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Exploration by foot or by horse is ideal in Mongolia - Mongolia In the Footsteps of the Nomad with Tim Cope, Mongolia
Exploration by foot or by horse is ideal in Mongolia  | Cam Cope
A young Mongolian boy herds Bactrian camels - Mongolia In the Footsteps of the Nomad with Tim Cope, Mongolia
A young Mongolian boy herds Bactrian camels  | Cam Cope
Mongolian campsite Kharkhiraa region - Mongolia In the Footsteps of the Nomad with Tim Cope, Mongolia
Mongolian campsite Kharkhiraa region  | Tim Cope
The vast Mongolian steppe - Mongolia In the Footsteps of the Nomad with Tim Cope, Mongolia
The vast Mongolian steppe  | Cam Cope
Camel crossing while on tour in Mongolia - Mongolia In the Footsteps of the Nomad with Tim Cope, Mongolia
Camel crossing while on tour in Mongolia  | Cam Cope
Young Mongolian girl - Mongolia In the Footsteps of the Nomad with Tim Cope, Mongolia
Young Mongolian girl  | Cam Cope

Mongolia In the Footsteps of the Nomadwith Tim Cope

Tim Cope leads an unforgettable trek through Western Mongolia

Mongolia
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 39 reviews

18 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: IFN
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 18 Days
Activities
  • 10 day trek
  • 6 days adventure touring
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel
  • 13 nights camping
Meals
  • 17 Dinners
  • 16 Lunches
  • 17 Breakfasts
Internal Flights

Valued at 665

Difficulty Grading  
6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

54kg of CO2-e PP per day

(920kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Travel with Tim Cope for a culturally enriching experience of western Mongolia
  • Trek through the Kharkhiraa and Turgen Uul mountains with the support of a camel caravan and a team of local nomads
  • Choose to ride a horse instead of trekking, or combine hiking with horse riding (this option is available as an add on)
  • Follow the migratory routes of the Khoton and Durvud nomadic families and come to know the nomadic way of life
  • Camp in the Mongolian steppe and experience a diverse range of landscapes from glacier capped peaks to semi arid country

Overview

Join Australian adventurer and writer Tim Cope for a unique moderate-challenging trek among remote Khoton and Durvud nomads in the Kharkhiraa and Turgen mountains of Western Mongolia. The focus of this trip is spending less time crossing the vast landscape of Mongolia by jeep, and more time trekking off the beaten track immersed in the landscape and culture of the legendary horsemen and women of the steppes. Tim, who rode a horse for three and a half years from Mongolia to Hungary across the steppes of Eurasia is passionate about the nomadic way of life and the history of the Mongolian people whose ancestors were among the first in history to tame the horse. The itinerary takes us from Ulaanbaatar by plane to Ulaangom in the west where we begin the trek in the Kharkhiraa mountains - part of the greater Altai range. In this region lives a small and intriguing ethnic group of Mongolians called the ‘Khoton.’ Unlike many nomads of Mongolia who have adopted the motorbike and truck as part of their nomadic existence, the Khoton still make their annual journey up into the high passes of the Kharkhiraa with just camels, yaks, and horses. Our trek follows the migratory routes of these Khoton families along the Kharkhiraa river and eventually up to the spectacular high pass at 3000m between Kharkhiraa and Turgen peaks. Along the way we will pass evidence of ancient nomadic people in the form of Turkic gravestone markers, and hear from Tim about the many legends and stories that tell much about the Mongolian connection to their animals and the land. Travelling with us will be a small caravan of local horsemen and their horses and camels that will be taking our luggage and equipment. There will be an opportunity to encounter the nomadic people most days, and from the high pass, weather permitting, there will be an optional return walk up to a high ridge at about 3600 metres. The second half of the Kharkhiraa trek takes us into the catchment of the Khovd River, and the lands of the Durvud – another ethnic minority of Western Mongolia who have their own fascinating history. From the high pass, we will at first descend to a landscape pitted by lakes, and further to a river gorge. There are many nomad families who come to graze here for the summer. For our last chapter of the journey we again head uphill to explore three remote ridges and valleys – a feature known locally as ‘the three brothers.’ This is an area known for its population of ibex and argali mountain sheep. There will be another opportunity here to trek high to around 3600m. From our camp in this three brothers region we will trek down towards the Khovd River valley where we will be met by vehicle support. The landscape of the Kharkhiraa is dominated by open slopes dotted with nomad tents, deep river gorges, alpine lakes, and the inspiring, glacier capped peaks of Kharkhiraa and Turgen. Although it is very rare and unlikely to spot one, it is worth noting that these mountains are renowned as one of the refuges for the endangered snow leopard. Trekking days involve 6-8 hours of walking, and although there are no technical parts to the trek, a medium to high level of fitness is required. Integral to this tour, is also supporting a local Mongolian charity, Autism Mongolia. $100 of your tour price will be donated to this charity in Ulaanbaatar at a special presentation when we arrive. There will be the opportunity to meet with representatives from the charity and make additional donations if desired.

