Spectacular glacial lake in Mongolia | Cam Cope
Spectacular glacial lake in Mongolia  | Cam Cope
Local herders with their camels on the Mongolian steppe  | Cam Cope
Camp in Turgen River Valley on our active holiday in Mongolia  | Alan and Julie Marshall
A well earned rest after a challenging day's trekking in western Mongolia.  | Tessa Chan
Camel crossing while on tour in Mongolia  | Cam Cope
Remote ger camp in Western Mongolia  | Allan Kirk
The vast Mongolian steppe  | Cam Cope
Unspoiled views of Khorton Nuur in the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia  | Alan and Julie Marshall

Mongolian Panorama

Trek beneath snow-capped peaks and sleep in gers on the wild steppe of Western Mongolia

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 15 reviews

18 Days from

$5310 USD

Trip Code: MGP
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Sleeping Bag & Liner Hire
$23 USD
Air Mattress Hire
$23 USD
Tent Only Supplement
$150 USD
Mongolian Panorama - Horse & Handler Hire Days 11-13
$270 USD
Mongolian Panorama - Horse & Handler Hire Days 5-7
$340 USD
Single Supplement
$540 USD

Duration

  • 18 Days

Activities

  • 6 day trek

Accommodation

  • 13 nights tented camp
  • 2 nights ger camp
  • 2 nights hotel

Meals

  • 17 Dinners
  • 16 Lunches
  • 17 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

41kg of CO2-e PP per day

(700kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Access remote regions in the Altai and Turgen Mountains
  • Expert Mongolian trek crew with pack camels and full camping support
  • Cultural depth with visits to local herder families and minority communities
  • Seamless logistics with internal flights, private vehicles and full gear transport
  • Welcoming concert and cultural immersion in Ulaanbaatar
  • Experience the Naadam Festival - horse racing, wrestling and archery framed by wide skies and colourful dress (July departure only)

Overview

This exceptional adventure takes you deep into western Mongolia, a land of sweeping valleys, glacial rivers and snow-dusted peaks home to some of the country’s most vibrant nomadic cultures. Starting in Ulaanbaatar, you’ll explore the capital before flying to the remote province of Uvs for the first of two major trekking routes: Turgen Mountain. With pack support and a full camping crew, trek through wild valleys, meet herding families and reach the edge of a long glacier. After resting beside Uureg Lake, travel to Bayan-Olgii to begin a second, longer trekking section through Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. Here you’ll hike among larch forests, over high alpine passes, and beside remote lakes like Khoton and Khurgan. The journey finishes with a return flight to the capital and a farewell dinner. A rare combination of physical challenge, pristine nature, and powerful cultural connections.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

After arriving at Ulaanbaatar Airport, we will transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon, we will explore the capital city, starting with Sukhbaatar Square, named after the revolutionary hero, Damdiny Sukhbaatar, who declared independence from China in 1921. Another important landmark on our orientation tour is the State Department Store, also known as the "Great Shop" in Mongolian. Please time your arrival to be in the city by lunchtime as typically we will meet at 2pm for the tour. We will return to the hotel in the late afternoon for some relaxation before a welcoming concert of traditional Mongolian music, followed by dinner and a briefing from your guide. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals: D

After an early morning breakfast at the hotel we will be transferred to the airport for our internal flight to Western Mongolia. We will be flying to the small township of Ulaangom, which is the capital of Uvs Aimag. The flight takes about 3 hours. At the airport our vehicles and drivers will meet us. We will drive to Khokh lake in the Valley of Turgen Mountain. This remote alpine lake is nestled beneath towering ridgelines and surrounded by broad glacial valleys. We’ll establish our first wilderness camp in the eastern valley, close to the lake’s edge – a peaceful setting with dramatic mountain views and clear night skies. Overnight: Tented Camp

Meals: B,L,D

Enjoy a full day at Khukh Lake, with time for gentle walks around the lake and through the surrounding alpine valley. The peaceful setting offers a chance to stretch your legs, take photographs, and acclimatise before the trekking begins. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

For these two days we will be trekking to the base of Turgen Mountain where, at the foot of the peak is a long glacier. The surrounds here are picturesque, the air clear and crisp with the mountain peak towering overhead in all its grandeur. Nomadic families of the area move their gers up into these valleys in the summer months to graze their herds of livestock. Since the journey to the glacier is quite a difficult one, the locals are delighted to meet any traveller who will take the time to come and visit them. We will enjoy true nomadic hospitality in this remote corner of the world with the Durvud minority group of Mongolia. But in the mountain area summer comes quite late so families come to their summer places late June. Each night will be staying in tented camps. All camping equipment and personal baggage will be carried by vehicles. On the second day we will trek in the mountain valley then slowly ascend the mountain. We will hike towards the snow capped peaks following the river upstream towards the glacier. We trek through the Urd Turgen Valley where the terrain is dry grassland scattered with large boulders. We set up our base camp for two nights, by the white water river as it flows through the deep gorge. First day trek: 12km (7.5mi) Second day trek: 15km (9.3mi) Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we will hike up the Urd Turgen Valley, crossing small mountain streams where wild flowers bloom in spring ands early summer. We may have to clamber over boulders to continue our hike to reach the origin of the river, the edge of the glacier. In the afternoon we will hike back to our base camp. Trek distance: 15-17km (9-10.5 mi) Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we will drive to Uureg lake, a beautiful, freshwater lake set amongst towering peaks and, to the north, the Russian border. We make camp by the lakeshore. Overnight: Tented ger

