On horseback in a remote river valley in Mongolia

Feet up, smiles out. Crossing chilly rivers is part of the ride

Soaking up the scale, Mongolia makes you feel small in the best way

A local horseman, Mongolia | Cam Cope

Horse riding deep into the Khan Khentii National Park

Colourful loads and quiet moments

Mongolia in wide-angle

Stories, stars and sparks

40m statue of Genghis Khan watching over the Mongolian steppe

Central Mongolia Horse Trek

Journey on horseback through Mongolia’s timeless steppe, as nomads have for centuries.

14 Days from

$4090 USD

Trip Code: THP

View dates to Book Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Air Mattress Hire

$23 USD

3 Season Sleeping Bag & Liner Hire

$28 USD

Deel robe hire per person for whole trip

$60 USD

Single Supplement

$360 USD

Duration

14 Days

Activities

6 days horse trekking

Accommodation

9 nights tented camping
3 nights hotel
1 night local ger camp

Meals

12 Dinners
11 Lunches
13 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

3 / 10

Introductory

Carbon Footprint

30kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(392kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Ride for six days through the wild Khan Khentii mountains, birthplace of Genghis Khan, following trails shaped by centuries of nomadic horsemen
Discover sacred sites and ancient relics, from remote monasteries to standing stones and rock art, set against dramatic steppe landscapes
Immerse yourself in the rhythms of nomadic life, riding off-grid through vast grasslands, alpine river valleys and forested trails
Unwind each evening in our fully supported wilderness camp, combining spacious tents and warm Mongolian hospitality in remote settings
Experience the central role of the horse in Mongolian culture - still essential to daily life, celebrated in epic tales, and honoured each July in the Naadam Festival

Overview

In Mongolia, the horse is inseparable from daily life - a symbol of freedom and survival on the steppe, celebrated in song, story and tradition. To travel on horseback here is to experience the country as nomads have for millennia surrounded by the vast quiet of the steppe.

This 14 day guided expedition takes you deep into the Khan Khentii mountains, the birthplace of Genghis Khan and one of Mongolia’s last true wilderness frontiers. Over six days on horseback you’ll ride across wide open steppe, through alpine river valleys and along forested trails, visiting ancient monasteries and sacred sites.

This trek is suitable for first-time riders who are fit and comfortable with the idea of spending several hours a day on horseback. Our local horse handlers match you with well-trained horses and provide guidance along the way, making this an achievable and rewarding adventure even for beginners.

Travelling with experienced handlers, an English-speaking guide and a fully supported mobile camp, you’ll enjoy the comfort of spacious tents, nourishing meals and warm Mongolian hospitality in the most remote of settings. This is not just a trek, but an immersion into a way of life that still defines Mongolia today.

Expand all | Collapse all

Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, you will be met by your guide and transferred to the group hotel. Check-in is available by the afternoon, though early access will be provided if rooms are ready. Meeting the guide and group in the hotel lobby for a short orientation walk along Peace Avenue, the city’s central thoroughfare. In the evening, regroup for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where your guide will provide a briefing on the days ahead. Accommodation: Bayangol hotel or similar

Meals: D

After breakfast, we depart Ulaanbaatar and drive east into the Mongolian countryside. En route, we stop at the impressive Genghis Khan Statue Complex for a short visit. Continuing into the Khan Khentii Nature Reserve, we reach Khukh Nuur (Blue Lake), a historically significant site. We set up our tented camp in the surrounding foothills and enjoy a peaceful evening in this remote and scenic location. Driving time: Approx. 3.5 - 4 hrs (220 km / 135 mi) Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp, including kitchen crew and transport team

