From CAD 4,515
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(13 reviews)
Experience Overview
Travel to Mongolia and experience the raw beauty and tradition of this remote region. Hidden from the world for so long, it is hard to imagine that this secluded country once created the largest land empire ever known. Unmatched geographical diversity, pristine grasslands, crumbling ruins and roaming herdsmen riding tough Mongolian horses – see it all on this journey through a land that time forgot and travellers are now discovering.
Highlights
- Mongolia is a far-out destination, but you'll be in excellent hands. Your experienced drivers, manning sturdy Russian vans fit to tackle the rugged environment, will take you on a ride to some of the most fascinating places in the country
- Whether by camel or on foot, experience Mongolia's incredible landscapes, from the rolling dunes just outside of Karakorum to the volcanic craters of the Great White Lake among the mountains
- Two family ger camps allow you to experience nomadic life from the inside – a rare and rewarding cultural experience to remember
- Situated in the valley of the Delger River, the Tsenkher Hot Springs offer the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long journey on the road
Trip Details
Product Code: 1700
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle (Furgon van)
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: CBSF
Starts: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Finishes: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (14), Lunch (13), Dinner (12)Accommodation: Tourist Ger Camp (10 nights),Family Ger Camp (2 nights),Hotel (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 4515 (CAD 301 /day)
Itinerary
Sainbainuu! Welcome to Mongolia. You can arrive at any time before your group meeting at 6 pm. Please have your passport, insurance and next of kin information ready to give to your leader at this meeting. Afterwards you'll have the option to join your fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant. If you arrive in town earlier and have time, be sure to get out and explore 'UB', a fascinating town where elderly Mongolians in traditional dress mingle with the nation's young business elite. A great place to start is Gandan Khiid, Mongolia's largest and most important monastery. The Fine Arts Museum, Winter Palace Museum of Bogd Khan and Intellectual Museum are also well worth visiting.
Optional Activities:
- Ulaanbaatar - Fine Arts Museum (8000 MNT)
- Ulaanbaatar - Gandan Monastery (4000 MNT)
- Ulaanbaatar - National History Museum (20000 MNT)
- Ulaanbaatar - Winter Palace Museum of Bogd Khan (8000 MNT)
- Ulaanbaatar - Intellectual Museum (8000 MNT)
- Ulaanbaatar - Chinggis Khan museum (30000 MNT)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today your adventure begins as you drive out through the beautiful Mongolian countryside. Most of the drive today is on paved roads, but be prepared for some bumps after the final turnoff to the the remote Amarbayasgalant Khiid. Your leader and drivers will be glad to teach you some basic Mongolian words on the way – a great way to prepare for interactions with the locals, few of whom speak English. Your final destination today is Mongolia's second most important place of worship (after Gandan Monastery in UB), situated in the beautiful Iven Gol River valley, at the foot of Burengiin Mountain, in the Selenge province. After seeing the monastery, you will get your first taste of life in a ger at the first camp of the trip. This is the way that the majority of Mongolia's population has always lived – away from the city and in the wide open spaces of seemingly endless countryside. It's the quintessential Mongolian experience. Although such camps are set up for visitors, this type of housing is still used around the country, even in the capital where you will have seen many 'ger suburbs' surrounding the city centre.
Our drivers and leader also often double as our cooks in those places where we prepare meals ourselves. You are always welcome to lend a hand too! We share our meals together in the dining quarters. Vegetarians can be catered for although choices may be limited - please let us know if you have any specific dietary requirements at time of booking. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided each day until our return to Ulaanbaatar. Some food will be traditional Mongolian style but as the traditional diet consists solely of meat and dairy products, most meals are less challenging and based more on Russian or Western meals which are now also common in the Mongolian diet.
Included Activities:
- Amarbayasgalant - Monastery
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue to the lovely Selenge River via the copper mining town of Erdenet (approximately 7 hours including stops). There may be opportunities to spot some interesting wildlife along the way, such as marmots and many different species of birds. You will arrive at your ger camp in the settlement of Unit in the afternoon. Stretch your legs on arrival and take a walk up to the Togoo Uul (Pot Mountain) – an extinct volcano looming over the surrounding steppe. The hike to the top rewards you with views of the crater's lush interior. From this vantage, you can only imagine what this incredible landscape must have looked like millions of years ago.
Included Activities:
- Selenge - Uran Togoo hike
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Today your journey (approximately 7 hours including stops) brings you to the mountainous outskirts of Ikh Uul for your first stay with a local nomad family. This is a rare opportunity to see how modern Mongolian nomads are preserving an ancient way of life while embracing some elements of modernity. You will be welcomed into the family ger and shown traditional Mongolian hospitality, starting with a bowl of salty milk tea and perhaps some aaruul (dried curds). This evening you will help your hosts prepare dinner – maybe some buuz (steamed dumplings) or barbecue. Many nomad families keep animals, so don't be surprised if there is some interaction with goats, dogs, horses and sheep. The location is remote, with no nearby settlements or light pollution. The night sky is incredible in clear weather, so be sure to do some stargazing before retiring for the evening.
