trip
NEW Trip – Ladakh Mountain Biking AdventureView Trip Details

18 Days$4590USD

Activities
  • 6 day trek
Accommodation
  • 13 nights tented camp
  • 2 nights ger camp
  • 2 nights hotel
Meals
  • 17 Dinners
  • 16 Lunches
  • 17 Breakfasts
4
Introductory to Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

 
 

Trip highlights


  • Trek through the alpine peaks, river canyons and broad valleys of the Altai Mountains
  • Discover the culturally rich region of Western Mongolia
  • Trek to the glacier at the foot of the Turgen Mountains
  • Camp in the unique landscapes of the Mongolian steppe
  • Meet local nomadic families and learn about their traditional way of life
  • Explore the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar

Explore the mountain glaciers, desert landscapes, large lake basins and steppe grasslands in far western Mongolia on this exhilarating journey. Starting in Ulaanbaatar, we fly to western Mongolia and head into the remote mountains, trekking to the impressive glacier in the Turgen Mountains. In the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park we undertake the second part of our trek, incorporating visits with local nomadic herders to learn about their traditional way of life from the hunting prowess of the Kazakhs to the hauntingly beautiful throat-singing of the Tuvan people. For those who wish to experience traditional Mongolian travel, you can opt to hire a horse for either or both of the trekking sections with assistance from a local herdsman. During the July departure, a further highlight will be the Naadam festival with its amazing displays of horse racing, archery and wrestling.

Trip Code: MGP

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After arriving at Ulaanbaatar Airport, we will transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon, we will explore the capital city, starting with Sukhbaatar Square, named after the revolutionary hero, Damdiny Sukhbaatar, who declared independence from China in 1921. Another important landmark on our orientation tour is the State Department Store, also known as the "Great Shop" in Mongolian. Please time your arrival to be in the city by lunchtime as typically we will meet around 2 pm for the tour. We will return to the hotel in the late afternoon for some relaxation before a welcoming concert of traditional Mongolian music, followed by dinner and a briefing from your guide. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals:  D

After breakfast at the hotel, we will be transferred to the airport for our internal flight to Western Mongolia. Our destination is the small township of Khovd, the capital of Khovd Aimag, which is similar to a state or province in Mongolia. The flight will take approximately 2.5 hours, and there is a 1-hour time difference between Ulaanbaatar and Khovd. Upon arrival, we will meet our vehicles and drivers at the airport and travel to Zuragt Davaa in Uvs province, which will take us approximately 4-5 hours on a mixture of paved and dirt roads, passing through the centers of Myangad, Ulgii, and Turgen soums (an administrative unit smaller than an aimag). During our journey, we will stop by the edge of Khar-Us Lake to appreciate the surrounding nature and birds. Our campsite for tonight will be located at the foothills of the Zuragt Davaa. Overnight: Tented Camp.

Meals:  B,L,D

Over the next two days, we will embark on a rewarding trek to the base of Turgen Mountain, where a long glacier lies at the foot of the peak. The picturesque surroundings and crisp, clear air make for an unforgettable experience, with the towering mountain peak adding to the grandeur of the landscape. In the summer months, nomadic families move their gers (traditional felt tents) into these valleys to graze their herds of livestock, and we will have the opportunity to experience their hospitality first-hand. Our trek covers a distance of 15kms on the second day, beginning on a mountain valley trail and gradually ascending towards the snow-capped peaks. We will follow the river upstream towards the glacier and continue through the Urd Turgen Valley, where the terrain is dry grassland scattered with large boulders. Our base camp for the next two nights will be set up by the white water river as it flows through the deep gorge. Please note that during the trek, all camping equipment and personal baggage will be carried by vehicles. Trek distance: ~15-16km/ day Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Our adventure for the day involves hiking up the Urd Turgen Valley, with its small mountain streams and blooming wildflowers during the spring and early summer. As we continue our trek, we may need to scramble over boulders to reach the source of the river, right at the edge of the glacier. Afterward, we'll return to our base camp in the afternoon. Trek distance: ~15-17km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

