Day 1. WELCOME TO MONGOLIA, A DAY IN THE ULAANBAATAR

Your Mongolian adventure kicks off in the capital of Mongolia—Ulaanbaatar. With a rich Buddhist past and flourishing modern touches, Ulaanbaatar is the largest city in Mongolia and one of the fastest-growing in Asia. The culture, food, and attitude of its residents reflect this bustling spirit. Get settled in on your first day and check in to your hotel, your home for the next night. 

We take you through the main square where happened major events and celebrations during the socialist era, to the doorsteps of ancient Buddhist temples and the National History museum introducing Mongolia's history from early humans to the modern era. Let's then attend a Traditional Mongolian authentic performance including folk dances, throat singing, and contortion at the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. Welcoming dinner meet and greet will see you get to know your new travel family before we put you at total ease by introducing your Mongolia tour itinerary. Landing a few days before? No worries! Your airport pickup is included for any day before the tour and we can organize any extra nights required in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 2. ADVENTURE BEGINS IN THE GREAT MONGOL SANDS NATIONAL PARK

Transfer to the airport for the 2-hour flight to Uliastai town, the capital of Zavkhan province, on the slopes of the Khangai Mountain. At the airport, your driver picks us up and we start venturing right away to the Great Mongol Sands National Park. We will ride to explore the Great Mongol Sands National Park, a unique place, and breathtaking landscapes. The park is home to the tallest dunes in Mongolia contained by the high peaks of the West, contrasting with the large open space of the desert. The park host various panoramas of wetlands, grasslands, larch, forests, lakes, sand dune, and rivers. This quiet region is a treasure on its own, one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Mongolia. 

You will be hosted in fully equipped Desert Tents bringing the best comfort in a truly amazing location. Each tent has been carefully designed with a private space in mind, opening a direct view of the largest sand dunes of the West. You can then relax from your daily adventure from the comfort of your cozy tent. The orientation of the Tent will allow you to enjoy the most beautiful sunsets of Western Mongolia in this unique ecosystem.

You will have the pleasure to enjoy the warm welcoming culture of Western Mongolia. It will comfortably host our newcomers and those who wish to know more about the region and its specificities. It will be a place to relax and learn about the ongoing journey and enjoy the horse riding adventure.

Day 3. LET'S RIDE: BEING WITH THE MONGOLIAN HORSES 

In the morning, we will meet our local horse guides and be introduced to your equipment for the next days' ride. Then you will be officially meeting with your first Mongolian horse.  For the next 3 days, you will likely ride the same horse every day, unless it’s not a good match or the horse needs a rest. Your guides will be pleased to assist you to adapt your riding style to suit the Mongolian horses and tack. You will also discuss your saddles, stirrup lengths, and other safety issues of horse riding before we begin our horse trek uphill.      

Discovering the riding activity in Mongolia, we will ride the backside of the camp to the East, called the pics of the Gate rock, and chain of Ibex. It will be a slow and progressive horse riding day, to become familiar with the horses, and saddle, the environment, and it shall take about 2 hours uphill to get to the gate rocks named Senjit Rock, a unique rocky formation praised by the locals. 

Here, we promise an amazing panoramic view picnic over the Western sand dunes and the surrounding large mountains. Sitting here and stunned by the spectacular west Mongolian natural formations will make you feel you are on the right tour. We will continue on these mountains and sometimes after going downhill to join back the sand stretching in front of us and back to the Camp. After this first day, you will start to get used to the way of riding the Mongolian way. 

Day 4. EXPLORE THE GREAT DUNES AND SAND DUNE RIVER   

Today's riding adventure takes you to a gigantic sand mountain. This is a unique opportunity to see a beautiful Gobi river flows through the sands and creates an incredible Gobi ecosystem, nourishing small bushes and trees giving wild fruits. Venture deeper into the Sand Dune River, where the extremity of the environment is surrounded countered by the intense beauty of the rolling dunes and flowing river. After 2 hours great ride across the Great Mongol Sand Dunes where we can walk then trot or canter with your horse, we will explore the breathtaking oasis of the West Gobi, the Sand Dune River. Walking barefoot towards the starting point is a little piece of paradise where the river flows under the giant sand mountain. 

