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Trekkers explore the vast, pristine landscape of Mongolia - Mongolian Tavan Bogd Trek, Mongolia
Trekkers explore the vast, pristine landscape of Mongolia  | Cam Cope
Beautifull valleys of the Tavan Bogd National park - Mongolian Tavan Bogd Trek, Mongolia
Beautifull valleys of the Tavan Bogd National park  | Allan Kirk
Spectacular glacial lake in Mongolia - Mongolian Tavan Bogd Trek, Mongolia
Spectacular glacial lake in Mongolia  | Cam Cope
A traditional Mongolian camel herder - Mongolian Tavan Bogd Trek, Mongolia
A traditional Mongolian camel herder  | Campbell Bridge
A well earned rest after a challenging day's trekking in western Mongolia. - Mongolian Tavan Bogd Trek, Mongolia
A well earned rest after a challenging day's trekking in western Mongolia.  | Tessa Chan
Unspoiled views of Khorton Nuur in the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia - Mongolian Tavan Bogd Trek, Mongolia
Unspoiled views of Khorton Nuur in the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia  | Alan and Julie Marshall

Mongolian Tavan Bogd Trek

Trek among glaciers and Mongolia’s highest peaks in the remote Altai.

Mongolia
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 11 reviews

11 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: TBT
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 11 Days
Activities
  • 4 day trek
Accommodation
  • 7 nights camping
  • 3 nights hotel
Meals
  • 9 Dinners
  • 8 Lunches
  • 10 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
5 / 10

Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

45kg of CO2-e PP per day

(447kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Enjoy a fully supported trek in Mongolia's remote west with comfortable wilderness camps, fresh cooked meals, and nights under skies filled with stars
  • Visit Tuvan herders in their summer pastures and meet Kazakh eagle hunters, keepers of an ancient tradition
  • Explore the Tsagaan Salaa rock art site (UNESCO), with thousands of Bronze and Iron Age carvings
  • Trek deep into Tavan Bogd National Park, where glaciers carve through the valleys below Mongolia's highest peaks
  • Summit Malchin Peak (4,051m / 13,287ft) for commanding views across glaciers and into neighbouring Russia

Overview

Journey into Mongolia's far western Altai Mountains on an adventure combining high mountain trekking, wilderness camping and encounters with the region's Tuvan and Kazakh cultures.

Fly from Ulaanbaatar to Olgii before travelling overland into the remote landscapes of western Mongolia. Explore the remarkable Tsagaan Salaa rock art site, where thousands of ancient carvings depict animals, hunters and rituals, before continuing into Tavan Bogd National Park.

With pack camels transporting your main luggage, trek through alpine valleys, across streams and beneath the snow-capped "Five Holy Peaks" to a wilderness camp at 3,000m / 9,840ft. The high point is the optional ascent of Malchin Peak at 4,051m / 13,287ft, a non-technical trekking peak offering expansive views across glaciers, surrounding summits and towards Russia.

The journey also provides opportunities to experience the cultures of Mongolia's remote west. Visit Tuvan herders in their summer pastures and meet a Kazakh family to learn about the tradition of hunting with golden eagles.

With a local guide and crew, fully supported camping and your main luggage carried by pack camels during the trek, this compact adventure offers an immersive way to experience the landscapes and cultures of the Mongolian Altai.

Itinerary

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On arrival in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital, you will be met by our representative and transferred to a centrally located 4-star hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax and recover from your international flight. This evening is at leisure. Activity: Transfers only (30–40 mins) Accommodation: Bayangol Hotel, or similar

Meals: Nil

After breakfast you set out on a full day guided tour of Ulaanbaatar. You begin at the Gandan Monastery, the city's principal Buddhist centre, before heading to the Zaisan Memorial, an elevated hilltop offering panoramic views across the capital. In Sükhbaatar Square, the central plaza, you admire the marble colonnade with imposing statues of Genghis (Chinggis) Khaan and his successors. You then explore the National Museum, which traces Mongolia's history from prehistory through to the modern era. In the evening you enjoy a traditional folk performance, featuring throat singing, music, and contortion, followed by a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Accommodation: Bayangol Hotel, or similar