We will start the day with a morning walk while our local team packs up the camp and loads the vehicles. As we proceed on our journey, our drivers will collect us en route, and we'll continue our travels towards Uureg Lake, a stunning freshwater lake nestled amidst towering peaks and the Russian border to the north. We will set up camp on the lakeshore and enjoy the serene surroundings. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today is a day for full exploration of Uureg Lake. The beautiful lake offers a range of activities, from swimming, fishing, walking, to bird watching or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning views. The entrance to the valley is lined with summer gers of the local nomads, which add to the scenic charm of the valley. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, we will embark on a scenic drive from Uureg Lake to Ulgii town, the capital of Bayan-Ulgii province. Our journey will take us alongside the picturesque Achit Lake and then along the banks of the Khovd River. During the drive, we will witness the changing ecosystems from semi-desert areas to steppe and mountainous steppe areas. Tonight, we will spend the night at a ger camp by the Khovd riverside in Olgii, where we will have the opportunity to experience the traditional dwelling of round-shaped felt tents, known as Khazak gers. Overnight: Ger camp

Meals:  B,L,D

We'll spend two days driving into the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, following the Khovd River and stopping for a riverside lunch. Afterward, we'll continue our ascent over 130 kilometers, which will take us roughly 5-6 hours. Tonight we'll camp in a mountain valley, and the following day we'll keep driving until we reach a local Tuva family. After lunch, time depending, we'll have the opportunity to hike to the foothills of the mountain, where our crew will set up camp near the family's dwelling at an elevation of 2,600 meters above sea level. Those interested in riding a camel will have a chance to do so. Altai Tavan Bogd is known as the highest mountain range in Mongolia with five peaks that are referred to as the "Five Kings". The highest of these peaks is Huiten, rising to 4350m above sea level, and is accompanied by the magnificent Potanin's Glacier at its foot. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today marks the beginning of our trekking adventure. For the next three days, our pack camels will be carrying all food and camping equipment, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the challenge of this hike and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Mongol Altai Mountain Range. Our trek will take us approximately 5-8 hours each day through high mountain meadows and expansive valleys. On our first day, we will cross over the Tahilt Pass (3,200m) and continue on to the Tsagaan Us valley. This will be a particularly challenging day, as we navigate through snow and glacier-covered terrain. Ascending the steep slope to the pass will be especially demanding, but the reward will be worth it. From the top of the pass, we will be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and high mountain lakes, which boast an entrancing turquoise hue. After crossing the pass, we will make our way down into Tsagaan Us valley where we will set up camp for the night. Our campsite will be located on a small plateau high up on the mountainous slope, providing us with a magnificent view of the entire valley. At an altitude of approximately 3000m above sea level, please be advised that in the event of high wind conditions, our campsite may need to be relocated. Trek distance: ~12km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's leg of our trek takes us through the enchanting Tsagaan Us River valley. As we traverse over undulating hills and weave through larch forests, we'll be surrounded by towering peaks in every direction. The river itself is a sight to behold. Its water is crystal clear and originates from the high alpine glaciers of the Tavan Bogd peaks in the Altai Mountain Range. As we continue along our path, we'll witness the river's gradual expansion as it's fed by a multitude of small streams that cascade down from the surrounding mountains. Trek distance: ~14-15km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, we'll walk out of the mountains and into the sprawling steppeland, where our drivers and vehicles await our return. This afternoon, we may have the opportunity to visit a local Kazakh family and learn about their unique culture. Although the Kazakhs' nomadic way of life is similar to that of the Mongols, there are distinct differences. For example, the Kazakh people are Muslim, and their religious customs and traditions are rooted in Islam. They also speak a different language from the Mongols and are known for their exquisite appliqué, stitching, and rug making out of crude felt. The Kazakh women's handicrafts adorn the floors and walls of their gers, creating a breathtaking tapestry. Finally, the Kazakh men are renowned for their skill in hunting. After bidding farewell to our Kazakh family following the visit, we will take a short drive to the shore of Khoton Lake and set up camp for the night. Trek distance: ~8-10km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Enjoy a free day today to explore the shores of Lake Khoton on foot. Khoton Lake, a freshwater lake that's nestled within the mountains, surrounded by forests. Adjacent to Khoton lies Khurgan Lake, which is connected by a stream. Both lakes are fed by a network of rivers and streams that originate in the mighty Altai Mountains, the Khovd River originates from these lakes. The terrain in this region is incredibly diverse, with the wooded shores of the lake providing a striking contrast to the open steppes that surround it. We'll be treated to a breathtaking view of Mt Ikh Turgen (3,507m), which rises dramatically from near our campsite. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we drive 230km to Sagsai soum, we will stop for lunch at the Mogoin River Gorge, before continuing on to our campsite where we'll have the opportunity to connect with a local Kazakh family, allowing us to immerse ourselves in their traditional way of life. Overnight: Tented Camp

