TRIP SUMMARY
This special riding experience is an exclusively arranged horseback riding tour aimed at joining local Mongolian rangers to study the habitats of the endangered argali and ibex species in one of the most remote and beautiful mountain ranges in Mongolia, known as Horidal Saridag. Overlooking the western shore of the magnificent Lake Hovsgol, this majestic mountain range appears in the background of almost every tourist photo of the lake.
Our expedition chief guide will be Mr. Tumursukh, the director of the Horidal Saridag Strictly Protected Area. He will take us on exclusive horse trekking trails used only by local rangers and hunters. There’s hardly anyone who knows the lake area and its surrounding ecosystem better than Tumursukh, for he was born and raised in the adjacent Darkhad Valley and has been a local ranger in the park for many years. Tumursukh is also a licensed wolf hunter; in Mongolia, wolf hunting is still officially permitted to reduce the wolf population and thereby reduce predation on herders’ livestock.
This never-before-granted access to the backdoors of the mountain will be an epic journey for those who enjoy adventure and thrill, and a rare opportunity to contribute to the conservation efforts of these hard-working park rangers.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT…
- Ride through one of Mongolia’s most remote and beautiful mountain ranges, with breathtaking views of Lake Hovsgol;
- Enjoy unprecedented access to remote areas, contributing to conservation efforts and supporting the work of local park rangers.
- Study the habitats of endangered argali and ibex species alongside experienced local rangers;
- Experience the tranquility of camping in the Mongolian wilderness, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life;
THIS TOUR IS PERFECT FOR…
- Adventure Enthusiasts who crave thrilling and off-the-beaten-path experiences, exploring remote and rugged landscapes on horseback.
- Wildlife Lovers passionate about observing and studying endangered species in their natural habitats.
- Conservationists interested in contributing to conservation efforts and learning about the challenges and successes of protecting endangered wildlife.
- Nature Photographers seeking stunning landscapes and unique wildlife shots, guided by someone with deep local knowledge.
- Cultural Explorers eager to immerse themselves in Mongolian culture and traditions, gaining insights from a local expert.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts who love camping, horseback riding, and spending time in nature, enjoying the serenity and beauty of the great outdoors.
TRIP MAP & ITINERARY
Upon arrival at Ulaanbaatar’s Chinggis Khan International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, embark on a city tour, including a visit to Zaisan Hill for panoramic views. This Soviet-era relic is a popular local hangout. In the evening, savor a welcome dinner at one of the city’s fine restaurants.Overnight at Hotel Bayangol or similar; (D)ient ullamcorper natoque mi sagittis a nibh nisi a suspendisse a.
After breakfast, take a flight north to Lake Hovsgol, also known as the “Dark Blue Pearl.” This picturesque region boasts the Horidal Saridag Mountains to the west and Siberian larch forests to the east. Upon arrival, drive to Hatgal, a village situated on the southern tip of Lake Hovsgol. Stay in gers at the Ar Davhar eco-ger camp, intentionally built to serve as a local sanctuary for wildlife.Overnight at Ar Davhar Eco-Ger Camp; (B, L, D)
Our epic journey begins. To save some time, we will drive about 40 km. in order to get close to our destination peaks. All our gear will be loaded in our vehicles and we will meet our horses at the campsite at Ulkhun Pass. Overnight in expedition style tents.(Tent Camp; B, L, D)
The northern Taiga and the high mountains of Horidal Saridag are crisscrossed with hundreds of small streams and dozens of rivers and lakes. Today, we will be mostly trekking in the Valley of Arsain River, one of the major tributaries to Hovsgol’s lake waters. Overnight in tents. (Approx. 25 km. riding; Tent Camp; B, L, D)
Today, we will be riding near the habitat of the ibex mountain wild sheep in the steeper rocky cliffs of the Horidal Saridag Mountain. We might be walking with our horses at certain high areas. It will get us closer to some of the highest points of the protected area.Overnight in tents. (Approx. 25 km. riding; Tent Camp, B, L, D)
Today’s journey takes us along the ridges of one of the highest and most beautiful parts of the cliffs, offering designated wildlife-spotting opportunities. Keep an eye out for the elusive wild mountain goats that once faced extinction in the region.Overnight in tents. (Approx. 15 km of trekking; Tent Camp; B, L, D)
We will spend today horse trekking in the southern valleys of the Horidal Mountain, exploring the different flora and fauna. Overnight in gers. Approx. 20 km. riding; Tent Camp; B, L, D) On the next day, we will conclude our riding journey by arriving at Hoh Tolgoi. In the afternoon, we will drive back to Ar Davhar eco-ger camp. (Approx. 15 km. riding and 120 km. driving; Ger Camp; B, L, D)
Take a leisurely day to relax and trek along the lakeshore on foot. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding lakeshore scenery by riding in a small boat. Engage in a group discussion with Tumursukh about your observations and the significance of your journey to the conservation efforts of the park. Conclude the day with a hearty farewell dinner at the ger camp.(Ger Camp; B, L, D)
In the morning, transfer to the airport for a flight back to Ulaanbaatar, enjoying the last day for shopping and sightseeing. In the evening, experience a captivating performance of traditional Mongolian music and dance, featuring Khoomii or “throat-singing,” followed by a farewell dinner at a fine local restaurant.(Hotel Bayangol or similar; B, L, D). After breakfast transfer to the airport for your return flight home. (B)
PRICING
- Land transportation as indicated in the itinerary based on using Toyota Land Cruiser jeeps seating 3 passengers each;
- Accommodations in a standard room at hotels, gers in the countryside based on double occupancy;
- Airport arrival and departure transfers;
- Sleeping bags;
- expedition style tents and mats;
- All meals indicated as B, L or D;
- All entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary;
- Riding and pack horses;
- English speaking national guide throughout your stay;
- A bottle of water per person per day and unlimited supply of boiled waters.
- Domestic and international airfare;
- Personal laundry;
- Drinks not mentioned in the itinerary;
- Travel insurance;
- Medical evacuation costs;
- Excess baggage charges;
- Visa fees;
- Gratuities;
- Photography and video fees
- Any other item not mentioned as included.
MEET THE LEADER
The expedition chief guide will be Mr.Tumursukh, the director of Horidal Saridag Strictly Protected Area who will take you on the exclusive horse trekking trails used only by local rangers or hunters. Born in the adjacent Darkhad Valley and started as a local ranger in the park, there’s hardly anyone who knows the lake area and its surrounding ecosystem better than Tumursukh. He is also a licensed wolf-hunter, in the country where wolf hunting is still officially permitted to control the population to protect herders’ livestock. This never before granted access to the backdoors of the mountain is an epic journey dedicated for those who like adventure and thrill, while contributing to the cause of promoting these hard working individuals.
PHOTOS & REVIEW
Having worked for a private Mongolian airline for 3+ years, I interacted with local and foreign tour operators who booked domestic flights for their customers. Badral and Gerel stood out not just as travel coordinators, but visionaries wrt sustainable tourism in Mongolia’s fragile ecosystems, world class customer service and attention to clients’ concerns, as well as in sharing their knowledge of Mongolia’s history, landscapes, culture, traditions.
As founders of Mongolia Quest, Gerel and Badral are able to offer truly the quintessential experience of Mongolia – be it in UB, the nearby national parks or in the majestic countryside. Mongolia has much to offer to intrepid travellers, but if looking for more than simply adventure in an exotic locale, Mongolia Quest is the choice as to whom to book your travel with when visiting Mongolia, as you will not go wrong with them and cannot do better!
