Northern Mongolia: Reindeer, Shamans and Wilderness

Catch a morning flight (1.5 hours) to Murun, the entry point to Khuvsgul, which is Mongolia’s deepest lake and contains 1% of the world’s freshwater supply.

Once you arrive, drive to the Darkhad Depression, an area characterized by forests, grasslands, and numerous lakes. The route takes you through verdant valleys and marshy areas along bumpy dirt roads, where you'll see traditional herders’ gers and large groups of livestock.

Set up your campsite and enjoy your first night in the great outdoors. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner / tent)

Travel for half a day to Tsagaan Nuur, a secluded town located at the northern boundary of the Darkhad Depression. This area serves as the entrance to the taiga, home to the Tsaatan community. Confirm your plans with local guides who will supply riding and pack horses.

Gather any needed supplies before establishing your camp at the edge of the taiga. (Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner / tent)

After having breakfast, pack the supplies onto the packhorses and set off into the taiga. Guided by locals, the journey takes you through thick forests and wetland areas at a consistent walking speed.

As you travel, observe the transition from grasslands to the rough terrain of the taiga.

After a full day of riding, you'll reach the summer camp of the Tsaatan reindeer herders, which is home to around 20 families.

Spend the night in a traditional teepee. (Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner / teepee)

Experience a full day at the Tsaatan camp, discovering their distinctive lifestyle. Reindeer are essential to their culture, supplying milk, serving as transportation, and providing materials for clothing and shelter. In winter, the majority of reindeer wander freely in the mountains, with only a small number reserved for riding.

Engage in daily activities or enjoy a brief reindeer ride. The Tsaatan people follow shamanism, and if you're lucky, you might observe a shamanic ceremony. (Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner / teepee accommodation)

Say goodbye to the Tsaatan families and follow your path back through the taiga.

Set up camp for the night at the edge of the forest. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner / tent)

We'll go on your adventure as you set foot into the majestic Khoridol Saridag Mountains. The day begins with a gentle ascent through verdant grasslands, where the vibrant hues of wildflowers paint the landscape.

As you trek deeper, the scenery transforms into dense boreal forests, alive with the sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls this region home, from nimble deer to soaring eagles. Each step reveals panoramic views that stretch across the untouched wilderness, leaving you in awe of nature's grandeur.

As evening approaches, find a tranquil spot to set up camp under the stars, where the serenity of the mountains envelops you. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner / tent)

Awake to the crisp mountain air and the gentle rustle of the forest around you. Today's trek takes you further along the rugged trails of the Khoridol Saridag Mountains, where the untouched beauty of this remote region continues to captivate.

Navigate through thick groves of pine and larch trees, their towering forms providing a sense of majesty and tranquility. The trail winds alongside sparkling streams and glacial-fed rivers, offering opportunities to pause and soak in the pristine surroundings.

As you move toward your destination, the landscape gradually opens up, revealing breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and distant peaks.

Settle in for the night at a picturesque campsite, where the sounds of nature lull you to sleep. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner / tent)

On your final day of trekking, anticipation builds as you make your way toward Khuvsgul Lake, known affectionately as "The Mother Sea" by locals. The path leads you through a stunning tapestry of lush meadows and dense forests, each step bringing you closer to one of Mongolia's natural treasures.

As you approach the lake, the landscape transforms dramatically; its clear blue waters shimmer under the sun, framed by rolling hills and thick woods.

Upon arrival, take a moment to absorb the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you - this is a place where time seems to stand still.

In the afternoon, settle into a cozy ger camp by the shore, where you can unwind and reflect on your journey while enjoying a warm meal and the company of fellow travelers. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner / tent, tent and ger camp)

Take a well-earned day off by the lake following your adventurous and active days. Stroll through the nearby woods, hike along the water's edge, or just unwind and appreciate the stunning views.

You can also choose to go on a boat ride or enjoy horseback riding.

Spend the night at a ger camp. (Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the ger camp)

Travel to Murun for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar.

Once you arrive, check into your hotel and take advantage of a free afternoon.

In the evening, come together for a farewell dinner. (Breakfast, dinner, accommodation)

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (Breakfast)