Heart of Zavkhan
In the heart of the wild steppes of Zavkhan, between turquoise lakes and authentic nomadic traditions.
Duration
16 days
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
rustique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
The turquoise waters of Khar Lake shimmer in the midst of dunes, defying all logic in this remote province of Zavkhan. This land of contrasts reveals its secrets to patient travelers: springs miraculously gushing from the sand, rock arches sculpted by the winds, nomadic families perpetuating gestures thousands of years old.
The itinerary draws a loop from Ulan Bator towards the Khangai monasteries, then gradually ventures westward. Karakorum unveils the vestiges of Genghis Khan's empire, the Orkhon valley offers its waterfalls and encounters with local people, the volcanic lakes of Terkhiin Tsagaan prepare for the wonders of Zavkhan. Here, Mount Otgontenger dominates a landscape where desert and mountain influences mingle.
This preserved province remains one of the last frontiers of authentic Mongolie, far from classic routes. Between nomadic immersion and contemplative hiking, the journey reveals an intimate Mongolie, shaped by space and silence.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome and Discoveries in Ulaanbaatar
Arrival in Ulan Bator, the Mongolian capital, where 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 striking landscapes. Check-in at your hotel and rest (early check-in not included).
Meet at noon at your hotel, where your guide will meet 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 slowly immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Mongolia.
Dive into the heart of Mongolian history when visiting the National History Museum. Spread across several floors, the museum traces the rich past of the country, from the first nomadic civilizations through the Soviet period, including the rise of the great empire founded by Genghis Khan. A fascinating visit to better understand the identity and culture of Mongolia.
Walk through the downtown center of Ulaanbaatar to discover 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 activity of this amazing city, between Soviet heritage and nomadic culture.
Around 6:00 PM, you will enjoy a traditional Mongolian show at Tumen Ekh, famous for its performances combining folk dances, traditional music, contortion acts and khoomi, the fascinating Mongolian throat singing inscribed in the intangible cultural heritage.
Departure for the mini-Gobi
Discovery of the Gandantegchinlen monastery, the country's main Buddhist center. Every morning, monks gather there for prayers in an atmosphere steeped in serenity. This visit also allows you to learn more about Mongolian Buddhism and freely exchange with people present at the site.
Oulan Bator → Khogno Khan
Departure for the magnificent rock formations of Khögnö Khan. You discover a park with varied landscapes, between semi-desert steppes, taiga zones, granite massifs and a long strip of sand approximately 80 km, which earned it the nickname of "mini Gobi".
Ride along the sand dunes of Elsen Tasarkhai where we discover the arid landscapes of the Bayan desert.
Then, you hike to the Khambiin Khiid Monastery. Perched in the mountains, this 17th-century monastery was built by Zanabazar as a 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.
Visit to the old capital and nomadic lands
Khogno Khan → Karakorum
Route to Kharkhorin, the former capital of the Mongols. Founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan, this iconic city was one of the major stops on 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, recalling 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.
Kharkhorin → Orkhon Valley
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.
2-night stay with a nomadic herding family. You will discover the nomadic way of life and share their daily routine in all its simplicity. Depending on the season, you may be invited to participate in animal milking, traditional dairy product making or even horse herding of livestock.
(Activities subject to seasonal availability)
Orkhon Waterfall Visit
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon cascades
Those who wish can set off on a horseback ride 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 depending on 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 at 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 attend the preparation of a Mongolian barbecue, then share this traditional meal with your hosts in a warm atmosphere.
Arrival at Tsenkher Hot Springs
Orkhon Valley → Тovkhon
In the morning, you set off on 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 unveils a vast panorama over the Khangai range. You enjoy a picnic in this exceptional setting, with the Orkhon valley below.
Return to your hosts' place then a walk around the camp area.
Monastère de Tövkhön → Sources chaudes de Tsenkher
You continue your crossing of the lower Khangai and arrive at theTsenkher hot springs, where you can relax in the baths
Adventures in Arkhangai and Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake
Driving
You continue your journey through the heart of Arkhangai and discover vast steppes where many herding families live and where yaks and other livestock graze. You stop in Tsetserleg, a small town set in a landscape of mountains covered with larches.
On site, you resupply at the local market before visiting the Zayan Gegeen museum.
Tsetserleg → Terkhin Tsagaan Nuur
Then head towards the Khorgo Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur natural park located at 2,060 meters altitude. This lake, nicknamed "the great white lake", forms with the volcanic zone surrounding it an emblematic site of the Arkhangai province.
