Mongolian Riding Safaris, Mongolia

Wild and Exotic Mongolian Classic Tour

Marvel at the contrast between the ice gorge and sand dunes of the Gobi Desert, visit dinosaur excavation sites, and stay in gers, the traditional Mongolian circular, felt tents. Ride on horseback through the stunning Khentii Mountain Range, and visit the country's most significant Buddhist temples. This trip combines the ancient traditions of Buddhism with a visit to Mongolia's famous Gobi Desert and to the beautiful Khentii Mountains. Mongolia's Gobi Desert holds a wealth of natural wonders. Here, you will have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the paleontologists who discovered dinosaur remains by the Flaming Cliffs; to walk through the ice gorge at Eagle Valley; and to climb the sand dunes of the southern Gobi.

Mongolia is a Buddhist country, with ornate temples and active monasteries. On this trip, you will visit two monasteries: Gandantegchilin and Gunjiin Soum or the Princess' Monastery. Gandantegchilin Monastery is the largest functioning monastery and it was built in 1840, it is the most important monastery in Mongolia. It is easily seen north west of the city centre. In the past it was one of the main Buddhist centres in Asia having two dozens of chapels and famous for its library collection of religious documents and the typography.

Long before the arrival of Buddhism in Mongolia, the Mongolians had a powerful connection to their land, and its spirits - a connection still celebrated today. This is nowhere more evident than in the area of Gunjiin Monastery, nestled in the Khentii Mountains, amidst pine and birch forests. Otherwise called ‘Princess Monastery' these ruins hold a beautiful story of a young princess who loved her people and country.

In the summer you will see an abundance of wild flowers, and as the months get colder and autumn begins the leaves create a spectacular glow of warm colours. We will spend several days in these mountains, walking in its valleys and visiting its nomadic families.

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar - sightseeing - evening entertainment. On arrival you will be met at the airport and transferred to Ulaanbaatar Hotel. There will be a visit to Gandan Monastery, the Bogd Khan Winter Palace (home to the last religious king of Mongolia), and the Fine Arts Museum. Lunch will be at the hotel and dinner at a ger restaurant with traditional Mongolian food and entertainment.

Day 2: Flight to Dalanzadgad, South Gobi. Today we will take the flight to the South Gobi Aimag, either in the morning or in the afternoon depending on domestic schedule. The flight from Ulaanbaatar to the capital of the South Gobi Aimag takes one and a half hours, and you will be accompanied by your guide. On arrival at the airstrip in the Gobi you will be met by a driver and jeep and taken to the ger camp close to Bayanzag, which means ‘rich in saxaul shrubs.' This area, also called the ‘Flaming Cliffs,' was first excavated in 1922 by the paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews. It is a place of atmospheric beauty famous worldwide for the number of dinosaur bones and eggs having been found here. We will then visit Moltseg Els (sand dunes). Overnight at Three Camel Lodge. 

Day 3: Khongor Sand Dunes. Today we drive west along the Altai Mountain Range until we reach Khongoriin Els. Reaching heights of 800m, these are Mongolia's largest sand dunes. Locally they are called the ‘singing dunes', because of the tons of sand, which shift in the wind, making a strange sound similar to that of distant aircraft. The drive is about 4 hours long. During this stay in the Gobi we will have the opportunity to use a different type of transport. We will be riding on camels today to explore these massive sand dunes. The two-humped camels are very comfortable to ride, as they walk slowly and gently and we will be well supported by the humps, sitting comfortably between them. Our camel man will take us to the sand dunes. We will stay overnight in a ger camp close to the dunes.

Day 4: Gobi - Yolyn Am. After relaxed breakfast we will drive towards Yolyn Am, or Eagle Valley. This is about 220 km from your ger camp. The valley is about 10 km long and is completely shaded from the sun in some parts by the high cliff walls. It is possible to walk through the valley and out the other side. You may be lucky enough to spot wild sheep and goats grazing high on the cliff walls. The valley is also full of soaring eagles hunting for prey. At the opening of the valley is a local Natural History Museum displaying interesting information about the animals of the area. The best time spotting wildlife is at dawn or dusk - you may discuss with your guide which hours you prefer.

Day 5: Return to Ulaanbaatar - Natural History Museum. You may have enjoyed this morning an early hike through the Eagle Valley or you relaxed at the camp. The return flight is scheduled late in the afternoon. At Ulaanbaatar, you may take your well-deserved shower and enjoy your dinner with the group at a local restaurant.

