Hiking in Mongolia between steppes and sacred lakes

Before leaving Ulaanbaatar, visit Gandantegchinlen Monastery, the country's main Buddhist center. Every morning, the monks gather there for prayers and, depending on their availability, may be able to discuss Buddhist practices in Mongolia with you.

You then take the road towards the Amarbayasgalant monastery, one of the most important in the country. Built in the 18th century in homage to the first Bogd Gegeen Zanabazar, spiritual leader of Mongolian Buddhism, this remarkable site is nestled in the north of Selenge province, in an exceptional natural environment.

In the morning, we explored the Amarbayasgalant Monastery. Built nearly three centuries ago, this remarkable complex captivates visitors with its architectural harmony. Primarily inspired by Chinese design, it also incorporates Mongolian and Tibetan influences. Constructed according to a symmetrical plan, the complex is organized around a main north-south axis flanked by parallel secondary buildings.

Today, 28 buildings remain, including a two-story temple still used for worship, testifying to the spiritual vitality of the place.

The road continues through wheat fields and vast agricultural lands to Erdenet, one of the country's main economic centers, renowned for its immense open-pit copper mine, among the largest in Mongolia.

Next, we head towards the Uran Togoo Volcanoes National Park. The Uran Uul volcano, undoubtedly the most iconic in the country, was active 20 to 25 million years ago. Ancient lava flows have shaped a particularly fertile environment, now boasting abundant flora and fauna in a gently rolling, verdant landscape.

In the morning, hike to the heights of Uran Uul to enjoy a sweeping panorama of the volcanic region. The trail winds through Siberian larch forests before reaching the crater. Along the way, you'll observe diverse flora and discreet fauna, including birds and insects. At the bottom of the crater, a small lake surrounded by dense vegetation creates a peaceful and pristine natural setting.

You then continue to Lake Khövsgöl, one of Mongolia's most beautiful natural gems. This vast mountain lake, with its crystal-clear waters, covers 2,760 km². It is bordered by peaks rising to over 2,000 meters, covered in pine forests and meadows where yaks and horses roam freely. The whole area offers a serene mountain setting.

Head east towards the verdant valleys of Alag Sar, before settling into a small yurt camp on the lake's edge. A calm and unspoiled environment, ideal for fully appreciating the beauty of Khövsgöl.

Join local herders and their yaks for a day's hike, on foot or horseback, through the wooded valleys of Alag Tsar. At the leisurely pace of the cart, you'll explore a landscape deeply shaped by nomadic life. In summer, the meadows are ablaze with wildflowers, and it's not uncommon to walk through a carpet of edelweiss. To the west, on the opposite shore, peaks rising to over 3,000 meters are reflected in the lake's crystal-clear waters, creating a serene mountain landscape.

At the end of the day, you set up your yurt alongside the herders—the one you carried throughout the day—and in which you will spend the night. A simple and authentic moment of sharing, as close as possible to the nomadic way of life.

Along the way, you will discover the site of the deer stelae of Uushigiin Övör, a remarkable megalithic complex where tall stones finely engraved with animal motifs bear witness to an ancestral spiritual heritage.

A stop in Mörön allows you to stock up on fresh supplies at the local market, before having lunch in town and continuing your journey.

You then continue your journey towards the center of the country. The track crosses several high mountain passes, exceeding 2,000 meters in places, and traverses isolated valleys with constantly changing landscapes.

As the kilometers pass, the panoramas change, offering numerous opportunities to pause and admire and photograph these vast natural environments.

You'll travel towards Khorgo Nature Park – Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, perched at an altitude of 2,060 meters. Nicknamed "the great white lake," this vast body of water, surrounded by volcanic landscapes, is one of the iconic sites of Arkhangai province. This stop immerses you in a natural environment shaped by ancient lava formations and the tranquility of the lake's waters.

You'll spend the night with a nomadic family living in the mountainous part of the park. This is a unique opportunity to share their daily life and gain a better understanding of the herders' way of life in the heart of this unique volcanic landscape.