Accommodation:
- Family Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy breakfast with our host family and bid them farewell. It's another long day of driving today, across some rough terrain, to Khovsgol Lake (approximately 7 hours including stops). Some say this is Mongolia's most beautiful destination, a pristine wilderness area that's home to many ethnic minorities. It boasts spectacular scenery with stunning fir forests, lush green grasslands and meadows peppered with wildflowers. Since it is a popular destination for both foreign tourists and local holiday makers, you will likely come across other travellers here, especially in the peak travel months of June and July. On the way, stop at Uushig Valley and check out the unique Deer Stones that are representative of Bronze Age religion, culture and society significance. Tonight, you'll stay in a tourist ger camp just near the lake. Settle in for the night and sleep well, because there are plenty of optional activities to choose from tomorrow.
Included Activities:
- Uushig Valley - Bronze Age Deer Stone Monuments
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you might like to hike up to one of the nearby peaks or perhaps take a boat trip out on the lake. Explore on foot and relax on one of our few days not on the road. All of these are great ways to experience this gorgeous region. Overnight in the tourist ger camp again tonight.
Optional Activities:
- Khovsgol Lake - Boat trip (30000 MNT)
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Today we will set off early to drive back through the town of Murun, and on to Shine Ider (approximately 8 hours on dirt road, including stops). Here you will enjoy the second family stay of your trip. Now that you know what to expect from a Mongolian homestay, you should feel more comfortable the second time around. Get to know your hosts as you help them prepare for an exciting Mongolian style BBQ dinner and get to know all the importance of meat in their diet and how Mongolian characters are intertwined with their food and cooking. You might even have the chance to watch as the family's livestock are milked and herded.
Included Activities:
- Family Ger Camp - Home-cooked Mongolian BBQ Dinner
Accommodation:
- Family Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast with the family, we'll drive to the surreal Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan, aka the Great White Lake (approximately 9 hours on dirt road). This natural volcanic lake, surrounded by mountains, is a surreal and memorable sight. Depending on where you'll be for tonight, you might drive up to one of the volcanic craters and hike to the top for spectacular views. There are plenty of nice trails to walk during your two-night stay here, so make the most of this relaxing break from the road.
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 2)
Travel to the Tsenkher Hot Springs (approximately 6 hours). These are situated in the valley of the Delger River. On the way, you'll stop at Tsetserleg, a provincial town with a local market and a unique little museum housed in a former temple, which you'll visit with a local guide. At this stop, there's the chance to wander around the town for a glimpse at what provincial Mongolian life is like. Perhaps stock up on some snacks and drinks for the travels ahead. From here it's about another hour to the hot springs, where you'll check into the tourist ger camp on arrival.
Included Activities:
- Tsetserleg - Museum
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a Mongolian archery lesson today and then have the rest day free to relax, explore, or simply laze about in the thermal waters of these invigorating natural hot springs. Be sure to pack your swimwear so you can take part in this activity. Surrounded by the remote beauty of the landscape, this location is perfect for slowing down to a more meditative pace and taking it easy. There are also optional hikes and activities on offer if you'd prefer something more active.
Included Activities:
- Tsenkher Hot Springs
- Tsenkher - Archery lesson
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue to Karakorum (approximately 4 hours), a town built by the legendary Genghis Khan in the 13th century. Ask your leader and drivers to tell you some stories about this great man on the way – after all, he's the nation's hero. In Karakorum you will visit the first Buddhist centre of Mongolia, the immense Erdene Zuu Monastery. This impressive walled compound retains much of its former glory, and within it you can inspect the three temples, each one dedicated to a different stage of a Buddha's life – child, adolescent and adult stages. Later in the afternoon, you will drive to Khogno Khan, the location of your tourist ger camp tonight.
Included Activities:
- Karakorum - Erdenezuu Monastery
Optional Activities:
- Karakorum - Karakorum museum (15000 MNT)
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Just nearby Karakorum is a sudden strip of sand dunes – a striking contrast to the landscape you have just travelled through. Here you will enjoy a camel trek along the dunes – an ideal way to experience this eye-popping landscape. The follow your leader on a short hike to the ruins of an old local monastery. The afternoon is yours to spend as you please.
