Camel Riding Journey Among the Khongor Sand Dunes

Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s vibrant capital city. Meet your guide and transfer to the hotel for rest and refreshment.

In the afternoon, begin exploring the city. Ulaanbaatar, formerly known as Urguu, moved 29 times before settling permanently along the Tuul River. Visit Sukhbaatar Square, the cultural and political center of the city. Continue to the Natural History Museum to discover Mongolia’s remarkable flora, fauna, geography, and famous dinosaur fossils excavated from the Gobi Desert.

Visit the historic Gandantegchinlen Monastery, Mongolia’s largest active Buddhist monastery, whose Tibetan name means “Great Place of Complete Joy.”

Later, explore the National History Museum to learn about Mongolia’s nomadic heritage and the history of the Great Mongol Empire. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Mongolian cultural performance featuring throat singing, contortion, and Morin Khuur (horse-head fiddle), followed by dinner.

Transfer from Ulaanbaatar to Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia’s most scenic destinations known for its dramatic granite rock formations and lush valleys.

Upon arrival at Terelj Lodge, settle into your traditional ger accommodation and enjoy time to relax before a short introduction to traditional Mongolian nomadic culture. During the presentation, special attention will be given to Mongolia’s unique horse-riding traditions, including the use of traditional saddles and bridles that have played an important role in Mongolian history for centuries.

Following lunch, participate in a hands-on introduction to Mongolian archery, one of the country’s traditional “Three Manly Sports.” Enjoy a demonstration, practice session, and friendly competition.

Later, meet your horsemen and prepare for the riding expedition ahead.

After breakfast, riders will be matched with their horses and saddles before beginning the horseback journey.

Today’s ride follows the picturesque valleys of Terelj National Park toward the east and into the Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area. After approximately three hours of riding and crossing the Terelj River, arrive at the wide open grasslands of Dugana Tsagaan Steppe for a picnic lunch.

Continue riding through peaceful wilderness landscapes before reaching the beautiful confluence of the Tuul and Terelj Rivers, where camp will be set for the night.

Today’s route follows the Tuul River deeper into dense pine forests at the southern edge of the Siberian taiga ecosystem.

During the ride, there are excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife and birdlife including golden eagles, woodpeckers, and other forest species. After approximately three and a half hours of riding, arrive at the confluence of the Tuul and Hagiin Rivers.

Set up camp beside the river and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this remote wilderness region.

Leaving the Tuul River Valley behind, today’s ride enters a more rugged tundra forest landscape.

After an hour of riding, begin ascending through deep mountain forests known for wildlife such as wolves, bears, deer, roe deer, and moose. Reaching the mountain summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views before descending toward the spectacular Hagiin Khar Lake, also known as Black Lake.

Camp will be established beside the lake’s beautiful sandy shoreline, surrounded by untouched wilderness scenery.

After a leisurely breakfast, continue riding through the scenic Khongoriin River Valley. Follow the gentle river streams through peaceful forest and mountain landscapes while enjoying the serenity of Mongolia’s remote wilderness.

The route offers excellent opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, and experiencing the traditional rhythm of Mongolian horseback travel.

Today's ride includes a challenging ascent and descent over Khaviragiin Pass, located on the eastern shoulder of Altan Ulgii Peak. At 2,646 meters, this mountain—whose name means Golden Cradle—is one of the highest peaks in the Khentii Mountain Range.

Continue riding through the scenic Dund Bayan Gol Valley toward Terelj. Throughout the journey, packhorses carry luggage, food, and camping equipment. By late afternoon, reunite with the support vehicles and establish camp for the final night in the wilderness.

Return to Terelj & Ulaanbaatar

After breakfast, enjoy the final stretch of horseback riding to the Tuul River, where the support vehicles will meet the group. Transfer back to Ulaanbaatar or continue onward to your next tour.

After breakfast, transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your international departure flight.