Meals: B,L,D

Enjoy a day of leisure with options to swim, fish, birdwatch or explore the lakeshore on foot. The mouth of the valley leading into the lake is lined with nomads’ summer gers. Meals and overnight at previous night ger. Overnight: Ger camp

Meals: B,L,D

Scenic drive to Olgii, the capital of Bayan-Olgii province, passing Achit Lake and Khovd River. We will be passing through changing ecosystems from semi desert area to steppe and mountainous steppe areas. Stay in a Kazakh ger camp near the river, the traditional dwelling of round shaped felt tent. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Over two days we will drive into the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. We will continue driving along the Khovd River and have lunch by the riverside. After lunch we continue our drive for around 130 kms, slowly ascending over 5-6 hours. We will camp in the mountain valley. The next day we will continue our driving until we reach our local Tuva family. Our drivers will make our camp near by the family, at 2600m (8530ft) above sea level. In the afternoon we will visit our camel man family, local Tuva family. Optional camel ride (at own cost). Altai Tavan Bogd is the highest mountain system in Mongolia. The name literally means Five Kings, as there are five peaks in the range itself. The highest peak is Huiten, which is elevated to 4350m above sea level. At the foot of Huiten peak is Potanin's Glacier. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today marks the start of our trekking journey through the remote Mongol Altai Mountains. Over the next three days, pack camels will carry all camping gear and food, allowing us to fully focus on the experience and walk with just a daypack. Expect 5–8 hours of walking per day through sweeping valleys and high alpine meadows framed by snow-capped peaks. Our objective today is the ascent and crossing of Tahilt Pass (3200m/10,498ft). This is a long and challenging day, with a total trekking distance of approximately 20km (12.4mi). The trail gradually steepens as we climb, with sections of snow and glacial terrain near the summit. From the top of the pass, we enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and a series of turquoise alpine lakes. The descent leads into the Tsagaan Us Valley, where we reach our campsite on a small plateau above a rushing mountain river. The setting is wild and serene, with wide views across the entire valley. Note: Waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended.. Trek distance: 20km (12.4mi) Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Over the next two days, we continue our trek through the scenic Tsagaan Us Valley, following the river as it winds through rolling hills and larch forest. Fed by glaciers from the peaks of the Altai Tavan Bogd, this river carves a dramatic path through a deep valley flanked by towering mountains. The trail leads us past countless cascades and tributary streams tumbling down from the slopes above. Wild and remote, this stretch offers a truly immersive alpine experience. On the afternoon of the second day, the landscape begins to open up as we leave the mountains behind. We meet our vehicles at the valley’s edge, farewell our camel crew, and continue by road a short distance to the shores of Khoton Lake, where we set up camp for the night. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today is free to explore the stunning alpine setting of Khoton Lake on foot. Nestled in a remote mountain basin, Khoton is a freshwater lake surrounded by forested slopes and backed by rugged peaks. To the east lies Khurgan Lake, connected to Khoton by a narrow channel. Both lakes are fed by glacial streams originating in the Altai Mountains, and together form the headwaters of the Khovd River. The terrain here is beautifully varied – from wooded lakeshores to wide open steppe – and the surrounding landscape offers plenty of walking options and photographic opportunities. Rising prominently beyond camp is Mt Ikh Turgen (3507m/11,506ft), its summit often catching the first light of dawn. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we drive back to Olgii, crossing streams that connect the two lakes. We will stop for lunch at the Mogoin River Gorge. Overnight: Ger

Meals: B,L,D

After transferring to the airport, we'll take a flight back to Ulaanbaatar this morning. The afternoon is free for you to unwind and watch the hustle and bustle of the city from one of its many sidewalk cafes. Alternatively, for the more active among us, a visit to the Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan is a great option. The palace was once home to Mongolia's eighth living Buddha, and last King -Jebutzun Damba Hutagt VIII- for 20 years until his passing in 1903. To end our trip, we'll gather together for a final farewell dinner at a local restaurant this evening. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast transfer to the airport for onward travel or join an optional Mongolia extension.