Be aware, today will be an adventure for a taste of the desert. This will be the only type of experience where you can totally feel lost among the dunes, bringing an understanding of the traditional nomadism, how large the landscapes be, and how to depend we are as humans in those situations. This amazing journey through the sand and dearest will be bringing a beautiful lost feeling, that will relax your mind for freedom, far from our own civilizations and stressful routines.

Throughout the ride, when we arrive at the Mukhart river site, we will remain for about an hour, for a short hike.  We walk barefoot on the river up the green side, until reaching the source and the highest dune standing like a giant mountain in front of us, and wonder how rarely this ecosystem has been created.

Day 5. A DAY RIDE TO THE GREAT SAND DUNE LAKE 

This morning we begin our horse trek to the Great Sand Dune Lake ( Ulaagchin Black Lake ) is certainly considered the jewel of the West Gobi. It is an amazingly beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by sand mountains and on its northern shoreline by the Great Mongol Sands. Here, the dunes are ending themselves into the water, creating a surreal beach effect.

After 2 hours of wonderful riding through the gorgeous sand dune, valley up to the mountain, we will discover the great view of the surrounding area from the top of Tovhosh mount. We will cross a giant mountain,  that named Snow leopard and experience a gigantic view of Sand Dune Lake. From the top, we will get the understanding that you are located among an outstanding ecosystem between lake, mountain, sand dunes, and rivers, bushes, and forests, and the Rocky Mountains which make that place unique to the world. The view is incredibly amazing towards the endless sand dunes with another side whole view of Great Sand Dune Lake, vast grasslands with many herds,  summer camps by nomads.  

After around 2 hours ride, you will be down to the sandy edge of the lake, where we will settle down for a pleasant picnic and a walk on the water’s edge. Swimming is possible in this freshwater, be aware the water is chilly, but not too cold, which contrasts with the hot sand found around. We ride back to the camp almost the same way we did, and to join the dinner at the Desert Camp. It will be the utmost pleasure to ride and have a rest in those magical places. In the evening you are invited to a beautiful Gobi bonfire and cocktail party.

Day 6. QUIET LAKES AND THE HOLY MOUNTAINS 

After a pleasant breakfast, we will leave the amazing West Gobi to venture towards the mountain forest zone and reach the Green Gem Lake of the Khangai Mountain chain, which is located in the Ider Village. Drive through stunning views made of mountains, forests, and nomadic campsites. The Khangai mountain chain is one of the three largest mountain ranges in the country. The sacred peak, Mount OtgonTenger (3905m), towering at 4021 meters above sea level, has worshipped for generations by Mongols. The tradition of worshipping sacred mountains and waters is one of the outstanding cultural heritage elements created and practiced by generations to generations since the Hunnu Empire. Including the lake and surrounding with the holy Mount is protected as the Strictly Protected Area. 

We shall arrive at a high mountain nomad family and stay in a ger at our outpost tiny ger camp, probably less luxurious yet lovely and very comfortable near the nomad family. There we will have a late lunch and have rest with comfortable begins with our sleeping bags and liners for the pleasure of your taste and safety. We will make our best to let you feel at home, comfortable with all our technologies and gear, and cook to ensure the best quality rest you can get. 

Day 7. EXPLORE THE HOLY LAKES 

The landscape completely changes here since we entered the high mountain, forest zone. After breakfast with a great view, we will meet our second Mongolian horses prepare our horses, and start a long ride up the mountains. For the first ride, we go alongside the river Ider up, and then we shall visit the holy lakes. We will stay there for a top view of the surroundings and a sensational picnic. 

Today you shall enjoy a smooth warm-up ride today, about 3 hours mostly at a moderate pace, and an easy trot up to the valley to explore the Gem lake and the surroundings of the Sacred Mountains. Also, we learn more about the everyday life of nomads and gain knowledge about the horse culture in Mongolia with welcome guidance by the herders during our stay. Our ride will take place through the stunning valley covered with wildflowers, with the view of high mountains with forests of larches. This rich alpine-styled vegetation will delight botany lovers.                        

We will take a break at the shore of the Lake for a picnic lunch with a great view over the valley. After lunch, we will return to our previous ger camp, again traversing beautiful valley trails. In the evening, experience the traditional Mongolian barbecue "Khorkhog" for dinner.

