Fragrance of Mongolia
Between endless 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 out.
This Mongolian journey leads from Ulan Bator, a capital adorned with Buddhist monasteries filled 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 reveals the vestiges of Genghis Khan's empire, while the perched monastery of Tovkhon offers its panoramas over the Khangai range. The Ulan Tsutgalaan waterfalls cascade down their 16 meters of volcanic rock, and the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes undulate in the heart of the semi-deserts.
This land carries the heritage of Mongolian peoples, from the Soyombo alphabet engraved by Zanabazar to the shamanic rituals perpetuated in remote valleys. Nomadic families here continue the morning milking, the making of airag and the 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 Ulaanbaatar, the Mongolian capital, where the vast steppes gradually give way to an astonishing city, blending Soviet heritage, nomadic traditions and emerging modernity. Welcome by your driver and transfer to the city center, a first glimpse of this fascinating destination with already disorienting 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 acquainted, discover the highlights of your adventure and gradually soak in the unique atmosphere of Mongolia.
Dive into the heart of Mongolian history during a visit to the National History Museum. Spread over several floors, the museum traces the country's rich past, 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.
Stroll through downtown Ulaanbaatar discovering the famous Sukhbaatar Square, the heart of the capital dominated by the imposing statue of Genghis Khan. You will also observe the Mongolian Parliament and the vibrant atmosphere 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 on the intangible cultural heritage.
Przewalski's Horses Observation
Discovery of the Gandantegchinlen monastery, the country's main Buddhist center. Each 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
Route en direction du Khustai nuruu national park, vast protected territory famous for hosting the last Przewalski's horses, called locally Takhi. Successfully reintroduced into the Mongolian steppes, these wild horses now evolve in total freedom.
At the end of the day, when the light becomes softer and the animals more active, a walk leads 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 take the road to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongols. Founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan, this emblematic city was one of the major stages of 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, reminding us of 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 former capital and its region.
Orkhon Nomads Stay
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 a herding family in the heart of the Orkhon Valley, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
From Orkhon Valley
On the way, you make a stop for an excursion to the Tövkhön Monastery. The ascent to the summit of the Öndör Ulaan hill, accessible only on foot, leads to the Tovkhon hermitage, where Zanabazar, Mongolia's first religious leader, composed the Soyombo alphabet. 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 lifestyle and share their daily life in all its simplicity. Depending on the season, you may be invited to participate in animal milking, traditional dairy product making or even herding cattle on horseback.
(Activities subject to seasonality)
Visit to Orkhon Waterfall
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon cascades
Those who wish can set off on a horse trek 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 according to your preferences.
Visit to the Ulan Tsutgalaan waterfalls, where a clear stream 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 witness the preparation of a Mongolian barbecue, 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 peaking at 2,800 meters. As you climb, the landscapes become increasingly dramatic until you reach the very remote Naiman nuur national park, "eight lakes", a highland 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 onwards.
Hiking to Shireet Lake
Walking tour
You enjoy a peaceful day in the fresh air of this high-altitude region. A walking excursion 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 moments of everyday life: sharing a cup of milky tea with your hosts or participating in a game of knucklebones to extend this warm immersion.
Day in the semi-desert zone of Khogno Khan
Naiman nuur → Khogno Khan
Departure for the splendid rock formations of Khögnö Khan. You discover a park with varied landscapes, between semi-desert steppes, taiga zones, granite massifs and a long band of sand of approximately 80 km, which earned it the nickname of "mini Gobi".
Then, you hike to the Khambiin Khiid monastery. Perched in the mountains, this 17th-century monastery was built by Zanabazar in tribute to his spiritual master, the monk Erdene. The peaceful atmosphere that prevails there and the view of the surroundings make it a remarkable cultural and spiritual stop.
Elsen Tasarkhai and Return to Ulaanbaatar
In the morning, 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 Ulan Bator. Along the way, the last herds of horses crossing the road and the last yurts glimpsed 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 browse the city's shops to make your last purchases and enjoy one final time the atmosphere of Ulan Bator.
Good to have you back and see you next time!
Breakfast at the hotel. The driver will take you to Ulan Bator International Airport. The return transfer will take place at the time you wish, 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 Ulan Bator
- Phone calls
- Any excursion not mentioned in the program
Included
- Airport / hotel / airport transfers
- 2 nights in a ** hotel in Ulan Bator, breakfast included
- Full board during the excursion
- Mineral water
- 2 nights in comfortable ger camp with hot shower
- 5 nights with locals, in host yurts
- 4x4 or minibus transfers + driver
- Essence
- English-speaking guide
- Assistant for groups > 8 participants
- Horse riding
- Camel trek
- Local guides during hikes
- Entrance fees for mentioned parks and museums
- 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 friendly 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 supplement 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
Les ressortissants français peuvent séjourner jusqu'à 30 jours en Mongolie sans visa. Passeport valide au moins 6 mois après l'entrée requis. Pour un séjour plus long, un visa s'obtient auprès de l'ambassade de Mongolie. Les conditions évoluent régulièrement : vérifiez avant le départ.
Rendez-vous dans la section Mes Voyages pour retrouver tous vos projets.
Vous pouvez envoyer un message à votre hôte directement depuis le Salon de Thé.
Pour un voyage sur mesure de qualité, comptez entre 160 et 260 euros par jour et par personne, incluant hébergement (yourtes, lodges), repas, 4x4 avec chauffeur et guide francophone. Les vols internationaux (800-1200 euros A/R) sont en supplément. La Mongolie offre une immersion nomade hors du temps.
Vos documents sont accessibles dans l'onglet Documents de votre voyage.
Absolument. Nous adaptons chaque circuit au profil des voyageurs. Pour les familles, nous privilégions des rythmes détendus, des hébergements familiaux, des activités ludiques et pédagogiques, et des transferts privés confortables. Nos guides locaux francophones savent capter l'attention des enfants avec des anecdotes adaptées à leur âge.
C'est simple. Vous échangez avec notre équipe locale pour définir vos envies, votre budget et vos dates. Vous recevez une proposition d'itinéraire détaillée sous 48 heures. Vous ajustez ensemble chaque détail jusqu'à la version parfaite. Vous confirmez et partez l'esprit tranquille. Votre agence locale reste disponible 7j/7 pendant toute la durée du voyage.
En cas d'urgence, contactez immédiatement votre agence locale.
Le paiement s'effectue généralement en deux fois.
Notre agence fait partie du réseau Nomadays, immatriculé en France. Vous bénéficiez de la garantie APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) qui couvre 100% de vos fonds. Paiement sécurisé, assurance rapatriement incluse, et assistance francophone 24h/24 sur place pendant tout votre séjour.
Let's talk about your adventure — Central Steppes
Cultural and encounters facilitator for Mongolia, based in Oulan Bator
The most beautiful memories from Mongolia are often born from an unexpected encounter, around a cup of tea or a ger door that opens with a smile.
— Chimgee