Meals:  B,L,D

After a brief drive this morning, we'll arrive in Ulgii town. In the afternoon, we'll have the opportunity to visit the provincial center and shop for handcrafted items made by the skilled Kazakh women. Overnight: Ger camp

Meals:  B,L,D

After transferring to the airport, we'll take a flight back to Ulaanbaatar this morning. The afternoon is free for you to unwind and watch the hustle and bustle of the city from one of its many sidewalk cafes. Alternatively, for the more active among us, a visit to the Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan is a great option. The palace was once home to Mongolia's eighth living Buddha, and last King -Jebutzun Damba Hutagt VIII- for 20 years until his passing in 1903. To end our trip, we'll gather together for a final farewell dinner at a local restaurant this evening. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals:  B,L,D

After a leisurely breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Meals:  B

Expand all | Collapse all

After arriving at Ulaanbaatar Airport, we will transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon, we will explore the capital city, starting with Sukhbaatar Square, named after the revolutionary hero, Damdiny Sukhbaatar, who declared independence from China in 1921. Another important landmark on our orientation tour is the State Department Store, also known as the "Great Shop" in Mongolian. We will return to the hotel in the afternoon for some relaxation before a welcoming concert of traditional Mongolian music, followed by dinner and a briefing from your guide. Overnight: Hotel

Meals:  D

After breakfast at the hotel, we will be transferred to the airport for our internal flight to Western Mongolia. Our destination is the small township of Khovd, the capital of Khovd Aimag, which is similar to a state or province in Mongolia. The flight will take approximately 2.5 hours, and there is a 1-hour time difference between Ulaanbaatar and Khovd. Upon arrival, we will meet our vehicles and drivers at the airport and travel toward Ulaangom, the capital of Uvs province, which will take us approximately 4-5 hours on a mixture of paved and dirt roads, passing through the centers of Myangad, Ulgii, and Turgen soums (an administrative unit smaller than an aimag). During our journey, we will stop by the edge of Khar-Us Lake to appreciate the surrounding nature and birds and we will set up camp enroute. Overnight: Tented Camp.

Meals:  B,L,D

Our journey today will begin with a short drive to Ulaangom. Here we will participate in Mongolia's premier national holiday and immerse ourselves in the Naadam Festival with local people. This renowned festival showcases the three "manly" sports of horse racing, wrestling, and archery and is celebrated with great festivity throughout the country. By spending the festival with local people in the countryside, we will have the opportunity to gain insights into the unique nomadic way of life. Overnight: Hostel

