Altai Mountains Trail

In the morning, you will meet your horses and begin your horse trek adventure. You will ride to the base of the snow-covered Tavanbogd Massif and set up camp next to the 20km long Potanina glacier, which is the largest of the 20 glaciers in the Mongolian Altai. Tavanbogd, meaning "The Holy Five," refers to the five highest peaks, with Huiten Uul being the tallest at 4373m. You will have the opportunity to admire the stunning view of these peaks at sunset and sunrise. You will spend the night in tents.

We will travel by horse or on foot to Malchin Mountain in the morning. It is the shortest of Mongolia's five highest peaks, standing at 4050m. From there, you can take in the stunning views of the other peaks, the Potaina glacier, and the territories of Russia and Kazakhstan. This peak also serves as the border between Mongolia and Russia. If you are interested in climbing the mountain, be sure to consult with your guides and consider factors such as weather conditions for your safety. Overnight accommodation will be in tents at the base camp.

Return to Tsagaan Gol valley, the summer home of the Tubans, who are shamans performing authentic shamanic rituals to heal the sick and offer guidance. In the evening, you will have the opportunity to visit a Tuban family, learn about their culture and beliefs, and sample their homemade dairy products, including milk vodka made from yak milk yogurt. Spend the night in tents near the nomadic family.

We are going to journey through the Altai mountains to the stunning Hoton and Hurgan lakes regions. You'll have the opportunity to take in the picturesque Bear Valley, as well as witness the transformation of small streams into rivers as they are nourished by melting glaciers in the steppe valleys. This area is characterized by larch forests, mountains and hills, creating a truly breathtaking landscape. During our visit, we will have the chance to stay with a Kazakh nomadic family and spend the night in tents, immersing ourselves in the beauty of this area.

We continue riding in the Hoton and Hurgan lakes regions. This is a stunning natural paradise, boasting crystal clear waters and lush greenery that provide a serene and tranquil environment. 

We'll spend the night camping in the wild.

One more day that we'll spend in this area enjoying the stunning landscapes. The area is surrounded by majestic mountains, offering breathtaking views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. The lakes are home to diverse wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Ride through the steppe valley along the river from the Altai Tavanbogd massif to reach a series of stunning lakes, where you will set up camp on the shores of Hoton Lake. The campsite is situated near the snow-capped Ikh Turgen Mountain and just 3km from the China border. These summer pastures are used by Kazakh nomads, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. You will have the opportunity to visit a Kazakh family and learn about their culture, including their unique and larger Kazakh ger. Overnight accommodation will be in tents.

You will journey through the untamed wilderness of the region, passing through lush meadows and vast open plains. Our trek will take us to the farthest western point of the country, near the border of Russia and Kazakhstan. We will explore the surrounding areas, encountering herds of cattle and horses along the way. Our final destination is Khurgan Lake, a large alpine lake with islands, stretching 22 km in length and reaching depths of 28m. The Khovd River originates from the eastern end of the lake. We will be camping in tents overnight.

Experience the thrill of riding at high speed as you gallop through the open fields of the Baga Turgen valley. The area is abundant with wild fruits like gooseberry, red and black currant. On your return journey, make a stop to visit the Kazakh nomads before spending the night in tents.

Travel to Ulgii via the Khovd river valley and explore a Turkic man stone dating back to the 7th-9th century, as well as deer stones from the bronze age, which are approximately 2000-4000 years old. Meet a family of Eagle hunters, learn about their hunting techniques and see the impressive Altai Golden Eagle. Spend the night in a hotel in Ulgii and savor a traditional Kazakh meal.

You will fly back to Ulaanbaatar. Choose between transfer to your accommodation in Ulaanbaatar or an extra night in a ger in our ger camp.