Itinerary

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You will be met and transferred from the airport to the group hotel. Following an orientation tour of the city and a traditional Mongolian concert, we will meet in the evening for a group dinner and briefing. We will also be making our charitable donation to a representative of Autism Mongolia. Overnight: Best Western Premier Hotel or similar

Meals: D

Following breakfast we transfer to the airport for a flight to the far western town of Ulaangom (the capital of Uvs province). Uvs is home to several ethnic groups, the majority of whom are Dorvod Mongolians who speak a dialect that differs from the Khalkh Mongol language of Central Mongolia. Uvs is particularly famous for its strong tradition of wrestling. As we fly in, you will see just to the north of the town a large body of water known as Uvs Nuur which is by area the largest lake in Mongolia. In Ulaangom we will lunch together in a restaurant before travelling by Russian four wheel drive to the village of Tarialan. The drive will be around one hour and just beyond the village at the entrance to the gorge on the Kharkhiraa river we will unload and make camp. Here we will meet the local team of horsemen with the camels who will be portaging our equipment and travelling with us over the Kharkhiraa pass. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

PLEASE NOTE: This day a contingency day intentionally built into the trip to allow for uncontrollable changes to the itinerary such as the ever changing schedule of the domestic flights. Should the flights run to schedule, and there are no other hold ups (such as weather-related events) we’ll have have an extra day in the mountains. Your leader will determine the best options for the group depending on the prevailing conditions and flights. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Our route will take us immediately to a saddle, from where, in good weather we can view the glacier capped peaks of Turgen, and get a great overview of the days ahead. Today’s trek will include 2-3 low passes to navigate, as we make our way along migratory trails of nomads. Khoton people migrate themselves from the plains near here into the mountains for summer. If we are lucky we will meet some families moving in camel trains into the mountains, children and babies strapped into the cane baskets high up on the back of the camels. The Khoton people are a strongly nomadic minority group numbering about one or two thousand and live primarily in the Kharkhiraa mountains. They are believed they have Turkic origins. The landscape today is a combination of grassy mountain hills, rocky ridges, and some stands of larch forest. Our aim is to eventually drop down to the grassy banks of the glacier fed Kharkhiraa River. Trekking: ~13km, +300m Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today our aim is to reach higher into the Kharkhiraa River valley. Depending on conditions there are multiple routes available to us (possible on foot and by horse), each of which reveal glimpses of the ice- encrusted peaks of the high Kharkhiraa. In ideal conditions the camel caravan will take the main river valley while we will explore our way up a grassy valley on the edge of a larch forest that leads is to high meadows that are the seasonal pasturelands of nomads in the spring and winter. The valley eventually winds its way to a steep gully and after trekking this final pinch to a high ridge top we will be rewarded with sweeping views down into the Kharkhiraa valley, with its massive lateral moraines and ahead to the ice domes and peaks of Turgen and Kharkhiraa. For the more adventurous there is a more challenging ridge walk parallel to the approach via the gully that may be offered at your guide’s discretion. A highlight of today is to descend somewhat from this ridge to reach so called ‘ horse herd lake’ which is nestled on a high shelf just above the lateral moraine of the Kharkhiraa River valley. In the right conditions this is a lovely lake to rinse the sweat away with a swim. On the edge of this lake are circular ‘Khirigsuur’ graves that date back to the Xiongu people of the bronze age (about 2,000 years ago). These can be seen as circular piles of rocks surrounded by squares or circles. In one Khirigsuur some archaeological digs in Mongolia have revealed up to 45 people buried with many horses. The Xiongu are the distant nomad ancestors of the Mongols. During our trek, there will be various times when we may come across these types of graves, and may also include Turkic carved head stones, and other standing stones. It is worth noting that the Kharkhiraa-Turgen mountains are part of the greater ‘Altai’ mountain range which is said to be at the very heart of Asia. Iranians, Turks, Mongols, Kazakhs, and many other people trace their history back to the people who came from the Altai and moved down to the steppe to tame horses, yaks and camels. Even today the Altai splits Russia, Kazakhstan, China and Russia and is the meeting point of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam and Shamanism. From the lake we will re-enter the Kharkhiraa River valley and reach camp on the banks of the river. There may be the opportunity to visit a nomad family along the way. Tip: Please note that irrespective of which route your guide chooses, this is typically a fairly challenging, day of mixed terrain mostly without formed paths. Expect to be walking for 6-8 hours, and please be sure to treat any sign of a hotspot/blister on your feet with great caution. Trekking: ~13 - 20km (depending on route taken), +600m Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