Meals: B

Expand all | Collapse all

After arriving at Ulaanbaatar Airport, we will transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon, we will explore the capital city, starting with Sukhbaatar Square, named after the revolutionary hero, Damdiny Sukhbaatar, who declared independence from China in 1921. Another important landmark on our orientation tour is the State Department Store, also known as the "Great Shop" in Mongolian. Please time your arrival to be in the city by lunchtime as typically we will meet at 2pm for the tour. We will return to the hotel in the late afternoon for some relaxation before a welcoming concert of traditional Mongolian music, followed by dinner and a briefing from your guide. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals: D

After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for our internal flight west to Ulaangom, the capital of Uvs Aimag (province). The flight takes approximately 3 hours. On arrival, meet our local drivers and continue to the nearby Naadam Festival grounds to join local celebrations of Mongolia’s National Holiday. Naadam is the most significant cultural event on the Mongolian calendar, celebrated across the country each July. It showcases the “Three Manly Sports” – horse racing, wrestling and archery – with deep roots in nomadic tradition. Spending Naadam in the countryside provides a rare opportunity to witness the festivities alongside local families and experience the strong sense of national pride and community spirit. Later in the afternoon, we’ll drive to a private tented camp near town where we settle in for the evening. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

We’ll spend the morning immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the Naadam Festival, joining local spectators as the final events unfold. The Festival concludes with the Winners’ Ceremony – a festive and colourful presentation honouring the champions of each sport. It’s a powerful display of community pride and tradition, and a unique chance to experience Mongolia’s living heritage at its most joyful and spirited. Later in the afternoon we will drive to local small hostel for the night. Overnight: Hostel

Meals: B,L,D

We drive into the Valley of the Turgen Mountains, making our way toward the serene shores of Khokh Lake. This remote alpine lake is nestled beneath towering ridgelines and surrounded by broad glacial valleys. We’ll establish our first wilderness camp in the eastern valley, close to the lake’s edge, a peaceful setting with dramatic mountain views and clear night skies. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we begin our trek toward the base of Turgen Mountain, where a sweeping glacier spills from the foot of the peak. The surrounding landscape is striking – wide open valleys, crisp mountain air, and the snow-capped summit rising dramatically above the terrain. During the summer months, local nomadic families move their gers into these high valleys to graze their livestock. The area is home to the Durvud, one of Mongolia’s minority groups, who are known for their warm hospitality and resilience in this rugged environment. Encounters with these herders offer an authentic glimpse into the rhythms of mountain life. We hike 12–15km today, beginning in open river valleys before gently ascending into the Urd Turgen Valley. The terrain shifts to dry grassland scattered with large boulders, framed by high ridgelines. All personal baggage and camping gear is transported by vehicle, allowing you to walk with just a daypack. Our base camp for the next two nights is set beside a fast-flowing river at the mouth of a deep gorge – a peaceful and dramatic location that sets the tone for the days ahead. Please note that during the trek, all camping equipment and personal baggage will be carried by vehicles. Trek distance: 12-15km / day Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s hike takes us deeper into the Urd Turgen Valley, following the river upstream through alpine meadows where wildflowers bloom in early summer. We cross several small mountain streams and may need to scramble over rocky sections as we make our way toward the river’s source at the edge of the glacier. After time to take in the dramatic setting, we return on foot to our base camp by the white water river. Trekking distance: 5-17km Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we set off on foot while our crew packs down the camp and prepares the vehicles. As we walk through the surrounding valley, the vehicles will meet us en route and we continue our journey by 4WD across striking mountain landscapes. By afternoon, we arrive at Uureg Lake – a pristine freshwater lake set beneath towering peaks, not far from the Russian border. We establish our camp on the lakeshore, with time to relax and enjoy the peaceful alpine surroundings. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Enjoy a day of leisure with options to swim, fish, birdwatch or explore the lakeshore on foot. The mouth of the valley leading into the lake is lined with nomads’ summer gers. Meals and overnight at previous night ger. Overnight: Ger camp

