Wild Mongolia

Intrepid Travel · 15 days

4.1

13 Reviews

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Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Travel to Mongolia and experience the raw beauty and tradition of this remote region. Hidden from the world for so long, it is hard to imagine that this secluded country once created the largest land empire ever known.

Highlights

Mongolia is a far-out destination, but you'll be in excellent hands. Your experienced drivers, manning sturdy Russian vans fit to tackle the rugged environment, will take you on a ride to some of the most fascinating places in the country
Whether by camel or on foot, experience Mongolia's incredible landscapes, from the rolling dunes just outside of Karakorum to the volcanic craters of the Great White Lake among the mountains
Two family ger camps allow you to experience nomadic life from the inside – a rare and rewarding cultural experience to remember
Situated in the valley of the Delger River, the Tsenkher Hot Springs offer the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long journey on the road

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Private vehicle (Furgon van)

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Finishes

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Ulaanbaatar

Sainbainuu! Welcome to Mongolia. You can arrive at any time before your group meeting at 6 pm. Please have your passport, insurance and next of kin information ready to give to your leader at this meeting. Afterwards you'll have the option to join your fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant. If you arrive in town earlier and have time, be sure to get out and explore 'UB', a fascinating town where elderly Mongolians in traditional dress mingle with the nation's young business elite. A great place to start is Gandan Khiid, Mongolia's largest and most important monastery. The Fine Arts Museum, Winter Palace Museum of Bogd Khan and Intellectual Museum are also well worth visiting.

Optional Activities:

Ulaanbaatar - Fine Arts Museum (8000 MNT)
Ulaanbaatar - Gandan Monastery (4000 MNT)
Ulaanbaatar - National History Museum (20000 MNT)
Ulaanbaatar - Winter Palace Museum of Bogd Khan (8000 MNT)
Ulaanbaatar - Intellectual Museum (8000 MNT)
Ulaanbaatar - Chinggis Khan museum (30000 MNT)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Today your adventure begins as you drive out through the beautiful Mongolian countryside. Most of the drive today is on paved roads, but be prepared for some bumps after the final turnoff to the the remote Amarbayasgalant Khiid. Your leader and drivers will be glad to teach you some basic Mongolian words on the way – a great way to prepare for interactions with the locals, few of whom speak English. Your final destination today is Mongolia's second most important place of worship (after Gandan Monastery in UB), situated in the beautiful Iven Gol River valley, at the foot of Burengiin Mountain, in the Selenge province. After seeing the monastery, you will get your first taste of life in a ger at the first camp of the trip. This is the way that the majority of Mongolia's population has always lived – away from the city and in the wide open spaces of seemingly endless countryside. It's the quintessential Mongolian experience. Although such camps are set up for visitors, this type of housing is still used around the country, even in the capital where you will have seen many 'ger suburbs' surrounding the city centre. Our drivers and leader also often double as our cooks in those places where we prepare meals ourselves. You are always welcome to lend a hand too! We share our meals together in the dining quarters. Vegetarians can be catered for although choices may be limited - please let us know if you have any specific dietary requirements at time of booking. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided each day until our return to Ulaanbaatar. Some food will be traditional Mongolian style but as the traditional diet consists solely of meat and dairy products, most meals are less challenging and based more on Russian or Western meals which are now also common in the Mongolian diet.

Included Activities:

Amarbayasgalant - Monastery

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Erdenet - Selenge River - Unit

Continue to the lovely Selenge River via the copper mining town of Erdenet (approximately 7 hours including stops). There may be opportunities to spot some interesting wildlife along the way, such as marmots and many different species of birds. You will arrive at your ger camp in the settlement of Unit in the afternoon. Stretch your legs on arrival and take a walk up to the Togoo Uul (Pot Mountain) – an extinct volcano looming over the surrounding steppe. The hike to the top rewards you with views of the crater's lush interior. From this vantage, you can only imagine what this incredible landscape must have looked like millions of years ago.

Included Activities:

Selenge - Uran Togoo hike

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Ikh Uul Family Ger Camp

Today your journey (approximately 7 hours including stops) brings you to the mountainous outskirts of Ikh Uul for your first stay with a local nomad family. This is a rare opportunity to see how modern Mongolian nomads are preserving an ancient way of life while embracing some elements of modernity. You will be welcomed into the family ger and shown traditional Mongolian hospitality, starting with a bowl of salty milk tea and perhaps some aaruul (dried curds). This evening you will help your hosts prepare dinner – maybe some buuz (steamed dumplings) or barbecue. Many nomad families keep animals, so don't be surprised if there is some interaction with goats, dogs, horses and sheep. The location is remote, with no nearby settlements or light pollution. The night sky is incredible in clear weather, so be sure to do some stargazing before retiring for the evening.

Accommodation:

Family Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Khovsgol Lake

Enjoy breakfast with our host family and bid them farewell. It's another long day of driving today, across some rough terrain, to Khovsgol Lake (approximately 7 hours including stops). Some say this is Mongolia's most beautiful destination, a pristine wilderness area that's home to many ethnic minorities. It boasts spectacular scenery with stunning fir forests, lush green grasslands and meadows peppered with wildflowers. Since it is a popular destination for both foreign tourists and local holiday makers, you will likely come across other travellers here, especially in the peak travel months of June and July. On the way, stop at Uushig Valley and check out the unique Deer Stones that are representative of Bronze Age religion, culture and society significance. Tonight, you'll stay in a tourist ger camp just near the lake. Settle in for the night and sleep well, because there are plenty of optional activities to choose from tomorrow.

