Ultimate Mongolia Adventure – From Ancient Capitals To The Hidden Altai Mountains & Eagle Hunters
About this tour
Highlights:
Discover the ancient capital of Mongolia – Kharkhorin and visit the historic Erdene Zuu Monastery
Explore the volcanic landscapes of Khorgo Volcano and hike through unique natural scenery
Experience peaceful nights camping beside remote Telmen Lake
Discover the hidden beauty of Zavkhan Desert, Ulaagchinii Khar Lake, and Mongolia’s largest singing sand dunes
Amazing hiking, sunset views, and birdwatching in untouched wilderness
Explore the dramatic landscapes of Govi-Altai Province and the spectacular Ulaan Yavar red cliffs
Meet a local throat singer and experience Mongolia’s traditional music heritage
Travel to Bayan-Ölgii, the homeland of Kazakh eagle hunters
Stay with authentic nomadic families and experience their traditional lifestyle
Explore Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Khoton & Khurgan Lakes, and Dayan Lake
Horse riding adventure with nomads in the Altai Mountains
Visit eagle hunter families and learn about the ancient golden eagle hunting tradition
Experience a traditional Eagle Hunter Festival with competitions, culture, and photography opportunities
Discover Mongolia beyond the tourist routes with a local experienced guide
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Kharkhorin, Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar to Kharkhorin (300 km) Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and meet your driver and guide. Begin your journey to Kharkhorin (approximately 300 km). Visit the historic Erdene Zuu Monastery, the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. Overnight in a traditional ger camp.
Day 2: Kharkhorin, Mongolia to Khorgo mountain resort, Khorgo, Mongolia
**Day 2 – Kharkhorin to Khorgo Volcano (300 km)** After breakfast, drive to **Khorgo Volcano** (approximately 300 km). Enjoy a scenic hike to the summit of the extinct volcano, where you can admire panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. Overnight in a ger camp.
Day 3: Khorgo mountain resort, Khorgo, Mongolia to Telmen Lake, Mongolia
**Day 3 – Khorgo Volcano to Telmen Lake** After breakfast, drive to **Telmen Lake**. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way as you travel into western Mongolia. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the lake, taking a walk along the shore, or enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Camp overnight beside the lake under the stars.
Day 4: Telmen Lake, Mongolia to Ulaagchiin Khar Lake, Mongolia
**Day 4 – Zavkhan Desert and Ulaagchinii Khar Lake** Today is one of the highlights of the journey. Drive to the spectacular **Zavkhan Desert**, where golden sand dunes meet the beautiful **Ulaagchinii Khar Lake**. Explore one of Mongolia's largest and most impressive sand dune landscapes, a remote and non-touristic destination that offers breathtaking scenery and complete tranquility. Enjoy sunset over the dunes and spend the night camping in this unforgettable wilderness.
Day 5: Ulaagchiin har nuur, Erdenekhairkhan, Mongolia to Ulaagchiin Khar Lake, Mongolia
**Day 5 – Hiking in the Sand Dunes** Today is dedicated to exploring the magnificent sand dunes on foot. Enjoy a scenic hike across the golden dunes and take in breathtaking views of **Ulaagchinii Khar Lake**. This remote area is an excellent place for birdwatching and experiencing the peaceful beauty of western Mongolia. In the evening, climb to the top of the dunes to watch a spectacular sunset. If conditions are right, you may even hear the famous "singing sand" as the dunes produce their unique natural sound. Camp overnight beside the dunes.
Day 6: Ulaagchiin har nuur, Erdenekhairkhan, Mongolia to Govi-Altai, Mongolia
**Day 6 – Drive to Gobi-Altai Province (300 km)** After breakfast, continue your journey to **Govi-Altai Province**. Today is a longer driving day (approximately 300 km), passing through vast open steppes, mountain landscapes, and remote nomadic areas. Arrive in the provincial capital in the evening and check in to a comfortable hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening and prepare for the next stage of your adventure.