In most summer seasons, the upper reaches of the Kharkhiraa River Valley are dotted with nomad families that have come to graze their animals in cooler, and greener alpines climes. The prestige of herding all ‘five heads of livestock’ is on show here, with herds of yaks, goats, sheep, horses and camel seen grazing the valley and high surrounding slopes. Tim Cope stayed with families here on his original journey by horse from Mongolia to Hungary, and has maintained connections with families here ever since. In fact the running of this trip relies on maintaining that close connection, including with the nomads that travel with us and support the journey. Today’s hike is a much gentler experience than the previous day as we gradually make our way up the valley. As the valley curves to the west Kharkhiraa Peak (4037m) will come into view.. The main feature of today however will likely be cultural as we enter nomad gers (yurts) and getting as sense of their life. Like with all family visits, this usually consists of entering the ger as a group, and over traditional milky tea, and perhaps traditional snuff bottle offerings (the host normally offers their stone bottle to guests in a sign of respect, inhaling snuff is not required or common), we will learn about the winter that has passed, and any local news. We will learn about ger etiquette, and have the chance to share stories, and ask questions. If we are lucky we might have the opportunity to observe the making of traditional distilled milky vodka (known as Nermel Arkhi), dried curd, rope making, or any other number of jobs that nomads tend to in the summer. After lunch together with the camel caravan at a confluence of two rivers (flowing from the Turgen and Kharkhiraa glaciers) we make our way directly up towards the high pass in between the main peaks of the Kharkhiraa range. Near the base of the climb to the high pass we will make an early camp. For those with energy left in reserve there will be an opportunity in the evening to trek up towards the Kharkhiraa glacier at the headwaters of the Kharkhiraa River. Tip: The sense of hospitality with which we are embraced by nomads can be an overwhelming experience for some as we arrive as strangers and yet are invited into the heart of their home. Please know that in nomad culture it is polite and a gesture of respect to enter the Ger to greet the family, particularly the elders (often the elders will remain inside and will not come out to greet us, instead expecting us to enter). Inside the ger there are sometimes small stools, or beds to sit on, and at other times no seat at all. If sitting becomes painful for you, or you are uncomfortable, you can go outside at any time. Also note that there are a multitude of reasons that we may enter a Ger. Some examples: it may be for our safety, because we have been invited, because something very interesting is taking place, or it could be out of respect, to deliver something (including photos from the previous year’s trekking group), to have our permits inspected by the local National Park ranger (they are also nomads), or to buy food (we buy sheep from time to time for our meat). Trekking: ~17km, +400m Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

