Tour Description
A 13-day trip to the Kharhiraa and Turgeni Mountains, a spectacular region in the Mongolian Altai Mountains featuring snow-covered peaks, glaciers, swift rivers, and pristine lakes. This area serves as a buffer zone, creating ideal conditions for the growth of unique plant species and rare animals. The hiking trail follows an intriguing route that traverses 3000m high passes, mountain glaciers, and picturesque valleys bursting with wildflowers. Members of the Khoton and Durvud ethnic minorities of Mongolia assist by carrying our travel gear on camels throughout the journey.
After trekking, you'll explore the Bayan-Olgii province to immerse yourself in Kazakh culture, including the traditional art of Kazakh eagle hunting, with a rare opportunity to meet skilled eagle hunters. Nearly all tour days are suitable for travelers with an average fitness level, ensuring an accessible and rewarding experience for all participants.
Tour Highlight
- Disconnect from modern life and immerse yourself in the peaceful Kharkhiraa and Turgen mountains.
- Explore the unspoiled beauty of nature, surrounded by pristine landscapes and breathtaking vistas.
- Marvel at the colorful wildflowers that adorn the mountains and valleys.
- Engage with the friendly Durvud and Khoton ethnic nomads, gaining insight into their traditional way of life and culture.
- Learn the nomadic lifestyle firsthand, learning about ancient customs and practices.
- Meet a Kazakh Eagle hunter and experience the rich cultural heritage of the Kazakh people, including their unique traditions and skills.
- 4-5 pax: 2670 USD
- 6-8 pax: 2375 USD
- 9-12 pax: 2280 USD
- Single Supplement: 350 USD
Dates
What’s Included
- All accommodation (twin shared)
- Internal transportation
- Internal flights, arrival & departure transfers
- Meals as indicated (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
- Sightseeing & environmental fees
- Camping equipment
- English speaking trekking guide
- Expedition chef
- Local guides
- Camel support
- Satellite phone for emergencies
What's Excluded
- Travel insurance
- Excess luggage fees on internal flights
- Sleeping bag and mat
- Items of personal nature
- Meals not indicated
- Drinks
- Gratuities
Day 1 : Arrival to Ulaanbaatar, guided city tour
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar (UB), the capital of Mongolia and transfer to a centrally located 4 star hotel. Afternoon guided walking city tour will introduce you to the highlights of the city: The central city square with a grand statue of Genghis Khan and Sukhbaatar statue placed at the center as well. Museum of National History is located right next to the square will introducing Mongolia's history from early humans to modern era. Then choose to visit one or two museums from the following: 1. Choijin Lama or State Oracle Residence-museum displaying best samples of Buddhist artwork and religious masks. 2 The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum displays old arts including Buddhist arts, painting, folk arts and crafts, sculptures, carvings and embroideries. A show of traditional music, throat singing and contortion at 6PM will be followed by a welcome dinner. (Hotel/D)
Day 2 : Flight to Ulaangom town and Transfer to Uliastai valley
In the morning, you will be transferred from UB to the airport for a 3-hour flight to Ulaangom town, located just 40 km from Lake Uvs, the largest lake in Mongolia. Your guide will accompany you on the flight. Upon arrival, we will take a one-hour car transfer to the Uliastai valley, our trek's starting point. Here, we will set up our first tented camp and finalize arrangements with local camel herders. Throughout the trek, tents, food, and luggage will be transported by two-humped Bactrian camels belonging to the ethnic Khoton nomads, who will join us this evening. Distance: 35km. Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3 : Trek to Blue Lake
We begin our trek by ascending the Uliastai pass, standing at an elevation of 2410 meters. As we climb, the landscape unfolds to reveal the breathtaking Blue Lake, nestled amidst the rugged foothills of the Kharkhiraa and Turgen peaks, crowned with snow. After a delightful picnic lunch, we descend to the shores of the lake, where we walk along its tranquil shoreline until reaching our campsite at an altitude of 1795 meters above sea level. Our caravan of two-humped camels will soon catch up with us, arriving after lunch to set up camp and prepare a hearty dinner. This will be the typical routine for each day of our trekking adventure. Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Distance: 14km. Ascent 715m, Descent 520m, Max elevation 2410m
Day 4 : Trek to Turgen river
Our trek commences from the Blue Lake valley, where the tranquil beauty of the surroundings immediately sets a peaceful tone for our adventure. As we gradually ascend towards the 2443-meter-high pass, the landscape unfolds to reveal stunning vistas of the majestic snowy peaks of the Kharhiraa and Turgen Mountains. This panoramic view is a testament to the untouched wilderness that surrounds us.
Descending from the pass, we enter the Turgen river valley, navigating through rugged terrain and following a narrow camel track that winds its way along the riverbank. The sound of rushing water and the sight of lush vegetation create a serene atmosphere as we continue our journey.
