Selena Travel

Horse Trekking in the Orkhon Valley 14 days

Horse Trekking in the Orkhon Valley

14days/13nights

Tour grade: Medium

Stargazing at Mongolian ger campsBest group tours MongoliaExperience horse riding in Mongoliahotel accommodation MongoliaStaying ger camp in Mongolia
From: US$ 2,700

Style: Private Tour

  • Lake Ogii: Tranquil lake, perfect for birdwatching and relaxation.
  • Khar Balgas: Ancient Uyghur Empire ruins.
  • Karakorum: Historic capital with Erdenezuu Monastery and Museum.
  • Tuvkhun Monastery: Serene trek to a hidden mountain monastery.
  • Orkhon River Valley: Stunning UNESCO World Heritage landscapes.
  • Nomadic Encounters: Experience traditional nomadic life.
  • Elsen Tasarkhai: Camel ride across semi-Gobi sand dunes.

Tour Overview

Experience the thrill of galloping across Mongolia’s lush green valleys under endless blue skies on this unforgettable horse trekking adventure. Ride the legendary Mongolian horses that once carried Genghis Khan’s warriors and explore the highlights of Central Mongolia, including the UNESCO-listed Orkhon River Valley.

 

Traverse diverse terrains, from rolling steppes to mountain trails with spectacular views. Visit iconic sites such as Lake Ugii, the ancient capital Karakorum, Erdene Zuu Monastery, and Tuvkhun Monasteries, and meet nomadic families to experience their renowned hospitality.

 

This fully supported trek is perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. With spirited horses and expert guides, embark on the ultimate horse-riding journey in Mongolia's breathtaking landscapes.

Tour map

Orkhon Valley  horseback trekking map | Mongolia tour map

Brief itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
  • Day 2: Ogii lake
  • Day 3: Zegstei
  • Day 4: Khar Balgas
  • Day 5: Karakorum
  • Day 6-7: Tuvkhun Monastery
  • Day 8: Orkhon Valley
  • Day 9: Orkhon River Bridge and onwards
  • Day 10: Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall
  • Day 11: Tsagaan Sum Hot Spring
  • Day 12: Elsen Tasarkhai via Karakorum
  • Day 13: Ulaanbaatar
  • Day 14: Departure from Ulaanbaatar
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Tour images

Half wild Horses in Mongolia
Horseman in Mongolia
Tuvkhun Monastery | Mongolia
Drinking horses Mongolia | equestrian tourism  |

Full Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, half day city tour

Meet your Mongolian staff at the airport after custom formalities and transfer to the hotel in downtown.  After checking in at the hotel, start the city tour with a welcome lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we will visit Sukhbaatar square and the Mongolian National History Museum for the historical overview of Mongolians. Transfer to the hotel. Free time for dinner.

 

Accommodation: Centrally located hotel 3*

Meals:

Lunch

Day 2:

Ulaanbaatar- Lake Ogii

After an early breakfast, depart Ulaanbaatar and embark on a scenic drive towards Lake Ogii, located in the heart of Mongolia's steppe region. En route, enjoy the changing landscapes, from rolling grasslands to glimpses of nomadic herder camps. Stop for lunch at a local roadside restaurant offering traditional Mongolian dishes. Arrive at Lake Ogii in the mid-afternoon and check in at a comfortable tourist ger camp situated near the lake. Spend the afternoon exploring the serene surroundings, enjoying activities such as birdwatching or a leisurely walk along the lake’s edge. Lake Ogii is a designated Ramsar site, renowned for its diverse birdlife and tranquil waters. As the day winds down, take in the stunning sunset over the lake before savoring a hearty dinner at the camp’s restaurant. Spend the evening relaxing in your cozy ger, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. Overnight at the ger camp.

 

Accommodation: Ger camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3:

Lake Ogii - Zegstei

Begin your horse trek from the serene shores of Lake Ogii, riding across the open steppe and gentle hills while soaking in Mongolia’s stunning landscapes. After 2-3 hours, stop for a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, then continue past Zegstei through diverse terrains of steppe and wildflower meadows, keeping an eye out for livestock freely pasturing in the Orkhon Valley. By late afternoon, arrive at a picturesque campsite where you'll settle in, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, and relax under the vast, star-lit Mongolian sky. Overnight in a tent.