We wake early and make our way up a steep pinch on the final climb to the pass (quite steep, but fairly short and on foot poses no real risks). The pass itself is a wide plain. You have the sensation that somehow you have reached the clouds because many of the glaciers are well below eye level and the summits are only about 1000m above. Weather permitting we will lunch on the pass together with the camels. The view expands again when we reach beyond the highest point of the pass. Conditions permitting the distant ‘Sayan Mountains’ of Russia will be in view and far below a series of alpine lakes pock-mark the steppe. From here there will be the option of descending to camp on the south side of the pass or climbing up to 3600m on Turgen mountain. This trek, which is the most challenging and steep of the journey, takes us to a high ridge from where the extent of the mountains, including Kharkhiraa peak itself, will will be in view. Glaciers flow down from below your feet to the east and to the west is the airy drop down to the high pass. The mountains right before us form a breathtaking amphitheatre draped in ice. We make the descent via different route to camp and won’t arrive until late evening. Although this high trek is quite physically challenging and gives a real sense of mountain exposure it is a very safe route that anyone with a good level of fitness could complete. Trekking: ~15km, +1000m (including optional climb) Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

We will spend the night camped at nearly 3000 metres on the Kharkhiraa pass, allowing for a day to rest and savour the mountain landscape, or join an optional trek around Khokh Nuur – a spectacular, blue alpine lake at the end of a glacier on Kharkhiraa mountain. If the weather did not permit a climb to Turgen the previous day, this day can also be used to attempt a climb of the high ridge on Turgen. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Having reached the high point of the journey it is time to begin our descent to the west. The shortest route is to make our way among a myriad of hills in old moraine country that is dotted with hundreds of small lakes. However, if conditions allow, your guide may instead decide to take the route via the sacred ‘yellow lake’ – a glacial fed lake that is actually an azure color. Of great importance to local people, this lake is also a place of pilgrimage for Mongolians to see the rare Snow Lotus flower (Saussurea involucrate). This flower usually blooms in July and August in these parts and is woven in to traditional folklore and important for traditional medicine. From here we will wind our way down through old moraine country, where we will eventually begin encountering gers and nomads once again. A visit to a nomad family is likely on this day. We will camp either in this moraine country by one of the many small lakes or further down on a river. Trekking: ~19km, -600m Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

A spectacular, and at times challenging day of trekking. The river that began as a trickle at the high-pass camp is now sunken deep into a gorge below. We trek along the steppe above following the routes of the nomad camel trains and eventually descend into a forested gorge. Here a stream cascades down among boulders. The smell of fresh forest and water will be a change from the past few days. Here we will make camp and celebrate with a wash in the stream. Trekking: ~17km, gradual descent for most of day, steep descent to camp into gorge. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Camped next to the cascading Khargat River, you will have the chance to rest up, or explore the gorge. Your guide will provide various options available to you for this day. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we will make our way up a spectacular glacial river valley, into which three hanging valleys enter. As we travel, we will witness various waterfalls and cascades, larch forest, and glimpses of towering rock cliffs. The three valleys, and the connected ridges and peaks, are all known collectively as the ‘three brothers’ and are considered remote refuges, particularly for wild ibex, and argali sheep. We aim to reach camp by lunch. You will have the option for an afternoon hike up onto a high ridge, or time to enjoy camp, and keep an eye out for wildlife on the slopes. Trekking: ~7km, +250m Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we will remain at the same campsite. Multiple options are available. Conditions allowing we aim to climb up onto one of the high ridges (preferably to so called ‘middle brother’) and reach a high point of around 3600m. From here we will witness dramatic views of Kharkhiraa Peak from the southern side, and the rugged ridges and valleys of the Three Brothers terrain. To our south we will be gazing down to the Khovd River valley, vast steppe plains and across to the distant peaks of Bayan Olgiy province. For those who would prefer a less demanding walk the turn around point will be a series of dramatic rock formations that appear like castle ruins. Today is also an opportunity for anyone who would like to have some quiet time in camp and the surrounds before we make our way out of the mountains. Note that we are very unlikely to visit a nomad family in this area (due to the remoteness nomads do not usually set up camp in this area for summer). Optional Trekking: ~12-14km, +/-1000m Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