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we transfer to the airport for a 2 hour flight west to Ulgii, the capital of Bayan-Ölgii(Ulgii) province. On arrival we meet our local support crew and set off in sturdy Russian vehicles for a 5 hour drive across mountainous desert landscapes. Our destination is the Tsagaan Salaa Valley, a remote alpine setting of swift rivers and flower-strewn meadows. This valley is home to one of the world’s most extensive rock art galleries (UNESCO World Heritage), with carvings dating from the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages depicting animals, hunting scenes, and ancient rituals. After settling into camp, there is time to wander among the petroglyphs and soak in the dramatic surroundings. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you journey deeper into the Altai Mountains, travelling through vast V-shaped valleys where streams flow down from glacier-capped peaks. The scenery alternates between lush alpine pastures dotted with Kazakh herders’ yurts and steep scree-covered slopes. Marmots are commonly seen along the way. By early afternoon you reach the entrance to Tavan Bogd National Park, the gateway to Mongolia’s highest peaks. This is the starting point of your trek. After setting up camp, there is free time to stretch your legs and explore the surrounding foothills. In the evening, local herders arrive with their pack camels, who will carry your supplies during the trek. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast you begin your trek towards the Tavan Bogd Base Camp, the access point to Mongolia's highest peaks, known as the "Five Holy." The route follows high mountain terrain with gradual ascents, crossing a few boggy patches and shallow streams, and two short but steeper sections. Partway through the day, sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks and vast glaciers open up. Around lunchtime the camel caravan overtakes you on the trail, and you typically reach base camp by late afternoon. Your campsite sits just above 3,000m / 9,840ft, with views of the Altai's highest summits and largest glaciers. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s goal is to summit Malchin Peak, the only non-technical peak among the “Five Holy” that can be climbed without mountaineering gear. From base camp we follow the Potanin Glacier moraine for about an hour before beginning the ascent. The route is entirely on scree, and is a strenuous ascent and descent but the trail is well-marked and steady, requiring only trekking poles. From the summit at 4,051m (13,287ft), we are rewarded with commanding views across glaciers, snow-clad peaks, and even into Russian territory. For those preferring a shorter option, there is the choice to hike to the ridge marking the Russia–Mongolia border, which still offers impressive vistas. We return to base camp by late afternoon. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving base camp behind, you begin your descent towards the lower gate of Tavan Bogd National Park. The route is mostly downhill, though you cross some marshy ground and streams along the way. About two-thirds of the trek brings you to the edge of a dramatic V-shaped valley, where the Tsagaan Gol River (White River) thunders below, carrying glacial silt from the surrounding peaks. After a steep descent you reach the riverside, where your campsite is set in a lush summer pastureland used by Tuvan herders with their camels. Rest and socialize with other travelers who might be camping at the designated camp ground. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we take an easy hike to visit a Tuvan family, most likely one of the camel herders who have been with us during the trek. The Tuvans, also known as Uriankhai, are a Turkic-origin ethnic group traditionally practicing nomadic herding and shamanism, today blended with Tibetan Buddhism. Guests are welcomed to learn about their way of life and share traditional food and drinks. Afterwards, we continue on to Holy Shiveet Mountain (Shiveet Khairkhan). The broad summit offers excellent chances to spot wild mountain goats (Capra sibirica), almost always present in the area. For those preferring a gentler option, a walk around the base reveals extensive rock carvings with fascinating depictions of ancient hunting scenes. We return to our camp beside the mountain. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you retrace the route by vehicle on the 7 hour drive back to Olgii, the provincial capital. En route you stop at a Kazakh family home to learn about the ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles, preserved by Mongolia's Kazakh minority. In the evening, a traditional Kazakh dinner accompanied by music and songs offers a warm cultural finale to your time in the Altai. Accommodation: Makhsum Hotel, or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast you transfer to the airport for the return 2 hour flight to Ulaanbaatar. On arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is free to relax or explore the city at leisure; you may choose to visit a local market, visit a museum, some last-minute souvenir shopping or simply enjoy a nearby cafe. In the evening you gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate your journey through Mongolia's remote Altai Mountains. Accommodation: Bayangol Hotel, or similar

Meals: B,D

Our adventure concludes today. After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

3 scheduled departures between 14 Jun 2027 and 2 Aug 2027.

  • Departs 14 Jun 2027 – ends 24 Jun 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 12 Jul 2027 – ends 22 Jul 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 2 Aug 2027 – ends 12 Aug 2027 (11 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 9 dinners
  • Flights Ulaanbaatar/Olgi and Olgi/Ulaanbaatar (5kg + 15kg)
  • Airport transfers on day 1 & day 11
  • 6 nights fully supported tented camping on a twinshare basis, with foam sleeping mats
  • 4 nights hotel on twinshare basis
  • English speaking guide
  • Local guides, expedition cook, expedition pack animals and handlers
  • Potable drinking water on trek
  • Private vehicle transportation
  • Medical kit
  • Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary

Not included

  • Sleeping bag and trekking poles (available for hire)
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Excess baggage fee on domestic air travel
  • International airfares and departure taxes
  • Drinks & Alcohol (Drinking water is provided)
  • Meals not indicated
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips
  • Visa

Reviews (11)

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These were the best, most scenic campsites I have experienced in 40 years of travel. It's not easy to get to, but you are rewarded along the way with the empty grass plains and high peaks of the Mongolian steppes.

