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 middle of the 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 to the Khangai monasteries, then gradually ventures westward. Karakorum unveils the remains of Genghis Khan's empire, the Orkhon valley offers its waterfalls and encounters with local families, the volcanic lakes of Terkhiin Tsagaan prepare for the wonders of Zavkhan. Here, Mount Otgontenger dominates a landscape where desert and mountain influences blend together.
This unspoiled province remains one of the last frontiers of authentic Mongolie, far from classic circuits. 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 Ulaanbaatar, 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 then transfer to the city center, your first glimpse of this fascinating destination with already breathtaking landscapes. Check-in to your hotel and rest (early check-in not included).
Meet at noon at your hotel, where your guide will greet you before accompanying you to a local restaurant for lunch. This first moment of exchange is an opportunity to get to know each other, discover the main highlights of your adventure and slowly immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Mongolia.
Dive into the heart of Mongolian history during a visit to the national history museum. Spread over several floors, the museum traces the country's rich past, 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.
Stroll through the downtown 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 hustle and bustle of this amazing city, between Soviet heritage and nomadic culture.
Around 6:00 PM, you attend a traditional Mongolian show at Tumen Ekh, famous for its performances combining folk dances, traditional music, contortion acts and khoomi, the fascinating Mongolian diphonic 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 filled with serenity. This visit also allows you to learn more about Mongolian Buddhism and to freely exchange with people present on the site.
Oulan Bator → Khogno Khan
Departure for the splendid rock formations of Khögnö Khan. You discover a park with varied landscapes, between semi-desert steppes, taiga zones, granite massifs and a long stretch of sand approximately 80 km long, which earned it the nickname "mini Gobi".
Walk along the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes 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 in tribute to his spiritual master, the monk Erdene. The peaceful atmosphere that reigns there and the view over the surroundings make it a remarkable cultural and spiritual stop.
Visit to the old capital and nomadic lands
Khogno Khan → Karakorum
Route for Kharkhorin, the former capital of the Mongols. Founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan, this emblematic 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 of 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 significance 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 lush 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 complete simplicity. Depending on the season, you may be offered the opportunity to participate in animal milking, traditional dairy product making or even herding livestock on horseback.
(Activities subject to seasonality)
Visit to the Orkhon Falls
Orkhon Valley → Orkhon cascades
Those who wish can set out 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 flow cascades over dark stone, sometimes crossed by a ray of sunlight that creates an ephemeral rainbow. Standing 16 meters high, they were formed nearly 20,000 years ago, following a rare combination of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
At the end of the day, you will attend the preparation of a Mongolian barbecue, then share this traditional meal with your hosts in a warm atmosphere.
Arrival at Tsenkher hot springs
From Orkhon Valley
In the morning, you head out on an excursion to the Tövkhön monastery. The ascent to the summit of Öndör Ulaan hill, accessible only on foot, leads to the Tovkhon hermitage, where Zanabazar, Mongolia's first religious leader, composed the Soyombo alphabet. Situated 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 followed by a walk around the camp area.
Monastère de Tövkhön → Sources chaudes de Tsenkher
You continue your crossing of the lower Khangaï and arrive at thehot springs of Tsenkher, where you can relax in the baths
Adventures in Arkhangai and Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan
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 nestled in a landscape of mountains covered with larches.
There, 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 ger 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 on a hike along the lake shores, heading South-East towards the Khorgo volcano, which rises to 2,240 metres. You climb it, a hike that is accessible and progressively challenging. 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 resume your journey westward, heading toward the Zavkhan province. Along the way, you skirt the Solongot hills. Lunch is planned at a local restaurant in Tosontsengel, where the atmosphere recalls that of isolated towns in western Mongolia, 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 Khangai and its forested areas, while to the west stretch desert landscapes.
Far from the classic tourist trails, the province nevertheless 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.
Hiking to the Erdene Khairkhan Mountains
A few kilometers hike in the Erdene Khairkhan mountains, to the Senjit Khad site, a rock formation shaped like an arch that evokes the landscapes of the American Far West.
Visit to the sources of the Mukhart River. An exceptional site where the river literally springs from the sand dunes.
From Khar-us lake
Hiking of a few kilometers in the Erdene Khairkhan mountains, to the Senjit Khad site, a rock formation shaped like an arch that evokes the landscapes of the American Far West.
Walking tour
Visit to the Mukhart River springs. An exceptional site where the river literally bursts forth from the sand dunes.
Hill crossing to Uliastai and camping on the Bogd
You skirt the Khangai Mountains, which dominate the track 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.
Uliastai → bogd river
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
bogd river → Mont Otgontenger
You set off to discover Otgontenger National Park and explore its main sites: the waterfalls and Lake Badarkhundaga, located at the foot of Otgontenger Mountain. You discover these places during a hike 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 peacefully enjoy this natural and bucolic setting.
Return journey 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 peacefully enjoy this natural and bucolic setting.
Return drive to Uliastai, where you settle into a small provincial hotel and enjoy a moment of rest.
Return route to Ulan Bator
You embark on your return flight to Ulan Bator.
See you again soon!
Breakfast at the hotel. The driver will accompany you to Ulan Bator international airport. The return transfer will take place at the time you wish, 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 program
- Full board
- English-speaking guide
- Driver and vehicle
- Entrances to sites
- 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
Cultural and encounters facilitator for Mongolia, based in Oulan Bator
The most beautiful memories from Mongolia are often born from an unexpected encounter, around a cup of tea or a ger door that opens with a smile.
— Chimgee