A day of ever changing landscapes - from the river gorge and forest, to high plains, a sea of green steppe, a spectacular waterfall for lunch, and desert-like mountains and plains. We will meet more nomads and encounter ancient graves. Eventually arrive in the tiny settlement of ‘Khovd Brigad’ which is actually just a summer camp of Khoton people in their gers (much like having a mobile village). The ‘winter village’ is Khovd Sum through which we will travel on our way out. By the time you set foot here it does feel as if we have come a long way. This is as far as vehicles can make it, and we will be met here by our Russian jeeps. Trekking: ~18km, gradual descent with some small climbs Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

By jeep we will travel down from Khovd Brigad through a landscape of arid hills with granite features before we eventually reach the Khovd River – the longest river in Western Mongolia which flows into an inland lake system. Our preference will be to travel to Olgii, the capital of the Kazakh autonomous province, where we will stay in ger camp and have the opportunity to visit the market, local museum, and generally get a sense of this very different part of Mongolia. If flights require us to travel to Khovd instead, we will be staying there in a very good regional hotel. It is worth noting that Khovd province has one of the most diverse mix of ethnic minorities in the country, including Kazakhs. Our aim is to farewell our staff at dinner on what will be our last night together in Western Mongolia. Overnight: Regional hotel or ger camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we will fly back to Ulaanbaatar. Depending on the flight schedule, we may reach the capital any time ranging from mid morning to late evening. Today is set aside as a transit day. Overnight: Best Western Premier Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today you will have free time to explore the city. In the evening we will have a final farewell dinner. Overnight: Best Western Premier Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Trip concludes following breakfast. Transfers will be organised to take you to the airport.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

1 scheduled departure between 26 Jul 2027 and 26 Jul 2027.

  • Departs 26 Jul 2027 – ends 12 Aug 2027 (18 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 17 dinners
  • 3 nights in comfortable hotel accommodation on a twinshare basis
  • 1 night in regional hotel or ger accommodation and 13 nights fully supported camping on a twinshare basis
  • Internal flights within Mongolia
  • Airport transfers on day 1 & day 18
  • Accompanied by Tim Cope and an expert local guide
  • Pack animal support during trek with 20kg allowance
  • Souvenir World Expeditions 50l kit bag
  • Medical kit and satellite phone for emergency use
  • Private vehicles
  • Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary
  • AUD100 donation to Autism Mongolia
  • Domestic airline baggage allowance of 20kg per person (for check-in and carry-on in total) for each internal flight. Note - any excess baggage charges above 20kgs are to the client's account.
  • Optional (additional cost applies) - You can choose to hire a horse for the treks should you wish. A horse must be hired for the full length of the trek and for them to get to you and return to their homes. For example, 8 days ride equals 10 days hire. Please notify your travel consultant in advance to make arrangements - additional cost applies. Riding experience preferred but not necessary - in this case you will be led by a horseman or guide until you are competent enough.

Not included

  • Aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
  • Tips and gratuities
  • International airfares & departure taxes
  • Visa costs
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Excess baggage charges above 20kgs per person for each internal flight. Subject to change, the approximate excess baggage charge is US$2 per kg above the 20kgs (for both check-in and carry-on in total) luggage allowance; which is payable in Cash at the check-in counter.