 

Accommodation: Tented camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 4:

Zegstei - Khar Balgas

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before continuing your horse trek toward Khar Balgas, the ancient city also known as Ordubalik. Ride through rolling grasslands and gentle river valleys, enjoying the tranquility and unspoiled beauty of the Mongolian countryside. Stop along the way for a picnic lunch in a scenic location. By mid-afternoon, arrive at the historic site of Khar Balgas, once a thriving capital of the Uyghur Empire, and explore its intriguing ruins. Set up camp nearby in a peaceful area, enjoy a warm dinner, and spend the night in a tent under the starry sky.

 

Accommodation: Tented camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 5:

Khar Balgas - Karakorum

Begin the day with breakfast at the campsite before setting out on a horse trek to Karakorum, tracing ancient trade routes and traversing scenic landscapes of rolling hills and vast steppe. Enjoy a lunch break along the way in a peaceful setting. Continue riding in the afternoon, arriving in Karakorum by early evening. Transfer to a tourist ger camp where you can refresh, relax, and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay with dinner provided.

 

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner 

Day 6-7:

Karakorum – Tuvkhun Monastery

Set off on a two-day horse trekking adventure from Karakorum, following the northern bank of the Orkhon River and the foothills of the Khangai Mountains. Traverse through lush meadows, rolling hills, and dense woodlands, enjoying the stunning scenery and the serene rhythm of horseback travel. Break for lunch each day in picturesque spots along the trail. In the evenings, set up camp in scenic valleys, where you'll enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in tents surrounded by nature. This trek offers an immersive experience of Mongolia’s rugged beauty while journeying toward the Tuvkhun Monastery valley.

 

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner 

Day 8:

Tuvkhun Monastery – Orkhon Valley

Begin the day with a horseback trek to Tuvkhun Monastery, perched atop Shireet Ulaan Mountain, where you can explore the sacred site and admire panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. After lunch, continue trekking along the scenic trails toward Orkhon River Bridge. The journey winds through rugged terrain, offering breathtaking vistas of the valley and its rivers. Conclude the day few km before reaching the bridge, settling in a tranquil mountain valley for an overnight stay in tents, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.

 

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner 

Day 9:

Orkhon River Bridge and onwards

Today, our journey takes us deeper into the heart of the Orkhon Valley as we ascend along the gentle flow of the river, moving ever closer to the majestic Ulaantsutgalan Waterfall. We pause at the Orkhon River Bridge for a restful lunch, savoring the serene beauty of the landscape. In the afternoon, we continue our trek, covering an additional 10–12 kilometers, traversing a landscape rich with volcanic formations and lush riverside views. As the day draws to a close, we set up camp by the river, where the soothing sound of flowing water and the striking geological surroundings create a truly unforgettable setting for the night.

 

Accommodation: Tented camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 10:

Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall

We begin our day early, setting out toward the iconic Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall, celebrated as one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the region. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the splendor of this cascading masterpiece, exploring the surrounding area where the roar of the falls blends harmoniously with the tranquil landscape. After a delightful lunch near the waterfall, our journey continues as we trek along the picturesque Orkhon Valley, making our way toward the Orkhon River Bridge. Here, we will settle for the evening, enveloped by the serene beauty of the valley, and rest beneath the vast expanse of the Mongolian sky.

 

Accommodation: Tented camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 11:

Ongotsot Bridge- Tsagaan Sum Hot Spring

Today, we bid a heartfelt farewell to our steadfast horses and the skilled local guide who has led us through the enchanting landscapes of the Orkhon Valley over the past few days. With cherished memories in tow, we transition from the saddle to the comfort of our van, embarking on a journey to the historic Tsagaan Sum Hot Springs. Revered for their curative properties, these springs once served as a sanctuary of healing for the kings and royal families of the Great Mongol Empire. Upon arrival, settle into your cozy ger at the tourist camp, where the remainder of the day is yours to relax and rejuvenate in the soothing embrace of the mineral-rich hot springs. Conclude the evening with a delightful dinner and a restful night beneath the peaceful Mongolian skies.

 

Accommodation: Tented camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 12:

Tsagaan Sum Hot Springs- Elsen Tasarkhai via Karakorum

After breakfast, we check out from our camp and set off towards Elsen Tasarkhai, with a sightseeing stop in Karakorum along the way. In Karakorum, we will explore the historic Erdenezuu Monastery, one of the earliest Buddhist monasteries in central Mongolia, founded in 1586. Next, we’ll visit the Karakorum Museum for an insightful overview of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Orkhon Valley. In the afternoon, we will continue our journey to Elsen Tasarkhai, a semi-Gobi region known for its 80 km stretch of Ikh Mongol and Tarna sand dunes. Here, we will experience a one-hour camel ride along the dunes. Dinner and overnight stay at the tourist camp.

