Wild Altai Cultural & Horse Riding Expedition
About this tour
**Highlights of the Altai Mountains & Tolbo Lake Area**
* Explore the spectacular Altai Mountains, home to Mongolia's highest snow-capped peaks and breathtaking alpine scenery.
* Visit remote valleys and untouched landscapes far from mass tourism.
* Experience authentic Kazakh nomadic culture and stay with local nomad families.
* Enjoy horseback riding through mountain meadows, rivers, and scenic valleys.
* Meet traditional eagle hunters and learn about their unique centuries-old traditions.
* Discover beautiful alpine lakes surrounded by dramatic mountain views.
* Visit Tolbo Lake, one of western Mongolia's most scenic freshwater lakes, known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere.
* Watch stunning sunrises and sunsets over the lake and mountains.
* Observe diverse wildlife, including eagles, marmots, and other native species.
* Experience traditional Kazakh hospitality, food, and customs.
* Enjoy excellent opportunities for photography of landscapes, wildlife, and local culture.
* Camp under Mongolia's vast star-filled skies away from city lights.
* Hike through pristine mountain terrain and explore hidden valleys.
* Learn about the rich history and culture of Bayan-Ölgii Province.
* Experience the tranquility and beauty of one of Mongolia's most remote and authentic regions.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, meet your driver and transfer to Chinggis Khaan Resort Ger Camp. Enjoy your first evening in Mongolia surrounded by peaceful steppe landscapes and traditional Mongolian hospitality.
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
**Day 1 – Chinggis Khaan Statue and Terelj National Park** After breakfast, meet your guide and driver and begin your journey east of Ulaanbaatar. Drive through the vast Mongolian steppe toward the famous Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of rolling grasslands, grazing horses, sheep, and nomadic herders living in traditional gers. Upon arrival at the Chinggis Khaan Statue, explore the impressive 40-meter-tall stainless-steel monument dedicated to the great founder of the Mongol Empire. Visit the museum located inside the complex, where you can learn about Mongolia's rich history, ancient weapons, traditional costumes, and archaeological discoveries. Take the elevator to the viewing platform on the horse's head and enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the endless Mongolian steppe. After lunch, continue driving to the beautiful Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia's most scenic destinations. The park is famous for its granite rock formations, green valleys, forests, and crystal-clear rivers. Visit the famous Turtle Rock, a natural rock formation shaped like a giant turtle. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the surrounding landscape and take memorable photographs.. Stay in ger camp resort . . Enjoy a beautiful sunset, fresh mountain air, and a sky filled with countless stars.
Day 3: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Bayan-Ölgii, Mongolia
Flight to Bayan-Ölgii Province Today you will take a domestic flight to Bayan-Ölgii province in western Mongolia. Meet your local driver and guide upon arrival. Drive toward the beautiful Tolbo Lake and Khar Lake area, where local nomads spend the summer season. The drive is around 80 km on dusty off-road tracks through remote and untouched landscapes far from tourist routes. Tonight you will stay with a local nomadic yak-herder family — Gazez’s family — and experience authentic Kazakh nomadic life. Day 3 – Nomadic Experience with Yak Herders
Day 4: Tolbo Lake, Mongolia to Tolbo Road, Tolbo, Mongolia
Nomadic Experience with Yak Herders Today you will spend the day sharing daily life with the nomadic yak-herder family. Learn how local families make traditional yak cheese and other dairy products using centuries-old methods. You will stay in one of the most beautiful and traditional gers in Mongolia, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, peaceful grasslands, and grazing yaks. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience genuine nomadic culture, local hospitality, and the quiet beauty of the Altai region.
Day 5: Tolbo Lake, Mongolia
Horse Riding to Green Lake Today you will explore the remote Green Lake area on horseback with local nomads. The trail passes through dramatic mountain landscapes filled with sharp rocky cliffs, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped peaks of the Altai Mountains. This region around Khar Lake and Green Lake is completely off the tourist route, offering a true wilderness experience and untouched natural beauty. Along the way, you will visit more nomadic families and experience their traditional way of life in the high mountains. In the evening, stay in a traditional ger with local nomads and enjoy authentic hospitality under the stars. Horse riding together with the nomads is one of the best ways to connect with the culture and landscape of western Mongolia.
Day 6: Tolboiin Dabaa, Mongolia to Road Sagsai, Ölgii, Mongolia
Eagle Hunter Family Experience in Sagsai Today drive to Sagsai village, home of the famous Altai Kazakh eagle hunters. Visit a traditional eagle hunter’s family and learn about the ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles, passed down through generations in the Altai Mountains. You will meet a young female eagle hunter named Aimoldr, who is only 16 years old and already becoming an inspiring representative of this unique cultural heritage. Spend time sharing stories, culture, and daily life with the family while learning about their deep connection with their eagles and mountain lifestyle. Tonight you will stay with the eagle hunter’s family and experience authentic Kazakh hospitality. Day 6 – Horse Riding with Eagle Hunters Today enjoy a special horse-riding experience together with the eagle hunters in the mountains. Ride through beautiful valleys, open steppe, and rocky mountain landscapes while learning more about the nomadic lifestyle and the traditions of eagle hunting. Spend more time with the eagle hunter family, sharing meals, stories, and cultural experiences in a peaceful mountain setting. Tonight you will stay again with the eagle hunter family and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Altai region.