2-night stay in a yurt camp set on the shores of Terkhiin Tsagaan lake, offering a welcome break after your trek in Arkhangai.
Hiking on Khorgo Volcano
You set off hiking along the shores of the lake, heading South-East towards the Khorgo volcano, which rises to 2,240 metres. You climb it, an accessible and progressive ascent. From the summit, the view unfolds over the lake and the surrounding hills.
Near the volcano, the lava flows shape a singular landscape, contrasting with the environments encountered so far.
Route for Zavkhan and the banks of the Ider
Terkhin Tsagaan Nuur → Ider river tosontsengel
You head back on the road towards the West, in the direction of the Zavkhan province. Along the way, you skirt the Solongot hills. Lunch is planned at a local restaurant in Tosontsengel, where the atmosphere is reminiscent of the isolated towns of western Mongolie, almost like a distant echo of the American Far West.
You then set up your camp in a peaceful location, between sky and earth, on the banks of the Ider river.
Conquest of Zavkhan Province
Ider river tosontsengel → Lac khar
You are crossing the Zavkhan province. To the east, you admire the high peaks of the Khangai and its forested areas, while to the west extend desert landscapes.
Far from classic tourist trails, the province nonetheless reveals remarkable natural wonders, such as the Otgontenger mountain, as well as landscapes mixing dunes and turquoise lakes.
Hiking around Khar Lake
Day dedicated to a star hike around Khar Lake. You discover the characteristic landscapes of the Gobi, where dunes frame a lake with turquoise waters, offering a unique and peaceful natural setting.
Trekking in the Erdene Khairkhan Mountains
A few kilometers hike in the Erdene Khairkhan mountains, reaching the Senjit Khad site, a rock formation shaped like an arch that evokes American Far West landscapes.
Visit to the sources of the Mukhart river. An exceptional site where the river literally springs from the sand dunes.
A few kilometres hiking in the Erdene Khairkhan mountains, to the Senjit Khad site, a rock formation shaped like an arch that evokes landscapes of the American Far West.
Visit to the Mukhart River sources. An exceptional site where the river literally springs from the sand dunes.
Crossing the hill to Uliastai and camping on the Bogd
You travel along the Khangai mountains, which dominate the trail to the east, then cross the Zagastai hills before arriving at Uliastai capital of the Zavkhan province. You then head to the local market to stock up.
You continue your journey for about ten kilometers to reach the banks of the Bogd River, where you set up camp.
Hiking in Otgontenger Park
You set off to discover Mount Otgontenger National Park and explore its main sites: the waterfalls and Badarkhundaga Lake, located at the foot of Mount Otgontenger. You discover these places during a hiking trip that allows you to fully appreciate this natural setting.
Excursion to the Bogd Waterfall
Hiking to visit the artificial waterfalls located on the Bogd river, or free time to enjoy this natural and bucolic setting peacefully.
Return drive to Uliastai, where you settle into a small provincial hotel and enjoy a moment of rest.
Driving
Hiking to visit the artificial waterfalls located on the Bogd River, or free time to enjoy this natural and bucolic setting peacefully.
Return route to Uliastai, where you will stay in a small provincial hotel and enjoy a moment of rest.
Return route to Ulan Bator
You board your return flight to Ulaanbaatar.
Good to see you again and see you next time!
Breakfast at the hotel. The driver will accompany you to Ulan Bator international airport. The return transfer will take place at your preferred time, 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 flight
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Tips
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses
Included
- Accommodation according to the programme
- Full board
- English-speaking guide
- Driver and vehicle
- Site Entries
- Camping Equipment
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.
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
A stay in Mongolia is possible without a visa for a limited duration. A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry is required. For a longer stay, a visa can be obtained from the Mongolian embassy. Entry conditions change regularly: check the rules applicable to your nationality with the Mongolian consular authorities before departure.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailor-made trip, budget between 160 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation (yurts, lodges), meals, 4x4 with driver and English-speaking guide. International flights (800-1200 euros round trip) are additional. Mongolia offers a timeless nomadic immersion.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust together each detail until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Central Steppes
Horsewoman of the great Mongolian steppes, based in Oulan Bator
In Mongolia, you'll experience a rare sensation: the feeling of having space, time, and the impression that the horizon has no end.
— Emelyne