Meals:  B,L,D

We'll spend the morning continuing our Naadam Festival experience before breaking for lunch. In the afternoon, we'll drive to Zuragt Davaa and set up camp there for the night. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Over the next two days, we will embark on a rewarding trek to the base of Turgen Mountain, where a long glacier lies at the foot of the peak. The picturesque surroundings and crisp, clear air make for an unforgettable experience, with the towering mountain peak adding to the grandeur of the landscape. In the summer months, nomadic families move their gers (traditional felt tents) into these valleys to graze their herds of livestock, and we will have the opportunity to experience their hospitality first-hand. Our trek covers a distance of 15kms on the second day, beginning on a mountain valley trail and gradually ascending towards the snow-capped peaks. We will follow the river upstream towards the glacier and continue through the Urd Turgen Valley, where the terrain is dry grassland scattered with large boulders. Our base camp for the next two nights will be set up by the white water river as it flows through the deep gorge. Please note that during the trek, all camping equipment and personal baggage will be carried by vehicles. Trek distance: ~15-16km/ day Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

We will start the day with a morning walk while our local team packs up the camp and loads the vehicles. As we proceed on our journey, our drivers will collect us en route, and we'll continue our travels towards Uureg Lake, a stunning freshwater lake nestled amidst towering peaks and the Russian border to the north. We will set up camp on the lakeshore and enjoy the serene surroundings. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today is a day for full exploration of Uureg Lake. The beautiful lake offers a range of activities, from swimming, fishing, walking, to bird watching or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning views. The entrance to the valley is lined with summer gers of the local nomads, which add to the scenic charm of the valley. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, we will embark on a scenic drive from Uureg Lake to Ulgii town, the capital of Bayan-Ulgii province. Our journey will take us alongside the picturesque Achit Lake and then along the banks of the Khovd River. During the drive, we will witness the changing ecosystems from semi-desert areas to steppe and mountainous steppe areas. Tonight, we will spend the night at a ger camp by the Khovd riverside in Olgii, where we will have the opportunity to experience the traditional dwelling of round-shaped felt tents, known as Khazak gers. Overnight: Ger (yurt) camp

Meals:  B,L,D

We’ll spend two days driving into the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, following the Khovd River and stopping for a riverside lunch. Afterward, we’ll continue our ascent over 130 kilometers, which will take us roughly 5-6 hours. Tonight we’ll camp in a mountain valley, and the following day we’ll keep driving until we reach a local Tuva family. After lunch, time depending, we’ll have the opportunity to hike to the foothills of the mountain, where our crew will set up camp near the family’s dwelling at an elevation of 2,600 meters above sea level. Those interested in riding a camel will have a chance to do so. Altai Tavan Bogd is known as the highest mountain range in Mongolia with five peaks that are referred to as the “Five Kings”. The highest of these peaks is Huiten, rising to 4350m above sea level, and is accompanied by the magnificent Potanin’s Glacier at its foot. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today marks the beginning of our trekking adventure. For the next three days, our pack camels will be carrying all food and camping equipment, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the challenge of this hike and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Mongol Altai Mountain Range. Our trek will take us approximately 5-8 hours each day through high mountain meadows and expansive valleys. On our first day, we will cross over the Tahilt Pass (3,200m) and continue on to the Tsagaan Us valley. This will be a particularly challenging day, as we navigate through snow and glacier-covered terrain. Ascending the steep slope to the pass will be especially demanding, but the reward will be worth it. From the top of the pass, we will be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and high mountain lakes, which boast an entrancing turquoise hue. After crossing the pass, we will make our way down into Tsagaan Us valley where we will set up camp for the night. Our campsite will be located on a small plateau high up on the mountainous slope, providing us with a magnificent view of the entire valley. At an altitude of approximately 3000m above sea level, please be advised that in the event of high wind conditions, our campsite may need to be relocated. Trek distance: ~12km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today’s leg of our trek takes us through the enchanting Tsagaan Us River valley. As we traverse over undulating hills and weave through larch forests, we’ll be surrounded by towering peaks in every direction. The river itself is a sight to behold. Its water is crystal clear and originates from the high alpine glaciers of the Tavan Bogd peaks in the Altai Mountain Range. As we continue along our path, we’ll witness the river’s gradual expansion as it’s fed by a multitude of small streams that cascade down from the surrounding mountains. Trek distance: ~14-15km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, we’ll walk out of the mountains and into the sprawling steppeland, where our drivers and vehicles await our return. This afternoon, we may have the opportunity to visit a local Kazakh family and learn about their unique culture. Although the Kazakhs’ nomadic way of life is similar to that of the Mongols, there are distinct differences. For example, the Kazakh people are Muslim, and their religious customs and traditions are rooted in Islam. They also speak a different language from the Mongols and are known for their exquisite applique, stitching, and rug making out of crude felt. The Kazakh women’s handicrafts adorn the floors and walls of their gers, creating a breathtaking tapestry. Finally, the Kazakh men are renowned for their skill in hunting. After bidding farewell to our Kazakh family following the visit, we will take a short drive to the shore of Khoton Lake and set up camp for the night. Trek distance: ~8-10km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Enjoy a free day today to explore the shores of Lake Khoton on foot. Khoton Lake, a freshwater lake that’s nestled within the mountains, surrounded by forests. Adjacent to Khoton lies Khurgan Lake, which is connected by a stream. Both lakes are fed by a network of rivers and streams that originate in the mighty Altai Mountains, the Khovd River originates from these lakes. The terrain in this region is incredibly diverse, with the wooded shores of the lake providing a striking contrast to the open steppes that surround it. We’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of Mt Ikh Turgen (3,507m), which rises dramatically from near our campsite. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we drive back to Ulgii, crossing rivers that connect the two lakes. We stop for lunch at the Mogoin River Gorge and stop to visit Kazakh family before continuing on to Ulgii. Overnight: Ger camp

Meals:  B,L,D

After arriving at Ulaanbaatar Airport, we will transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon, we will explore the capital city, starting with Sukhbaatar Square, named after the revolutionary hero, Damdiny Sukhbaatar, who declared independence from China in 1921. Another important landmark on our orientation tour is the State Department Store, also known as the "Great Shop" in Mongolian. We will return to the hotel in the afternoon for some relaxation before a welcoming concert of traditional Mongolian music, followed by dinner and a briefing from your guide. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals:  B,L,D

After a leisurely breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Meals:  B

Expand all | Collapse all

After arriving at Ulaanbaatar Airport, we will transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon, we will explore the capital city, starting with Sukhbaatar Square, named after the revolutionary hero, Damdiny Sukhbaatar, who declared independence from China in 1921. Another important landmark on our orientation tour is the State Department Store, also known as the "Great Shop" in Mongolian. Please time your arrival to be in the city by lunchtime as typically we will meet around 2 pm for the tour. We will return to the hotel in the late afternoon for some relaxation before a welcoming concert of traditional Mongolian music, followed by dinner and a briefing from your guide. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals:  D

This morning check out the hotel and drive to the east of Ulaanbaatar to visit the monument dedicated to Genghis Khan, which is is located on a hillside on the bank of the Tuul River. Meals and overnight at ger camp.

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast at the ger camp, we will be transferred to the airport for our internal flight to Western Mongolia. Our destination is the small township of Ulaangom, the capital of Uvs Aimag, which is similar to a state or province in Mongolia. Upon arrival, we will meet our vehicles and drivers at the airport and travel to Zuragt Davaa in Uvs province, which will take us approximately 3 hours on dirt roads. Our campsite for tonight will be located at the foothills of the Zuragt Davaa. Overnight: Tented Camp.

Meals:  B,L,D

Over the next two days, we will embark on a rewarding trek to the base of Turgen Mountain, where a long glacier lies at the foot of the peak. The picturesque surroundings and crisp, clear air make for an unforgettable experience, with the towering mountain peak adding to the grandeur of the landscape. In the summer months, nomadic families move their gers (traditional felt tents) into these valleys to graze their herds of livestock, and we will have the opportunity to experience their hospitality first-hand. Our trek covers a distance of 15kms on the second day, beginning on a mountain valley trail and gradually ascending towards the snow-capped peaks. We will follow the river upstream towards the glacier and continue through the Urd Turgen Valley, where the terrain is dry grassland scattered with large boulders. Our base camp for the next two nights will be set up by the white water river as it flows through the deep gorge. Please note that during the trek, all camping equipment and personal baggage will be carried by vehicles. Trek distance: ~15-16km/ day Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Our adventure for the day involves hiking up the Urd Turgen Valley, with its small mountain streams and blooming wildflowers during the spring and early summer. As we continue our trek, we may need to scramble over boulders to reach the source of the river, right at the edge of the glacier. Afterward, we'll return to our base camp in the afternoon. Trek distance: ~15-17km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

We will start the day with a morning walk while our local team packs up the camp and loads the vehicles. As we proceed on our journey, our drivers will collect us en route, and we'll continue our travels towards Uureg Lake, a stunning freshwater lake nestled amidst towering peaks and the Russian border to the north. We will set up camp on the lakeshore and enjoy the serene surroundings. Overnight: Tented camp Drive: approx 70kms

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, we will embark on a scenic drive from Uureg Lake to Ulgii town, the capital of Bayan-Ulgii province. Our journey will take us alongside the picturesque Achit Lake and then along the banks of the Khovd River. During the drive, we will witness the changing ecosystems from semi-desert areas to steppe and mountainous steppe areas. Tonight, we will spend the night at a ger camp by the Khovd riverside in Olgii, where we will have the opportunity to experience the traditional dwelling of round-shaped felt tents, known as Khazak gers. Overnight: Ger camp

Meals:  B,L,D

We'll spend two days driving into the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, following the Khovd River and stopping for a riverside lunch. Afterward, we'll continue our ascent over 130 kilometers, which will take us roughly 5-6 hours. Tonight we'll camp in a mountain valley, and the following day we'll keep driving until we reach a local Tuva family. After lunch, time depending, we'll have the opportunity to hike to the foothills of the mountain, where our crew will set up camp near the family's dwelling at an elevation of 2,600 meters above sea level. Those interested in riding a camel will have a chance to do so. Altai Tavan Bogd is known as the highest mountain range in Mongolia with five peaks that are referred to as the "Five Kings". The highest of these peaks is Huiten, rising to 4350m above sea level, and is accompanied by the magnificent Potanin's Glacier at its foot. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today marks the beginning of our trekking adventure. For the next three days, our pack camels will be carrying all food and camping equipment, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the challenge of this hike and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Mongol Altai Mountain Range. Our trek will take us approximately 5-8 hours each day through high mountain meadows and expansive valleys. On our first day, we will cross over the Tahilt Pass (3,200m) and continue on to the Tsagaan Us valley. This will be a particularly challenging day, as we navigate through snow and glacier-covered terrain. Ascending the steep slope to the pass will be especially demanding, but the reward will be worth it. From the top of the pass, we will be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and high mountain lakes, which boast an entrancing turquoise hue. After crossing the pass, we will make our way down into Tsagaan Us valley where we will set up camp for the night. Our campsite will be located on a small plateau high up on the mountainous slope, providing us with a magnificent view of the entire valley. At an altitude of approximately 3000m above sea level, please be advised that in the event of high wind conditions, our campsite may need to be relocated. Trek distance: ~12km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's leg of our trek takes us through the enchanting Tsagaan Us River valley. As we traverse over undulating hills and weave through larch forests, we'll be surrounded by towering peaks in every direction. The river itself is a sight to behold. Its water is crystal clear and originates from the high alpine glaciers of the Tavan Bogd peaks in the Altai Mountain Range. As we continue along our path, we'll witness the river's gradual expansion as it's fed by a multitude of small streams that cascade down from the surrounding mountains. Trek distance: ~14-15km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, we'll walk out of the mountains and into the sprawling steppeland, where our drivers and vehicles await our return. This afternoon, we may have the opportunity to visit a local Kazakh family and learn about their unique culture. Although the Kazakhs' nomadic way of life is similar to that of the Mongols, there are distinct differences. For example, the Kazakh people are Muslim, and their religious customs and traditions are rooted in Islam. They also speak a different language from the Mongols and are known for their exquisite appliqué, stitching, and rug making out of crude felt. The Kazakh women's handicrafts adorn the floors and walls of their gers, creating a breathtaking tapestry. Finally, the Kazakh men are renowned for their skill in hunting. After bidding farewell to our Kazakh family following the visit, we will take a short drive to the shore of Khoton Lake and set up camp for the night. Trek distance: ~8-10km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Enjoy a free day today to explore the shores of Lake Khoton on foot. Khoton Lake, a freshwater lake that's nestled within the mountains, surrounded by forests. Adjacent to Khoton lies Khurgan Lake, which is connected by a stream. Both lakes are fed by a network of rivers and streams that originate in the mighty Altai Mountains, the Khovd River originates from these lakes. The terrain in this region is incredibly diverse, with the wooded shores of the lake providing a striking contrast to the open steppes that surround it. We'll be treated to a breathtaking view of Mt Ikh Turgen (3,507m), which rises dramatically from near our campsite. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we drive to Tolbo lake via Ulgii town. We will have short stop in Ulgii town to visit the provincial center and shop for handcrafted items made by the skilled Kazakh women. Overnight: Tented camp Drive: approx 230kms

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we will drive toward Khovd. Driving is by paved road, and we will camp by the edge of Buyant river. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals:  B,L,D

After transferring to the airport, we'll take a flight back to Ulaanbaatar this morning. The afternoon is free for you to unwind and watch the hustle and bustle of the city from one of its many sidewalk cafes. Alternatively, for the more active among us, a visit to the Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan is a great option. The palace was once home to Mongolia's eighth living Buddha, and last King -Jebutzun Damba Hutagt VIII- for 20 years until his passing in 1903. To end our trip, we'll gather together for a final farewell dinner at a local restaurant this evening. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals:  B,L,D

After a leisurely breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Meals:  B


Inclusions

  • 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 17 dinners
  • flights Ulaanbaatar/Khovd and Ulgii to Ulaanbaatar valued at US$750
  • camel/porter support during trek
  • airport transfers on day 1 & day 18
  • expert bilingual guide
  • comfortable well located hotels and hostels
  • 80l World Expeditions kit bag for use during the trip
  • fully supported camping during trek
  • private vehicles
  • sightseeing as listed in itinerary
  • site entry fees
  • On the Naadam festival itinerary, we'll trek for 5 days to fully experience the festival.

  • Sleeping bag – available for hire when booked in advance
  • Guests can choose to hire a horse to ride during the trekking sections. Please ask your Adventure Travel Consultant for details
  • Tips
  • International airfares and departure taxes
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance

Departure dates


Notes

1
Naadam Festival departure, date may alter depending on internal flight schedules.

Dates don't fit?
Create a Private Trip

If you have your own group, talk to us about turning this itinerary into your own private adventure.

Priceper person from

$4590USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Sleeping Bag HireUSD$25
  • Air Mattress HireUSD$25
  • Mongolian Panorama Single SupplementUSD$280
  • Mongolian Panorama - Horse & Handler Hire D12-14 Pax (per pax)USD$300
  • Mongolian Panorama - Horse & Handler Hire D3-5 - 2 Pax (per pax)USD$380
*Prices listed are per person

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Mongolian Panorama trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


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Why travel with us

Award Winning Adventures

Enhancing your journey with authentic experiences, genuine cultural exchange and real exploration are the focal points on all of our adventures. In 2019, we were crowned by our peers as the best in adventure travel at The Travel Awards in Sydney.

Thoughtful Travel

Our vision is to leave the world a better place by following our sustainable active outdoor travel charter. All our adventures are 100% carbon offset and our Regenerative 2030 Project aims to integrate ‘regenerative’ projects into every one of our global operations by 2030.

Ultimate Value

 When you book one of our adventures, you will receive quality services at the best prices with plenty of inclusions. There are no hidden costs, single travellers don’t pay more and you’ll enjoy many ‘extra touches’ that ensure your holiday is excellent value for money.

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