Day 7: Road Sagsai, Ölgii, Mongolia to Uujim, Mongolia
Horse Riding with Eagle Hunters Today enjoy a special horse-riding experience together with the eagle hunters in the mountains. Ride through beautiful valleys, open steppe, and rocky mountain landscapes while learning more about the nomadic lifestyle and the traditions of eagle hunting. Spend more time with the eagle hunter family, sharing meals, stories, and cultural experiences in a peaceful mountain setting. Tonight you will stay again with the eagle hunter family and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Altai region.
Day 8: Road Sagsai, Ölgii, Mongolia to Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park and the Twin Lakes Today drive to the spectacular Altai Tavan Bogd National Park area. Travel toward the beautiful Khoton and Khurgan Lakes, known as the “Twin Lakes” of western Mongolia and one of the true highlights of the country. The landscape here is breathtaking — crystal-clear lakes surrounded by forests, snow-capped mountains, and wide-open valleys filled with nomadic life. Along the way, visit welcoming nomadic families and experience their peaceful lifestyle in this remote wilderness region. Tonight you will stay with a local nomad family near the lakes and enjoy a magical sunset over the water and mountains.
Day 9: Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Hiking and Nomadic Life Experience Today enjoy hiking through beautiful forested valleys and lakeside landscapes of the Altai region. Visit local nomadic families and experience their daily activities firsthand. You will have the opportunity to help milk sheep and goats, learn about traditional animal herding, and experience wild cashmere brushing. Local people will also introduce you to handmade crafts and traditional skills passed down through generations. This day offers a deeper connection with the culture, nature, and everyday life of Mongolia’s western nomads.
Day 10: Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Horse Riding to Baga Turgen Waterfall Today enjoy a beautiful horseback journey to Baga Turgen Waterfall, riding approximately 15 km through the stunning landscapes of the Altai Mountains. The trail follows the powerful Turgen River through wide valleys surrounded by snow-capped mountains and untouched wilderness. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks reflected on the crystal-clear waters of Khoton Lake. This area is one of the most scenic parts of western Mongolia, filled with peaceful nature, fresh mountain air, and authentic nomadic life. Tonight you will stay in a traditional ger near the lakes and mountains, enjoying the quiet beauty of the Altai region.
Day 11: Khoton Lake, Mongolia to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia
Hiking in Akhsu Valley Today drive to the remote and spectacular Akhsu Valley, known for its dramatic mountain scenery, wild landscapes, and peaceful wilderness. Along the journey, pass through the beautiful Yak Milk River and White River areas, surrounded by colorful valleys and rocky mountain formations. This region is also home to the hidden Bear Valley, one of the most remote and untouched places in western Mongolia. Today you will enjoy a hiking adventure of approximately 10 km through the valley, exploring rivers, alpine meadows, and breathtaking mountain views. Tonight is a special camping experience in the heart of nature, surrounded by silence, stars, and the magnificent landscapes of the Altai Mountains.
Day 12: Khoton Lake, Mongolia
Naadam Festival at Khoton Lakes Today you will experience the traditional Naadam Festival together with local nomads near the beautiful Khoton Lakes area. This special local celebration offers a unique opportunity to see authentic Mongolian and Kazakh cultural traditions far from the crowds of the city festivals. Enjoy traditional horse racing, wrestling, archery, music, and colorful local celebrations surrounded by stunning mountain and lake landscapes. Meet nomadic families dressed in traditional clothing and share in the festive atmosphere of this important cultural event. Tonight you will stay in a traditional ger near the lakes and continue enjoying the peaceful beauty and hospitality of the Altai region.
Day 13: Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia to Dayan Lake, Mongolia
– Journey to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park Today drive deeper into the remote Altai Tavan Bogd region along approximately 200 km of dusty mountain roads. Enjoy spectacular landscapes filled with snow-capped peaks, wide valleys, and the beautiful White River flowing through the mountains. Along the way, you will meet Tuvan nomadic people, one of the unique ethnic groups living in the far western region of Mongolia. Learn about their traditional lifestyle, culture, and spiritual beliefs connected to nature and shamanic traditions. Tonight you will stay with Tuvan nomads in a traditional ger, experiencing their warm hospitality and peaceful mountain life surrounded by the breathtaking Altai wilderness.