Day 8. UNCOVERING MYSTIC MOUNTAINS OF THE WEST 

It shall be a busy and long riding day in the mountains. Technically, and physically, we need to be ready for this challenging expedition and environment. After early breakfast, we prepare our horses and start a long ride up the mountains. For the first ride, we go alongside the river Ider up, and then we shall climb a giant mountain. We will stay there for a top view of the surroundings and a sensational picnic. In the afternoon, and until getting back to the camp, we will ride downhill. Some places are more technical, and we will need to get off of our horses to walk together some meters down. 

The majestic mountain scenery and purifying spiritual energy of the surroundings will please us very much, providing joy and love to the Earth. A great rest is needed for this night at the camp in your comfortable Ger.

Day 9. RIVER MOUNTAIN VALLEY IN THE WEST  

After breakfast, we drive through Tosontsengel village, to join the deep forested valley of the river Hojuul. This beautiful little green el dorado is very similar to the landscapes found in the Alps in Europe touching Switzerland or closer even to the Orkhon valley in central Mongolia. 

Driving will take only 3,5 hours to rest of our destination. The scenery changes dramatically to a very forested and green and often foggy and humid zone, very contrasting with the previous desert landscapes we had before. This is the home of the Yaks, well-adapted to those conditions.  We will arrive at a local nomad family who cooperates with GML, stays under cozy ger or Ger Camp near the family and a short nap will be prior to our next riding experience there. About 1-hour warm-up riding in this very green and full of air place. We will be back to dinner at the camp, sharing amazing new memories. 

Day 10. RIDE TO THE BIRTH OF BAIKAL

Enjoying a delightful breakfast, we will dream of the next activities awaiting: the chains of Tarbagtai mountain are highly valuable for the whole country’s ecosystem: this beautiful chain provides hundreds of pure water, small and big rivers, sources of the main torrents, and freshwater of the whole West and North of Mongolia, continuing up until reaching and being the main source of the largest freshwater in the world: the Baikal lake in Russia. So this incredible place is really giving life to many important places in the world. This ride will be important, and you will be immersed in the best and unique sources of the world, following the origins of civilizations: flourishing and nourishing many cities and populations along its way. 

Throughout the ride, we will meet at the beautiful mountainside of our kitchen team with warm soup and lunch. The altitude will begin the range of 1800-2000m, and the temperatures can be hot during the days, and chilly at night due to the fact the surroundings are more humid.  This is the coldest place in the country and it's been recorded in 1957 as the lowest temperature in the country: -53 degrees C during the winter’s night. Do not worry though, your comfort will still be ensured and we will make your Ger warm for your night, equipped with a stove.

Day 11. RIDE UP TO RIVER MOUNTAIN VALLEY 

Mr.Baldan, our horseman and husband of the River valley nomad family, has been herding in the area for all his life, guiding horse rides in the Hojuul River and around the Tarvagatai Mountain range and offers an authentic view of Mongolian nomadic, herding culture. 

Today's adventure on a horse you can pass Hojuul River, and walk along the dramatic riverside, steering clear of verdant larch trees that stand beside yak herds or nomad camps. Riverside riding can also turn forest adventure to traverse scenic wildflowers. The Valley of the Hojuul River is one of the most beautiful places for the horse safari  - and learn about harsh weather survival with yak nomad horsemen on their strong Mongolian horses. Staying with a nomad family is the rare chance to experience one of the last remaining nomadic horse cultures on the planet.

Day 12. AMONG YAK NOMADS IN THE LAKE VALLEY 

We leave for a short drive to the southern slope of the Tarbagtai mountain, to reach our horsemen’s camp created to host our riders in the central part of Mongolia. The area has many historical vestiges, picturesque landscapes, surrounded by verdant Khangai Range, rich fauna, and flora, make this area the perfect place to discover the nomadic lifestyle of Mongolia. We will pass high passes on the way, driving through stunning views made of mountains, forests, and nomadic campsites. In the next three days, we’ll stay with a nomad family where you experience the nomadic lifestyle closer, socialize with nomads, play with children and attend daily duties such as milking a yak and producing dairy products. In this region, we also cooperate with our nomad family for the Argadai and Berhdei Projects who adopted our native Mongolian dogs first in the area first. Say hello to our dogs. 

