12days/11nights
Tour grade: Medium
Style: Traveller
Your expedition will lead you across diverse landscapes, from the vast central Mongolian steppe to the lush northern alpine forests. Discover the tranquility of kayaking on Lake Khuvsgul, Asia’s second-largest freshwater lake. Along the way, forge connections with the Reindeer people, nomadic Gobi camel herders, and central Mongolian nomads, immersing yourself in their unique ways of life. Each day promises new experience and adventures, from serene hikes in the wilderness to intimate encounters with local nomadic families.
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, private transfer to hotel
Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, our team will greet you at the airport after you’ve completed the necessary customs formalities. You’ll then be transported to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is dedicated to allowing you to recover from any jet lag and to enjoy a well-deserved rest in preparation for your exciting journey through Mongolia. Later in the evening, at 7 pm, we’ll convene in the downtown area for a delightful welcome dinner at a local restaurant. During this gathering, your guide will provide you with a comprehensive tour briefing, ensuring that you’re fully prepared and informed for the adventures that lie ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel booked by clients
Meals:
Dinner
Hustai National Park
Gather in the lobby of your hotel at 9 am as we commence our exploratory journey today. Our destination is Hustai National Park, renowned as the habitat of endangered Takhi wild horses—the closest relatives to domesticated horses. Upon reaching our camp within the confines of Hustai National Park, we'll complete the check-in process. Following a satisfying lunch, we'll pay a visit to the Hustai Information Center. Here, you'll gain valuable insights into the Takhi reintroduction project and learn about the rich flora and fauna that call Hustai National Park home. Subsequently, we'll embark on an expedition into the park, keeping a keen eye out for sightings of the Takhi wild horses as they graze peacefully, accompanied by other captivating wildlife. As the day draws to a close, we'll return to our camp for a hearty dinner, culminating in a peaceful overnight stay amidst the natural beauty of the park.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals:
Lunch
Dinner
Karakorum
Today, we continue our journey further west into Orkhon valley. Our scenic drive will span approximately 4-5 hours, taking us through the central Mongolian steppes before we reach the historical Orkhon valley. Along the way, we'll pause for a lunch and camel ride break by the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes. Visit local nomadic family in the area and enjoy 1 hour camel ride along the dunes. Afterward, we'll press on for another short drive until we reach Karakorum. In Karakorum, we'll explore the Museum of Karakorum, offering insights into Central Mongolia's history and introducing us to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Orkhon River Valley. Upon arrival at our ger camp, we'll check in and prepare for a satisfying dinner. The evening will conclude with a comfortable overnight stay, immersed in the rich cultural and historical heritage of this region.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Taikhar Rock via Tsetserleg
Following breakfast, our day begins with a visit to the renowned Erdene Zuu Monastery, a historic landmark founded in 1586 and Central Mongolia's very first Buddhist monastery. From there, we proceed on our journey to Tsetserleg town, the heart of Arkhangai province, boasting over 300 years of history dating back to the establishment of Zayiin Gegeen Monastery in 1680s. Upon reaching Tsetserleg, we'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, our exploration continues with a visit to Zayiin Gegeen Monastery, including its Guden Temple, home to the mummified body of First Zaya Bandita, a founding figure of the monastery. Afterward, we'll explore the town's bustling Bazaar, a gathering place for both residents and nomads stocking up on supplies. Our journey then takes us to the Tamir River valley, where we'll find our next tourist ger camp, situated near the historic Taikhar Rock. Here, you'll even have the opportunity to try yak riding. The day concludes with a hearty dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at the camp.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Jargalantyn Am Natural Deer stone museum, Khorgo Terkh National Park
Today, we kick off our northbound expedition with an early start. Our route will take us across a distance of just over 200 kilometers, primarily on well-paved roads. One of the highlights of our journey will be a visit to the Jargalantyn Am Natural Deer Stone complex, also known as the Natural Museum. This incredible site dates back to the early Bronze Age period, offering a captivating glimpse into ancient history. It's worth noting that the Jargalantyn Am deer stone complex has been listed on UNESCO's cultural heritage list. On our route to the park, we'll take a brief break near the Chuluut River Canyon to capture some stunning photographs. Our day's travels will eventually lead us to our camp, situated beside the serene Terkiin Tsagaan Lake. Here, we'll enjoy a delectable dinner and settle in for a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the natural beauty and historical wonders of this region.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day in Khorgo Terkh National Park
In the morning, our day begins with an invigorating hike around the volcanic landscape that encircles Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan, often referred to as the 'Great White Lake'. This tranquil lake rests serenely within the embrace of towering hills, boasting remarkably clear water and expansive stretches of sandy beaches. Our route follows a winding road along the lake's shoreline, passing by eerie Shamanic formations of black lava, before veering slightly inland toward the Khorgo Volcano. Standing at an impressive altitude of around 10,000 feet, this volcano is now dormant but remains deeply revered by the nomadic communities of the region. A brief walk will lead us to the rim of the volcano's crater, where crimson-stained rock descends into a profound chasm, surrounded by sacred Ovoo mounds. As you gaze back towards Lake Terkh Tsagaan, you'll be treated to a splendid view of the lake framed by a small hill pass. The afternoon offers free time for relaxation or the opportunity to engage in optional activities such as boating or fishing. As evening falls, we gather for a delicious dinner at the ger camp located along the lake's tranquil shore, where we'll spend a restful night.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Tumurbulag, Khuvsgula
