Mongolia Countryside Tour | 22-Day Ultimate Expedition

Explore Mongolia Countryside Tour – 22-Day Ultimate Expedition

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Mongolia’s most iconic destinations, from the vast Gobi Desert to the breathtaking Khovsgol Lake. This immersive adventure is designed for travelers seeking an authentic experience that blends history, culture, and nature. Discover the vibrant Naadam Festival, stay with nomadic families, visit ancient ruins, hike scenic landscapes, relax in natural hot springs, and embark on an epic horse trekking journey. If you’re eager to explore the beauty of the Mongolia Countryside, this tour is perfect for you.

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar & Naadam Festival Opening

Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, your guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel to rest. In the afternoon, visit the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park for a quick escape into nature before heading to the Naadam Festival. Witness the grandeur of the Naadam Festival Opening Ceremony, one of Mongolia’s most important cultural events. Afterward, take a city tour, including Zaisan Hill, Bogd Khan Winter Palace, Sukhbaatar Square, the National History Museum, and the Gandan Monastery. Enjoy a traditional Mongolian welcome dinner to end the day.

Accommodation: Hotel
Travel Distance: 100 km
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour

Day 2: Naadam Festival & Terelj National Park

Spend the morning at the Naadam Festival, watching traditional competitions like wrestling, archery, and ankle bone shooting. After lunch, head to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park for a scenic hike to the Aryaval Monastery, surrounded by granite rock formations. Enjoy a traditional Mongolian lunch in a ger before relaxing at your cozy ger camp. In the evening, gather around the campfire for an intimate cultural exchange.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Travel Distance: 80 km
Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours

Day 3: Hustai National Park & Wild Horses

Travel to Hustai National Park, home to the rare Takhi (Przewalski’s) wild horses. On the way, stop to watch Naadam horse races, where young jockeys showcase their exceptional skills. Spend the afternoon exploring the park and observing wild horses at a watering hole. As night falls, enjoy stargazing from your ger camp.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Travel Distance: 120 km
Estimated Travel Time: 2.5 hours

Days 4–6:

Experience the Nomadic Family of Mongolia in the Serene Countryside

Travel to Burd Sum, Uvurkhangai Province, where you’ll be hosted by a traditional nomadic family. Participate in activities like herding sheep, milking cows and mares, and making dairy products such as airag (fermented mare’s milk). In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance with the family, where they’ll share songs and stories. Spend the night in a traditional ger, learning about nomadic traditions.

Accommodation: Ger Stay
Travel Distance: 200 km
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Day 7: Kharkhorin – Ancient Capital & Erdene Zuu Monastery

Visit Kharkhorin, the historic capital of the Mongol Empire. Explore the ruins and visit the Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s first Buddhist monastery. A local guide will provide fascinating insights into the area’s rich history. Enjoy a sunset hike in the surrounding hills before heading to your ger camp for the night.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Travel Distance: 100 km
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours

Day 8: Orkhon Waterfall & Tsenkher Hot Springs

Explore the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and hike to the Tuvkhun Monastery perched on a mountaintop. Then, relax at the Tsenkher Hot Springs, known for its therapeutic mineral-rich waters. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Mongolian sauna experience.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Travel Distance: 130 km
Estimated Travel Time: 3.5 hours

Day 9: Leisure at Tsenkher Hot Springs

Spend a relaxing day soaking in the warm waters of the Tsenkher Hot Springs and exploring the surrounding flower valleys and forests. Enjoy a traditional Mongolian lunch and take a leisurely sunset walk through the area.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Travel Distance: 0 km
Estimated Travel Time: – hours

Days 10–11: Khorgo Volcano & Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake

Head to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake National Park, where you’ll hike to the Khorgo Volcano Crater, passing through ancient lava fields. Visit the Yellow Dog’s Hell, a massive lava cave, and enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking or a boat ride on the lake. End the day with a lakeside barbecue dinner or an evening of stargazing.

Accommodation: Ger Camp
Travel Distance: 150 km
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours

Day 12: Journey to Mörön

Travel through the Khangai Mountains, navigating rugged terrain and picturesque valleys on your way to Mörön, the provincial capital of Khovsgol. Take time to stop in local villages and interact with residents for a deeper cultural experience.

Accommodation: Hotel
Travel Distance: 250 km
Estimated Travel Time: 6 hours

Days 13–19: Khovsgol Lake & Horse Trekking Adventure

Arrive at the pristine Khovsgol Lake, known as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia.” Visit the ancient Deer Stones of Uushgiin Uvur, then embark on a multi-day horse trek along the lake’s shores. Take part in activities like meeting local shaman or enjoying kayaking on the lake. Camp in the wilderness and fully immerse yourself in nature.

Accommodation: Ger Camp & Tent
Travel Distance: 100 km
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours

Day 20: Return to Mörön & Flight to Ulaanbaatar

Travel back to Mörön and catch your return flight to Ulaanbaatar. Once back in the city, enjoy some free time for shopping or exploring before the evening.

Accommodation: Hotel
Travel Distance: 100 km + Flight
Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours + flight duration

Day 21: Free Day in Ulaanbaatar & Cultural Show

Spend the day at your leisure, exploring Ulaanbaatar’s markets, visiting local art galleries, or enjoying the city’s museums. In the evening, attend a National Art Concert, featuring throat singing, contortionists, and folk performances.

Accommodation: Hotel
Travel Distance: 20 km
Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours

Day 22: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. We hope your journey through the Mongolia Countryside has been an unforgettable experience. Thank you for exploring Mongolia with us!

Travel Distance: 45 km
Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours

Conclusion

Explore Mongolia Countryside tour is designed to provide an in-depth and immersive experience for those who seek to travel in Mongolia, offering a perfect blend of cultural exploration, outdoor adventure, and relaxation. Whether you dream of horse trekking across vast steppes, discovering ancient history, or experiencing the hospitality of nomadic families, this itinerary promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.