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, enjoy a walk around the Khukh Nuur (Blue Lake) area, taking in the alpine scenery at 1,675 m (5,495 ft), the surrounding flora and fauna, and several sites of historical significance. Set at the foot of Har Zurkh Mountain, this is where Temujin was declared Genghis Khan (aka Chinggis) in 1189. A monument and memorial complex on the lake-shore commemorate this important moment in Mongolian history. After lunch, we break camp and drive to the Jargalant River Valley, where our horses and handlers will be waiting. We set up camp in this peaceful river valley, ready to begin the riding adventure the following day. Driving time: Approx. 3–4 hours (120 km / 75 mi) Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today marks the beginning of our horse trekking adventure. After breakfast, we saddle up for a full-day ride to the Baldan Bereeven Monastery, one of the most important historical and spiritual sites in the Khentii region. Founded in 1777, the monastery was once home to thousands of lamas and is nestled in a striking natural amphitheater of rocky hills. Along the approach, you’ll see Buddhist deities carved into cliffs and rock faces, with ancient mantras and symbols etched into the stone, a powerful reminder of Mongolia’s deep spiritual heritage. After exploring the monastery grounds and enjoying a packed lunch nearby, we ride back to our previous night’s campsite in the Jargalant River Valley for dinner and overnight. Riding time: Approx. 4-5 hours round trip Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we begin our linear horse trek, travelling deeper into the Khentii wilderness. We break camp and ride across open steppe and wooded terrain toward the Khurkh River Valley. Along the way, we pass ancient stone statues and little-known historical monuments scattered across the landscape — quiet reminders of the region’s long and layered history. We arrive in the late afternoon and set up camp near the river, surrounded by peaceful grasslands and rolling hills. Riding time: Approx. 7 hours Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

We continue our linear trek on horseback, heading further into the rugged landscapes of the Khentii region. Today’s route takes us to Binder Ovoo, a site of spiritual and cultural significance. En route, we stop at Rashaan Khad, a fascinating rocky outcrop that has preserved thousands of years of history. The cliffs are covered in petroglyphs, seals, and inscriptions in a variety of ancient scripts — including Orkhon, Kidan, Chinese, Arabic-Persian, and Tibetan — offering a rare glimpse into the area’s deep past. In the late afternoon, we reach Binder Ovoo and set up camp in a nearby valley surrounded by forest and open steppe. Riding time: Approx. 7 hours Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s ride takes us to the remarkable stone fortress of Uglugchiin Kherem, nestled in the foothills of Daichin Mountain. Believed to date back to the 12th–14th centuries, this ancient structure stretches nearly 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) and features stone walls that remain up to 4.5 m (15 ft) high and 2.5 m (8 ft) thick. The fortress likely served as a stronghold or a spiritual retreat, with its strategic position offering commanding views of the surrounding terrain. Though partially ruined, the scale and craftsmanship of the structure remain striking, offering a rare glimpse into Mongolia’s medieval past. After exploring the site and enjoying a packed lunch, we return to our camp near Binder Ovoo for dinner and overnight. Riding time: Approx. 5–6 hours round trip Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

We continue our journey on horseback, riding through a mix of forested trails and open grasslands as we make our way furthering the Khurkh River Valley. This scenic region is characterised by gently rolling terrain, rich biodiversity, and expansive steppe views that stretch to the horizon. Along the way, we may encounter nomadic herders and grazing livestock, offering a glimpse into traditional life that remains largely unchanged. We arrive at our riverside campsite by late afternoon and settle in for a peaceful evening in this quiet, remote setting. Riding time: Approx. 7 hours Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today marks the final day of our horse trek as we journey toward the Onon River Basin, a region of deep historical and cultural significance. This is the spiritual heartland of Mongolia, believed to be the birthplace of Genghis Khan and the site of the Great Khuraldai (assembly) where he was declared Great Khan in 1206. The landscape transitions once more, with wide river flats, wooded groves, and open steppe creating a dramatic finale to our ride. After reaching camp near the Onon River, we bid farewell to our horses and handlers, who will return home this evening. We settle into our final night of camping, surrounded by the tranquility and legacy of this powerful landscape. Riding time: Approx. 5–6 hours Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we pack up camp and travel by vehicle to Gurvan Nuur in Dadal sum, a remote and scenic area closely associated with the life of Genghis Khan. The drive takes us through vast forest-steppe landscapes and traditional herding regions, offering a change of pace from our days on horseback. In the afternoon, we visit two important historical sites: Deluun Boldog, believed to be the exact birthplace of Genghis Khan, and Khashuu Bulag, a revered spring tied to local legend. These sites provide a powerful cultural connection to the legacy of Mongolia’s most iconic leader We overnight in a local ger (aka yurt) camp, enjoying a hot meal and a well-earned rest Driving time: Approx. 3-4 hours (130 km / 80 mi, distance varies slightly with road conditions) Accommodation: Ger overnight, Fully supported ger camp

