120 km ride in the legendary Orkhon Valley
In summary
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Sports
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Duration9 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationAsia / Mongolia
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AgeFrom 7 - 60 years
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CO₂-Emissions479.87 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
In a few words
In the heart of the Orkhon Valley , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this trip offers an immersive horseback riding experience in one of Mongolia 's most iconic landscapes. The historical cradle of great nomadic empires , this region reveals spectacular natural beauty, with vast steppes , winding rivers , and the verdant hills of the Khangai Mountains.
At your horse 's pace, you'll traverse vast, unspoiled landscapes where nomadic culture remains deeply rooted. Each stop offers the opportunity to meet nomadic herding families , guardians of traditions passed down through generations. Their hospitality , their daily lives, and their close relationship with horses provide an authentic glimpse into this ancestral way of life.
This equestrian adventure combines exploration , cultural encounters , and immersion in wild nature . Between history, magnificent landscapes, and living traditions, the Orkhon Valley reveals the richness of Mongolian heritage and the unique spirit of the great steppes of Central Asia .
The highlights
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In the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site
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Horseback riding in the majestic landscapes of the Khangai
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Relax in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters
Photos
Sport
Level
Horseback riding
In figures
Horseback riding
- Average duration/day: 3h30
Management
Program
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Ulaanbaatar
- Transportation Car - 01h - 50km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
The day begins gently with an exploration of Ulaanbaatar, the Mongolian capital. After breakfast, take some time to visit the city, stroll through its streets, and discover its main cultural and historical sites. You can visit Gandan Monastery, explore Sükhbaatar Square, or visit the National Museum to gain a deeper understanding of Mongolian history and traditions.
This day will also be an opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of the capital, a blend of Mongolian traditions and modernity, before continuing your adventure into the vast landscapes of the country. A wonderful introduction to Mongolian culture and a first taste of the unique ambiance of this destination.
Day 1 -
The Orkhon Valley
- Transportation Car - 05h30 - 400km
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The adventure begins in the heart of the Orkhon Valley, at the home of Khishgee, a nomadic family who welcome us to share their daily life and introduce us to the ancestral traditions of Mongolia. In this exceptional natural setting, surrounded by vast steppes and free-roaming herds, we take the time to get to know our hosts and immerse ourselves in their way of life.
This initial immersion is also an opportunity to meet the horses and prepare for the next stages of our journey. Following the rhythm of nomadic life, we discover a daily existence closely linked to nature, the seasons, and the animals. An authentic and welcoming introduction, before setting off to explore the magnificent landscapes of the Orkhon Valley on horseback.
Day 2 -
Horseback riding in the heart of the Orkhon Valley
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast with Khishgee and his nomadic family, we rejoin our horses to continue our trek through the magnificent Orkhon Valley. At our own pace, we cross vast grasslands, follow the river, and discover the rolling landscapes that make this iconic region of Mongolia so beautiful.
Throughout the day, we may encounter herds of horses, yaks, and sheep, evidence of a pastoral way of life still deeply rooted in local traditions. Breaks offer the opportunity to fully appreciate the tranquility of the wide-open spaces and to chat with our team of equestrian guides.
At the end of the day, we meet up with a nomadic family to share a friendly moment and savor Mongolian hospitality. A new stage in the heart of nomadic life, between wild nature, human encounters, and the freedom of riding a horse.
Day 3 -
On horseback to Baaska's place
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we resume our horseback trek through the magnificent landscapes of the Orkhon Valley. Along the trails, we cross vast green meadows, follow the river, and ride among herds grazing freely in these wide open Mongolian spaces.
The day unfolds at the pace of the horses, amidst sweeping panoramas and encounters with the nomadic families who live in the heart of this valley. Little by little, we continue our journey until we reach Baaska, which welcomes us for the next leg of our adventure.
Upon arrival, we explore the surroundings and share a glimpse of nomadic life, an opportunity to learn about local traditions and the daily lives of Mongolian herders. The evening continues in a convivial atmosphere, thanks to the warm hospitality of our hosts, before another night in the heart of the Orkhon steppes.
Day 4 -
Riding on horseback through the Orkhon Valley, meeting a new nomadic family
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We continue our horseback trek through the wild landscapes of the Orkhon Valley. Throughout the day, we cross verdant meadows, ford small streams, and move at the pace of our horses, in the heart of the vast Mongolian open spaces.
This leg of the journey gradually leads us towards the Tövkhön monastery region, where we will soon meet up with Naigal. Along the way, we stop at the home of another nomadic family, settled between Baaska and Naigal, to discover a new facet of traditional Mongolian life.
