8-Day Horseback Tour in Mongolia with Naiman Lakes and Orkhon Valley

8 Days Round trip from Ulaanbaatar city Hard pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Discover the pristine volcanic lakes of Naiman Nuur in the Khangai Mountains
  • 02 Ride through the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley and visit Orkhon Waterfall
  • 03 Explore Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, and Erdene Zuu Monastery
  • 04 Experience nomadic family life during your horseback adventure
  • 05 Traverse the contrasting landscapes of Elsen Tasarkhai, where sand dunes, green steppes, and rocky mountains meet

Untangle the magic of Mongolia on an 8-day horseback journey through the Naiman Lakes. Discover pristine volcanic lakes, the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley, the ancient capital of Kharkhorin, and the contrasting landscapes of Elsen Tasarkhai. Along the way, immerse yourself in the heart of nomadic life while exploring majestic mountains, forests, meadows, and monasteries. This adventure blends horseback trekking, cultural encounters, and Mongolia's enchanting natural beauty into one unforgettable experience.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Hard
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Ulan Bator, Khogno khan national park, Kharkhorin
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Kharkhorin and Erdene Zuu Monastery

Our journey begins with a captivating exploration of Mongolia's illustrious history as we set foot in the historic capital of Kharkhorin. In this ancient city, we embark on a fascinating journey through time as we discover the venerable Erdene Zuu Monastery. With its deep-rooted history and profound cultural significance, this monastery stands as a cornerstone of the region's rich heritage.

  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner

  • Distance: 350 km

2
Day 02

Orkhon Waterfall and a Nomadic Family

Experience the captivating beauty of Orkhon Waterfall as you begin our horse trekking adventure. Amid picturesque landscapes, we will admire the cascading waters and enjoy leisurely hikes, immersing ourselves in the serene surroundings. Upon reaching the nomadic family, we will prepare for the upcoming horseback journey, become familiar with local horse riding customs, and forge bonds with our noble steeds.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Distance: 180 km

3
Day 03

Horse Trek to Buurug on the Bituut River

Start our long-awaited adventurous horse trek to Buurug, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Mongolia. The Bituut River, also known as Buurug, is famous for its stunning alpine scenery, with eight interconnected lakes surrounded by forests, meadows, and mountains.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Distance: 25 km

4
Day 04

Horse Trek Across Bodon Mountain

Continue our horse trek as we make our way across the mountain, the most difficult part of the route and one of the most stunning viewpoints in the Naiman Nuur region. Once we arrive, we will be warmly welcomed by a nomadic family who will be delighted to share their lifestyle and culture with us.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Distance: 30 km

5
Day 05

Horse Trek to Shireet Lake

We will reach Shireet Lake, the biggest lake in the Naiman Lakes region. After the challenging horse treks of the previous days, we will spend the day admiring the breathtaking scenery, taking a refreshing swim in the freshwater, and relaxing by the shore.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Distance: 20 km

6
Day 06

Final Horse Trek Back to Orkhon Valley

As we set out on the final day of our exhilarating horse trekking adventure, we will navigate rugged terrain on our way back to the magnificent Orkhon Valley. This will be our last opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in the remote and fascinating nomadic lifestyle.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Distance: 40 km

7
Day 07

Elsen Tasarkhai Mini Gobi

Explore Elsen Tasarkhai on an extraordinary adventure to this stunning sand dune oasis in Mongolia. Traverse vast sand dunes, marvel at the contrasting landscapes, and soak in the serenity of this unique ecosystem. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Elsen Tasarkhai and create cherished memories of your journey through Mongolia's enchanting landscapes.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Distance: 190 km

8
Day 08

Khugnu Khan and Return to Ulaanbaatar

Explore the Khugnu Khan Mountain region and visit the renowned Erdene Khamba Monastery. Later, we will continue our journey back to Ulaanbaatar city, stopping for lunch in a small town along the way.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Distance: 280 km

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Ulaanbaatar city 3 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • English-speaking guide

  • Professional driver

  • Tour accommodation (camps)

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off

  • All meals during the tour

  • Petrol/fuel

  • Transportation (travel vehicle)

  • Entrance fees for attractions

  • National park fees

  • Camel riding fee

  • Horse riding fee

  • Daily bottled water

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Personal needs

  • Extra activities

  • Single room supplement

  • Gratuities for the tour guide, driver, etc.

Know before you go

  • Accommodation: Snuggle into cozy gers, traditional Mongolian dwellings, each night during your adventure. For one special evening, immerse yourself in nomadic culture by staying overnight in a ger within a welcoming family camp.

  • Transportation: Transportation will typically be in a 4x4 vehicle, driven by an experienced driver who is familiar with the terrain. The drive can be bumpy and dusty, so be prepared for an adventurous ride!

  • Road Condition: Our tour takes you through a combination of paved and off-road routes that traverse the vast region of Mongolia. Expect to experience both smooth, paved roads and bumpy, dusty terrain.

  • Distance: Our daily travel distances will range from 150 to 400 km each day, allowing us to cover a vast area of the Gobi and visit some of its most stunning destinations. Overall tour distance is 2020 km.

  • Climate: The Gobi Desert can be hot during the day and cold at night, so make sure to pack appropriate clothing. Layers are recommended, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.

  • Food: Traditional Mongolian cuisine is heavily based on meat and dairy products, so vegetarians and vegans may have limited options, especially in rural areas.

  • Guides: The tour provides a local English-speaking guide who can offer insights into the local culture, history, and geography.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Hotel pick-up is included in the service.
Tour start
Ulaanbaatar city
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began, in Ulaanbaatar city.

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