Explore the rooftop of Mongolia in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park and the stunning lakes of Western Mongolia. Embark on an unforgettable adventure combining high Altai Mountain trekking and horseback riding.
This tour is tailored for horse trekkers and mountaineers. Journey to the westernmost point of Mongolia, the majestic Mongol Altai mountains – the country’s largest and highest mountain range with glacier-capped peaks over 3000 meters, pristine mountain rivers, and shimmering streams inhabited by the world’s largest wild sheep – Argali, ibex, snow leopard, wolves, eagles, and a myriad of bird species.
Experience the extreme climate with minimal vegetation, lending the surrounding landscape a rugged appearance. Trek to the sacred five peaks, with the highest being Khuiten peak at 4374m. Traverse snowy mountains and cross the country’s longest glaciers.
Throughout the journey, we’ll engage with local families of Kazakh, Tuva, and Khoton minority groups, taking brief pauses to explore their way of life and traditions while engaging in friendly conversations.
The adventure begins with an early domestic flight to Olgii, arriving in the morning. Our crew will be waiting for you at the local airport. You’ll head towards the ranger station of the Altai Tavan Bogd mountains, which is about a 5-6 hour drive. En route to the Altai mountains, you’ll traverse mountain ranges and rivers, surrounded by rocky landscapes. At some beautiful spot along the way, you’ll make a quick stop to set up camp for lunch. On the first day of your trip, you’ll start with a visit to the petroglyphs in the Tsagaan Salaa mountains, where you’ll discover rock carvings dating back 3,000-4,000 years. These ancient carvings depict scenes with horsemen, deer, dogs, and more, offering a fascinating glimpse into the culture of early people.Eventually, you’ll reach the valley known as the “Oigor,” home to nomadic Kazakh families for centuries. You’ll be welcomed by a local family, known for their hospitality, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in their culture and daily life. The nomadic family takes on many daily tasks, like milking cows and yaks in the evening and making dairy products. You’ll also have the chance to try your hand at some of these activities. You’ll experience the magic of Altai mountains by staying in a traditional Mongol-Kazakh Ger. These portable, round tents encapsulate the nomadic heritage of Mongolia, offering a unique and cozy experience. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this remarkable region.(B,L,D)
In the morning, a group of local horse guides, accompanied by Bactrian camels, will arrive at your location. They’ll warmly greet you and they will load all your camping gear onto the camelbacks. For the next three days, bid farewell to family and drivers and embark on a horse trek with tour guide and cooks towards the base camp of the Altai Tavan Bogd mountains and glaciers, covering a distance of approximately 17 kilometers. These mountains represent not only the highest point in Mongolia but also the most picturesque national park in the country. The Altai Tavan Bogd boasts five perennially snow-capped peaks, with the highest named Khuiten towering at 4374 meters above sea level. Additionally, there are three substantial glaciers, the longest one spanning an impressive 20 kilometers. Just like other days, we’ll swiftly set up a lunch camp along the way, with a special stop at a spot known as the President’s Point. Here, you’ll be treated to an extraordinary view of the valley landscape, providing an ideal setting for breaks to capture photos and take rests. Continuing from the President’s Point, you’ll proceed on your journey towards the base camp. Tonight, you’ll be camping at the base camp in the tent. We have great camping equipment such as high quality expedition tents, bio-toilets, 10cm thick sleeping pads which makes you feel sleeping on a proper mattresses, very good warm sleeping bags and kitchen stuff. Most importantly we have the very well trained team in the West including tour guides, cooks and the horse guides who will take super extra care of you any situation during the tour. Enjoy the amazing night sky view with full of the stars.(B/L/D)
After breakfast, you’ll pack your lunch, fill your bottle with drinking water, and set off for a day of hiking toward Malchin Peak. The hike begins with an initial 3-kilometer trek to the base of the peak, followed by a steep ascent to the summit. While the climb is non-technical, it rewards you with stunning side views of nearby glaciers. The peak stands at an altitude of 4050 meters above sea level, providing a panoramic view of the entire valley from the summit. You’ll have your packed lunches during the climb to keep you energized. The descent back to the camp will be much quicker and easier than the ascent. In the evening, enjoy the beautiful sunset colors of the Altai mountains. Overnight.(B/L/D)
