Your adventure begins with an early domestic flight to Olgii, arriving in the morning. Note that summer flights to Olgii typically depart very early, around 7:25 AM. For instance, this year’s MIAT schedule had us leaving Ulaanbaatar at 7:25 and landing in Olgii at 8:40. The journey takes about 2 hours, accounting for the one-hour time zone difference between regions.

Western Mongolia is primarily inhabited by Kazakhs, comprising 90% of the population. They have their own language and unique culture. Our crew will be ready and waiting at the local airport in the morning, and you’ll head to the ranger station of the Altai Tavan Bogd mountains, 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. Eventually, you’ll reach the valley known as 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)

Note: There are no guesthouses or tourist camps in the north and we’ll set up our private camp, tents. Our talented cook will prepare 3 times meals for you every day. You’ll be provided with, mattresses, sleeping bags, and all camping equipment. In certain places, there aren’t proper bathroom amenities, so you’ll be roughing it like you’re camping outdoors. Some spots might have outhouses made of wood.

In the morning, a group of Tuvan horse guides, accompanied by Bactrian camels, will arrive at your location. They’ll warmly greet you and exchange introductions, after which they will load all your camping gear onto the camelbacks. For the next two days, bid farewell to your vehicles and drivers and embark on a horse trek 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 around the base camp in the tent.(B/L/D)

Early in the morning, you will begin hiking to ascend Malchin Peak, which involves non-technical climbing and offers a beautiful view of glaciers from the side. 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 our packed lunches during the climb to keep you energized. The descent back to the camp will be much quicker and easier than the ascent. Overnight.(B/L/D)

You’ll wake up to the breathtaking morning atmosphere of the Altai mountains and have breakfast before bidding farewell to the mountains and heading back to the White River valley using the same route. Upon your return, you’ll set up camp next to our horse crew’s family, where you’ll also visit their ger (traditional tent/home) and immerse yourself in their culture. Engage in conversations with the elders, play one of the traditional games like ankle bone with the children, and spend the night in a tent.(B/L/D)

The journey traverses through the Bear Valley. One of the beautiful spots to see along the way is the encounter with the 3000 – 4000-year-old “Shiveet Khaikhan” petroglyph galleries. Lunch will be eaten on the way every day. Then, you’ll reach the Kharsalaa valley. Overnight.(B/L/D)

The Takhilbay pass isn’t just a steep climb 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 you’ll drive back to Olgii town for about 5-6 hours. Depending on the time of arrival in Olgii, you’ll also have chances to visit local markets, souvenir shops, and the museum. Overnight in a tourist camp with hot showers and toilets.(B/L/D)

You’ll have an early lunch at the tourist camp. Then, the driver will transport you to the airport. We’ll bid farewell, hoping to be a part of your unforgettable vacation and bring some vibrant moments to your life.(B)