Days 6-10: 5 days in the Khentii Mountains - horse riding, hiking, visiting nomads. We will depart on the morning of the 6^th day for the Khentii Mountains. En route, we will see nomadic families and their gers, and we will go through the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park where we will meet up with our local horsemen. After lunch, our journey will continue, either on horseback or on a yak cart, into the Baga Khentii Mountains, the smaller sisters of the Khentii Mountains to the north. We will spend four nights in tents moving from place to place in the mountains. We will have a dining tent for meals and social time in the evenings. In the daytime, our activities will include horse riding, yak cart riding, hiking and visiting the ruins of Gunjin Monastery. The river, which flows past our camp, is deep enough for a dip in the cool water, or you can try your hand at fishing with the locals. If you like wildlife, this area is perfect. There are musk deer, moose, brown bears, roe and elk. Birds spotted in the area include whooper swans, spoonbills, great white egrets and a variety of birds of prey. On our last day, we will visit the ger of our local horseman and sample some traditional Mongolian food. We will return to Ulaanbaatar by vehicle. Tonight we will have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant and stay overnight at Ulaanbaatar Hotel.(Bosgiin Guur - Zuugiin Tsagaan Khotol -Dund Bayan (muddy area) - Gyalalzakh - Gunjiin Soum - Tuul Tereljiin Belcher)

Day 11: After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure.

Notes:

The price of this itinerary based on 6 - 8 people travelling is £2010 person. An additional ‘single supplement' price is given with all our prices. This refers to single room accommodation in hotels only. Upon request single supplement in the countryside can be provided at an additional cost.

Prices include the following: Domestic flights, transportation within Mongolia, twin accommodation in a 3 star hotel. Single accommodation can be arranged at an additional cost. Tented accommodation while on trek, three meals a day, English-speaking guide, all sightseeing costs, transfers, camel or horse hire where specified, support staff including drivers, horse/camel men and camp assistants.

Prices do not include: International transportation, travel insurance, visas, departure tax, alcoholic drinks, gratuities, items of personal nature.

This itinerary should be taken as a guide only. Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic's terms and conditions, a copy of which will be sent with all booking forms.

Please contact Wild and Exotic for latest prices and availability by email to info@wildandexotic.co.uk or by telephone to 01439 748401.

Wild and Exotic fact sheet for riding holidays in Mongolia

For those seeking a real adventure, riding in Mongolia will not disappoint. This is a vast and untamed landscape populated by nomads whom live and move with their livestock according to the seasons. We work with our partners in Ulaan Bataar to design bespoke itineraries that explore the furthest flung regions of this remote country, including the snow capped Altai Mountains, magnificent golden sand dunes, rolling steppes, the forested north, and the arid Gobi desert in the South. You will experience the legendary hospitality and fascinating lifestyle of the nomads, whilst riding their hardy horses beneath clear blue skies through a wild and unexplored country. According to the time of year, you may be able to join the minority Kazakh tribe hunting foxes with golden eagles in the mountains, or ride with the reindeer herders in the forested northwest.

Local people supply the horses, and accompany us on the rides. The three biggest misconceptions about Mongolia are climate, horses and food. You will be pleasantly surprised by the quality of all three - in summer hot sunny days are normal, the horses may be small, but they are not lacking in spirit or agility, and we pride ourselves on the variety and quality of food served in the heated mess tent. However the infrastructure of this vast country is fragile and un-developed, and you can expect to spend time travelling long distance between different geographical regions. All our rides are supported by two or three vehicles, which carry all the tents, tack and supplies required for the duration of the ride.

Wild and Exotic can arrange riding or walking itineraries in any part of Mongolia, but recommend the west for greatest diversity. Following our group ride through this region in September 2004, we have refined our original programme to incorporate the very best of sand dunes, steppes and mountains. Please read the suggested itinerary further down this page for details and photographs. This itinerary can be varied according to your requirements. Please contact us for further information and sample itineraries for the Gobi Desert and northern Mongolia.

Accommodation: on our rides is in tents, with the option of sharing or having a tent to yourself for no extra charge. Camp staff put up all tents, and we also provide sleeping mats and sleeping bags if requested. There is a mess tent at every campsite, which is heated by a warm stove and serves as a focus point for drinks and meals. All campsites are equipped with a long drop loo and shower. Sometimes our itineraries include one or more nights in a traditional ger, with heated stove, comfortable beds and traditional furniture and decor. Accommodation in Ulaan Bataar is normally at the celebrated Bayangol hotel, and at the best available hotels in other towns when necessary.

Activities: Nearly all of our camps are pitched besides river or lakes, and there are endless opportunities for fishing, swimming and relaxation besides the water. Many guests also enjoy walking and climbing when not riding, as well as the opportunity to visit the local nomads in their traditional ger homes. At certain times of year it is also possible to accompany the Kazakh eagle hunters as they pursue foxes and other game in the western Bayan Olgii province with magnificent golden eagles.

Cash: The official currency of Mongolia is the togrog, $1 is worth approximately 1120 togrogs. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport on arrival or in Ulaanbaatar at the Bayangol Hotel, local banks or at the State Department Store in the town centre. We recommend carrying a certain amount of US dollar cash and local currency for the purchase of local crafts during your journey. Many hotels, restaurants and tourist shops now accept international credit cards and $US, but local shops and bazaars still only accept only togrigs.

Children: We will accept children on our Mongolian riding itineraries, but they must be competent riders. There are no discounts for children.

