A True Nomadic Adventure Tour

12 days from $2640

Updated for 2027

Explore the most beautiful landscapes of central Mongolia and learn the authentic nomadic culture of the Mongols with True Nomadic Adventure Tour Mongolia. Spend your time with local nomads, ride through wild nature, and discover the historical Orkhon valley. Some areas as far as the eye can see, herders “of five muzzles”: goat, sheep, cattle, horse, and camel; nomads riding horses and meadows dotted with white gers.

We smoothly begin that trip in the steppe by the Ugii Lake, we walk by the lake and we can also learn horse-riding. Then, we go to the Orkhon Valley and visit Kharkhorin (Karakorum), the ancient capital city of the Great Mongol Empire Period. After, for four days, we go to the Huisiin Naiman Lake by a real traveling trekking with horses of packsaddle. Naiman Nuur with its exceptional configuration is surrounded by the beautiful nature of the middle part of the Khangai Mountain. These lakes with fresh water and interconnected by groundwater channels such as Shireet, Khaliut, Bugat, Khaya, Khuis, Onon, Doroo, Bayan-Uul are called Huisiin Naiman Nuur. Finally, we reach the dunes of the small Gobi Desert… deserted atmosphere to discover with the family.

Highlights

  • Discovery of different landscapes of Mongolia.
  • Visiting nomadic family
  • Riding adventure in the wilderness
  • Legendary Orkhon Valley and Kharkhorin, the ancient capital city of the Mongol Empire 

Key Info

Physical level: Moderate Physical level: Moderate
Overlanding & Discovering Overlanding & Discovering

Tour Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1.

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar

Meet our travel team at the airport and transfer to the hotel. After a short rest, begin a guided city tour of Ulaanbaatar. Visit Gandan Monastery, the spiritual center of Mongolian Buddhism and a must-visit site in Ulaanbaatar, where you can observe local prayers, monks, and the largest indoor standing Buddha statue. Continue to the National Museum of Mongolia, which presents the country’s history and culture from the Stone Age to the present day. The tour also includes Sukhbaatar Square (also known as Chinggis Khaan Square), the main square of the capital city.

Accommodation: 4-star Hotel. Meals: Lunch, Dinner

in the hotel

Day 2.

Lake Ugii

In the morning, head to Ugii Lake, a peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by open steppe. The journey follows a paved road for most of the way, with the final 90 km continuing along a dirt road through the countryside toward the lakeshore.

Ugii Lake is a wonderful place to relax after the drive and enjoy the quiet beauty of nature. The lake is also known for its rich birdlife, with more than 150 species recorded in the area, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. Fishing and gentle walks along the lakeshore are also possible.

During the day, visit a local nomadic family to learn about their daily life, livestock herding, and traditional way of living. This will also be your first experience staying in a Mongolian ger, offering a warm introduction to nomadic hospitality.

Accommodation: Tourist ger camp. Meals: Full board

in the camp 2 hours

Day 3.

Erdene Zuu Monastery in Kharkhorin

Drive to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, where Genghis Khan’s legacy began. Start at the local museum, which has an excellent collection of artifacts, maps, and models that help you imagine how this great city once looked. After the museum, visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery, built in 1586. Walk through its ancient temples, admire Buddhist art, and feel the history within its iconic white walls. A journey to Kharkhorin is a journey through Mongolia’s rich past, offering a mix of history, culture, and spiritual heritage.

Accommodation: Tourist ger camp. Meals: Full board

in the camp

Day 4.

Tuvkhun Monastery

In the morning, drive toward the legendary Tuvkhun Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most sacred and inspiring spiritual sites. After lunch at a nearby tourist camp, begin a memorable horseback ride through the beautiful forested slopes of Shiveet Mountain, following the trail up to the monastery hidden near the mountaintop.

Tuvkhun Monastery is closely connected with Zanabazar, the founder and first spiritual leader of Mongolian Buddhism. It was here, in this peaceful mountain retreat, that he created some of his most remarkable works, including the Soyombo script, Mongolia’s national symbol, in the 17th century.

Today, the monastery is part of the UNESCO World Heritage landscape of the Orkhon Valley. As you explore the sacred surroundings, you will discover symbolic rock formations, ancient stone inscriptions, meditation caves, and breathtaking views over the mountains and forests. This special journey combines horseback riding, nature, history, art, and spirituality in one unforgettable experience.

Accommodation: Tourist ger camp. Meals: Full board

in the camp 4 hours

Day 5.

