Northern Mongolia Horse Trek: Khovsgol, Taiga, and the Tsaatan
/ per person
- 11 Day 10 Night
- Northern Mongolia
- People
Join us on an 11-day horseback adventure through northern Mongolia. Ride along the shores of Khovsgol Lake, through taiga forests, and across the Khoridol Saridag Mountains. You’ll visit the Tsaatan reindeer herders and experience their traditional lifestyle, explore the Darkhad Depression, and see ancient deer stones and burial monuments.
This tour is perfect for those who love nature, adventure, and learning about Mongolia’s unique culture. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, this trek offers a memorable journey through one of Mongolia’s most beautiful and remote regions.
What’s included:
- Accommodation: Ger camps and tented camps
- Guiding: Expert interpretation and navigation
- Meals: Full board with local and international cuisine
- Transport: 4×4 vehicles or minivans
- Entrance Fees: To protected areas and national parks
- Horse Guide and Horses: For an authentic horse trekking experience
- Camping Equipment: Provided for a comfortable outdoor stay
What’s not included:
- International Airfare: Arrange separately
- Personal Equipment: Bring your own gear
- Optional Activities: Additional costs outlined
- Excess Baggage Charges: Check airline policies
- Single Room Supplement: Available for an extra fee
- Alcoholic Drinks: Not included
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended
When you arrive in Ulaanbaatar, you’ll be taken to the airport for a flight to Moron, the main town in Khovsgol Province. After landing, enjoy a typical Mongolian lunch in Moron. Afterward, you’ll drive to a tourist ger camp by the shores of Khovsgol Lake where you’ll stay for the night.
Today, you’ll meet the horses and get ready for the trek. Ride along the beautiful shoreline of Khovsgol Lake, heading towards Khar Us. This area is famous for its mineral spring, known for its healing properties. You’ll camp in tents near the lake, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
After breakfast, you’ll continue your ride towards Gigleg Pass, located at 2,500 meters above sea level. The path can be muddy, even in dry weather, so be prepared. From the top, you’ll have a stunning view of Khovsgol Lake. This pass is a route used by travelers heading to the Tsaatan people. After crossing the pass, you’ll camp in the Khoridol Saridag Mountains, which has signs of past glaciation.
Today, you’ll ride through mountains and rivers, reaching the Darkhad Depression. This area is known for its unique landforms and natural beauty. You’ll visit the family of one of your horsemen to learn about the nomadic way of life, experiencing the daily routines of Mongolian herders.
After saying goodbye to your hosts, you’ll continue riding through the Darkhad Valley and enter the taiga forest. You’ll camp near the Shishigt River, surrounded by the peaceful forest and diverse wildlife.
You’ll spend another day riding through the taiga forest, camping in a quiet spot surrounded by trees. This will be a great opportunity to enjoy nature and possibly spot some local wildlife.
Today, you’ll ride through the forest to visit the Tsaatan people, a semi-nomadic group known for herding reindeer. The Tsaatan, also called the Dukha, are one of the last communities of reindeer herders in Mongolia. This visit will give you a chance to learn about their traditional lifestyle and their close bond with the reindeer.
After leaving the taiga forest, you’ll meet your vehicles and drive to Ulaan Uul village. You’ll stay at a small tourist camp nearby where you can relax after the journey.
You’ll take a scenic drive through the Khoridol Saridag Mountains to a tourist camp near Delger Murun and Moron Town, where the airport is located. The drive offers beautiful views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape.
Take a break today at the camp. You can go for a short horseback ride to explore more of the area, or you can visit historical sites like the deer stones and ancient grave monuments known as Khirigsuur, which give you a glimpse into Mongolia’s ancient past.
On the final day of your trip, you’ll fly back to Ulaanbaatar and be transferred to your hotel, bringing an end to your adventure in northern Mongolia.