There, we will be happy to be by a friendly local horsemen family, that also contributes to the reintroduction of the native shipper's dog - the Bankhar - to its natural habitat. Before lunch, we will arrive and hike up to the top of a nearby hill in the afternoon. Let’s first introduce the Bankhar project we deeply believe in, for a better future for nomads in need in the region. 

Day 13. RIDE TO THE LOWER VALLEY AND LAKES

This morning we meet our next Mongolian horses for the next 2-day horse trek. We ride across the sacred valleys of Khangai massif, Shivert Valley where we experience another great ride of Mongolian Horse. This wonderful valley contrasts with the previous landscapes of the mountain, with beautiful flora. At this altitude (about 2500meters), the cows are replaced with yaks and hybrids by nomad families.  

First, we will ride down the valley and across plains and reach the Lakes. Enjoy a lakeside picnic and cool off your feet in its cold waters that delight you. After lunch, we will return to our previous camp, again traversing stunning grasslands settled by nomad families.  Galloping on the open grassland is a thrill and Shivert Valley offers a great spot for it. 

Day 14. EXPLORE THE SACRED MOUNTAINS 

Leaving for the last ride of the journey, and will uncover the rocky hills towards the main chain of mountains. Our cook will meet us back to the valley of the camel rocks, an interesting formation that will ideal for lunch rest. We expect 6 to 7 hours of riding, between crossing rivers and rocks, bare hills, with a pleasant breeze and marmots to meet along the way. Vultures and eagles might be part of the journey. 

With no vehicles allowed, walking or riding horses is the best way to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains in Tarbagati Mountain national park. We reach the top of Rocky Mountain, where can see the scenic view of the whole valley that reveals striking peaks, nomad Ger camps along the rushing rivers, and high mountain-fed lakes.

Day 15. THE ANCIENT CAPITAL OF THE MONGOLS, KHARKHORIN

Our last breakfast in the countryside. We soon will be on our way to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Great Mongol Empire. This legendary city was created by Genghis Khan in 1220 a became the capital of the Empire under his rule. Upon arrival in the town, we will be welcomed at a locally run hotel rest a moment enjoying lunch together. Then, we will visit the oldest and most beautiful monastery of Mongolia: Erdene Zuu. Built by Abtai Sain Khan in the 16th Century, up to 10,000 lamas practiced Buddhism within its wall, surrounded by 108 white stupas. We start visiting the Erdene Zuu Temple complex first, followed by the Museum of the city, with its oldest structure dating back to 1585. Absolutely incredible Buddhist art is visible inside a museum on-site. Indeed, it is a rich cultural history that has existed for over 400 years. The iconic tankas, appliques, the precious sculptures of diverse Buddha's, ancient Buddhist wall paintings religious instruments are all truly unique. 

We shall witness living Buddhist tradition, daily chanting of the Lamas at the Lavrin Temple. And uniquely, it seems to have become totally acceptable for us to join in and be involved in the ritual. The morning or daily chanting ritual is an important part of the Buddhist culture and, despite being a spiritual ceremony, you are able to observe and become involved – but only if you are willing to do it respectfully. In chant, the power of sound connects us with ourselves, one another, and to the divine. It is an ancient, tried, and true form of meditation and prayer.

Shortly after we will immerse ourselves in the deep history of the Great Empire at the city History museum. A shuttle ride takes us back to the hotel for a refreshing shower before dinner. This will be our last dining night out, bringing along the best memories of this incredible adventure.

Day 16. JOURNEY BACK TO ULAANBAATAR

We say to Kharkhorin city goodbye. It shall take up to 6 hours down the road. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel and the rest of the day will be yours to visit the cashmere factory outlet before the farewell dinner.

Day 17. FLIGHT RETURN TO HOME

On the final day, depart home after spending a fulfilling and active two weeks and exploring some of Mongolia’s best! Our crew will drive you to the airport for an international flight. We sincerely hope you had an amazing experience and that you gained knowledge and respect for our beautiful land that is Mongolia. We are thankful for your participation and contribution to this adventure, to our families and local partners. 

