Have you always wanted to travel to Mongolia, but without sacrificing a certain level of comfort? Here you have the opportunity to experience untamed wilderness and still sleep in a bed every night. In a small group of no more than six participants, you will ride through a fabulously beautiful area with wild river valleys, flowering meadows, vast treeless steppes and forested mountains. This is an extremely varied horse riding tour in the south of the Khentii Mountains, the former home of Genghis Khan. In addition to the magnificent natural surroundings, you will also learn a lot about the fascinating culture of the steppe dwellers. Despite the pressures of the modern world, the nomads have largely preserved their traditions to this day. The horses roam semi-wild through the steppes and forests. It is impressive to watch the herds in their natural environment. The stallions keep a close watch while the foals frolic and the mares nibble on the short steppe grass. The luggage, including a complete yurt, is traditionally transported by yak carts, which follow the group of riders and meet up with them again in the evening at the camp. You will spend two nights in the same place, usually near a river.

The Mongolian way of life is both foreign and fascinating. You can feel their closeness to nature and a certain carefree attitude. Nomads solve problems when they arise and don't worry about them in advance. They are also reluctant to tear up the earth to cultivate crops. Only since the Russian occupation in recent times have vegetables been grown in some places. Animals still provide the main source of food, with dairy products and meat at the top of the list. Although the Russians tried to eradicate Buddhism and shamanism, both have survived and Buddhism is the predominant religion. Immerse yourself in this exciting country for a few days and experience the customs and nature for yourself – a trip you will never forget!

Itinerary

Naadam Festival:
Before your horseback tour in July, visit the large Naadam Festival in Ulan Bator. A huge spectacle awaits you, with nomads travelling from all over the country to take part in various sporting competitions. This is a great opportunity to experience Mongolian traditions up close. Some customs may seem a little rough, but if you really want to get to know this country, you should attend a Naadam Festival.

Day 1: Arrival and transfer to the hotel for dinner together and tour briefing.

Day 2: Today is dedicated to the horse races that take place in the run-up to the Naadam Festival. Entire armies of colourfully dressed riders compete in the races, which take place 60 to 90 km from Ulan Bator. There are usually several wrestling competitions at the same time. In between, you can recharge your batteries with a hearty picnic. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 3: You will experience the official opening of the Naadam Festival in Ulan Bator. Dangerous-looking horsemen dressed in the traditional costume of Genghis Khan carry the national flag and open the festival. Afterwards, you will watch up to 700 wrestlers and archers compete in their contests. In the afternoon, you will visit the huge nomad camp outside Ulan Bator, where you can experience the festive atmosphere and perhaps even be invited to try a glass or two of kumis (fermented mare's milk). If you feel like taking part in the competitions yourself and are brave enough, you will even have the opportunity to take part in a horse race, after a little preparation, of course. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Accomodation
You’ll stay in yurts, each equipped with two (camp) beds. Single occupancy is available for an additional fee. The yurts are spacious, furnished with seating, and equipped with a stove for heating. All necessary equipment, including bedding, is provided. There are also (portable) showers and composting toilets. The tour is accompanied by a dedicated cook. Vegetarian meals are available; please specify this directly when booking. Meals are served in the yurt designated for that purpose.

Saddle & Tack: Comfortable Russian trekking saddles.

Experience: All gaits, depending on the terrain. We also like to gallop briskly on the plains.

Horses: Mongolian ponies up to 1.52 m. Strong, robust and enduring.