Steppe Heritage
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4d
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Steppe Heritage is an activity-packed tour into central Mongolia. Visit the Orkhon Valley - World Cultural Heritage, Khogno Khan Reserve, and the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai before venturing to the Hustai National Park to see the wild Takhi horses and plenty of other wildlife. This condensed trip lets you experience as much of Mongolia as possible in a short time of four days. Overnight, stay at authentic guest gers alongside local nomadic families and in a comfortable ger camp for one night. Learn about your hosts’ culture and traditions, socialize with them, ride horses and Bactrian camels, hike, and visit hilltop temples. This all-encompassing trip contains most of what Mongolia offers, including must-dos and must-sees, and is perfect for those with limited time in the country.
Available options
Steppe Heritage
Pickup included
What's included
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
What you'll see
Day 1. Kharakhorum - Erdene Zuu Monastery
After meeting your guide at 08:30 am in your location of your choice board the vehicle and head west to the Orkhon Valley. The drive is mostly on a paved road and should take 4 hours. We will have lunch at the local eatery on our way. Upon arrival, first visit Erdene Zuu Monastery in time to hear the monks chanting, which takes place from 2 pm. Take a walk around the main temples, and stroll around the grounds. Afterwards, take a guided tour of the interesting local museum, and visit the local felt workshop or Art Gallery. In the late afternoon, monument of the 3 Kings overlooking the Orkhon River, and the fertility stone on the edge of town.
Travel details: 5-6hr/370km to Kharakhorum;
Accommodation: Hostel/Ger camp
Day 2. Khogno Khan - Uvgun Temple - Elsen Tasarkhai Dunes - Camel Riding
After a leisurely breakfast drive to Khogno Khan nature reserve – the site of the Uvgun temple complex. Khogno Khan is an area where taiga meets rolling steppes and north Gobi’s dunes. Hike a short distance to the Uvgun temples which were built in the 17th century by Zanabazar but destroyed in the 1930s during communist purges. After coming down to the vehicle drive 25km to the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes, where you will stay next to a family of camel herders. Settle into your ger and once your camels are ready, mount up for a 1-hour Bactrian ride into the dunes, taking time for photographs from the camelback. In the evening return to your settlement and enjoy a traditional home-cooked dinner with the host family.
Travel details: 1.5hr/90km Khogno Khan; 45 min / 25km to Elsen Tasarkhai
Accommodation: Guest ger alongside camel herder nomadic family
Day 3. Hustai National Park - Wild Takhi Horses - Hiking
After a leisurely breakfast, board the vehicle for the journey back east to Hustai. The drive will take 3 hours and on arrival visit first the park’s information centre where you will learn about the plethora of wildlife roaming the National Park. Have lunch in the ger camp, located right at the park’s entrance, then venture into the park to see the wild Takhi horses. Your guide will be in contact with the park rangers who will relay the animals’ location, and you have a high chance of seeing them close. You can also venture deeper into the park on foot if you wish, perhaps to track wild deer or foxes – Hustai offers wonderful wilderness hiking opportunities. Afterwards, a short drive to the Nomadic settlement and enjoy a home-cooked hearty dinner.
Travel details: 3hr/240km drive to Hustai National Park; 1hr/40km drive to Nomad family
Accommodation: Guest ger alongside Nomad family
Day 4. Chinggis Khaan Statue complex - Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast set off for the remarkable Chinggis Khaan Statue complex, once you arrive, climb up inside until you reach the exterior staircase which runs up the mane of the horse to a viewpoint overlooking the Tuul River, Terelj & the hills of the Khan Khentii and visits the museum of horse culture in the complex. Then a short drive to the complex restaurant will have lunch. After lunch, return to Ulaanbaatar. There you will be dropped at a location to suit you (we can do multiple drop-offs if required).
Travel details: 2-3hrs/170km to Equestrian statue; 1hr/60km to UB.
Accommodation: -
What's not included
Gratuities
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar, the capital and largest city of Mongolia, is a fascinating blend of traditional nomadic culture and modern urban development. Known for its vibrant markets, Buddhist monasteries, and dramatic landscapes, it offers a unique travel experience in the heart of Asia.
Top Attractions
Gandantegchinlen Monastery
The Gandantegchinlen Monastery is the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. It houses a massive statue of Avalokiteshvara and offers a serene atmosphere amidst the bustling city.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Sukhbaatar Square
Sukhbaatar Square is the central square of Ulaanbaatar, named after the Mongolian revolutionary leader Damdin Sükhbaatar. It features a large equestrian statue of Genghis Khan and is a hub of political and cultural events.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Zaisan Memorial
The Zaisan Memorial is a Soviet-era monument that offers panoramic views of Ulaanbaatar. It commemorates the Soviet-Mongolian friendship and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
National Museum of Mongolia
The National Museum of Mongolia showcases the rich history and culture of Mongolia, from prehistoric times to the present day. It features exhibits on Genghis Khan, Buddhist art, and traditional nomadic life.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 5,000 MNT or $2 USD)
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is a stunning natural area located just outside Ulaanbaatar. It offers beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional Mongolian ger camps.
Nature
Full day
Varies by activity (entry fees, guided tours, etc.)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Boodog
A traditional Mongolian dish where a whole marmot or goat is cooked inside out over an open fire. The meat is tender and flavorful, and the dish is often shared among a group.
Main Course
Contains meat
Khuushuur
Deep-fried meat pastries, similar to dumplings, filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef). They are a popular street food and can be found at markets and food stalls.
Snack
Contains meat
Aaruul
Dried curds made from milk, often shaped into small cubes or balls. Aaruul is a traditional Mongolian snack and is often enjoyed with tea.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Suutei Tsai
Mongolian milk tea, made with milk, tea leaves, and often salt. It is a staple beverage and is often served with meals.
Drink
Contains dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Horseback Riding
Camping
Visiting Ger Camps
Enjoying Traditional Mongolian Spa
Strolling in Parks
Visiting Gandantegchinlen Monastery
Attending Naadam Festival
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the best time to visit Ulaanbaatar, with pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the peak tourist season, offering the best conditions for outdoor activities and festivals.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mongolian
- Widely spoken: English, Russian
- English: Limited (English is not widely spoken, especially outside of tourist areas)
Currency
Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)
Time Zone
UTC+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ulaanbaatar is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur in tourist areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services
- • Carry only necessary valuables and keep them secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Chinggis Khaan International Airport • 16 km from city center
By train
Ulaanbaatar Railway Station
By bus
Ulaanbaatar Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Ulaanbaatar. They are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: UB Taxi, GPS Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sukhbaatar District
Bayangol District
Songino Khairkhan District
Day trips
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
70 km from Ulaanbaatar • Full day
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional ger camps. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers and those looking to experience the Mongolian countryside.
Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex
54 km from Ulaanbaatar • Half day
The Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex is home to the world's largest equestrian statue, standing at 40 meters tall. It offers a museum and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
70 km from Ulaanbaatar • Full day
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional ger camps. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers and those looking to experience the Mongolian countryside.
Festivals
Naadam Festival • July 11-13
Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) • January or February (varies by lunar calendar)
Eagle Festival • March
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Mongolian to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day
- Carry cash, as card acceptance can be limited outside of major tourist areas
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Be cautious of scams and pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