TRANSFER AND DEPARTURE 

Day 1. WELCOME TO MONGOLIA, A DAY IN THE ULAANBAATAR

Your Mongolian adventure kicks off in the capital of Mongolia—Ulaanbaatar. With a rich Buddhist past and flourishing modern touches, Ulaanbaatar is the largest city in Mongolia and one of the fastest-growing in Asia. The culture, food, and attitude of its residents reflect this bustling spirit. Get settled in on your first day and check in to your hotel, your home for the next night. 

We take you through the main square where happened major events and celebrations during the socialist era, to the doorsteps of ancient Buddhist temples and the National History museum introducing Mongolia's history from early humans to the modern era. Let's then attend a Traditional Mongolian authentic performance including folk dances, throat singing, and contortion at the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. Welcoming dinner meet and greet will see you get to know your new travel family before we put you at total ease by introducing your Mongolia tour itinerary. Landing a few days before? No worries! Your airport pickup is included for any day before the tour and we can organize any extra nights required in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 2. ADVENTURE BEGINS IN THE GREAT MONGOL SANDS NATIONAL PARK

Transfer to the airport for the 2-hour flight to Uliastai town, the capital of Zavkhan province, on the slopes of the Khangai Mountain. At the airport, your driver picks us up and we start venturing right away to the Great Mongol Sands National Park. We will ride to explore the Great Mongol Sands National Park, a unique place, and breathtaking landscapes. The park is home to the tallest dunes in Mongolia contained by the high peaks of the West, contrasting with the large open space of the desert. The park host various panoramas of wetlands, grasslands, larch, forests, lakes, sand dune, and rivers. This quiet region is a treasure on its own, one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Mongolia. 

You will be hosted in fully equipped Desert Tents bringing the best comfort in a truly amazing location. Each tent has been carefully designed with a private space in mind, opening a direct view of the largest sand dunes of the West. You can then relax from your daily adventure from the comfort of your cozy tent. The orientation of the Tent will allow you to enjoy the most beautiful sunsets of Western Mongolia in this unique ecosystem.

You will have the pleasure to enjoy the warm welcoming culture of Western Mongolia. It will comfortably host our newcomers and those who wish to know more about the region and its specificities. It will be a place to relax and learn about the ongoing journey and enjoy the horse riding adventure.

Day 3. LET'S RIDE: BEING WITH THE MONGOLIAN HORSES 

In the morning, we will meet our local horse guides and be introduced to your equipment for the next days' ride. Then you will be officially meeting with your first Mongolian horse.  For the next 3 days, you will likely ride the same horse every day, unless it’s not a good match or the horse needs a rest. Your guides will be pleased to assist you to adapt your riding style to suit the Mongolian horses and tack. You will also discuss your saddles, stirrup lengths, and other safety issues of horse riding before we begin our horse trek uphill.      

Discovering the riding activity in Mongolia, we will ride the backside of the camp to the East, called the pics of the Gate rock, and chain of Ibex. It will be a slow and progressive horse riding day, to become familiar with the horses, and saddle, the environment, and it shall take about 2 hours uphill to get to the gate rocks named Senjit Rock, a unique rocky formation praised by the locals. 

Here, we promise an amazing panoramic view picnic over the Western sand dunes and the surrounding large mountains. Sitting here and stunned by the spectacular west Mongolian natural formations will make you feel you are on the right tour. We will continue on these mountains and sometimes after going downhill to join back the sand stretching in front of us and back to the Camp. After this first day, you will start to get used to the way of riding the Mongolian way. 

Day 4. EXPLORE THE GREAT DUNES AND SAND DUNE RIVER   

Today's riding adventure takes you to a gigantic sand mountain. This is a unique opportunity to see a beautiful Gobi river flows through the sands and creates an incredible Gobi ecosystem, nourishing small bushes and trees giving wild fruits. Venture deeper into the Sand Dune River, where the extremity of the environment is surrounded countered by the intense beauty of the rolling dunes and flowing river. After 2 hours great ride across the Great Mongol Sand Dunes where we can walk then trot or canter with your horse, we will explore the breathtaking oasis of the West Gobi, the Sand Dune River. Walking barefoot towards the starting point is a little piece of paradise where the river flows under the giant sand mountain. 