About your guide

In 2004, Tim Cope embarked on an ambitious journey to ride his horse from Mongolia to Hungary along the trail of nomads, a route that was travelled by Genghis Khan in the 13th century. His epic expedition took three years to complete, and during this time he developed an intimate knowledge of the Mongolian steppe and its nomadic population.

With a 10,000km cycle ride across Russia to Mongolia, an award winning book and film about his odyssey across the steppe, and numerous return trips to the place that has won his heart, Tim’s deep knowledge of nomad life and the wilder landscapes of Mongolia has made him one of our most popular leaders.

Tim has been a passionate advocate for travellers to visit Mongolia. In 2015 the Mongolia Government made him an honorary ambassador for tourism and in 2016 he was awarded the nairamdal (friendship medal) from the president of Mongolia in recognition for his work celebrating Mongolian nomad culture.

Tim’s vast experiences have offered him valuable and rare insights into Mongolia which he shares with our travellers on his unique journeys to this fascinating country.

Videos

Tim Cope's Mongolia
Tim Cope's Mongolia
In the steppes of Mongolian nomads: trekking to the end of the Earth
Mongolia In the Footsteps of the Nomad with Tim Cope - by Maria Visconti
HALF WAY TO HUNGARY ON THE TRAIL OF GENGHIS KHAN!

Reviews (39)

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In a world where screen-flipping potatoes are on the rise, this expedition runs against the friction-averse tide, as the trip's Kharkhiraa-Turgen traverse requires physical effort and takes several days to get into and out of the massif core area. The rewards were first-hand experience of nomadic pastoralism that is disappearing.

In the land of nomads, two enduring footprints of pastoral nomadism are the migration corridors and co-located clusters of khirigsuurs, where the camel caravan is an integral part of this complementary pair. With the rise of motorised nomads, however, the footsteps of traditional nomads are getting gradually replaced by the footsteps of motorised nomads, making traditional nomadism a disappearing way of life. On this trip, camel caravans were still seen in the changeover area, and their passing the ancient traces in single file brought the iconic footprints alive. As rapid urbanisation in Mongolia intensifies the changeover, the window to witness the same is shrinking. And the window is also shrinking for experiencing the nomadic way of life in general. So this trip would be a good fit for seasoned travellers who prioritise first-hand experience of this fleeting way of life before the last dance is over.

Steppe fatigue can set in during a steppe walk because scenery change is slow at the pace of walking. Optional ridge walks provide a faster pace of scenery change, and the options of ascending to 3,600m in the Kharkhiraa-Turgen massif core significantly enhance the trip's overall experience. So following the trip's fitness preparation guideline would allow one to make the most out of the trip.

The 2026 trip's highlights include: close-up views of the Kharkhiraa Uul (4,040m), the highest peak in the Kharkhiraa-Turgen massif; traditional gers that still had neither a truck nor a motorbike; "Heron the White" (the 3,954m peak on the Soviet map); rare snow lotus flowers (Saussurea orgaadayi); and panoramas from the Middle Brother after ascending back to 3,600m. Of course, all these were not possible without the camel caravan, the backbone of the trip's logistics; the hard work of our supporting crews and kitchen staff; and the extensive local knowledge and passion for guiding of our guides.

Jin|Illinois, United States
14 Oct 2026
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Our trip "In the Footsteps of Genghis Khan" with Tim Cope was fantastic - and exceeded our expectations. It was well organised from the start and the scenery and cultural experience was incredible. The food was exceptional - a really pleasant surprise considering where we were! The trip allowed for varied levels of fitness, as people could elect to ride, mix of ride and hike, or hike only. Although I'd say even riding in such an isolated and rugged region has its challenges and needs a reasonable level of fitness and agility. Tim was a great leader - able to manage the different individuals' abilities and goals without impeding on others' experience - which takes skill! I'd highly recommend it to anyone wanting to get away from other tourists, see how the nomads continue to live today and experience awesome scenery!

