The Reindeer Trail: Expedition to Mongolia’s Hidden North
5-9 Travelers:
$9,100 Per Person
10-14 Travelers:
$8,300 Per Person
Single Supplement:
$1,100 Per Person
Overview
Adventure expedition that weaves wilderness riding with rare cultural encounters. It's multi-day horseback traverse through the vast Darhad Valley—riding alpine meadows, larch forests, and river fords en route to the Tsaatan (Reindeer People) summer encampments near the Siberian border. Along the way, celebrate Mongolia’s living heritage at local Naadam festivals. Rustic lakeside lodges and traditional ger camps serve as your basecamps, anchoring this epic blend of nomadic culture and untamed landscapes.
Intinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar – Gateway to Mongolia
"Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s vibrant capital—affectionately known as “UB” among travelers. Upon landing, meet your guide at the airport for a comfortable transfer to your centrally located four-star hotel, offering easy access to the city’s cultural and commercial highlights.
After settling in, enjoy a brief city orientation tour to get acquainted with UB’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Dinner and overnight at hotel.
Day 2
Flight to Murun – Journey to Lake Khovsgol
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Muren, a gateway to Mongolia’s northern wilderness. Upon arrival, embark on a scenic drive to Khatgal, the southern entrance to Khovsgol National Park.
Nestled among dense forests, the majestic Lake Khovsgol stretches over 100 miles and is the deepest lake in Central Asia, containing nearly 2% of the world’s freshwater. Known as Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl,” this pristine lake is a haven for nature lovers.
Visit the Park Information Center to gain insight into the region’s ecology and cultural heritage.
Overnight at a lakeside camp.
Day 3
Lake Khovsgol Boat Journey – Arrival at Jigleg Pass
Embark on a five-hour boat expedition across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Khovsgol, heading toward the base of Jigleg Pass, located midway along the lake’s western shore. Enjoy breathtaking views of forested mountains and untouched wilderness as you cruise through one of Mongolia’s most iconic landscapes.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by local guides and meet the horses at Jigleg Pass.
Overnight in tents.
Days 4
Horseback Riding Adventure – Darhad Valley
Embark on your horseback riding journey through the remote and breathtaking Darhad Valley.
Start with an easy distance familiarize yourself with your horses and skilled wranglers, navigating open steppes and forested trails.
Spend the night camping in tents, enveloped by the tranquil beauty of Mongolia’s northern frontier.
Day 5
Ride to Renchinlhumbe – Heart of the Darhad Valley
Continue your horseback journey deeper into the Darhad Valley, making your way to the remote town of Renchinlhumbe, known for its rich nomadic heritage and dramatic landscapes. The ride is vehicle-supported, allowing for flexible pacing and comfort throughout the day.
Arrive at Saridag Ger Camp, nestled near the Saridag mountain range, where you can relax and refresh.
Camp out (or Ger camp?).
Day 6
Through the Darhad Valley – Toward Hogrog
Ride approximately 15 miles through the sweeping landscapes of the Darhad Valley, following ancient trails toward Tsagaannuur village (Hogrog).
The terrain shifts subtly as you approach the northern frontier.
Overnight in tents, surrounded by the quiet rhythm of the valley.
Day 7
Final Stretch to Hogrog – Gateway to the Reindeer People
"Continue your journey with a 20-mile ride to reach Hogrog, the remote outpost that serves as the jumping-off point for visiting the Tsaatan (Reindeer People).
Overnight in tents, preparing for the pack trip into the Taiga.
Day 8-10
Into the Taiga – Expedition to the Tsaatan
Embark on a packhorse-supported expedition into the northern mountains, riding approximately 15 miles per day, depending on the location of the Tsaatan summer camp. Traverse alpine meadows, larch forests, and river crossings as you approach the Reindeer People’s summer encampment, a rare cultural encounter in one of Mongolia’s most secluded regions.
Camp out.
Day 11
Rivers and Repose
After days of expedition camping with packhorses, we finally arrive at the tranquil confluence of the Shishgid and Tengis Rivers—a serene haven nestled in the northern wilderness. This is our time to unwind, soak in the natural beauty, and let the rhythm of the river restore us.
Whether you choose to relax, enjoy the scenery, or take a gentle horseback ride along the riverbanks, the day is yours to savor. Overnight at a lodge.
Day 12
Return Across the Steppe
Begin your return journey with a half-day ride toward Renchinlhumbe, retracing your path across the open steppe and forested trails.
Overnight in tents, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Darhad Valley.
Day 13
Arrival and Rest in Renchinlhumbe
Enjoy a short ride into Renchinlhumbe, followed by a well-earned rest day. Take time to reflect, explore the village, or simply relax at camp.
Overnight in ger camp.
Day 14
Naadam Festival – Mongolia’s Grand Celebration
Spend the day immersed in the vibrant energy of Naadam, Mongolia’s centuries-old festival of strength, skill, and tradition. Witness thrilling horse races (ridden by children aged 7–11 across 15–30 km), powerful men’s wrestling matches, and elegant archery competitions open to both women and men.
This cultural spectacle offers a profound glimpse into Mongolia’s national spirit and nomadic heritage.
Overnight at Saridag Ger Camp.
Day 15
Ride to Ulaan Uul – Southern Darhad Valley
Continue your horseback journey toward Ulaan Uul, located in the southern reaches of the Darhad Valley.
The landscape shifts subtly as you descend from the northern taiga into open steppe and forested lowlands.
Camp out, surrounded by the quiet rhythm of the valley.
Day 16
Overland to Muren – Across the Northern Frontier
Embark on a full-day drive to Muren, retracing your path through Mongolia’s northern wilderness.
Overnight in ger camp.
Day 17
Return to Ulaanbaatar – Farewell Dinner
Take a domestic flight back to Ulaanbaatar, where your journey began. In the evening, gather for a festive farewell dinner, celebrating the memories and friendships forged along the way.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 18
Cultural Sightseeing in UB – History & Heritage
Spend the day exploring Ulaanbaatar’s cultural landmarks with your guide.
Begin at Sukhbaatar Square, the city’s central plaza, then ascend to the Zaisan Memorial, perched on Bogd Khan Mountain, offering panoramic views of the capital.
Continue to the National History Museum and the Fine Art Museum of Zanabazar, both rich in exhibits that illuminate Mongolia’s history, traditional culture, and artistic legacy.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 19
Departure – Farewell Mongolia
After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your return flight home.
Safe travels and farewell!
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