Western Mongolia Explorer





Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Western Mongolia, home to the majestic Altai Mountains, stunning alpine lakes, and diverse ethnic cultures. This 10-day adventure will take you through some of Mongolia's most breathtaking landscapes while introducing you to the unique traditions of Kazakh eagle hunters and local nomadic communities.
Western Mongolia is the most ethnically diverse and mountainous region of the country. Here you'll find spectacular mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and fascinating cultures that have preserved their traditional ways of life for centuries.
Tour Highlights
- Explore the stunning Altai Tavan Bogd National Park with its snow-capped peaks
- Meet authentic Kazakh eagle hunters and learn about their ancient traditions
- Stay with local nomadic families in traditional gers (yurts)
- Visit beautiful Khoton and Khurgan Lakes surrounded by mountains
- Discover the ancient petroglyphs at Tsagaan Salaa
- Witness the diverse landscapes of Altai Mountains, alpine lakes, and vast steppes
- Experience the rich cultural heritage of Western Mongolia's ethnic groups
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Upon arrival at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, you'll be greeted by our guide and transferred to your hotel in Ulaanbaatar. After check-in and some rest, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring traditional Mongolian cuisine while getting an introductory briefing about your upcoming adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ulaanbaatar
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Fly to Ulgii, Western Mongolia
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Ulgii, the capital of Bayan-Ulgii province. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and driver, then visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. In the afternoon, start your journey toward Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, making camp near a local Kazakh family.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Eagle Hunter Experience
Spend the day with a Kazakh eagle hunter family, learning about their unique lifestyle and ancient hunting traditions. Witness eagle hunting demonstrations and get a chance to hold a trained golden eagle (weight permitting). The Kazakhs of Western Mongolia are one of the few remaining cultures that still practice this traditional form of hunting.
Accommodation: Ger camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Journey to Khoton Lake
Travel through stunning mountain landscapes to reach the beautiful Khoton Lake. The drive offers spectacular views of the Altai Mountains and traditional nomadic settlements along the way. Upon arrival, set up camp by the lakeshore and enjoy some free time to explore the area, hike, or fish in the crystal-clear waters.
Accommodation: Tent camp by the lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Khoton and Khurgan Lakes Exploration
Spend the day exploring the twin lakes of Khoton and Khurgan. These pristine alpine lakes are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush meadows. Take a boat ride across the lake (weather permitting) and hike to a nearby viewpoint for panoramic vistas of this spectacular landscape.
Accommodation: Tent camp by the lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Tsagaan Salaa Petroglyphs
Drive to the Tsagaan Salaa valley to see ancient rock art dating back to the Bronze Age. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains thousands of petroglyphs depicting wildlife, hunting scenes, and daily life from prehistoric times. After exploring the site, continue to a nearby valley to camp for the night.
Accommodation: Tent camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Altai Tavan Bogd Base Camp
Travel to the base camp area of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, home to Mongolia's highest peaks. If weather permits, trek to a viewpoint to see Khuiten Peak (4,374m), Mongolia's highest mountain. The area is known for its stunning alpine scenery, glaciers, and diverse wildlife.
Accommodation: Tent camp at base camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Shiveet Khairkhan Mountain
Visit the sacred Shiveet Khairkhan Mountain, an important spiritual site for local people. The mountain features ancient deer stone monuments and is home to wild argali sheep. Spend time hiking in the area and visiting local Tuvan families who maintain distinct traditions and customs.
Accommodation: Ger with a local family
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Return to Ulgii
Begin your journey back to Ulgii, stopping at scenic spots and nomadic settlements along the way. Upon arrival in Ulgii, explore the local market and shop for traditional Kazakh handicrafts such as embroidery and felt products. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Kazakh music and dance performances.
Accommodation: Local hotel or ger camp in Ulgii
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Fly Back to Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, transfer to the Ulgii airport for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel or to the international airport for your departure flight, depending on your travel plans.
Meals: Breakfast
What's Included
Included
- All accommodations (hotel in UB, ger camps, and tents)
- Domestic flights (Ulaanbaatar-Ulgii-Ulaanbaatar)
- All transportation within Mongolia
- English-speaking guide throughout the tour
- Local Kazakh guide in Western Mongolia
- All meals as specified in the itinerary
- All sightseeing and entrance fees
- Eagle hunting demonstration
- Bottled water during the trip
- Airport transfers
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Mongolian visa fees
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Any services not mentioned in the inclusions