Lake Khövsgöl Explorer

8 Days Northern Mongolia 4.9/5 (22 Reviews)

From $1,780 per person

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Tour Overview

Experience the pristine beauty of Lake Khövsgöl, known as the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia" on this 8-day adventure through Northern Mongolia. This crystal-clear alpine lake holds 1% of the world's freshwater and is surrounded by magnificent mountains, dense forests, and diverse ecosystems. Journey through Mongolia's northernmost province to discover Tsaatan reindeer herders, boat across Mongolia's largest freshwater lake, and explore the stunning Khoridal Saridag Mountains that form part of the sacred Siberian taiga forest.

Tour Highlights

  • Cruise the crystal-clear waters of Lake Khövsgöl, Mongolia's largest freshwater lake
  • Meet and stay with Tsaatan reindeer herders, one of the world's last nomadic reindeer-herding cultures
  • Trek through the pristine taiga forest of Khoridal Saridag Mountains
  • Visit ancient shamanic sites and witness traditional rituals
  • Horseback ride along scenic lakeshores and mountain ridges
  • Explore the rich biodiversity of Khövsgöl National Park

Duration

8 Days / 7 Nights

Group Size

2-10 People

Difficulty

Moderate

Accommodation

Hotels, Ger Camps, Camping

Transport

4WD Vehicles, Boat

2023 Departure Dates

June 15-22, July 12-19, August 8-15, September 2-9

Itinerary

Day 1: Ulaanbaatar

Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and transfer to your hotel. After check-in and some rest, enjoy a half-day city tour including Gandan Monastery, the National Museum of Mongolia, and Sukhbaatar Square. In the evening, attend a traditional folk performance followed by a welcome dinner featuring Mongolian cuisine. Overnight at a comfortable hotel in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 2: Ulaanbaatar to Khövsgöl

Morning flight to Murun, the capital of Khövsgöl province. Drive to Lake Khövsgöl (100 km) through beautiful steppe landscapes. Upon arrival at the lake, check in at a comfortable ger camp on the lakeshore. Afternoon walk along the beautiful shoreline to take in the magnificent views of this pristine lake. Enjoy dinner at the camp restaurant and overnight in traditional Mongolian gers.

Day 3: Southern Khövsgöl Lake Exploration

After breakfast, embark on a boat trip across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Khövsgöl. Visit Khankh village on the northern shore and learn about the local ecology at the Khövsgöl Biosphere Center. In the afternoon, enjoy hiking along the forested mountain trails with spectacular views of the lake. Return to the ger camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Journey to Tsaatan Community

Drive to Tsagaan Nuur village, the gateway to the Tsaatan community. From here, we'll transfer to horseback for the journey to the Tsaatan camp (approximately 4-5 hours riding through taiga forest). Meet the Tsaatan reindeer herders, one of the world's last remaining reindeer-herding nomadic cultures. Learn about their unique lifestyle and their deep connection with reindeer. Overnight in a traditional Tsaatan tepee (ortz) or camping tent near the community.

Day 5: Living with the Reindeer Herders

Spend a full day with the Tsaatan community, learning about their daily activities, participating in reindeer herding, and understanding their shamanic traditions. Try milking reindeer and taste traditional Tsaatan foods. In the evening, enjoy a special demonstration of traditional music and stories around the campfire. Second night with the Tsaatan community.

Day 6: Return to Lake Khövsgöl

Bid farewell to the Tsaatan community and ride back to Tsagaan Nuur. Drive to a different ger camp on the eastern shore of Lake Khövsgöl. En route, visit Uushigiin Deer Stone complex, featuring ancient megalithic monuments dating back to the Bronze Age. After arrival at the camp, relax by the lake or enjoy optional fishing. Overnight at the ger camp.

Day 7: Khoridal Saridag Mountains

Full-day trek in the pristine Khoridal Saridag Mountains that form part of the Siberian taiga ecosystem. Explore diverse flora and fauna of the region, including possibilities to spot ibex, argali sheep, and numerous bird species. Visit a sacred shamanic site and learn about traditional Mongolian nature worship. Return to the ger camp for a farewell dinner featuring freshly caught fish from the lake. Final night at the ger camp.

Day 8: Return to Ulaanbaatar

After breakfast, drive back to Murun for the return flight to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, transfer to your hotel or to the airport for your departure flight. Tour concludes.

What's Included

Included

  • Airport transfers in Ulaanbaatar
  • Domestic flights (Ulaanbaatar-Murun-Ulaanbaatar)
  • All ground transportation in 4WD vehicles
  • Experienced English-speaking guide throughout
  • Local guides and horsemen during Tsaatan visit
  • All meals (B/L/D) as per itinerary
  • Hotel accommodation in Ulaanbaatar (2 nights)
  • Ger camp accommodation (4 nights)
  • Camping/local accommodation with Tsaatan (1 night)
  • Horseback riding to Tsaatan community
  • Boat trip on Lake Khövsgöl
  • All national park entrance fees
  • Cultural performances and demonstrations
  • Drinking water throughout the tour

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Mongolian visa fees (if applicable)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
  • Photography fees at museums

Book Your Adventure

Secure your place on this unforgettable journey to Lake Khövsgöl and the Tsaatan reindeer herders. Limited spaces ensure an authentic experience in one of Mongolia's most pristine environments.