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we travel by vehicle from Uureg Lake to Olgii, the capital of Bayan-Olgii province. The journey takes us past Achit Lake and along the banks of the Khovd River, offering a changing landscape of semi-desert, open steppe and rugged mountain terrain. In Olgii, we settle into a Kazakh-style ger camp beside the river. These traditional felt tents reflect the unique cultural heritage of the region’s Kazakh community. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Over two days we will drive into the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. We will continue driving along the Khovd River and have lunch by the riverside. After lunch we continue our drive for around 130 kms, slowly ascending over 5-6 hours. We will camp in the mountain valley. The next day we will continue our driving until we reach our local Tuva family. Our drivers will make our camp near by the family, at 2600m (8530ft) above sea level. In the afternoon we will visit our camel man family, local Tuva family. Optional camel ride (at own cost). Altai Tavan Bogd is the highest mountain system in Mongolia. The name literally means Five Kings, as there are five peaks in the range itself. The highest peak is Huiten, which is elevated to 4350m above sea level. At the foot of Huiten peak is Potanin's Glacier. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today marks the start of our trekking journey through the remote Mongol Altai Mountains. Over the next three days, pack camels will carry all camping gear and food, allowing us to fully focus on the experience and walk with just a daypack. Expect 5–8 hours of walking per day through sweeping valleys and high alpine meadows framed by snow-capped peaks. Our objective today is the ascent and crossing of Tahilt Pass (3200m/10,498ft). This is a long and challenging day, with a total trekking distance of approximately 20km (12.4mi). The trail gradually steepens as we climb, with sections of snow and glacial terrain near the summit. From the top of the pass, we enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and a series of turquoise alpine lakes. The descent leads into the Tsagaan Us Valley, where we reach our campsite on a small plateau above a rushing mountain river. The setting is wild and serene, with wide views across the entire valley. Note: Waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended. Trek distance: 20km (12.4mi) Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

We continue our trek through the scenic Tsagaan Us Valley, following the glacial river as it winds through rolling hills and stands of larch forest. Originating from the Altai Tavan Bogd peaks, the river carves a dramatic course through a steep valley framed by towering mountains. The trail passes numerous cascades and alpine streams spilling down from the surrounding slopes, creating a soundtrack of rushing water throughout the day. Wild, remote and strikingly beautiful, this section offers a deep immersion into Mongolia’s high alpine wilderness. Tonight’s campsite is set beside a small heart-shaped lake – a peaceful spot with sweeping views across the valley. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we make a short walk out of the mountains into more open country, where we reunite with our vehicles and begin the drive to the shores of Khoton Lake. Nestled in a mountain basin and surrounded by forested peaks, Khoton is a pristine freshwater lake fed by rivers and streams from the Altai Mountains. It is linked by a narrow channel to neighbouring Khurgan Lake, and together they form the source of the Khovd River. Our camp is set on the southern shore of Khoton, where dense woodland contrasts beautifully with the open steppe stretching out along the northern lakeshore. Towering above it all is Mt Ikh Turgen (3507m / 11,506ft), rising dramatically near camp. This afternoon, we may have the opportunity to visit a local Kazakh family and experience a culture distinct from Mongolia’s other nomadic groups. Though their lifestyle shares many similarities, the Kazakhs are traditionally Muslim and speak their own language. Their gers are decorated with vibrant handcrafted felt work – rugs, stitched wall hangings, and appliqué – showcasing remarkable textile artistry passed down through generations. Overnight: Tented camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today is free to explore the stunning alpine setting of Khoton Lake on foot. Nestled in a remote mountain basin, Khoton is a freshwater lake surrounded by forested slopes and backed by rugged peaks. To the east lies Khurgan Lake, connected to Khoton by a narrow channel. Both lakes are fed by glacial streams originating in the Altai Mountains, and together form the headwaters of the Khovd River. The terrain here is beautifully varied – from wooded lakeshores to wide open steppe – and the surrounding landscape offers plenty of walking options and photographic opportunities. Rising prominently beyond camp is Mt Ikh Turgen (3507m/11,506ft), its summit often catching the first light of dawn. Overnight: Ger camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we drive back to Olgii, crossing streams that connect the two lakes. We will stop for lunch at the Mogoin River Gorge. Overnight: Ger

Meals: B,L,D

After transferring to the airport, we'll take a flight back to Ulaanbaatar this morning. The afternoon is free for you to unwind and watch the hustle and bustle of the city from one of its many sidewalk cafes. Alternatively, for the more active among us, a visit to the Winter Palace of Bogd Khaan is a great option. The palace was once home to Mongolia's eighth living Buddha, and last King -Jebutzun Damba Hutagt VIII- for 20 years until his passing in 1903. To end our trip, we'll gather together for a final farewell dinner at a local restaurant this evening. Overnight: Bayangol Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast transfer to the airport for onward travel or join an optional Mongolia extension.

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

  • 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 17 dinners
  • flights Ulaanbaatar/Khovd and Ulgii to Ulaanbaatar valued at US$750
  • camel/porter support during trek
  • airport transfers on day 1 & day 18
  • expert bilingual guide
  • comfortable well located hotels and hostels
  • 80l World Expeditions kit bag for use during the trip
  • fully supported camping during trek
  • private vehicles
  • sightseeing as listed in itinerary
  • site entry fees
  • On the Naadam festival itinerary, we'll trek for 5 days to fully experience the festival.

Not included

  • Sleeping bag – available for hire when booked in advance
  • Guests can choose to hire a horse to ride during the trekking sections. Please ask your Adventure Travel Consultant for details
  • Tips
  • International airfares and departure taxes
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance

Reviews (15)

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