h ~6h / ~180 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Yurt – Nomadic family
Day 14

place Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur: Immersion with the nomadic family

Breakfast under the yurt. A day of immersion with the nomadic family. You will have the opportunity to participate in various daily tasks of the family.


Trip details: 

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Yurt – Nomadic family
Day 15

place Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur – Khorgo Uul –Tsetserleg – Tsenkher’s hot springs

Start your day with a breakfast beneath the yurt's shelter. Make a stop at the ancient volcano of Khorgo Uul, which rises to an altitude of 2,240 meters. With its surrounding lava fields, it dominates the region to the east of the lake. Its basalt crater, dating back 8,000 years, measures 200 meters in width and 80 meters in depth.

 

Continue your journey to Tsetserleg, where you will visit the Zayan Gegeen Monastery and the Buddha overlooking the town.

 

In the late afternoon, arrive at Tsenkher, where you can relax in the hot springs surrounded by a wooded valley in a pleasant and peaceful setting. The mineral-rich hot springs of Tsenkher have healing properties, particularly beneficial for relieving joint and nervous system-related ailments.


Trip details: ~5h ~6h / ~200 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Touristic yurt (ger) camp
Day 16

place Tsenkher – Kharkhorin: Visit of the Erdene Zuu Monastery

After enjoying breakfast at the yurt camp restaurant, you will head to Kharkhorin. 

 

Your will arrive in the afternoon in Kharkhorin to visit the Erdene Zuu Monastery (meaning "Jewel Temple" in Mongolian), which was constructed in 1585 by Prince Abtai Khan just outside the ruins of the Mongol Empire's capital. This monastery holds great historical significance as it was established after the introduction of Buddhism as the state religion of Mongolia. It is recognized as the oldest Buddhist monastery in the country and has been included in UNESCO's World Heritage List. You will have the opportunity to explore its intricate architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.

 

Next, you will visit the Karakorum City Museum, which houses an exceptional collection of artifacts, particularly from the Turkic peoples who inhabited the region during the first millennium. This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the area and provides valuable insights into the history and traditions of the diverse civilizations that once thrived in Karakorum.


Trip details: ~2h30 ~ 3h / ~120 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Yurt – Nomadic family
Day 17

place Kharkhorin – Khögnö Khan National Park “Small Gobi”

Enjoy breakfast at the camp. In the morning, you will depart from Karakorum. By early afternoon, you will arrive at Khögnö Khan. You will visit the Khamba Monastery, built in the 17th century on the mountain by Zanabazar, a spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism at the time. In the late afternoon, you will explore the Elsentasarkhai sand dunes on a camel ride. These dunes, known as "the sand fracture," stretch for 80 km south of the Khögnö Khan National Park. They are accompanied by the Tarna River, which is lined with willow trees.


Trip details: ~1h30 / ~100 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Guest-yurt
Day 18

place Khögnö Khan – Ulaanbaatar

Breakfast under the yurt. You will be back in the bustling capital of Mongolia in the early afternoon. Free afternoon with your team.

 

In the evening, you will attend the Traditional Songs and Dances Show with the internationally acclaimed group Tumen Ekh.

 

Dinner at a restaurant in the capital with your team


Trip details: ~4h ~5h / ~300 km

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Standard: Hotel ***
Day 19

place Ulaanbaatar – Chinggis Khaan International Airport

Our team will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the Chinggis Khaan airport


Trip details: ~1h /  ~ 60km

Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

Accommodation expand_less

  • Guest-yurt
  • Tent camping and / or Ortz (teepee)
  • Touristic yurt (ger) camp
  • Hotel ***
  • Guest-house
  • Yurt – Nomadic family

Meals expand_less

  • Lunch (18)
  • Dinner (18)
  • Breakfast (18)
  • Snacks (1)

Transport expand_less

  • Surface transportation
  • Airport transfers

Activities expand_less

  • Sightseeing and activities as specified
  • Museum and park entrance fees
  • English or French speaking guide as per your choice

Extras expand_less

  • Included Meals as specified in the description
  • Included Bottled water
  • Included Sleeping bag
  • Included Tents and camping material
  • Included Accomodations as specified

Not Included expand_less

  • Drinks
  • International and Local flights
  • Tips
  • Souvenirs
  • Items of personal nature
  • Desserts
  • Visa if applicable
  • Personal insurance

About Olivier

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Expertise: 

Indigenous culture

Meet local people

Hiking

Rural home stays

Culture & History

Nature & Wildlife

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