Horseback Riding Tour – western Mongolia
Horseback trekking in the Altai
Experience an incredible horseback riding adventure in the stunning Yolt area, located in the Altai Tavan Bogd national park in western Mongolia. This unique tour will take you off the beaten path and allow you to connect with nature and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. The Yolt area is a protected sanctuary, offering peace and tranquility in untouched wilderness. Explore rolling hills, meadows, forests, and rivers, and discover a variety of wildlife and plants. Meet a welcoming eagle hunter family and learn about their traditional way of life. Join this unforgettable horse trekking tour and be transported to a world like no other.
Theme: Trail riding tour
Available: from mid June till October
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Itinerary
Day 1. Flight to western Mongolia & Altai moutains
Begin the tour by taking an early flight to Ulgii town in western Mongolia. Upon arrival, meet the tour crew (including the tour guide, driver, and cook) at the airport. From there, drive to Altai village in the mountains. In the late afternoon, arrive at the camping site by Chikertei lake and meet local horse and pack camel handlers who will provide support for the tour. The drive takes about 4 hours.
# Accommodation: Tent
# Meals: (B+L+D) breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 2. Horseback riding adventure begins
After a satisfying breakfast, embark on an adventure along the lake. Ride on resilient Mongolian horses while horse handlers lead the way with pack camels carrying luggage and camping gear. Experience the beauty of the landscape and enjoy crossing a small creek to reach the first mountain pass, which leads to the wilderness of the Yolt area. Spend the night in a stunning forested valley.
# Accommodation: Tent
Day 3. Adventure continues
Continue riding through dense forests, meandering rivers, and peaceful meadows as you fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of this protected sanctuary. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and marmots, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of a brown bear. At night, marvel at the starry night sky, providing great opportunities for landscape photography.
# Accommodation: Tent or Yurt
Day 4. Horse trek to high pass
Today’s horse trek takes you to the second mountain pass, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks on the horizon. Ride through narrow and winding trails, ascending to the mountain top at 3250m. Surrounded by the fragrance of wildflowers, indulge in a picnic lunch amid the serene beauty of nature. Then, trek down to the base of the mountain and set up your tents for a restful overnight stay. The pack camels will also appreciate the break after the challenging pass.
Day 5. Ride to Eagle hunter’s place
On the last day of your horse expedition, say farewell to the wilderness of The Yolt area and take a final ride to visit a nomadic family residing in the nearby mountains during the summer. This offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the local nomadic communities. The family, known for their falconry with golden eagles, will warmly welcome you, providing the opportunity to witness the majestic bird and capture some photographs.
Day 6. Nomadic day
Dedicate a full day to stay with the herder family and allow yourself to relax and recover from the trekking. Use this time to observe the distinctive nomadic way of life and gain insight into their ancient customs and traditions. You will also get to enjoy delicious traditional meals and listen to local music played on a traditional instrument called the dombyra. The family is very welcoming and their hospitality will make you feel warm inside.
Day 7. Back to Ulgii town.
You will say goodbye to the family and travel to the town of Ulgii. Once you check into your hotel, you can take a hot shower and rest. After that, you can go shopping for beautiful handmade souvenirs from the Kazakh culture. Take your time to walk around the town center and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 8. Fly back to Ulaanbaatar
You will be taken to Ulgii airport to catch a flight back to Ulaanbaatar, marking the end of your tour.
Why this tour
- Horse riding
- Off the beaten path
- Wilderness of Yolt
- Meet Kazakh people
- Wildlife
- Eagle hunter
- Experiencing nomadic lifestyle
Price
2 pax $1610 pp
3 pax $1480 pp
4-5 pax $1410 pp
6-8 pax $1340 pp
Tours we offer
Services provided
-English speaking tour guide
-UAZ van + gasoline
-All airport transfers inUlgii
-Tour cook
-Meals (B+L+D) + snacks
-Hotel stay ( 1 overnight)
-Homestay 2
-Horses
-horse handlers
-Pack camels
-Eagle hunter
-Camping and cooking equipment (tent, kitchen tent, table, chairs, mattress etc.)
-Entry fee (Altai Tavan Bogd national park)
-Border area permit
-Drinking water
Services not provided
-Everything in Ulaanbaatar
-Domestic flight tickets (we can book your tickets for you upon request)
-Travel insurance
-Alcoholic drinks
-Gratuities
See What Our Horse Riders Say
Ride into your next adventure with us
Common questions on horseback riding in Mongolia
Are Mongolian horses easy to ride?
Mongolian horses are known for their surefootedness and adaptability to various riding conditions. While they may have a strong temperament and require some training, they are generally considered easy to ride, especially for experienced riders. On our horse trekking tours, we hire most docile horses from the herders we work with so anyone who have little experience can ride Mongolian horses easily.
What are horses used for in Mongolia?
Horses have traditionally been used and still being used for various purposes in Mongolia. They are primarily used for transportation, herding livestock, and as a source of food and milk for the nomadic Mongolian people. They are also popularly utilized in horse racing and as riding and pack animals for tourism.
Do Mongolians drink horse milk?
Yes, the consumption of horse milk is a traditional practice in Mongolia. It is often fermented into a beverage called “airag,” which is enjoyed by many Mongolians. Horse milk is rich in nutrients and is believed to have various health benefits.