Included Activities:
- Khogno Khan - Camel ride
- Khogno Khan - Hike to local monastery
Accommodation:
- Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel back across the rolling grasslands to Ulaanbaatar (approximately 8 hours). The route will take you past 'ovoos' (roadside shrines) and ger suburbs. Arriving in the metropolis, you'll check back into your hotel. Depending on the arrival time, there might be the chance to shop for some local handicrafts such as cashmere and felt products, or check out some more of the city's sights and museums. Tonight you can celebrate your journey around Mongolia by witnessing a special cultural performance featuring throat singing and traditional dancing. There will be an optional final dinner at a local restaurant recommended by your leader.
Included Activities:
- Ulaanbaatar - Cultural Performance
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Say 'bayartai' to your group as your adventure draws to a close. There are no activities planned for the day, and you're free to depart the hotel at any time before 12 noon. If you'd like to stay longer in UB, it's recommended that you book additional accommodation well in advance.
Similar Experiences
Nomadic Mongolia
14 Days from CAD 3,599
Cycling in Mongolia
15 Days from CAD 5,250
Walk the Algarve's Wild West
7 Days from CAD 2,850
Croatia Sailing Adventure
8 Days from CAD 1,676
Spotlight on South Dakota
7 Days from CAD 2,569
Mongolia: Steppes, Deserts & Nomads - Naadam Festival
15 Days from CAD 6,600
Mongolia: Steppes, Deserts & Nomads
13 Days from CAD 7,380
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
On Kiu Annie - Traveled, August 2023
Excellent trip that allows you to see Mongolia outside of Ulanbaatar. Be aware that there are extra hidden costs not listed the itinerary.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2023
Kirsi - Traveled, August 2023
Beautiful country, but be repaired to have entertainment with you because geir camps have nothing. Fantastic group and leader and driver. A perfect two week trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/25/2023
Giorgia - Traveled, August 2023
The trip was really inspiring and mind opening. The landscapes were beautiful, the people very kind. Our leader Tem was very knowledgeable and always ready to help us. This trip was so special, also thanks to him. Our driver Jagaa was nice and kept us safe during the many hours on the road. Amazing adventurous trip, made even more special thanks to my fellow travelers!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Gareth - Traveled, July 2023
This was a fantastic trip, amazing scenery, wildlife and humbling hospitality shown by the nomad families we stayed with. Our guide, Tem, had a great sense of humour and was very knowledgeable and our driver, Baira, kept us safe on the road and well fed with the picnics and Mongolian BBQ! Be prepared for some long and bumpy drives but that is part of the fun in the Russian furgon van.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/06/2023
Rita - Traveled, July 2023
Mongolia: a place of wondrous beauty, strong culture and costumes, and really nice welcoming people. The perfect place to discover!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/08/2023
Cheryl - Traveled, July 2023
Travelling through fertile farmlands, gorgeous regions of lakes, and green rolling hills dotted with herds of sheep, goats, horses, camels and yaks, combined with staying with local nomadic families in ghers, visiting gorgeous restored monasteries, hiking a couple of volcanoes and and attending a traditional musical performance made this a very memorable and wonderful trip of a lifetime.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Garry - Traveled, June 2023
Wild Mongolia was exactly that! From the visually spectacular scenery to the overwhelming generosity of people and particularly the families we visited and stayed with. AN AWESOME ADVENTURE!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/16/2023
Jack - Traveled, June 2023
Amazing landscape; fascinating culture/ history; and a glimpse at a completely different way of life. Be prepared for harsh roads, the russian alphabet and brands, as well as plenty of down time; but it's a trip that will open your eyes and provide many stories. Highly recommend!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/10/2023
Ian - Traveled, June 2023
The beauty of Mongolia makes this destination a winner automatically, as does the friendliness of the people. Our leader, Timur was exceptional with his professionalism, knowledge and enthusiasm. He made sure the trip was a great experience for us. My highlight was seeing the frozen Lake Khovsgol - an amazing sight.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/04/2023
Sarah - Traveled, June 2023
The guide and itinerary created a wonderful experience of Mongolia. Stunning landscapes, warm and generous people, fascinating history. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/23/2023
Ian - Traveled, August 2023
Wild Mongolia trip was awesome...we did two family stays...the 1st one was a Cow herder family and the 2nd a Yak herder family...we slept in the Ger tent with the family....we saw how they got up and tend to their animal and duties.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/25/2023
Adrian - Traveled, July 2023
An excellent insight into nomadic life on the steppe with two homestays and a fairly comprehensive tour of Central Mongolia.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/19/2023
Mark - Traveled, June 2022
Mongolia was a completely unique experience. From the food to the lifestyle it was different. The people in particular are the most welcoming I've ever met. The family ger camp was shocking in how welcoming they were. Only down side was those roads and long drives.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/15/2022
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why book with us?
Best Rate Guarantee
Mytours.Travel makes sure you always have the best available rate
Best Selection
The best operators from around the world
Trusted Payments
Secure payments with Stripe
Expert Advice
Our expert agents will assist you in booking the perfect experience