Included Activities:

Uushig Valley - Bronze Age Deer Stone Monuments

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Khovsgol Lake

Today you might like to hike up to one of the nearby peaks or perhaps take a boat trip out on the lake. Explore on foot and relax on one of our few days not on the road. All of these are great ways to experience this gorgeous region. Overnight in the tourist ger camp again tonight.

Optional Activities:

Khovsgol Lake - Boat trip (30000 MNT)

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Murun - Shine Ider Family Ger Camp

Today we will set off early to drive back through the town of Murun, and on to Shine Ider (approximately 8 hours on dirt road, including stops). Here you will enjoy the second family stay of your trip. Now that you know what to expect from a Mongolian homestay, you should feel more comfortable the second time around. Get to know your hosts as you help them prepare for an exciting Mongolian style BBQ dinner and get to know all the importance of meat in their diet and how Mongolian characters are intertwined with their food and cooking. You might even have the chance to watch as the family's livestock are milked and herded.

Included Activities:

Family Ger Camp - Home-cooked Mongolian BBQ Dinner

Accommodation:

Family Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8-9: Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake

After breakfast with the family, we'll drive to the surreal Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan, aka the Great White Lake (approximately 9 hours on dirt road). This natural volcanic lake, surrounded by mountains, is a surreal and memorable sight. Depending on where you'll be for tonight, you might drive up to one of the volcanic craters and hike to the top for spectacular views. There are plenty of nice trails to walk during your two-night stay here, so make the most of this relaxing break from the road.

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 2)

Day 10: Tsetserleg - Tsenkher

Travel to the Tsenkher Hot Springs (approximately 6 hours). These are situated in the valley of the Delger River. On the way, you'll stop at Tsetserleg, a provincial town with a local market and a unique little museum housed in a former temple, which you'll visit with a local guide. At this stop, there's the chance to wander around the town for a glimpse at what provincial Mongolian life is like. Perhaps stock up on some snacks and drinks for the travels ahead. From here it's about another hour to the hot springs, where you'll check into the tourist ger camp on arrival.

Included Activities:

Tsetserleg - Museum

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Tsenkher

Enjoy a Mongolian archery lesson today and then have the rest day free to relax, explore, or simply laze about in the thermal waters of these invigorating natural hot springs. Be sure to pack your swimwear so you can take part in this activity. Surrounded by the remote beauty of the landscape, this location is perfect for slowing down to a more meditative pace and taking it easy. There are also optional hikes and activities on offer if you'd prefer something more active.

Included Activities:

Tsenkher Hot Springs
Tsenkher - Archery lesson

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Karakorum - Khogno Khan

Continue to Karakorum (approximately 4 hours), a town built by the legendary Genghis Khan in the 13th century. Ask your leader and drivers to tell you some stories about this great man on the way – after all, he's the nation's hero. In Karakorum you will visit the first Buddhist centre of Mongolia, the immense Erdene Zuu Monastery. This impressive walled compound retains much of its former glory, and within it you can inspect the three temples, each one dedicated to a different stage of a Buddha's life – child, adolescent and adult stages. Later in the afternoon, you will drive to Khogno Khan, the location of your tourist ger camp tonight.

Included Activities:

Karakorum - Erdenezuu Monastery

Optional Activities:

Karakorum - Karakorum museum (15000 MNT)

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Khogno Khan

Just nearby Karakorum is a sudden strip of sand dunes – a striking contrast to the landscape you have just travelled through. Here you will enjoy a camel trek along the dunes – an ideal way to experience this eye-popping landscape. The follow your leader on a short hike to the ruins of an old local monastery. The afternoon is yours to spend as you please.

Included Activities:

Khogno Khan - Camel ride
Khogno Khan - Hike to local monastery

Accommodation:

Tourist Ger Camp (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Ulaanbaatar

Travel back across the rolling grasslands to Ulaanbaatar (approximately 8 hours). The route will take you past 'ovoos' (roadside shrines) and ger suburbs. Arriving in the metropolis, you'll check back into your hotel. Depending on the arrival time, there might be the chance to shop for some local handicrafts such as cashmere and felt products, or check out some more of the city's sights and museums. Tonight you can celebrate your journey around Mongolia by witnessing a special cultural performance featuring throat singing and traditional dancing. There will be an optional final dinner at a local restaurant recommended by your leader.

Included Activities:

Ulaanbaatar - Cultural Performance

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Ulaanbaatar

Say 'bayartai' to your group as your adventure draws to a close. There are no activities planned for the day, and you're free to depart the hotel at any time before 12 noon. If you'd like to stay longer in UB, it's recommended that you book additional accommodation well in advance.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,245

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 24 May 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

On Kiu Annie

Traveled, August 2023

09/10/2023

Excellent trip that allows you to see Mongolia outside of Ulanbaatar. Be aware that there are extra hidden costs not listed the itinerary.

4.5

Kirsi

Traveled, August 2023

08/25/2023

Beautiful country, but be repaired to have entertainment with you because geir camps have nothing. Fantastic group and leader and driver. A perfect two week trip.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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