Be aware, today will be an adventure for a taste of the desert. This will be the only type of experience where you can totally feel lost among the dunes, bringing an understanding of the traditional nomadism, how large the landscapes be, and how to depend we are as humans in those situations. This amazing journey through the sand and dearest will be bringing a beautiful lost feeling, that will relax your mind for freedom, far from our own civilizations and stressful routines.

Throughout the ride, when we arrive at the Mukhart river site, we will remain for about an hour, for a short hike.  We walk barefoot on the river up the green side, until reaching the source and the highest dune standing like a giant mountain in front of us, and wonder how rarely this ecosystem has been created.

Day 5. A DAY RIDE TO THE GREAT SAND DUNE LAKE 

This morning we begin our horse trek to the Great Sand Dune Lake ( Ulaagchin Black Lake ) is certainly considered the jewel of the West Gobi. It is an amazingly beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by sand mountains and on its northern shoreline by the Great Mongol Sands. Here, the dunes are ending themselves into the water, creating a surreal beach effect.

After 2 hours of wonderful riding through the gorgeous sand dune, valley up to the mountain, we will discover the great view of the surrounding area from the top of Tovhosh mount. We will cross a giant mountain,  that named Snow leopard and experience a gigantic view of Sand Dune Lake. From the top, we will get the understanding that you are located among an outstanding ecosystem between lake, mountain, sand dunes, and rivers, bushes, and forests, and the Rocky Mountains which make that place unique to the world. The view is incredibly amazing towards the endless sand dunes with another side whole view of Great Sand Dune Lake, vast grasslands with many herds,  summer camps by nomads.  

After around 2 hours ride, you will be down to the sandy edge of the lake, where we will settle down for a pleasant picnic and a walk on the water’s edge. Swimming is possible in this freshwater, be aware the water is chilly, but not too cold, which contrasts with the hot sand found around. We ride back to the camp almost the same way we did, and to join the dinner at the Desert Camp. It will be the utmost pleasure to ride and have a rest in those magical places. In the evening you are invited to a beautiful Gobi bonfire and cocktail party.

Day 6. QUIET LAKES AND THE HOLY MOUNTAINS 

After a pleasant breakfast, we will leave the amazing West Gobi to venture towards the mountain forest zone and reach the Green Gem Lake of the Khangai Mountain chain, which is located in the Ider Village. Drive through stunning views made of mountains, forests, and nomadic campsites. The Khangai mountain chain is one of the three largest mountain ranges in the country. The sacred peak, Mount OtgonTenger (3905m), towering at 4021 meters above sea level, has worshipped for generations by Mongols. The tradition of worshipping sacred mountains and waters is one of the outstanding cultural heritage elements created and practiced by generations to generations since the Hunnu Empire. Including the lake and surrounding with the holy Mount is protected as the Strictly Protected Area. 

We shall arrive at a high mountain nomad family and stay in a ger at our outpost tiny ger camp, probably less luxurious yet lovely and very comfortable near the nomad family. There we will have a late lunch and have rest with comfortable begins with our sleeping bags and liners for the pleasure of your taste and safety. We will make our best to let you feel at home, comfortable with all our technologies and gear, and cook to ensure the best quality rest you can get. 

Day 7. EXPLORE THE HOLY LAKES 

The landscape completely changes here since we entered the high mountain, forest zone. After breakfast with a great view, we will meet our second Mongolian horses prepare our horses, and start a long ride up the mountains. For the first ride, we go alongside the river Ider up, and then we shall visit the holy lakes. We will stay there for a top view of the surroundings and a sensational picnic. 

Today you shall enjoy a smooth warm-up ride today, about 3 hours mostly at a moderate pace, and an easy trot up to the valley to explore the Gem lake and the surroundings of the Sacred Mountains. Also, we learn more about the everyday life of nomads and gain knowledge about the horse culture in Mongolia with welcome guidance by the herders during our stay. Our ride will take place through the stunning valley covered with wildflowers, with the view of high mountains with forests of larches. This rich alpine-styled vegetation will delight botany lovers.                        

We will take a break at the shore of the Lake for a picnic lunch with a great view over the valley. After lunch, we will return to our previous ger camp, again traversing beautiful valley trails. In the evening, experience the traditional Mongolian barbecue "Khorkhog" for dinner.