Day 7: Govi-Altai, Mongolia to Biger, Mongolia
**Day 7 – Biger Village and Ulaan Yavar** After breakfast, drive to **Biger** and continue to the spectacular **Ulaan Yavar**, one of the hidden natural treasures of Govi-Altai.**Ulaan Yavar – A Hidden Spectacular Wonder of the Gobi Altai** Ulaan Yavar is one of the most beautiful and least-visited natural landmarks in the Gobi Altai Mountains of western Mongolia. Known for its dramatic red sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and unique rock formations, this remote landscape offers breathtaking scenery that feels untouched by time. The name *Ulaan Yavar* means **"Red Passage,"** inspired by the glowing red cliffs that shine brilliantly at sunrise and sunset. The area is rich in wildlife, where visitors may spot Siberian ibex, argali sheep, golden eagles, vultures, and marmots. Spring and early summer bring colorful wildflowers that contrast beautifully with the rugged red rocks. For photographers and filmmakers, Ulaan Yavar is a paradise. The changing light throughout the day creates incredible colors and shadows, making every viewpoint unique. The silence, vast open spaces, and untouched wilderness provide an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking authentic Mongolia away from the tourist crowds. A visit to Ulaan Yavar can easily be combined with meeting local nomadic families, experiencing traditional Kazakh hospitality, horseback riding, and exploring the magnificent landscapes of the Gobi Altai. It is a perfect destination for adventurous travelers who want to discover one of Mongolia's hidden gems. Ulaan Yavar is famous for its striking red sandstone cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and colorful canyons shaped by wind and water over millions of years. This remote and little-visited landscape offers incredible opportunities for photography, hiking, and exploring the untouched wilderness. The rich red colors become especially beautiful in the late afternoon, when the sunlight transforms the cliffs into glowing shades of crimson and orange. Enjoy a walk through the canyons, admire the spectacular scenery, and experience the peaceful silence of this unique desert landscape. Camp overnight beneath the stars in one of Mongolia's most secluded and breathtaking locations.
Day 8: Govi-Altai, Mongolia to Khovd, Mongolia
**Day 8 – Drive to Khovd Province** After breakfast, continue your journey to **Khovd Province**, traveling through the spectacular landscapes of western Mongolia. In the evening, enjoy a special cultural experience by meeting a talented local throat singer. Learn about the ancient art of **Khoomei**, Mongolia's traditional throat singing, and listen to a live performance that showcases this unique musical heritage passed down through generations. After the performance, check in to your hotel and relax for the night, ready for the next stage of your adventure.
Day 9: Khovd, Mongolia to Uujim, Mongolia
**Day 9 – Drive to Bayan-Ölgii Province and Sagsai Village** Today, continue your journey to **Bayan-Ölgii Province**, the heart of western Mongolia and the homeland of the famous Kazakh eagle hunters. As you drive through the breathtaking Altai landscapes, you will enter a region where ancient traditions and nomadic culture are still strongly preserved. Bayan-Ölgii is famous for its majestic mountains, Kazakh heritage, and the unique tradition of hunting with golden eagles, passed down from generation to generation. Continue to **Sagsai**, a beautiful valley surrounded by the Altai Mountains. Here you will meet local families, experience authentic nomadic hospitality, and stay at my home with a traditional family atmosphere. Enjoy a homemade dinner and relax after your long journey, preparing for your unforgettable Altai adventure.
Day 10: Sagsai Gol, Ölgii, Mongolia to Dayan Lake, Mongolia
**Day 10 – Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Khoton & Khurgan Lakes** After breakfast, begin your journey to the magnificent **Altai Tavan Bogd National Park**. Drive approximately 200 km through the spectacular landscapes of the Altai Mountains. Visit the breathtaking ** the peaceful **Dayan Lake**, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, forests, rivers, and wide open valleys. Experience the authentic lifestyle of Mongolian nomads and spend the night with a local nomadic family in their traditional ger. Enjoy their warm hospitality, traditional food, and the peaceful atmosphere of life in the Altai wilderness. **Day 11 – Authentic Nomadic Experience** Today is a special day to experience the real nomadic way of life. Spend time with your host family and learn about their daily traditions, including preparing traditional meals, caring for animals, and understanding how they live in harmony with nature. Enjoy meaningful cultural exchanges, take beautiful photographs, and create unforgettable memories with a local nomadic family in the remote Altai Mountains.
