Hiking & Climbing Tour – Western Mongolia

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Tavan Bogd -Top of Mongolia

Enjoy an unforgettable hiking trip into the majestic Tavan Bogd massif! Ascend from the stunning valley into a world of snow and glaciers. Tavan Bogd Mountains are the highest mountains in Mongolia, with Khuiten Uul (‘Cold Peak’) at 4374 m (14,201 ft) being the highest. This is one of the best hiking trails for those who love walks in beautiful nature and nontechnical climbs. The breath-taking view of famous Tavan Bogd peaks, Potanin glacier, and many different activities await you!

Theme: Walking tour

Available: June till October

Duration: 6 days / 5 nights

herder families by Milk River in Western Mongolia
tents at basecamp for Tavan Bogd peak climbs in Mongolia

Tour itinerary

Day 1. Altai Tavan Bogd NP, Western Mongolia

Catch an early flight to Ulgii city, Western Mongolia. Tour crew will welcome you at the airport and your journey continues with a scenic drive over desert mountain landscapes to Altai Tavan Bogd NP. The destination is the beautiful Tsagaan Gol (White River) valley, the gateway to the Tavan Bogd mountains. Resided by the nomad Tuvan (ethinc group) herder people, the valley gives you the true picture of the nomadic life. The beauty of Tsagaan Gol fuels you for the trek that lies ahead. Overnight is at this valley.
#Accommodation: Tent
#Meals: L+D
#Driving time: 6 hour

Day 2. Hike Into the world of peaks and glacier

After a hearty breakfast we’ll start our hike with a steep uphill. The rest of the route is a gradual but continuous ascent across high mountain terrain with a couple bogs. Luggage and equipment will be carried by pack camels. After the 2 third of the route, we will be rewarded with the breath-taking views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Walking for around 5 hours, we’ll reach the base camp of mount Malchin which is by the Potanin glacier. Overnight at base camp.
#Accommodation: Tent
#Meals: B+L+D
#Distance: 16km
#altitude: 3000m

Day 3. Summit day

We’ll be hiking along the Potanin glacier moraine for an hour before stepping on the mountain. Malchin (Herder) is the lowest of the five peaks and non-technical. Altough clearly established, the trail is mostly in the scree. At the top spectacular view over the Potanin glacier and high alpine panorama await you. Descend in the afternoon to the base camp. Free time to explore the glacier. Overnight at the base camp.
#Accommodation: Tent
#Meals: B+L+D
#Climbing time: Up 3-4, down 2-3 hour

Day 4. Hiking back to Milk River valley

In the morning we’ll start our easy descent to Tsagaan Gol valley. After some rest, do a short horseback hike to small crystal clear blue lake on a neighboring hill top. Enjoy the landscape. The rest of the day at your disposal.
#Accommodation: Tent
#Meals: B+L+D
#Hiking time: 3-4 hour

Day 5. Back to Ulgii

Full of mountain-fresh air and fond of Tavan Bogd memories start your return journey to Ulgii. On the way back, stop by a golden eagle falconer’s family to see and photograph his majestic bird. In the evening we’ll gather for a farewell dinner.
#Accommodation: Hotel
#Meals: B+L+D
#Driving time: 5-6 hour

Day 6. Departure day

We will transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar. End of the tour.

Why this tour

  • Less than 7 days
  • Majestic Tavan Bogd Mountains
  • Glaciers and peaks
  • Breathtaking Alpine mountain panorama
  • Climb mount Malchin
  • Meet local nomads

Tours we offer

Mountain biking tour

Jeep tour

Altai Tavan Bogd NP tour

Nomad homestay tour

Fishing tour

Trekking tour

Naadam festival tour

Spring photography tour

Eagle falconry tour

Golden Eagle Festival tour


Services provided

1. English speaking tour guide
2. Russian 4×4 van(s) + gasoline
3. All airport transfers
4. Tour cook 
5. Meals (B+L+D) + snacks
6. Hotel stay ( 1 overnight)
7. Camping and cooking equipment (tent, kitchen tent, table, chairs, mattress etc.)
8. Pack camels
9. Camel drivers
10. Entry fee (national park)
11. Border area permit
12. Drinking water

Services not provided

1. Everything in Ulaanbaatar
2. Domestic flight tickets (we can book your tickets for you upon request)
3. Travel insurance
4. Alcoholic drinks
5. Gratuities

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