Today, we embark on a northern journey, charting a course that leads us through the breathtaking Khuvsgul Mountains, passing through the majestic Orookh Pass along the way. The Khuvsgul Mountains exhibit a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged outcrops of earth-toned rock to steep, verdant slopes that tower above the winding river valleys and isolated ger encampments. This picturesque drive spans approximately 6-7 hours, and we'll pause for a delightful picnic lunch en route. Our next destination is the Ulziit Khishig camp, nestled within the Tumurbulag soum territory. As we reach our ger camp, we'll have the opportunity to savor a Mongolian culinary delight known as Khorkhog – an authentic barbecue preparation featuring mutton cooked with heated stones. It's a delicious taste of Mongolian tradition that we'll enjoy before coming together for a satisfying dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at the ger camp.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Lake Khuvsgul
After enjoying breakfast, we set out on our journey towards the enchanting Lake Huvsgul. Before reaching the lake, we make a noteworthy stop to explore the Uushig Deer Stones, a UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage Site. Following this intriguing visit, we proceed to Lake Huvsgul, where we'll have our lunch at a cozy ger restaurant. In the afternoon, our path takes us on a picturesque drive from Murun to Lake Huvsgul, covering a distance of just over 150 kilometers. Along the way, we'll traverse a landscape characterized by lush green hills punctuated by rugged rock formations. We'll encounter river valleys with intricate networks of braided channels meandering through the fertile valley floors, while the skies above are graced by the presence of majestic birds of prey. As we approach the settlement of Khatgal and enter the forested terrain surrounding the lake, the road may become a bit uneven.
However, our journey will reward us with the breathtaking sight of Lake Huvsgul, with our ger camp conveniently located nearby. The remainder of the day offers leisure time by the serene shores of Lake Huvsgul, allowing you to unwind and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Leisure Day in Lake Huvsgul
Start your morning with a delightful two-hour horseback ride along the picturesque lakeshore. The remainder of the day is dedicated to leisure and exploration in the captivating surroundings of Lake Huvsgul. There are numerous ways to make the most of your day, including optional boat excursions, leisurely strolls, a visit to a Darkhad family, and an opportunity to meet the Tsaatan nomads, also known as the 'Reindeer People.' In the afternoon, relish a two-hour kayaking adventure on the tranquil waters of the lake, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of this remarkable natural landscape.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Murun - Ulaanbaatar
We leave behind the scenic Lake Huvsgul and make our way to Murun town, where we'll board a flight bound for Ulaanbaatar. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours. Upon landing at the airport in Ulaanbaatar, you will be smoothly transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you please. You can opt for leisurely relaxation at the hotel or embark on independent exploration of the city, perhaps indulging in some shopping or exploring its various attractions at your own pace.
Accommodation: Hotel booked by clients
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
City tour of Ulaanbaatar
Free morning for leisure or independent exploration. Gather in the hotel lobby at 12:00 PM to meet your English-speaking local guide and kick off your half day city tour. A delectable lunch awaits you at a local restaurant, providing a taste of Mongolian cuisine. From there, you'll proceed to the Genghis Khan monument, an iconic symbol situated on a prominent square. Afterward, you'll have the opportunity to explore Bogd Khaan's Winter Palace Museum, offering insights into the history of Mongolia's monarchy. Following this, a visit to the Evseg cashmere factory will offer a firsthand look at the cashmere manufacturing process, from raw wool to the finished product.
If time permits, you can engage in some optional shopping for cashmere and souvenirs. As the day draws to a close, immerse yourself in Mongolia's rich cultural heritage with a traditional folklore concert at the Tumen Ekh ensemble. The day concludes with a heartfelt farewell dinner, a fitting way to celebrate the end of your journey.
Accommodation: Hotel booked by clients
Meals:
Lunch
Dinner
Departure from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Following breakfast, we will arrange your transfer to the airport or train station. This marks the conclusion of our services. Safe travels, and we hope you had a wonderful experience!
Tour Dates:
29th June - 10th July, 2024 | |
27th July - 7th August, 2024 | |
If you would arrange a private or customized tour just click the "Customize this tour" button at the bottom of the page. One of our travel advisors will get back to you shortly regarding your booking.
Tour Price:
Pax 4-12 | US$ 2300 per person |
Single supplement charge | US$ 280 |
Naadam Festival add - on | US$ 590 per person |
Included Services
Not Included in the Service
DISCOUNT CONDITIONS:
DESTINATION & ATTRACTIONS BRIEF INFO
Lake Huvsgul, the second largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Baikal in Buryatia, is popular for its pure water, awesome Alpine-like landscapes, wonderful wildlife and the different ethnic people living around it. Lake Huvsgul region is a destination in itself and an entire tour could be devoted to this specific part of Mongolia.
by Rafaella, Benedetta, Lidia
by Margaret Suganda
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