It doesn’t get rawer or more remote than Mongolia, the world’s least populated country. But with singular experiences to offer the reflective traveler like a 3D2N nomadic migration adventure on horseback and foot, to camping with eagle hunters in the steppe, these are just two reasons why you should pack for the “Land of the Blue Sky” now before it gets crowded. This 10D9N trip also begins and ends in Ulaanbaatar, a city that is fascinating to explore and is constantly evolving.
This journey outline is by no means fixed. As the traveller takes centre stage in our planning – from the type of lodging to daily activities – your journey will be crafted to suit you.
Day by Day Highlights
Day 1 Ulaanbaatar (1,350m)
Arrive in Mongolia’s capital, Ulaanbaatar. Take an approximately 45-minute car transfer to your hotel. After checking in, venture out and explore the sprawling city of retro architecture, thrilling nightlife, wild traffic and exciting commerce. There’s plenty to see, do and eat – your guide will recommend some of the best places to dine at while updating you about the itinerary for the next day – so take it all in at your own pace.
Day 2 Ulaanbaatar (1,350m) – Ulgii (1,710m) – Esik (1,214m)
Board a 6:30am flight to Ulgii. Once you land, you’ll take a 5.5-hour drive covering 160km to Esik to meet up with the migration family. Settle in, set up your ger and get to know your hosts before you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime nomadic migration experience.
Day 3 Esik (1,214m) – Khairak Tobe
Day one of your nomadic migration adventure begins! Meet your guides and get acquainted with your horse – the closest companion you’ll have for the next three days. When saddled up and ready, head to Khairak Tobe near Khoton Lake. It’s a great spot to observe exotic wildlife, including the great cormorant bird. You’re free to follow the migration partially on foot along the journey today of 30km as it might take you some time to get used to riding for hours at a time.
Day 4 Khairak Tobe – Khorimdik Valley
Commence day two of your nomadic migration journey. You’ll be riding close to the Chinese border today and the views are sure to be jaw-dropping. Assist in herding the livestock who stray away from the group as you head towards Khorimdik Valley. It’s crucial that the team keep the animals as close to the route as possible to make it to tonight’s camp, so you may be paired up with a herder to learn how to lasso. Once again, follow the migration on foot if necessary. You will ride or walk a maximum of 25km today.
Day 5 Khorimdik Valley – Akhsu Valley
You will travel a maximum of 25km today to reach the stunning Akhsu Valley. Set up camp at the mouth of the valley, where you will rest for the night under the stars. Congratulations on completing your first nomadic migration experience!
Day 6 Akhsu Valley – Khoton Lake (2,000m)
Bid farewell to your Mongolian Kazakh hosts and head down the valley to Jagashtai River (Fish River), which is an excellent location for birdwatching. Set up camp by Khoton Lake alongside other nomadic families who have also completed their migration and mingle with them for the rest of the day. Your journey today will cover 25km maximum.
Day 7 Khoton Lake (2,000m) – Baga Turgen Valley
Follow the trail past the banks of Khoton Lake and down to the vast Baga Turgen Valley. You’ll cover 25km today as well. Set up camp for the night with a family of eagle hunters and immerse yourself in this 4,000-year-old tradition, their rich culture and their warm hospitality.
Day 8 Baga Turgen Valley – Ulgii (1,710m)
Take a morning hike to the Baga Turgen Waterfall before taking a 5-hour drive across 150km to Ulgii. Enjoy a hot shower – your first proper one in seven days! – and prepare for your return to Ulaanbaatar the following day.
Day 9 Ulgii (1,710m) – Ulaanbaatar (1,350m)
Take a 9.30am flight to the city and check-in to your hotel. Continue your sightseeing and shopping before meeting up with your guide in the evening for a visit to Chinggis Square, and a traditional song and dance known as Tumen Ekh. A large warehouse on the premises houses exhibits from time to time so be sure to poke your head inside and see what’s showing. Savour a sumptuous farewell dinner at an authentic restaurant before calling it a night.
Day 10 Ulaanbaatar (1,350m)
Depart from Ulaanbaatar and bring home a lifetime of memories from your Mongolian adventure.
Ulaanbaatar, Ulgii, Esik, Khairak Tobe, Khorimdik Valley, Akhsu Valley, Khoton Lake and Baga Turgen Valley.
Recommended months to travel
May (3°C-15°C), June (8°C-20°C) and September (3°C-15°C).
Altitude range
Maximum 2,500m.
Level of difficulty
Moderate.
Indicative price
From US$6,000/person for a group of 2 on a private basis, including double-sharing rooms/tents. Excludes flights.
As we’ll customise your journey based on your preferences and needs, please note that this indicative price is just a rough estimate. Prices can fluctuate depending on season, type of accommodation and activities/experiences chosen (private vs. shared) etc.
This journey outline is by no means conclusive. It is just a guideline and can be tailored according to your comfort level, interests and preferences for every detail from accommodation to activities.
This journey outline is by no means conclusive. It is just a guideline and can be tailored according to your comfort level, interests and preferences for every detail from accommodation to activities.