Day 8. UNCOVERING MYSTIC MOUNTAINS OF THE WEST 

It shall be a busy and long riding day in the mountains. Technically, and physically, we need to be ready for this challenging expedition and environment. After early breakfast, we prepare our horses and start a long ride up the mountains. For the first ride, we go alongside the river Ider up, and then we shall climb a giant mountain. We will stay there for a top view of the surroundings and a sensational picnic. In the afternoon, and until getting back to the camp, we will ride downhill. Some places are more technical, and we will need to get off of our horses to walk together some meters down. 

The majestic mountain scenery and purifying spiritual energy of the surroundings will please us very much, providing joy and love to the Earth. A great rest is needed for this night at the camp in your comfortable Ger.

Day 9. RIVER MOUNTAIN VALLEY IN THE WEST  

After breakfast, we drive through Tosontsengel village, to join the deep forested valley of the river Hojuul. This beautiful little green el dorado is very similar to the landscapes found in the Alps in Europe touching Switzerland or closer even to the Orkhon valley in central Mongolia. 

Driving will take only 3,5 hours to rest of our destination. The scenery changes dramatically to a very forested and green and often foggy and humid zone, very contrasting with the previous desert landscapes we had before. This is the home of the Yaks, well-adapted to those conditions.  We will arrive at a local nomad family who cooperates with GML, stays under cozy ger or Ger Camp near the family and a short nap will be prior to our next riding experience there. About 1-hour warm-up riding in this very green and full of air place. We will be back to dinner at the camp, sharing amazing new memories. 

Day 10. RIDE TO THE BIRTH OF BAIKAL

Enjoying a delightful breakfast, we will dream of the next activities awaiting: the chains of Tarbagtai mountain are highly valuable for the whole country’s ecosystem: this beautiful chain provides hundreds of pure water, small and big rivers, sources of the main torrents, and freshwater of the whole West and North of Mongolia, continuing up until reaching and being the main source of the largest freshwater in the world: the Baikal lake in Russia. So this incredible place is really giving life to many important places in the world. This ride will be important, and you will be immersed in the best and unique sources of the world, following the origins of civilizations: flourishing and nourishing many cities and populations along its way. 

Throughout the ride, we will meet at the beautiful mountainside of our kitchen team with warm soup and lunch. The altitude will begin the range of 1800-2000m, and the temperatures can be hot during the days, and chilly at night due to the fact the surroundings are more humid.  This is the coldest place in the country and it's been recorded in 1957 as the lowest temperature in the country: -53 degrees C during the winter’s night. Do not worry though, your comfort will still be ensured and we will make your Ger warm for your night, equipped with a stove.

Day 11. RIDE UP TO RIVER MOUNTAIN VALLEY 

Mr.Baldan, our horseman and husband of the River valley nomad family, has been herding in the area for all his life, guiding horse rides in the Hojuul River and around the Tarvagatai Mountain range and offers an authentic view of Mongolian nomadic, herding culture. 

Today's adventure on a horse you can pass Hojuul River, and walk along the dramatic riverside, steering clear of verdant larch trees that stand beside yak herds or nomad camps. Riverside riding can also turn forest adventure to traverse scenic wildflowers. The Valley of the Hojuul River is one of the most beautiful places for the horse safari  - and learn about harsh weather survival with yak nomad horsemen on their strong Mongolian horses. Staying with a nomad family is the rare chance to experience one of the last remaining nomadic horse cultures on the planet.

Day 12. AMONG YAK NOMADS IN THE LAKE VALLEY 

We leave for a short drive to the southern slope of the Tarbagtai mountain, to reach our horsemen’s camp created to host our riders in the central part of Mongolia. The area has many historical vestiges, picturesque landscapes, surrounded by verdant Khangai Range, rich fauna, and flora, make this area the perfect place to discover the nomadic lifestyle of Mongolia. We will pass high passes on the way, driving through stunning views made of mountains, forests, and nomadic campsites. In the next three days, we’ll stay with a nomad family where you experience the nomadic lifestyle closer, socialize with nomads, play with children and attend daily duties such as milking a yak and producing dairy products. In this region, we also cooperate with our nomad family for the Argadai and Berhdei Projects who adopted our native Mongolian dogs first in the area first. Say hello to our dogs. 