Day 11: Dayan Lake, Mongolia
Authentic Nomadic Experience Today is a special day to experience the real nomadic way of life. Spend time with your host family and learn about their daily traditions, including preparing traditional meals, caring for animals, and understanding how they live in harmony with nature. Enjoy meaningful cultural exchanges, take beautiful photographs, and create unforgettable memories with a local nomadic family in the remote Altai Mountains.
Day 12: Dayan Lake, Mongolia
**Day 12 – Horse Riding Day with Nomads** Today, enjoy an unforgettable horse riding experience with local nomads in the beautiful Altai Mountains. Ride through wide valleys, mountain landscapes, and traditional nomadic lands while learning about the important role horses play in Mongolian culture. Your local hosts will share their knowledge of horse riding, herding, and the traditional lifestyle that has been passed down through generations. Experience the freedom of exploring the wilderness on horseback, surrounded by breathtaking nature and the peaceful atmosphere of the Altai region. Overnight with the nomadic family and enjoy another evening of authentic Mongolian hospitality.
Day 13: Dayan Lake, Mongolia to Altai Mountains, Mongolia
**Day 13 – Drive to Altai Village and Visit Eagle Hunter Family** After breakfast, drive to **Altai soum** through the beautiful landscapes of western Mongolia. Today you will visit a Kazakh eagle hunter family and discover the ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles. Meet the eagle hunter, learn how they train and care for their eagles, and hear stories about this unique heritage passed down from generation to generation. Overnight with a local family and enjoy their warm hospitality. **Day 14 – Eagle Hunter Festival** Today is a special cultural highlight of your journey: the **Eagle Hunter Festival**. Enjoy an unforgettable day watching skilled eagle hunters demonstrate their traditional skills with golden eagles. Experience exciting competitions, traditional Kazakh clothing, horse riding, and the incredible bond between hunters and their birds. This is a unique opportunity for photography and cultural exchange, meeting both experienced elder eagle hunters and the younger generation who continue this ancient tradition. Overnight in Bayan-Ölgii. **Day 15 – Drive Back to Ölgii** After breakfast, drive back to **Ölgii**. Enjoy the final views of the Altai Mountains and the beautiful landscapes of western Mongolia. Relax in the evening, share memories from your adventure, and prepare for your departure. *
Day 14: Altai, Mongolia to Altai Road, Altay, Mongolia
Eagle Hunter Festival Today is a special cultural highlight of your journey: the Eagle Hunter Festival. Enjoy an unforgettable day watching skilled eagle hunters demonstrate their traditional skills with golden eagles. Experience exciting competitions, traditional Kazakh clothing, horse riding, and the incredible bond between hunters and their birds. This is a unique opportunity for photography and cultural exchange, meeting both experienced elder eagle hunters and the younger generation who continue this ancient tradition.
Day 15: Altai Sum, Mongolia to Bayan-Ölgii, Mongolia
Drive Back to Ölgii After breakfast, drive back to Ölgii. Enjoy the final views of the Altai Mountains and the beautiful landscapes of western Mongolia. Relax in the evening, share memories from your adventure, and prepare for your departure.
Day 16: Bayan-Ölgii, Mongolia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Flight Back to Ulaanbaatar** Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight from Ölgii to Ulaanbaatar. Your unforgettable journey through Mongolia’s wilderness, nomadic culture, and the world of eagle hunters comes to an end.
What's included
Languages spoken
Route & locations
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Kharkhorin, Mongolia