Matthew|New South Wales, Australia
6 Aug 2026
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Loved the itinerary. Great food.

Joy|QLD, Australia
11 Sep 2025
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Excellent trip - an adventure with amazing scenery. We were well looked after by our guide & support crew

Dianne|SA, Australia
1 Aug 2025
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It was a very good trip. Spectacular scenery. Vast and sparsely occupied.

Robert|SA, Australia
22 Jul 2025
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A fantastic trip and a rare opportunity to explore such a remote part of the world. Based in the Altai Mountains on the border of China and Russia! We were very warmly welcomed by the Mongolian people and enjoyed the scenic walks and camping spots.

Laura|NSW Australia
8 Jul 2025
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This was an absolutely fantastic trip! Our guide Samba was incredible: very knowledgeable about Mongolian history and culture, a capable mountain and hiking guide, in-control logistics organiser, and an all-round great person to spend two weeks with. We were blessed with perfect hiking weather, with only one quite cold night (in which I was grateful for my -15 sleeping bag), and otherwise blue skies and sunny warm temperatures. The hike itself I couldn’t recommend more highly. While the summit day was tough (approx 9 hours of difficult hiking, at altitude), the views over both Russia and Mongolia were spectacular. The other hiking days were more than manageable, with gentle sloping rambles across grassy plains and wildflowers, leaving us to enjoy relaxing evenings at camp. All our food on the hike was excellent, with a mix of local and western dishes. Us three vegetarians were very well catered for. We also had the opportunity to meet many nomadic people, visiting a few gurs along the way. Nothing felt ‘touristy’ or manufactured for our group. At the same time, Samba managed all the logistics and communication so capably that we were able to really relax and enjoy ourselves. I have no constructive or negative comments about the experience - we all had a fantastic time.

Sasha Dawson|Fitzroy North, VIC Australia
14 Jul 2024
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This experience was so much more than I had anticipated. Trekking was the expectation but so much more was provided for us.

Stephen Ralphs|Berowra Heights, NSW Australia
2 Jul 2024
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Nicholas|New South Wales, Australia
9 Aug 2026
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Eva|Virginia, United States
10 Jul 2026

Extra trip info

Who will I travel with?AccommodationWill My Trip Run?FAQsWhy Book With Us
Group shot, 'African wilderness in comfort' trip | Peter Walton

Travelling with our local partners

This trip is run by one of our local partners, on a departure shared with travellers from other companies.

What's the benefit to you? More departure dates, and dates that reach their minimum numbers sooner, because bookings from several companies go into one group. Your guides live and work in the region.

Who is in your group? Expect a mix of travellers and nationalities, not only people who booked with World Expeditions.

What will we tell you when you book? We advise the name of the local partner at the time of booking, along with any terms of their own, such as an additional deposit. These apply alongside our Booking Terms and Conditions.

Travelling alone? On some partner-operated trips your own room is required. The room options on this page show which applies to this trip.

Happy campers on our Footsteps of the Nomads trek | Tim Cope

Tavan Bogd National Park Camping

During the trek in Tavan Bogd National Park, you will enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two person tents pitched for you in scenic wilderness. Meals will be freshly prepared daily by our crew.

Camp in Turgen River Valley on our active holiday in Mongolia | Alan and Julie Marshall

Tavan Bogd National Park Camping

During the trek in Tavan Bogd National Park, you will enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two person tents pitched for you in scenic wilderness. Meals will be freshly prepared daily by our crew.

Bayangol Hotel TWN

Comfortable hotels in towns and cities

In the towns and cities we use carefully selected, centrally located 3-4 star hotels. We aim to choose hotels with character which reflect the local traditions of the destinations. This picture shows the Bayangol Hotel in Ulaanbaatar as used on this trip.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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The trip is graded Moderate, with sustained trekking over rough terrain and some steep ascents and descents. Good fitness and preparation are required.

The 11-day itinerary includes four main trekking days in Tavan Bogd National Park. Most are around 4–5 hours, with the optional Malchin Peak ascent, weather depending, taking approximately 7–9 hours.

The trip travels above 2,500 m / 8,202 ft, where your body needs time to adjust to reduced oxygen. Tell your leader about any symptoms you experience while at altitude.

