Vacation in Mongolia

Western Mongolia Tour: Where Nomadic Life Meets Untouched Wilderness

Nestled between the snow-capped Altai Mountains and the wide-open steppe, Western Mongolia is a destination that feels both ancient and alive. A summer journey here is more than a tour—it’s an immersion into a way of life that has remained beautifully authentic for centuries. This remote region offers breathtaking nature, rich cultural encounters, and unforgettable outdoor adventures for travelers seeking something truly extraordinary.

Itinerary for vacation in Mongolia

Please click or tap on the titles to access additional details about the activities planned for the day.

Upon your arrival in Ulaanbaatar, our team will be there to greet you at the airport and provide transportation to your hotel. Shortly after settling in, you’ll meet your guide for a city tour of Ulaanbaatar. Highlights of the tour include a visit to Zaisan Hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, as well as stops at Gandan Monastery and the local museum.

At the morning you will transferred to local airport where you will catch the plane from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii. At the Ulgii’s airport you will meet your team. Drive to Ulgii town. Visit local open market Bazar. Stay at local hotel in Ulgii.

Drive to the gate of Altai Tavan Bogd national park and on your way stop to see “Dear Stones” from ancient Turkic period and through snake valley reach the gate of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. Do camping along white river valley (Akh Gol basi).

Live your vehicle around the gate there and start horse riding towards Tavan Bogd massif (five holly peaks of Mongolia which is more than 4000m higher) next to that mountains you will see 20km long Potanina Glacier. You can even walk on the glacier. Camping next to the Glacier. You will have two humped camels for your luggage transportations to Glacier side.

After breakfast your guide will guide you to 4th highest peak of Mongolia “Malchin peak” which is more than 4000 meters higher from sea level. You can get easily on the top of that peak. From the top of Malchin you will have full view to Russian territory and long and breathtaking views to Kazakhstan’s and Chinese snowcapped Altai mountains. Same day you will come back to your same camping spot.

Start horse riding back to the same gate of the park. Visit Tuvan nomadic families and you can try Tuvan handmade nomadic vodka.

After your breakfast you will drive to the Khoton lake. Here you will visit Kazakh nomads. This is beautiful part of tour as you will visit colorful decorated Kazakh Ger, meet different lifestyle.

At the morning after your breakfast you will do short hiking up to waterfall baga turgen. You will have lunch when you are back to your camping side. After lunch drive back to Ulgii town. On your way you will stop to visit Kazakh Eagle hunter’s family. You will see the eagle, busy with photographing. Same day arrive in Ulgii. Have hot shower and have relax until the evening. During your dinner time you will enjoy Kazakh traditional folk concert!

(During the summer time eagles are not for hunting so you can just visit the Eagle Hunter and see some training activities with Eagle, also try it by yourself.)

Meet your guide in the morning and visit local museum in Ulgii. Visit open market Bazar learn traditional way of trading in Ulgii. Drive to airport and fly to Ulaanbaatar. Meet your guide in Ulaanbaatar and drive to your hotel.

After your delicious breakfast at your Ger we will head to Tsonjin Boldog where we will visit massif Chinggis Khan’s statue. This is not just a statue it is complex that towering on its 40meters. You can visit inside where small museum about 13th century in Mongolia. You can try Mongolian traditional clothing, see huge boot and following steps be on the top of horse head. Later after lunch heading towards Terelj national park. Visit the turtle rock (Turtle Rock, ”Melkhii Khad”, is a surprising granitic formation, 24 metres (79 feet) high, whose form reminds of a turtle. Its old name was Mungut Khad.) Do short stop there for photographing and drive further to visit Aryabal meditation center. Aryabal meditation center is a Buddhist temple located among Terelj national park hills where you can get the best view to the national park. Later you will have lunch and stay in traditional styled Ger (Yurt) camps. Optional activities for this evening are horse riding or camel riding.

Drive to Chinggiss khan international airport where you can depart from Mongolia.

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    • What you will expect to see during this tour?

    Experience Real Nomadic Lifestyle

    Western Mongolia is home to families who still live traditionally in felt-covered gers, moving with their herds in harmony with the seasons. During your summer visit, you can stay in or visit a nomadic family’s home, learning how they tend livestock, cook traditional meals, and preserve customs that have been passed down for generations. Their hospitality is warm and genuine—an experience that stays with you long after you return home.

    Breathtaking Landscapes & Beautiful Mountains

    The Altai mountain range dominates the region with its dramatic peaks, crystal lakes, and sweeping valleys. Summer brings a vibrant burst of green meadows filled with wildflowers, while the higher elevations remain dusted with ice. Photographers, nature lovers, and anyone craving open space will find themselves in paradise.

    Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Trekking & Glacier Walks

    Western Mongolia offers some of the best trekking routes in Central Asia. Whether you’re following ancient trails through alpine valleys or climbing towards rugged mountain passes, every path rewards you with astonishing views.

    For the adventurous, walking on one of the remote glaciers of the Altai is a highlight. With the guidance of local experts, you can step onto shimmering blue ice surrounded by towering peaks—a rare and thrilling experience.

    Horse Riding Across the Steppe

    No trip to Mongolia is complete without experiencing it from horseback. Horses are central to local life, and riding through the vast steppe or mountain foothills gives you a true sense of freedom. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, local guides and horses make it an unforgettable way to explore the landscape.

    Visit an Eagle Hunter’s Family

    Western Mongolia is home to the legendary Kazakh eagle hunters, whose tradition of training golden eagles has been preserved for generations. Visiting an eagle hunter’s family allows you to see this extraordinary bond up close. Learn how they raise and train their birds, hear their stories, and capture incredible photographs of both hunter and eagle in their natural environment.

    Warm, Friendly People

    Despite the rugged environment, the spirit of the people is warm, open, and deeply welcoming. Conversations over salty milk tea, shared meals in a ger, and laughter with local children give your journey a human connection that enriches every moment.

    A Summer Journey You’ll Never Forget

    A summer tour in Western Mongolia is a blend of epic landscapes, living traditions, and rare wildlife—all far from crowded tourist routes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or quiet moments in untouched nature, this region offers it all with an authenticity that few places can match.

    If you’re dreaming of a destination that feels raw, real, and utterly breathtaking, Western Mongolia awaits you.

    What to Pack for a Western Mongolia Summer Tour

    1. Clothing
    • Even in summer, Western Mongolia’s temperatures can swing from warm days to very chilly nights—especially in the Altai Mountains.
    • Essential layers:
    • Base layers (thin thermal tops & leggings for cold nights)
    • T-shirts (quick-dry or cotton)
    • Fleece jacket or warm sweater
    • Down or insulated jacket (lightweight but warm)
    • Windproof & waterproof jacket (mountain weather changes fast)
    • Comfortable trekking pants
    • Warm hat & gloves (important for glacier walks)
    • Sun hat or cap
    • Casual clothes for evenings in the ger camp or guesthouse
    1. Footwear
    • You’ll be crossing varied terrain—steppe, rocky slopes, and sometimes snow.
    • Sturdy hiking boots (broken in, waterproof)
    • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for camp
    • Warm socks (wool recommended)
    • Gaiters (optional but useful for glacier or snowy areas)
    1. Gear for Outdoor Activities
    • For trekking, glacier walks, and horse riding:
    • Daypack (20–30L for daily hikes)
    • Trekking poles (very helpful in uneven terrain)
    • Sunglasses (UV protection is important at high altitude)
    • Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
    • Headlamp (with extra batteries)
    • Glacier walk gear – crampons and safety equipment are usually provided by your tour operator, but check beforehand
    1. Horse Riding Essentials
    • Comfortable pants (stretchy or riding-friendly)
    • Gloves (optional but useful)
    • Small waist pouch (to keep phone/camera handy)
    1. Toiletries & Personal Items
    • Moisturizer & lip balm (dry mountain air)
    • Sunscreen (high SPF)
    • Personal medications (Pharmacies are scarce in remote areas)
    • Wet wipes / tissue
    • Quick-dry towel
    1. Electronics & Documents
    • Power bank (very important—some nomadic camps have limited electricity)
    • Camera / GoPro (the landscapes and eagle hunters are photogenic!)
    • Universal adapter
    • Passport + necessary permits (if visiting border zones—your tour operator usually arranges these)
    1. Optional but Useful
    • Sleeping bag liner (for extra comfort in guest gers)
    • Binoculars (great for spotting wildlife or watching eagles)
    • Notebook / journal
    • Small gifts for local families (like sweets, small souvenirs—always appreciated but optional)

    Quick Tip

    Western Mongolia weather motto:
    “Warm at noon, cold by moon.”
    Pack for both.

    Weather in western Mongolia:

    Western Mongolia in summer is generally warm and pleasant during the day but can turn cool—sometimes even cold—at night, especially in the Altai Mountains. Daytime temperatures often range from 18–28°C, with clear skies and lots of sunshine, while nights can drop to 5–10°C. Sudden weather changes are common, with occasional rain or strong winds. Higher altitudes may still have patches of snow or ice, making the region feel fresh and crisp even in mid-summer.