You follow the shores of the lake southeast, towards the Khorgo volcano, which rises to 2,240 meters. Its gradual ascent offers opportunities to admire the surrounding landscapes throughout the climb. From the summit, a vast panorama unfolds, encompassing the lake and the surrounding hills.

Near the volcano, the ancient lava flows create a striking mineral landscape, contrasting with the previous stages and enriching your exploration of the park.

You spend the night in a pleasant yurt camp set up on the edge of the lake, a peaceful setting conducive to contemplating the natural landscapes.

You continue your journey through the heart of Arkhangai, across vast steppes inhabited by numerous herding families, where yaks and herds graze freely. A stop in Tsetserleg, a charming little town nestled in a setting of larch-covered mountains, allows you to discover the peaceful atmosphere of the region.

You can pick up some supplies at the local market before visiting the Zayan Gegeen Museum, which offers an insight into local history and cultural traditions.

At the end of the day, arrival at the Tsenkher hot springs. You enjoy the camp's hot water baths, renowned for their relaxing properties, in a natural setting conducive to rest and relaxation.

Head towards the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A major center of Mongolian nomadism, this vast plain hosts the camps of herding families every summer, in a setting of undulating meadows and winding rivers.

On the way, an excursion to Tovkhon Monastery. The ascent is on foot to the summit of Öndör Ulaan Hill, where this historically significant hermitage is nestled. It was here that Zanabazar, the first spiritual leader of Mongolia, created the Soyombo alphabet. Located at an altitude of 2,312 meters, the site offers a breathtaking panorama of the Khangai Mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the vast Orkhon Valley.

Upon arrival, you will be settled in with a nomadic herding family for a two-night stay. This immersive experience invites you to share their daily life and discover the practices of an ancestral way of living. Depending on the season, you may be able to watch the animals being milked, participate in the preparation of traditional dairy products, or accompany the herds on horseback.

An authentic experience at the heart of Mongolian pastoral life.

For those who wish, a horseback ride along the Orkhon Valley takes you from the campsite to the falls. It is also possible to reach the site on foot, via a walk of approximately 6 km, or by vehicle.

You'll discover the Ulan Tsutgalaan waterfalls, where crystal-clear waters cascade over a dark rock face. In the sunlight, a rainbow can sometimes appear amidst the spray. These 16-meter-high falls were formed nearly 20,000 years ago, following seismic activity and volcanic eruptions.

At the end of the day, you witness the preparation of a Mongolian barbecue, which you then share with your hosts in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

You're heading towards Karakorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire. Founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan, the city was a major crossroads on the Silk Road and the political center of a vast empire, before Kublai Khan moved the capital to Beijing. Today, only a few remnants recall the past grandeur of this legendary city.

You will visit the Erdene Zuu monastery, founded in 1586. The first major Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, it is distinguished by its architecture with Chinese and Tibetan influences, surrounded by an enclosure punctuated by 108 sacred stupas.

The discovery continues at the Karakorum Museum, which traces the fascinating history of the ancient capital and its region.

You then continue your journey towards the Khogno Khan rock formations. This natural park surprises with the diversity of its landscapes: semi-desert steppes, taiga areas, granite formations, and a long strip of sand stretching for nearly 80 kilometers. This region, often nicknamed "the mini Gobi," offers a striking contrast.

A walk finally leads you to the Erdene Khambiin monastery, built in the 17th century on the mountainside by Zanabazar in honor of his spiritual master. A peaceful place, conducive to contemplation, in the heart of a spectacular rocky landscape.

In the morning, you will enjoy a camel ride in the heart of the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes, discovering the arid landscapes of the Bayan desert, where expanses of sand, steppes and rocky reliefs mingle.

You then take the road back to Ulaanbaatar. Along the way, the last herds of horses and yurts scattered across the vast steppes accompany your progress to the outskirts of the capital.

Upon arrival in the city centre, check into your hotel and enjoy some rest after your journey.

The rest of the day is free. Alongside your guide, you can stroll through the city's shops for your last purchases and enjoy a final immersion in the vibrant atmosphere of Ulaanbaatar.

1. After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Ulaanbaatar International Airport. The return transfer will be arranged to coincide with your flight schedule to ensure a smooth departure.