Warmly welcomed by our hosts, we share their daily life, discover their customs, and enjoy an evening immersed in nature. This night with a nomadic family will be a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic Mongolian traditions and hospitality firsthand, before resuming our journey the next day towards Naigal.
Day 5 -
Heading towards Tövkhön Monastery and meeting with Naigal
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we continue our journey through the wild landscapes of the Orkhon Valley, heading towards the Tövkhön Monastery, nestled atop a mountain. Founded by Zanabazar, this place steeped in history and spirituality is a true haven of peace, surrounded by forests and mountains.
Once we arrived near the monastery, we took the time to explore this remarkable site and enjoy the exceptional panoramic views of the Khangai mountains. From the heights, the deep forests and valleys seemed to stretch to infinity, offering an unforgettable natural spectacle.
In the afternoon, we descend back into the vast steppe to meet Naigal and his nomadic family, who welcome us for the night. This encounter offers an opportunity to discover their daily life, share a convivial moment, and continue our immersion in Mongolian traditions, in the heart of unspoiled nature.
Day 6 -
Relaxation at the Tsagaansum hot springs
- Transportation Car - 02h - 50km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After several days of horseback riding through the Orkhon Valley, we leave our nomadic family in the morning and resume our journey by vehicle towards the Tsagaansum hot springs.
Upon arrival, we settle into a pleasant resort, nestled in the heart of the Mongolian countryside, to enjoy a well-deserved break. The naturally warm, mineral-rich waters invite relaxation and allow our muscles to unwind after long hours in the saddle.
This day offers a welcome contrast to the previous stages: after the vastness of the steppes and nomadic life, it's time for rest and well-being in a natural setting conducive to relaxation. A pleasant interlude to recharge and fully savor this Mongolian adventure.
Day 7 -
Return to Ulaanbaatar
- Transportation Car - 06h - 480km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, we set off towards Ulaanbaatar, the Mongolian capital. We gradually leave behind the wide open spaces of the countryside and the wild landscapes that have accompanied us throughout this adventure.
Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, we are immediately immersed in the city's vibrant atmosphere, a blend of Mongolian traditions and modern life. We check into our hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to explore the capital, perhaps do some souvenir shopping or savor a final meal of local flavors.
A beautiful conclusion to this Mongolian adventure, rich in discoveries, encounters and unforgettable memories.
Day 8 -
Departure from Ulaanbaatar
- Transportation Car - 01h30 - 50km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Ulaanbaatar International Airport for your departure.
Day 9
Accommodation
- Twin room
- Triple room
- Quadruple room
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Domestic transport in Mongolia as described in the itinerary
- Arrival and departure transfers
- All accommodations as indicated in the itinerary
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Mineral water
- 4-day horseback riding trip
- All excursions, entrance fees and visits described in the itinerary
- 4-day horseback riding guide
- French- or English-speaking guide-interpreter during the tour
- Driver and his vehicle/UAZ van or Hyundai Starex/ during the tour
- Sleeping bag if needed
The price does not include
- Single room supplement
- International flight tickets
- Passport and visa fees
- Medical and travel insurance
- Evacuation/repatriation costs
- Airport taxes
- Excess baggage fees
- Photography and video fees
- Articles of a personal nature
- Alcoholic beverages
- Laundry and phone calls
- Other fees not specifically mentioned as included
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Sleeping bag (if needed)
- Meat bag (if needed)
- Riding helmet or riding hat recommended for safety while riding (rental available on site: €10)
- Camping tables and stools
Equipment to bring
- Sleeping bag suitable for nighttime temperatures (recommended comfort: 0°C to -5°C depending on the season)
- Sleeping bag liner (sleeping bag sheet) for added comfort and hygiene
- Small backpack for carrying your personal belongings during the day
- Reusable water bottle or flask
- Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm for sun protection
- Camera or phone, with an external battery for charging on the go
- Binoculars for observing wildlife and the landscape
- Personal first aid kit and individual medications
- Toiletry kit including biodegradable wipes, biodegradable solid soap, towel, toothbrush, etc.
- Mosquito repellent spray or cream
Clothing to bring
- Comfortable pants for hiking and evenings at camp
- Riding breeches (bring 2 pairs)
- Sturdy closed shoes, suitable for walking on varied terrain
- Riding boots or shoes (avoid wide hiking boots that get in the way in the stirrups)
- Riding chaps for added comfort and leg protection
- Sandals or light shoes for camping and relaxation
- Windproof or waterproof jacket to protect against the elements
- A sweater or fleece jacket for cool evenings
- Breathable long-sleeved T-shirts to protect against the sun and insects
- Riding helmet or riding hat for safety while riding. Please check that it can be easily carried in your luggage.
- Hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun
- Lightweight gloves (optional, but recommended for horseback riding)
- A scarf or bandana to protect oneself from the sun and dust
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