FULL PROGRAM

Day 1: Arrive ULAANBAATAR and Terelj National Park

Arrive in Mongolia’s capital, Ulaanbaatar. we will drive 2-3hrs (85km) to west through Ulaanbaatar and reach “Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex”. Chinggis khan statue complex is located 54 km from Ulaanbaatar among beautiful natural scenery on the bank of river Tuul, in the place called “Tsonjin Boldog”, memorial place connected with historic events. After the complex drive to Terelj national park and have lunch. We will visit a landmark of the area called Turtle rock. Upon reaching a Turtle rock you can climb the curiously shaped rock while listening to a legend how this particular rock played a role in a Mongolian history. Then we will visit the temple of meditation called Ariyabal exploring the whole place. Overnight in hotel.  

 Day 2. Take flight to Olgii city or (Khovd city then transfer to Olgii city)

Start your day by taking an early morning flight from Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii, the capital of Bayan-Ölgii Province in western Mongolia. The flight duration is approximately two hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views of the Mongolian landscapes from the air.

Arrival in Ulgii: Upon landing at Ulgii Airport, you’ll be greeted by the cool mountain air and the warm hospitality of the locals. Collect your luggage and proceed to the arrival area. As you exit the airport, you’ll meet with a professional guide who will assist you throughout your stay. They will provide valuable insights, answer your questions, and ensure a smooth travel experience.

 After the introductions, hop into a comfortable vehicle and enjoy a short transfer to your chosen local hotel in Ulgii. Along the way, take in the sights of the town and the surrounding natural beauty. Check-in and Refresh:

Afternoon: Explore Ulgii: Once you’re ready, venture out to explore Ulgii. This vibrant town offers a blend of traditional Mongolian and Kazakh cultures, reflected in its architecture, markets, and people. Stroll through the streets, visit local shops, and experience the local way of life. Visit the Bayan-Ölgii Museum, which showcases the unique cultural heritage of the region. Learn about the traditions, history, and way of life of the Kazakh nomads, including their exquisite handicrafts, traditional costumes, and musical instruments. Gain insights into the local culture and the nomadic lifestyle that defines the area.

 Local Cuisine: Indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Kazakh and Mongolian cuisine. Sample dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat served with pasta and vegetables) or khuushuur (deep-fried meat dumplings). Enjoy the flavors and experience the rich culinary traditions of the region.

Return to your hotel and unwind after a fulfilling day of exploration. Prepare for the next day’s adventures. Overnight in local hotel. 

Day 3-4 Explore local Naadam

First day of The Local Naadam festival in Kharkhorin. There will be held wrestling, horse racing and archery tournaments. Naadam festival continues to tournaments of wrestling, horse racing, archery and other traditional games. A real chance for you to experience the tradition and culture of the people of this unique country. A chance to try the local foods and beverages. Second day: Naadam festival continues on the second day with tournaments of wrestling, horse racing, archery and other traditional games. Overnight at a local hotel. 

Day 5. Olgii – Altai Tavan bogd (Mongolian highest mountain) 190 km off-road

Drive to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park via TsagaanGol (White River) valley and through Altai Mountains that are Mongolia’s largest and highest mountain range at over 3000-4000 meters high. Some ancient Turkic stones can also be seen along the way.  We will pitch camp next to parking station. Tavanbogd means “the Holy Five” referring to the five highest peaks, of which Huiten Uul is the highest in Mongolia, 4374 meters above sea level. Overnight in tent.

Day 6. Explore Altai Mountains riding horses

Today we will be riding Mongolian horses through the trails of this breathe-taking national park to the Altai Tavan Bogd. We will also pack our stuff onto the camels and carry them with us. Tavan Bogd means “The Holy Five ” and the peaks are named Huiten (4374m the highest), Naran, Malchin,  Burged and Nairamdal. Enjoy this stunning setting with the awe-inspiring massif snow-capped peaks. You will reach out the 30km long enormous Potanin’s glacier, 2 million years old, an ancient ice river that was discovered in the 19th century. Overnight in tents.

Day 7. Ride back to the car parking spot and pitch camp.

Day 8. Altai Tavan bogd – Baga-Turgen Waterfall – Hoton, Hurgan lake (200km off-road)

 After breakfast, we drive towards the Khoton & Khurgan lakes & the steppe valleys of the lake area. We pitch camp on the shores of Hoton Lake, where you will find numerous petroglyphs. The area is below the snow-capped Ikh Turgen Uul. We are now only 15km from the China border.  The largest subspecies of Mongolian Grayling (Thymallus arcticus) is easily fished here. The numerous Great Cormorants in the vicinity are a good indicator that there are plentiful fish in the lakes. We will do a soft hiking towards the Baga Turgen water fall & get back to the camping location in the evening. Overnight in tent.

Day 9. Explore Twin Lakes

After breakfast, hike along Hurgan Nuur and Hoton Nuur, where many Nomadic Kazakh families spend summer. After the wooden bridge on the water channel between the Lakes, we drive to north along the Hoton Lake about 12kms and reach 3 small Rocky Mountains – Biluut 1, 2 and 3. Here you can see the many rock printings (petro-glyphs). Overnights in nomadic style or in tents (subject to availability).

Day 10. Drive to Sagsai Village & Stay with a nomad family

After breakfast, we drive to Sagsai village for 3-4 hrs. We will visit a Eagle hunter family. Learn about their daily lives and have a Western Mongolian traditional meal for the dinner with the family. Overnight in Nomad’s ger. 

Day 11. Back to Ulgii & rest (120 km off-road)

After breakfast, we drive back to Ulgii & check in to local hotel. In the afternoon, we will explore local museum, bazaar & souvenir shops around the city.

 Day 12. Flight back to Ulaanbaatar

 After early breakfast, transfer to Ulgii airport and take a flight (2 hours) to UB. Transfer to hotel. Today you will have a free day to do shopping and exploring the capital of Mongolia. 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. Overnight in hotel.

Day 13. Depart UB

 Early breakfast and transfer to UB airport. Take a flight back to home.