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we continue our overland journey by vehicle, travelling to the Kherlen River Valley, a serene landscape of wide grasslands and gentle hills that has sustained nomadic life for centuries. En route, we visit the Palace Museum of Setsen Khan, located in the town of Genghis Khan. Setsen Khan was a noble descendant of the Great Khan and a key figure in Mongolia’s struggle for independence. The museum offers insight into his legacy, showcasing royal artifacts and historical exhibits that enrich our understanding of Mongolia’s modern and medieval past. We then continue on to our riverside campsite, where we settle in for another peaceful night under canvas Driving time: Approx. 4–5 hours with stop at museum (250 km / 155 mi) Accommodation: Fully supported tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we break camp and begin our return journey to Ulaanbaatar, retracing our route across the steppe and leaving behind the vast open spaces of the Mongolian countryside. The drive offers time to reflect on the journey so far, from sacred historical sites to unforgettable days on horseback. Upon arrival in the city, we check into our hotel. The afternoon is free to rest, explore independently, or do some final souvenir shopping. Meals today and this evening are at your own arrangement, with plenty of local dining options nearby Driving time: Approx. 6–7 hours (340 km / 211 mi) Accommodation: Bayangol hotel or similar

Meals: B

Today we enjoy a full day of cultural exploration in Ulaanbaatar. The day begins with a visit to the Gandan Monastery, Mongolia’s most important religious centre, where you’ll see the magnificent 26 m (85 ft) tall standing Buddha. We then continue to the National History Museum, home to an excellent collection of artifacts tracing Mongolia’s rich past, from prehistory through the Mongol Empire to the modern era. In the evening, we attend a traditional folklore concert, showcasing Mongolian throat singing, folk dance and traditional Mongolian instruments performances. The day concludes with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, a chance to celebrate the journey with your fellow travelers Accommodation: Bayangol hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, your journey concludes with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight. We hope you leave Mongolia with lasting memories of its wild landscapes, rich history, and warm nomadic hospitality.

Meals: B

Expand all | Collapse all

Welcome to Mongolia’s Naadam Festival. On arrival at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel by our representative. The rest of the day is free to relax or take a short walk to Sukhbaatar Square, where early festival events and performances are often underway. Your guide will join you for Days 2 and 3. Activity approx: Airport transfer only (1-2 hours, as traffic is heightened around Naadam) Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

After breakfast, at 8 AM, you’ll join your English-speaking guide for a short walk to Sukhbaatar Square to witness the morning flag ceremony, state honorary guards on horseback carrying the State White Banners to the National Sports Stadium. The Naadam Festival Opening Ceremony begins at 11 AM, featuring a grand parade of athletes and performers in traditional costume, with music, and dance. The Mongolian president delivers the official address as the Nine White Banners are raised – a symbol of the power of the ancient khans. Following the ceremony, you’ll have time to explore the festival grounds, taste local foods and watch the first rounds of wrestling and archery before walking back to your hotel. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar Please note: Naadam is one of the most popular times to visit Ulaanbaatar, so please expect large crowds and possible delays, patience and flexibility will help make the most of this incredible cultural celebration.

Meals: B

This morning we drive around 1.5 hours to the Naadam horse racing grounds outside Ulaanbaatar, where the atmosphere is electric. Thousands of Mongolians in traditional dress gather to cheer on young jockeys racing across the open steppe. The races span six age categories and often feature hundreds of horses, showcasing Mongolia’s deep equestrian heritage. After several hours at the event, we return to the city and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, a chance to reflect on this unforgettable cultural experience. Drive approx: 3 hrs (return) Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L

Today your trip concludes after breakfast. Enjoy a calm morning to rest, repack, or take a final stroll through the city before beginning Day 1 of your Central Mongolian Horse Trek adventure.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

13 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 12 dinners
Expert bilingual local guide
Accompanied by camp crew, and skilled horse handlers
9 nights fully supported camping
3 nights 4 star hotel accommodation in Ulaanbaatar
1 nights ger camp accommodation
Camping gear (excluding sleeping bag)
Horse rental and handler fees
Airport transfers (day 1 and 14 only)
Private transportation in quality vehicles
Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary
National Park fees
Medical kit
All meals as listed

Not included

Sleeping bag
Aerated and alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
Tips and gratuities
International airfares & departure taxes
Visa costs
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Optional hire of Traditional Mongolian Deel (robe)