Day 14: Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia to Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Trekking to Base Camp in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park Today is a spectacular hiking day to the base camp area of Mongolia’s highest mountains. The trekking distance is approximately 18 km through glaciers, alpine valleys, rocky landscapes, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Local Tuvan nomads will provide camels to carry all luggage and equipment, allowing you to travel as part of a traditional camel caravan across the Altai wilderness. This ancient style of travel adds a unique cultural experience to the expedition. During the trek, you will explore the majestic peaks of the Altai Mountains, including: Khüiten Peak – 4,375 m, the highest peak in Mongolia Malchin Peak – 4,050 m Eagle Peak – 4,010 m Naran Peak – 3,900 m Tonight you will camp surrounded by glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and untouched wilderness. With almost no light pollution, the Altai sky offers incredible stargazing, and you can enjoy the Milky Way and countless stars shining brightly above the mountains.
Day 15: Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Exploring Potanin Glacier Base Camp Today is a relaxing and gentle walking day around the spectacular Potanin Glacier area. Enjoy peaceful hikes through alpine landscapes while listening to the sounds of the moving glacier, flowing ice water, and mountain winds echoing through the valley. Surrounded by dramatic snow-covered peaks, this place feels calm and spiritual — like a natural Zen garden in the heart of the Altai Mountains. In summer, the valleys are filled with colorful wildflowers, creating a beautiful contrast against the white glaciers and rocky mountains. This remote area offers a true feeling of solitude and freedom. Mongolia’s vast open spaces are everywhere around you, with more yaks, horses, and camels than people. Tonight you will camp at approximately 3,000 meters above sea level near the base camp, surrounded by glaciers, mountains, and endless star-filled skies.
Day 16: Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Camel Caravan Return Journey Today you will join the camel caravan again for the 18 km trek back from the Altai base camp. Enjoy the final views of glaciers, high peaks, and vast alpine valleys as you slowly descend from the mountains with Tuvan nomads. After reaching the vehicle, drive back to Ölgii. Visit the local bazaar, where you can see everyday life, local trade, and cultural goods from the Kazakh community. In the evening, relax and stay in a hotel in Ölgii.
Day 17: Altai Mountains, Mongolia to Bayan-Ölgii, Mongolia
. Return to Ulaanbaatar Today take your domestic flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Meet your driver upon arrival and transfer to your hotel in the city. Enjoy a comfortable evening after your long journey through western Mongolia.
Day 18: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
International flight.
What's included
Food ,driver,guide,traditional ger to stay,guide,horse ride, camels to carry luggages.
International flights, Personal insurance.
Languages spoken
What to know
What to Bring This journey includes the Gobi Desert, high Altai Mountains, glacier areas, camping, and trekking up to 3,000–4,000 meters, so it is important to bring clothing for both warm days and cold mountain conditions. Clothing ✅ Waterproof hiking boots (already broken in) ✅ Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for camps ✅ Warm down jacket ✅ Waterproof jacket and rain pants ✅ Fleece jacket or warm sweater ✅ Thermal base layers (top and bottom) ✅ Hiking pants ✅ T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts ✅ Warm hat for cold mountain mornings ✅ Sun hat or cap ✅ Gloves ✅ Warm socks (several pairs) ✅ Underwear ✅ Sleepwear Trekking Equipment ✅ Small daypack (20–30L) ✅ Trekking poles (recommended) ✅ Water bottles or hydration system ✅ Headlamp or flashlight ✅ Sunglasses (essential near glaciers) ✅ Camera and spare batteries ✅ Power bank Personal Items ✅ Passport ✅ Flight tickets and travel documents ✅ Travel insurance documents ✅ Personal medications ✅ Basic first-aid kit ✅ Lip balm ✅ Sunscreen (SPF 50+) ✅ Wet wipes ✅ Hand sanitizer ✅ Toothbrush and toiletries ✅ Quick-dry towel For Camping ✅ Sleeping bag liner (optional but recommended) ✅ Earplugs (optional) ✅ Inflatable travel pillow (optional ✅ Light clothing for warm daytime temperatures ✅ Buff or scarf for dust and wind ✅ Extra sunscreen For the Altai Mountains ✅ Warm layers for temperatures near or below freezing ✅ Waterproof outer layer ✅ Warm gloves and hat ✅ Thermal underwear Even in summer, weather around Potanin Glacier and Khüiten Peak can be cold, windy, and snowy. Optional Items Binoculars Journal or notebook Drone (where permitted) Snacks and energy bars Universal travel adapter Book or e-reader Weather Expectations Gobi Desert Daytime: +20°C to +30°C Night: +5°C to +15°C Altai Mountains Daytime: +5°C to +18°C Night: -5°C to +5°C Possible snow, strong winds, and sudden weather changes Good News You do not need to bring: Tent Sleeping bag Camping equipment Horse gear Camel equipment These are provided as part of the tour. Pack light but bring warm layers. The key to enjoying Mongolia is dressing in layers because weather can change quickly from the hot Gobi Desert to the icy Altai Mountains. 🏜️🏔️🐫🦅🌌
Route & locations
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia