Perfume of Mongolia
Between infinite steppes and sacred mountains, Mongolia reveals its nomadic secrets at the pace of wild horses.
Duration
10 days
From
€1,390/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
At dawn, before the pastures of the Orkhon Valley, Przewalski's horses gallop freely toward their watering points. The smoke from yurts rises into the crystalline air while the diphonic chants of shepherds gathering their herds echo around.
This Mongolian journey leads from Ulan Bator, a capital with Buddhist monasteries heavy with incense, to the high-altitude lakes of Naiman Nuur where eight mirrors of pure water shimmer at 2,800 meters. Between the two, Karakorum unveils the remains of Genghis Khan's empire, while the perched monastery of Tovkhon offers its panoramas over the Khangai range. The Ulan Tsutgalaan waterfalls cascade their 16 meters of volcanic rock, and the dunes of Elsen Tasarkhai undulate in the heart of the semi-deserts.
This land carries the heritage of Mongolian peoples, from the Soyombo alphabet carved by Zanabazar to the shamanic rituals perpetuated in remote valleys. Nomadic families perpetuate morning milking, the making of airag and khorkhog barbecues shared under the stars. A journey where each yurt tells a thousand years of nomadic history.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome and discoveries in Ulan Bator
Arrival in Ulan Bator, the Mongolian capital, where vast steppes gradually give way to an amazing city, combining Soviet heritage, nomadic traditions and emerging modernity. Welcome by your driver and transfer to the city center, your first glimpse of this fascinating destination with already captivating landscapes. Check-in at your hotel and rest (early check-in not included).
Meet at noon at your hotel, where your guide will greet you before accompanying you to a local restaurant for lunch. This first moment of exchange is an opportunity to get to know each other, discover the highlights of your adventure and slowly immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Mongolie.
Dive into the heart of Mongolian history during a visit to the National History Museum. Spread over several floors, the museum traces the rich past of the country, from the first nomadic civilizations to the Soviet period, passing through the rise of the great empire founded by Genghis Khan. A fascinating visit to better understand the identity and culture of Mongolia.
Walk through the downtown area of Ulaanbaatar to discover the famous Sukhbaatar Square, heart of the capital dominated by the imposing statue of Genghis Khan. You will also observe the Mongolian Parliament and the hustle and bustle of this amazing city, between Soviet heritage and nomadic culture.
Around 6:00 PM, you attend a traditional Mongolian show at Tumen Ekh, famous for its performances blending folk dances, traditional music, contortion acts and khoomi, the fascinating Mongolian throat singing inscribed in intangible cultural heritage.
Observation of Przewalski's Horses
Discovery of the Gandantegchinlen monastery, the country's main Buddhist center. Every morning, monks gather there for prayers in an atmosphere filled with serenity. This visit also allows you to learn more about Mongolian Buddhism and freely exchange with people present on the site.
Oulan Bator → Parc national de Khustai
Road heading to the Khustai nuruu national park, a vast protected territory famous for being home to the last Przewalski's horses, called locally Takhi. Successfully reintroduced into the Mongolian steppes, these wild horses now roam in complete freedom.
At the end of the day, when the light becomes softer and the animals more active, a walk takes you to their usual watering point. You will then be able to observe them discreetly in their natural environment, in the heart of the vast Mongolian spaces.
In the old capital of Genghis Khan
Orkhon Valley → Kharkhorin
You head to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongols. Founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan, this iconic city was one of the major stops on the Silk Road. It was from Karakorum that the Mongol empire was administered until the capital was transferred to Beijing by Kublai Khan. Today, only a few remains of the capital survive, reflecting the historical importance of this place marked by the passage of the great khans.
Visit to the Erdene zuu monastery, built in 1586 by a nomadic prince. The complex, inspired by Chinese and Tibetan architecture, is surrounded by 108 sacred stupas, which testify to the spiritual importance of the site. The discovery continues at the Karakorum museum, dedicated to the history of the ancient capital and its region.
Stay with the nomads of the Orkhon
You leave the road to join the tracks and fully enjoy the natural landscapes. The route runs along the Orkhon canyons and the verdant steppe where herds of nomadic families roam. You are then welcomed by an herding family in the heart of the Orkhon Valley, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Orkhon Valley → Тovkhon
On the way, you make a stop for an excursion to the Tövkhön monastery. The climb to the summit of Öndör Ulaan hill, accessible only on foot, leads to the Tovkhon hermitage, where Zanabazar, Mongolia's first religious leader, composed the Soyombo script. Located at 2,312 m altitude, the site reveals a vast panorama over the Khangai range. You enjoy a picnic in this exceptional setting, with the Orkhon valley below.
2-night stay with a nomadic herding family. You will discover the nomadic way of life and share their daily routine in all simplicity. Depending on the season, you may be offered the opportunity to participate in animal milking, traditional dairy product making or even herding livestock on horseback.
(Activities subject to seasonality)
Visit to Orkhon Falls
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon cascades
Those who wish can set off on a horseback ride along the Orkhon Valley from the camp to the Orkhon Falls.
For others, it is possible to reach the falls on a hike of approximately 6 km, or by vehicle depending on your preferences.
Visit to the Ulan Tsutgalaan waterfalls, where a clear flow cascades over dark stone, sometimes crossed by a ray of sunlight that creates an ephemeral rainbow. Standing 16 meters high, they were formed nearly 20,000 years ago, as a result of a rare combination of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
At the end of the day, you attend the preparation of a Mongolian barbecue (Khorkhog ), then share this traditional meal with your hosts in a warm atmosphere.