There, we will be happy to be by a friendly local horsemen family, that also contributes to the reintroduction of the native shipper's dog - the Bankhar - to its natural habitat. Before lunch, we will arrive and hike up to the top of a nearby hill in the afternoon. Let’s first introduce the Bankhar project we deeply believe in, for a better future for nomads in need in the region. 

Day 13. RIDE TO THE LOWER VALLEY AND LAKES

This morning we meet our next Mongolian horses for the next 2-day horse trek. We ride across the sacred valleys of Khangai massif, Shivert Valley where we experience another great ride of Mongolian Horse. This wonderful valley contrasts with the previous landscapes of the mountain, with beautiful flora. At this altitude (about 2500meters), the cows are replaced with yaks and hybrids by nomad families.  

First, we will ride down the valley and across plains and reach the Lakes. Enjoy a lakeside picnic and cool off your feet in its cold waters that delight you. After lunch, we will return to our previous camp, again traversing stunning grasslands settled by nomad families.  Galloping on the open grassland is a thrill and Shivert Valley offers a great spot for it. 

Day 14. EXPLORE THE SACRED MOUNTAINS 

Leaving for the last ride of the journey, and will uncover the rocky hills towards the main chain of mountains. Our cook will meet us back to the valley of the camel rocks, an interesting formation that will ideal for lunch rest. We expect 6 to 7 hours of riding, between crossing rivers and rocks, bare hills, with a pleasant breeze and marmots to meet along the way. Vultures and eagles might be part of the journey. 

With no vehicles allowed, walking or riding horses is the best way to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains in Tarbagati Mountain national park. We reach the top of Rocky Mountain, where can see the scenic view of the whole valley that reveals striking peaks, nomad Ger camps along the rushing rivers, and high mountain-fed lakes.

Day 15. THE ANCIENT CAPITAL OF THE MONGOLS, KHARKHORIN

Our last breakfast in the countryside. We soon will be on our way to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Great Mongol Empire. This legendary city was created by Genghis Khan in 1220 a became the capital of the Empire under his rule. Upon arrival in the town, we will be welcomed at a locally run hotel rest a moment enjoying lunch together. Then, we will visit the oldest and most beautiful monastery of Mongolia: Erdene Zuu. Built by Abtai Sain Khan in the 16th Century, up to 10,000 lamas practiced Buddhism within its wall, surrounded by 108 white stupas. We start visiting the Erdene Zuu Temple complex first, followed by the Museum of the city, with its oldest structure dating back to 1585. Absolutely incredible Buddhist art is visible inside a museum on-site. Indeed, it is a rich cultural history that has existed for over 400 years. The iconic tankas, appliques, the precious sculptures of diverse Buddha's, ancient Buddhist wall paintings religious instruments are all truly unique. 

We shall witness living Buddhist tradition, daily chanting of the Lamas at the Lavrin Temple. And uniquely, it seems to have become totally acceptable for us to join in and be involved in the ritual. The morning or daily chanting ritual is an important part of the Buddhist culture and, despite being a spiritual ceremony, you are able to observe and become involved – but only if you are willing to do it respectfully. In chant, the power of sound connects us with ourselves, one another, and to the divine. It is an ancient, tried, and true form of meditation and prayer.

Shortly after we will immerse ourselves in the deep history of the Great Empire at the city History museum. A shuttle ride takes us back to the hotel for a refreshing shower before dinner. This will be our last dining night out, bringing along the best memories of this incredible adventure.

Day 16. JOURNEY BACK TO ULAANBAATAR

We say to Kharkhorin city goodbye. It shall take up to 6 hours down the road. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel and the rest of the day will be yours to visit the cashmere factory outlet before the farewell dinner.

Day 17. FLIGHT RETURN TO HOME

On the final day, depart home after spending a fulfilling and active two weeks and exploring some of Mongolia’s best! Our crew will drive you to the airport for an international flight. We sincerely hope you had an amazing experience and that you gained knowledge and respect for our beautiful land that is Mongolia. We are thankful for your participation and contribution to this adventure, to our families and local partners. 

TRANSFER AND DEPARTURE