The trip includes six nights of fully supported tented camping and four nights in hotels. A foam sleeping mat is provided while camping.

No, your main luggage is carried by pack camels during the trek. You carry a daypack with your clothing, water and personal items required during the day.

Domestic flights have a 15 kg checked baggage allowance plus 5 kg carry-on. You will need to pack light.

A 50-litre kit bag, duffle bag or rucksack is recommended for your main luggage. Suitcases are unsuitable because they cannot be easily secured to the pack camels.

The trip includes 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 9 dinners. Fresh meals are prepared by the expedition cook while camping.

Vegetarian and most medically recommended diets can be catered for when advised at least one month before departure. Options are limited in remote areas and an allergen-free trip cannot be guaranteed.

Summer days can be warm, but temperatures drop at night and mountain weather can change quickly. Be prepared for cold, wind, rain and even snow at higher elevations.

If you tend to feel the cold, we recommend a sleeping bag rated to -20°C / -4°F. Three-season sleeping bags rated to approximately -9°C / 16°F are available for hire.

Yes, sleeping bags and trekking poles are available for hire. Details are provided in the pre-departure information.

Robust, waterproof walking boots with ankle support and a good-quality sole are essential. Make sure your boots are comfortable and well worn-in before departure.

The trek travels through the remote landscapes of Tavan Bogd National Park in Mongolia's far west. Internet and mobile access may be limited in remote areas.

Visit the Tsagaan Salaa rock art site, spend time with a Tuvan family and meet a Kazakh family to learn about the tradition of hunting with golden eagles. These experiences provide insights into the cultures of western Mongolia.

Yes, return domestic flights between Ulaanbaatar and Olgii are included. An additional non-refundable deposit is required to secure these flights.

Yes, airport transfers are included on Day 1 and Day 11 of the trip.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Check current requirements with the Mongolian embassy or consulate before travel.

Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must provide appropriate cover for the trip.

No, this trip is operated by our partners in Mongolia and is not exclusive to World Expeditions travellers. Your group may include travellers of different nationalities.

Yes, solo travellers can be paired with another traveller of the same gender. If we cannot match you, the room and/or tent is yours at no additional charge.

The itinerary may change due to weather, local conditions or circumstances beyond our control. Flexibility is an important part of travelling in remote Mongolia

  • Fully supported trekking with your main luggage carried by pack camels while you walk with a daypack
  • Travel with an English-speaking guide, local guides, expedition cook and experienced local support crew
  • Spend six nights camping in the remote landscapes of Mongolia’s Altai Mountains with meals prepared by the crew
  • Meet Tuvan herders and a Kazakh family for insights into the living cultures and traditions of western Mongolia
  • Enjoy a compact 11-day itinerary combining remote trekking, cultural encounters and time in Ulaanbaatar

Responsible Travel

Regenerative Travel ProjectsEagle Hunting Heritage
Mongolian kids | Cam Cope
Empowering Students Through Green Learning
 
This project, led by the Center for Citizenship Education in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, establishes school-based greenhouses to provide students with hands-on learning in natural sciences. By training teachers and engaging over 1,200 middle and high school students, the initiative transforms theoretical education into practical experience, enabling students to grow plants, propagate trees, and actively participate in greening their school environment.
 
Set in a ger district facing severe air pollution and limited educational resources, the project addresses both environmental and social challenges. It improves student engagement, builds practical skills, and contributes to healthier school surroundings by planting over 1,000 trees and shrubs annually, fostering a stronger connection between young people, their community, and the natural environment.
 
Support our work
A local eagle hunter, Mongolia | Cam Cope
Visiting a Kazakh Family with Eagle Hunting Heritage
 
World Expeditions offers travellers the opportunity to visit a Kazakh family with an eagle-hunting heritage in a way that is ethical, respectful, and aligned with our Animal Welfare Policy.
 
Eagle hunting is a centuries-old Kazakh tradition - a symbol of identity, pride, and deep connection with nature. Our visits offer a rare insight into this unique human–animal relationship and the passing of cultural knowledge across generations, without compromising animal welfare.
 
How we deliver this responsibly:
 
- No direct involvement or participation in hunting activities
- No staged performances or festival-style displays
- Observational visits only, with a focus on storytelling, learning, and cultural context
- Comparable to visiting a cultural custodian or knowledge holder
 
We work with trusted local partners who meet our Animal Welfare Standards across nutrition, shelter, veterinary care, and natural behaviour. Female eagles are typically released back into the wild at around 5–6 years of age, and no captive breeding is undertaken.
 
Travellers are encouraged to observe quietly, maintain distance, and report any concerns to their guide or travel consultant.

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