Clothing: Clothing list will be sent on request. A free laundry service may be provided when time and weather conditions permit.

Drinks: Alcohol is not included in the price, however Wild and Exotic can order whatever supplies you require in advance, typically cases of quality red and white wine, local vodka and Chinggis beer. We recommend that you purchase other spirits from duty free prior to arrival. In the gers in the countryside you may be offered either milky, salty tea or black tea, and possibly ‘airag' or fermented mare's milk (which does more damage to your stomach than head if taken in large quantities) or vodka.

Horses: The horses used are supplied by local nomad horseman, and although small are tough and responsive. They are adept at negotiating sand dunes, open steppes and rocky mountains. Their owners have no objection to impromptu races, and you will be surprised at the speed and agility of these tough little horses. Mongolian horses are usually unshod except in very rocky areas of the country

How to Get There: The simplest and least expensive way to reach Ulaan Bataar from the UK is to fly with Aeroflot from Heathrow via Moscow, currently available three times a week. Alternatives include flying via Beijing in China. Wild and Exotic can book your return fares with all major airlines as ATOL license holders # 6445. Your guide will meet you on arrival at Ulaan Bataar airport, and transfer you to the Bayangol hotel.

Insurance: Whilst we carry public liability insurance and take all possible care, you must also have full medical and holiday insurance. Wild & Exotic Ltd can arrange this if instructed.

Length of Rides: 4 - 6 hours in the saddle, with break for picnic lunch.

Meals: Breakfast comprises tea, coffee, fruit juice, hot porridge and an egg dish, such as an omelette or pancakes. Lunch is either a sandwich & chocolate bar carried on the ride, or three courses served by the kitchen truck - typically soup or salad, hot main course and pudding. Dinners are always three courses, and often include a traditional Mongolian dish. A chef and assistant accompany all rides, and food is prepared to a very high standard inside the portable kitchen carried on the back of a large truck. Do not expect a monotonous diet of meat and dairy produce - although you will doubtless be offered such dishes when visiting local nomadic people's gers, the food on our rides is interesting and varied.

Medical and safety: All our guides are trained in first aid, and emergency evaluation procedures are in place. As an additional security and safety measure we can arrange to rent a satellite telephone for your group at an extra charge. A medical kit is on hand in camp.

Non-Riders: We can take non-riders but this should be discussed with Wild and Exotic Ltd first. We can also tailor bespoke trekking, walking, fishing and camping holidays in Mongolia on request.

Riding ability: You should be reasonably fit, and a competent, but not necessarily experienced, rider.

Single Supplement: Is only charged for accommodation in hotels and ger camps. Guests can choose between sharing a tent and having a tent to themselves for no extra charge.

Size of the Rides: Maximum of 12 guests.

Staff: A fluent English-speaking guide and translator will accompany you for the duration of your holiday. Your guide will meet your group on arrival at Ulaan Bataar, and look after your every need until departure at the finish of the adventure. Depending on the size of your group, support staff will also include drivers, chef, assistant chef, and fixer, whose job is to travel in advance of the group and arrange horses and campsites.

Tack: Mongolian tack generally comprises of a head collar and lead rope, a bridle with a simple steel snaffle, hobbles and either a Russian steel framed or wooden Mongolian saddle, however we use comfortable western style saddles for our Mongolian rides.

Terrain: Mongolia is a large land-locked country about three times the size of France and situated in the north of the central Asia covering over 1.5 million square km of territory, with an average elevation of 1580 meters above sea level. There is a fascinating variety of landscape to explore, and our itineraries will incorporate as much diversity as possible, according to your time and budget. Within a two-week time frame it is possible to ride across vast sand dunes, rolling grassy steppes, and above the snowline of rugged mountains. In the north there are three main mountain ranges, the tallest being the Altai Mountains rising to 4500m above sea level with permanent snow peaks and glaciers. The Gobi Desert dominates the southern third of the country. The eastern part of the country is known as the Dornodiin Steppe, and the River Selenge flows northwards through this territory into Russia's Lake Baikal.

Types of ride: We organise rides throughout Mongolia, but recommend the west for greatest diversity. In order to experience the different landscapes it may be necessary to travel long distances between destinations. Guests normally spend three or four days in a given area, then a full day travelling to reach a different geographical region, and fresh horses. Vehicle support depends upon the size of your group, but normally includes a large customised truck for guests, kitchen /supply lorry, and a smaller vehicle to scout on ahead and transport baggage.

Visas: Visas can be arranged by Wild and Exotic for a small fee. The cost of a 30-day visa to Mongolia is currently £35.

Weather:  We run our rides during the warm summer months between mid May and mid September. Average temperatures at this time range from 13 - 17c reaching 35-40c in July and August. There is a short rainy season from July to September with a maximum rainfall around 76mm in July. Summer days are generally warm with bright sunshine, and the nights cool. Mongolia has been described as the land of the big blue skies, and enjoys a continental climate.

Weight Limit: Maximum weight is 200 lb.