Orkhon Waterfall

Drive to Orkhon Waterfall, also known as Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder formed by volcanic eruptions over 20,000 years ago. Cascading from a height of 20 meters, the waterfall is set in a peaceful landscape, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and nature walks. The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring Mongolia’s nomadic heartland.

Accommodation: Tourist ger camp. Meals: Full board

in the camp 3 hours

Day 6.

Naiman Nuur Аrea

In the morning, we drive to our host family, who provides us with horses and yaks to load our baggage. Start riding towards the Naiman Nuur (or Eight Lakes) area with our local horse team. We will ride for about 4 hours of riding / trekking and reach the first lake. Set up the tent camp and enjoy relaxing in the wilderness.

Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Full board

in the tent 4 hours

Days 7-8.

Trekking / Horseback Riding in Naiman Nuur Area

Continue the adventure into the remote Naiman Nuur area, a wild and beautiful region accessible mainly on horseback or on foot. Ride or trek up to Bodongiin Hamar Pass, located at around 3,000 meters above sea level, and enjoy sweeping views of green valleys, forested mountains, and untouched wilderness before descending to the tented camp. Hot meals will be prepared outdoors.

The next day, explore the legendary Orkhon Valley and ride toward the magnificent Khuis Eight Lakes, or Khuisiin Naiman Nuur. Surrounded by extinct volcanoes and mountain scenery, these freshwater lakes were formed by ancient volcanic activity and are connected by underground water channels. Along the way, you may meet local herders with their yaks, horses, and sheep. After exploring the Eight Lakes area, return to the host family and enjoy a well-deserved rest after your wilderness adventure.

Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Full board

in the tent 4 hours

Day 9.

Relaxing Day with the Nomadic Family

Spend a peaceful day with a local nomadic family and experience the quiet rhythm of traditional Mongolian life. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about their daily routines, livestock herding, dairy products, and the warm hospitality that is central to nomadic culture.

Enjoy a gentle walk through the surrounding area, taking in the open landscapes, fresh air, and natural beauty of the countryside. You may see grazing animals, rolling hills, and wide steppe views, making this a relaxing and meaningful day after the previous travel days.

The day is designed to be unhurried, allowing time to rest, connect with the host family, and enjoy the simple beauty of life in the Mongolian countryside

Accommodation: Nomadic Family. Meals: Full board

in the family

Day 10.

Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes

Drive to Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes in Khugnu Khan National Park, often called the gateway to the Gobi Desert. This beautiful area combines golden sand dunes, open steppe, rocky hills, and mountain scenery.

Explore the dunes on foot, enjoy the peaceful landscape, and take a short hike for wider views. If you wish, you can also ride a two-humped Bactrian camel across the steppe and along the dunes, making your Mini Gobi experience even more memorable.

Accommodation: Tourist ger camp. Meals: Full board

in the camp 1 hour

Day 11.

Return to Ulaanbaatar

Head back to Ulaanbaatar and transfer to your hotel for rest. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the option to go shopping for souvenirs, cashmere products, or other local goods. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner together and celebrate the memorable experiences of your journey.

Accommodation: 4-star Hotel. Meals: Full board

in the hotel

Day 12.

Departure Day

Transfer to the Chingis Khaan International Airport to depart from Mongolia with full memories.

Meals: Breakfast

Prices & Inclusions

Prices & Inclusions
Group size Price/Per person
2 PAX 3440$
3-4 pax 3190$
5-8 PAX 2990$
9-12 PAX 2640$

 

 

Includes

Accommodation: 

  • 4-star hotel in Ulaanbaatar.
  • Ger camps
  • Tent

Guiding and interpreting service
Full board meals
Transport: 

  • 4x4 vehicle or minivan

Entrance fees to protected areas and national parks
Museums and cultural performance
Local guide for horseback riding
Horseback riding
Camping equipments

Not Includes

International airfare 
Personal equipment
Optional activity cost 
Early check-in at the hotel (before 14:00)
Single room supplement 
Alcoholic drinks 
Travel Insurance
The extra cost for photography in museums
Tip for a tour guide, driver, etc

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6 Reasons to choose Ayan Travel

Initial tour operator
Initial tour operator
Experience in Adventure and Discovery Tours
Advisors and specialist
Advisors and specialist
In Photography and Workshops
Our Tours
Our Tours
We arrange Flexible and Fixed trips
Responsible for
Responsible for
Clients- Locals- Nature
During your trip
During your trip
Assistance for 24 hours a day
Service quality
Service quality
Well planning and excellent