You’ll wake up to the breathtaking morning atmosphere of the Altai mountains and have breakfast. Next, we’ll journey towards the “White River,” home to nomadic “Tuvan” families for centuries. Their language differs from “Khalkh Mongols”, and their main religion is Shamanism, although their culture is closely tied to Mongolian traditions. The “White River”, also known as the Milk River, flows from the glaciers of the Altai mountains. Overnight in a tent.(B/L/D)
The Takhilbay pass isn’t just a steep hiking but also a significant gateway between two valleys where the Tuvan people, along with their livestock, thrive throughout all four seasons. It’s not excessively steep on our approach, allowing you to ascend to the summit with your horses. Snow will persist at the top until the end of June. Beyond the Takhilbay pass, you’ll notice a subtle shift in nature towards a more forested terrain. Tonight, you’ll set up camp around a location known as Uyshik in the heart of Bear Valley. Overnight.(B/L/D)
Embark on a scenic trek to the breathtaking Blue Lake perched atop the mountains, surrounded by lush forests, while the “Milk River” cascades down from the majestic Altai Tavan Bod mountains below. Enjoy daily lunches at the valley’s most picturesque spots. In the evening, join the car team for an overnight stay.(B/L/D)
It’s time to take a stroll along the panoramic Khoton Lake promenade before meeting the local eagle hunter family. Khoton Lake is the second-largest lake in Mongolia, boasting fantastic lakeside scenery with breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped mountains, green meadows, larch forests, and dunes. You’ll stop at the picturesque lakeshore to enjoy our lunches. Afterwards, you’ll drive through the lake to reach the charming Baga Turgen Valley, where you’ll meet the eagle hunter family. Overnight in a traditional Ger-Mongolian Kazakh house.(B/L/D)
In the morning, a short drive will take you to the Baga Turgen Valley. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush forests, rocky rivers, and green meadows, it offers a breathtaking setting. You’ll embark on a hike to the beautiful waterfall, covering about 3 kilometers. The Baga Turgen Waterfall stands at an impressive 15 meters high, making it one of the most stunning waterfalls in Mongolia. Take some time to chill out in the area before hiking back to the cars.There are many daily tasks in the nomadic lifestyle, such as women making dairy products in their unique way and men working with livestock, including golden eagles. You’ll practice everything from milking cows to making yogurt, curd, cheese, and more in the countryside. Additionally, you’ll have amazing opportunities to take photos with the golden eagle and its trainer. For the rest of the time, you’ll relax and play with children (there are many children in the family) and more.
Tonight, you’re going to have a local party with the locals. They’ll prepare their very traditional dish called Besbarmak, and you’ll all gather together, inviting the neighbors to have a huge meal. They’ll also have a traditional mini-concert with their traditional instrument called Dombra. Usually, our tours involve song battles between travelers and locals and will award the winner. Tonight, you’ll spend the night in a traditional Mongolian Kazakh house – GER.(B/L/D)
Bid farewell to the family, and leave twin lakes to village Sagsai for about 4-5 hours where you’ll meet the local Uriankhai family and experience their daily life. The Uriankhai is an ethnic group of Mongolians who have dwelled in the western part of Mongolia for hundreds of years. Their language is slightly different from the Khalkh Mongolian language, and their main religions are Buddhism and shamanism. They’ll make us traditional Mongolian vodka from dairies. Regarding their tradition, you’ll have a small archery competition with locals after you learn how to handle the Mongolian bow and arrow. Then, will head back to Olgii town for about an hour. Overnight in a tourist Ger camp.(B/L/D)
You’ll have an early breakfast at the tourist camp. Then, will get transferred to the airport by drivers and tour guides. We’ll bid farewell, hoping to be a part of your unforgettable vacation and bring some vibrant moments to your life.(B)
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