Alison|Australian Capital Territory, Australia
27 Aug 2026
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Awesome trip!! What a pleasure to travel with Tim!!

Seth|Alaska, United States
25 Aug 2026
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Brilliant hiking experience with Tim Cope, the Nomads and locals.

Helen|Queensland, Australia
19 Aug 2026
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An incredible experience walking in the footsteps of nomads through remote western Mongolia. Tim Cope was an excellent trip leader: passionate, knowledgeable and deeply connected to the country and its people, while the local crew provided outstanding support throughout.

The trip has been running for a number of years and the logistics are clearly very well thought through. Thanks in part to the carrying capacity of the camels, the campsites were impressively well equipped, even including a small library of relevant books. The food was far and away the best I have ever had on a hiking trip, with everything from bao buns to sushi appearing on the menu. Good food takes time, though, so expect dinners to be fairly late, often between 7.30pm and 8.30pm.

The hiking itself was memorable and varied. There are almost no established tracks or trails, so much of the time you can simply choose your own line through the landscape. That freedom is part of the appeal, although it also makes days averaging around 15km feel longer than the distance might suggest.

This is also a trip that rewards patience. Compared with highly polished Himalayan trekking operations, mornings can feel slower, there are more pauses during the day, and visits to nomadic families in their gers take time. But that slower pace is also one of the strengths of the experience, allowing more time to absorb the landscapes, hospitality and culture. Unexpected local musical performances were another real highlight.

Overall, this was a distinctive and memorable journey through a part of Mongolia that still feels genuinely remote.

Jonty|New Zealand
14 Aug 2026
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Easily the best experience of my life. Such a special adventure. Really was an authentic Mongolian experience. Travelling with the nomad herders in the way they do on horses and camels along their yearly seasonal routes through mountains and then sand dunes.Sharing food and stories in their own Ger homes or in our warm mess tent in the way that is normal for them. We were blessed to have Ulzi ( Mongolian woman ) who translated all day and night for us. Tim Cope the Australian tour leader /adventurer was a lively young man and amazing travel companion too. A fabulous team and fun to be with all. We all felt very safe tge whole time in good hands. Absolutely Unforgettable . The scenery brought me to tears more than once. So remote. Diverse. Breathtaking.

Karen|NSW, Australia
27 Oct 2025
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Amazing guides, culture, people, landscape and food. This trip has been fine tuned over 20 years to provide the maximum experience possible, could not recommend this trip highly enough.

Marc|NSW, Australia
24 Sep 2025
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The trip was fabulous. I have been on many guided "adventure" or "expedition" trips, and Tim Cope was exceptional. Patient, knowledgeable, adaptable, and able to incorporate the diverse clientele into the trip. His personal vast knowledge of this specific area and many of the families that live there yielded a trip of deep familiarity while immersed in a beautiful landscape.

The trip is not for everybody. You must have a sense of adventure and be flexible. The area is very remote so if you are used to western services, whether that be a hot shower or immediate medical care, that's not necessarily going to happen. Having said this, Tim is extremely prepared for what may come within the resources of the area.

The nature of the remoteness is quite unique. The Mongolian Nomads have been doing this for 3000 years plus. While you're beyond other westerners, the Mongolians are plenty modern and know what western society is. Their toughness, adaptability, and love of their land and lifestyle permeate your time there, helps to explain how this has endured for so long, and explains a lot about how Genghis Khan and his successors conquered Asia.

For suitable participants, I highly recommend this trip

David|California, United States
25 Aug 2025
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Amazing once in a lifetime adventure

Tim and his team were truly amazing, knowledge of the place and people was first class. Genuine and authentic experience

Kim|VIC, Australia
19 Aug 2025

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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.

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.

Guaranteeing A Great Mongolia Trip

Pioneering World Firsts
Quality equipment
Quality accommodations
Innovative itineraries
Custom built, reliable transport
Our all inclusive approach

Multi Award Winning Adventures

Responsible Travel

Adventure Experts Since 1975

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