Discovering the High-Altitude Region of the 8 Lakes
Orkhon Valley → Naiman nuur
You progress towards the Khangaï mountains, where the trail becomes more demanding due to the passage of a pass culminating at 2,800 metres. As you climb, the landscapes gain in relief until reaching the very remote Naiman nuur national park, "eight lakes", a high-altitude territory composed of larch forests and lakes nestled between the reliefs.
This elevated region remains cool for much of the year: it is not uncommon for snow to fall there still in the month of June, or from mid-August.
Hiking to Shireet Lake
Walking tour
You enjoy a peaceful day in the fresh air of this high-altitude region. A hiking trip takes you to discover the landscapes of the park. Your hike leads you to the magnificent Shireet Lake, considered one of the most remarkable in the area.
Back with your host family, you savor simple everyday moments: sharing a cup of milky tea with your hosts or taking part in a game of knucklebones to extend this warm immersion.
Day in the Semi-Desert Area of Khogno Khan
Naiman nuur → Khogno Khan
Departure for the magnificent rock formations of Khögnö Khan. You discover a park with varied landscapes, between semi-desert steppes, taiga zones, granite massifs and a long strip of sand of approximately 80 km, which earned it the nickname of "mini Gobi".
Then, you head off on a hike to the Khambiin Khiid Monastery. Perched in the mountains, this 17th-century monastery was built by Zanabazar as a tribute to his spiritual master, the monk Erdene. The peaceful atmosphere that prevails there and the views over the surrounding area make it a remarkable cultural and spiritual stop.
Elsen Tasarkhai and return to Ulaanbaatar
In the morning, take a camel ride along the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes and discover the arid landscapes of the Bayan desert, characterized by the alternation of sand, steppe and rocky massifs.
You head back to Ulaanbaatar. Along the way, the last herds of horses crossing the road and the last yurts spotted in the distance accompany you to the outskirts of the capital.
You then arrive in the city center and settle into your hotel, where you can rest for a few moments.
The rest of the day is free. Accompanied by your guide, you explore the shops in the city to do your last shopping and enjoy the atmosphere of Ulaanbaatar one last time.
Good to see you again and see you next time!
Breakfast at the hotel. The driver will take you to Ulaanbaatar international airport. The return transfer will take place at the time you prefer, depending on your flight.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International Transport
- Passport & Visa Fees
- Repatriation insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Extra drinks / alcohols
- Meals in Ulaanbaatar
- Phone calls
- Any excursion not mentioned in the program
Included
- Airport / Hotel / Airport Transfers
- 2 nights in a *** hotel in Ulaanbaatar, breakfast included
- Full board during the excursion
- Mineral water
- 2 nights in comfortable yurt camps with hot shower
- 5 nights with a local host, under a host's yurt
- Travel by 4x4 or minibus + driver
- Essence
- English-speaking guide
- Assistant for groups > 8 participants
- Horse Riding
- Camel ride
- Local guides during hikes
- Entry fees for parks and museums mentioned
- Traditional show
- Camping kitchen equipment (tables and camping chairs) and sleeping gear (sleeping bag)
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
Entry requirements to Mongolia depend on your nationality. The information below provides general guidance for tourist stays. We recommend verifying the specific conditions applicable to your situation with the embassy or consulate of Mongolia in your country of residence, as well as with your own authorities, before your departure.
Passport
To enter Mongolia, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry date and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Some nationalities may benefit from visa exemptions for tourist stays, while others must obtain a visa before departure.
If a visa exemption applies to your nationality, the authorites may request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
proof of accommodation or your travel itinerary.
For specific information regarding visa requirements and any exemptions applicable to your nationality, please contact the embassy or consulate of Mongolia in your country of residence.
Registration with local authorities
Any traveller staying in Mongolia for more than 30 days must register with the Immigration, Naturalization and Foreign Affairs Office (GASI). For stays of 30 days or less, registration is generally handled by your hotel or accommodation provider.
It is recommended to keep a copy of this registration throughout your stay, as Mongolian authorities may request it during checks.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Mongolia. However, certain vaccinations are recommended as a preventive measure:
routine immunizations (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles),
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
tick-borne encephalitis, particularly if planning trekking or staying in rural areas,
rabies, if there is a possible risk of contact with wild or stray animals.
It is advised to consult a doctor or international vaccination centre at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some cases, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. All travellers should verify the specific requirements applicable to them with the embassy or consulate of Mongolia in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for assistance-repatriation and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed to enjoy your trip with peace of mind!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complementary Credit Card
Specific to our trips, we strongly suggest subscribing to one of them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and the procedures for reporting a claim are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
For your trip to Mongolie you can join a small group of travelers, on the dates proposed below, which has the advantage of being convivial and allowing you to benefit from an advantageous rate. Our groups are composed of 3 to 10 participants.
All our departures are confirmed without surcharge at the rate of 1390 Euro as soon as we have 3 registered people. If only 2 participants, we commit to ensuring the departure with a surcharge of 300 Euro per person.
You commit to accepting it by registering for this trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A stay in Mongolia is possible without a visa for a limited duration. A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry is required. For a longer stay, a visa can be obtained from the Mongolian embassy. Entry conditions change regularly: check the rules applicable to your nationality with the Mongolian consular authorities before departure.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailor-made trip, budget between 160 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation (yurts, lodges), meals, 4x4 with driver and English-speaking guide. International flights (800-1200 euros round trip) are additional. Mongolia offers a timeless nomadic immersion.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust together each detail until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Central Steppes
Horsewoman of the great Mongolian steppes, based in Oulan-Bator
In Mongolia, you'll experience a rare sensation: the feeling of having space, time, and the impression that the horizon has no end.
— Emelyne