 

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 13:

Ulaanbaatar

Today, we will embark on a 4 to 5-hour drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to the hotel for check-in. This afternoon offers a chance for some final souvenir shopping, with your guide assisting you in finding the perfect stores for Mongolian gifts, cashmeres, and unique local items. In the evening, enjoy a traditional folklore concert featuring mesmerizing throat singing and captivating traditional music. Afterward, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant and relax with an overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Accommodation: Centrally located hotel 3*

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 14:

Departure from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

End your tour with an included transfer to the airport after breakfast.

 

Meals:

Breakfast

Date & Price

TOUR DATES:

  • available in May - September 2025

 

If you prefer a private tour experience, simply click the "Customize this tour" button located at the bottom of the page to personalize the itinerary according to your preferences. Upon submitting your request, our team of travel advisors will promptly provide you with a tailored proposal and quote. 

 

TOUR PRICE:

  • 9400 USD per person for a private tour with 1 participant /based on single occupancy/
  • 5230 USD per person for a private tour with 2 participants /based on twin/double occupancy/
  • 4100 USD per person for a private tour with 3-4 participants /based on twin/double occupancy/
  • 3300 USD per person for a private tour with 5-6 participants /based on twin/double occupancy/
  • 2850 USD per person for a private tour with 7-8 participants /based on twin/double occupancy/
  • 2700 USD per person for a private tour with 9-10 participants /based on twin/double occupancy/
  • 360 USD per person for single supplement

 


Included in the service: 

  • English-speaking local guide throughout the tour
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees according to the itinerary
  • Private transfers (Comfortable vehicle with AC + Experienced driver)- day 1-2 and 11-14
  • Support vehicle (4WD Van/SUV + experienced driver) – day 3-11
  • Airport transfers
  • Twin/double share in a traditional Mongolian ger at tourist ger camp for 4 nights
  • Twin share tents for 7 nights (matt and sleeping bags will be provided)
  • Twin/double share in a standard room at good 3-star hotel in Ulaanbaatar – 2 nights
  • Meals as listed (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
  • Chef for day 3-10
  • Horse riding fees for 8 full days
  • Horse guide fee for 8 days
  • 0.5 l x 3 bottled water per day
  • Visa support invitation letter where applicable
  • Exclusive Mongolia tour souvenir!
 
Not Included in the price:
  • International Airfare/train tickets + Tax
  • Travel insurance & Visa fees
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, camera or video fees at any sites etc.
  • Tips for your guide and driver (discretionary)
  • Optional activities (kayaking, fishing, biking etc.)
  • 4% surcharge if you pay by credit card
  • The tour price is not applicable between July 5-15 due to Naadam Festival 

 

 

Tour Background

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Lake Ogii: Begin your adventure with scenic views of this tranquil lake, perfect for birdwatching and relaxation.
  • Khar Balgas: Explore the ancient ruins of the Uyghur Empire's once-thriving city, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
  • Karakorum: Visit the historical capital of the Great Mongol Empire, with a stop at the Erdenezuu Monastery and the Karakorum Museum.
  • Tuvkhun Monastery: Trek through the serene landscapes leading to this hidden monastery nestled in the Khangai Mountains.
  • Orkhon River Valley: Ride along the stunning valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with dramatic views of rolling hills and the river.
  • Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall: Witness the beauty of the breathtaking Ulaan Tsutgalan Waterfall, one of Mongolia’s most famous natural landmarks.
  • Nomadic Encounters: Interact with local nomadic families, experiencing their traditional way of life, hospitality, and unique customs.
  • Volcanic Landscapes and Riverside Camping: Enjoy camping in picturesque spots, surrounded by volcanic formations and the peaceful riverside.
  • Camel Riding in Elsen Tasarkhai: Experience the desert dunes with a camel ride in the semi-Gobi region, offering a unique perspective of Mongolia’s diverse landscapes.

 

 
MONGOLIA HORSE TREKKING - MONGOLIA HORSE TREK 
Why go on Horse Trek in Mongolia?
Mongolian horse trek is famous, fantastic and really enjoyable travel experience. Because, Mongolia is a country of good horses and strong nomadic people. Thus, Mongolia horse trekking and horseback riding trek are challenging and fun. We invite you to some mervallous horse trekking in Mongolia in the most popular horse trekking trail in Mongolia.

More about our Horse Treks & Mongolian horses:
Mongolia is one of the greatest lands of horse trekking tours and horse treks. There are more than 2.5 million horses in Mongolia. The best way to discover any wonders is on horse trekking in Mongolia. Mongolian horses are ponies by European standards, with a shoulder height of less than 1.5 m. However, they are very strong, with amazing stamina. Mongolian horse riding utilities and decorations are very special in the world. So it becomes traditional wonderful heritage. Most people imagine Mongolia with skillful Mongolian horse riders and wonderful Mongolian horse. In countryside nomadic children learn to ride horse since 3 years old often and take part in horse race competition. Mongolians respect the horse very much and horse is one of the best symbols of good luck. All Mongolians like to ride horse and enjoy them very much. You can be one of us in Mongolia too.

Useful information for Horseback riding in Mongolia: Mongolia horseback riding is wonderful, words are not enough to explain this fantastic adventure of horseback trek, horseback ride and horseback trekking in Mongolia. The country is rich in excellent Mongolia horseback trails and people go for horseback riding treks a lot in Mongolia. Take part in our fantastic Mongolia horseback tours and trips. 

Mongolian horses and Mongolian horse culture: Mongolia is one of the greatest lands of horse riding tours and horse trekking. There are more than 2.5 million horses in Mongolia. The best way to discover any wonders is on horseback riding in Mongolia. Mongolian horses are ponies by European standards, with a shoulder height of less than 1.5 m. However, they are very strong, with amazing stamina. Mongolian horse riding utilities and decorations are very special in the world. So it becomes traditional wonderful heritage. Most people imagine Mongolia with skillful Mongolian horse riders and wonderful Mongolian horse. In countryside nomadic children learn to ride horse since 3 years old often and take part in horse race competition. Mongolians respect the horse very much and horse is one of the best symbols of good luck. All Mongolians like to ride horse and enjoy them very much. You can be one of us in Mongolia too. Selena travel offers you the most wonderful adventure horseback trekking or horse riding tours. Horse riding tours will be organized in the Khentii mountain range, Vast steppe of Mongolia and Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve which is a land of Genghis Khan, legendary central Mongolia, forestry Northern Mongolia, and highlighted Western Mongolia or in all of the parts of Mongolia. You can visit the Mongolian wonderful heritages while do horseback riding tours. We can organize horseback riding tours in unforgettable level. Enjoy the Mongolian horseback trekking and horse riding tours.

Khangai Mountains introduction
The Khangai Mountain Range is Mongolia's watershed, the source of the mighty Selenge River that flows northwards into Lake Baikaal. Its picturesque alpine scenery rises swiftly from the surrounding pastureland, with the highest peak, Otgontenger (13,000 feet), under perpetual snow and glacial ice. The range is reputed to hold a wealth of undiscovered gems and minerals - let's hope that they, and the landscape, remain undisturbed by the western world.

Tour Map

Tour Reviews

Dec 21, 2024.  The Gobi & Karakorum Explorer

Aug 10, 2012. Gobi & Karakorum Explorer tour Our recent "The Gobi & Karakorum Explorer" tour with you was excellent, everything exceeded our expectations! It was a super trip in our lives and we loved our Mongolia holiday so much. Our guide Joe was kind, well organised, accurate and informative, polite and caring and always provided us with timely information. And our driver Jack is super, very friendly, professional and always on time. We are wild travelers, having been to many places in the world - but Mongolia is still truly unspoiled and uncontaminated. Selena Travel's services were perfect right from the very first email. We would like to thank Selena Travel, our guide and our driver for having made this Mongolia experience a truly beautiful one with so many wonderful memories.

by Rafaella, Benedetta, Lidia

Aug 08, 2012.  Gobi & Karakorum customized 11 days tour

Sending you some of our nicer pictures. Some are chosen for their beautiful scenery while the rest are just us happily playing and goofing around. There are a couple of shots of us doing some Mongolian wrestling, as suggested by Oyuna since we missed out on the mini-Naadam festival. She said since we missed it, we might as well organise our own festival by playing some Mongolian games. Haha... We had so much fun playing those games!!! :)OK, I hope you like the pictures we send you. Best regards to everyone at Selena Travel and thank you once again for all your assistance.

by Margaret Suganda

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