After a day of trekking, we finally reach the bank of the Turgen river, where our campsite awaits. Nestled amidst nature our tents provide a cozy shelter for the night. Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Distance:19km, Ascent 406m, Descent 465m, max elevation 2443m)
Day 5 : Trek to Dund Khoroo Mountain
Trek to Dund Khoroo mt. It is an all day long ascent along the Kharkhiraa river at the end of which we will have gained almost 800 meters. The impressive red rock wall will continue alongside across the river. Rocky but well established trail steadily climbs up bringing more snow capped peaks into our sight. A noticeable temperature drop can also be felt. Our camel caravan will be struggling harder to catch up with us.
Time permitting we will visit one of the local herding families that graze their large flocks of sheep, goats and horses on the abundant alpine pastures. We continue trekking upstream along the Kharkhiraa river until arriving to its headspring. This is also the bottom of the main water dividing ridge. Several small streams are to be negotiated on foot. Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Distance:15km, Ascent 760m, Descend 211m, Max elevation 2347m.
Day 6-7 : Trek to Kharkhiraa pass
Day 6: Starting from Dund Khoroo mountain, our trek leads us through the picturesque and narrow valley of the Kharhiraa river, where the gentle sound of flowing water accompanies our journey.
Our campsite for the night is nestled on the tranquil river bank, sheltered beneath the imposing presence of the Kharhiraa pass. Here, the soothing melody of the river serves as a lullaby, offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
During today's trek, we will encounter the exhilarating challenge of fording two small rivers on foot, adding a touch of adventure to our expedition.
While the terrain remains relatively flat, our gradual ascent in elevation provides us with breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Turgen Mountains. We will stay for two nights here.
Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Distance:14km, Ascent 760m, Descent 211m, max elevation 2630m
Day 7: Leisure day - Exploring the Alpine lake. Distance: 11km
Day 8 : Trek to Ereesen at Olon Nuur valley
On the longest day of our trek, we will cover a distance of 24kilometers. Our first challenge involves ascending the Kharkhiraa Pass, reaching an altitude of 2668 meters. Once beyond the pass, we traverse through flat and marshy terrain until we arrive at a picturesque small lake nestled amidst the mountains. Continuing our trek for another 5 kilometers from the lake, we will reach a location known as Ereesen. Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Distance:24km, Ascent 654m, Descent 602m, Max elevation 2668m
Day 9 : Trek to Khar Yamaat valley
We cross the Olon Nuur valley, a typical highland tundra characterized by permafrost not far below the surface, leading to an abundance of water and marshy areas.
Exiting the Olon Nuur valley, we ascend the 2959m Black Goat pass, marking the entry point into the Black Goat valley. This valley is formed by two parallel ridges extending from the Turgen peak, with densely forested lower slopes on both sides. It is home to elusive species like the Snow Leopard and wild mountain goats, which are the former's main prey.
We descend into the valley and trek for a good half day before reaching our campsite. Accommodation: Tent. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Distance:19km, Ascent 491m, Descent 888m, Max elevation 2959m
Day 10: Half day Trekking to Tel Mod - Ulgii town.
Today marks the final day of our trekking adventure. We will cover a distance of 15 kilometers before stopping for lunch at Tel Mod camp. At this point, we bid farewell to the camel drivers who have accompanied us throughout our trek.
From the Tel Mod National Park gate, we will board a van for a 130-kilometer drive to the city of Ulgii. Along the way, we will visit a local nomadic family to experience their way of life firsthand.
Upon reaching Ulgii, we will check into a hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Later in the evening, we will have dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of civilization once again after our time in the wilderness. Accommodation: Local hotel in Ulgii. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Distance:15km, Ascent 192m, Descent 356m, Max elevation 2269m
Day 11: Flight to Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, take a domestic flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for some rest and relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely evening, followed by dinner at one of Ulaanbaatar’s finest restaurants, where you can savor traditional Mongolian or international cuisine. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Distance: 70km.
Day 12: Day Trip to Chinggis Khan Statue
Set out on a day trip to the iconic Chinggis Khan Equestrian Statue, the largest equestrian statue in the world, standing an impressive 40 meters tall. Explore the museum inside the statue's base, which showcases artifacts from the Mongol Empire. Climb to the statue's head for breathtaking views of the surrounding steppe. Enjoy lunch at a nearby ger restaurant, sampling traditional Mongolian dishes. Return to Ulaanbaatar in the late afternoon, with the rest of the evening at leisure. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 13: Departure
You will be transferred to Chinggis Khan Airport for your departure.
Ellen T
We went on a multi day trip to the Altai Mountains with Mongolia Expeditions and I would highly recommend it. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and helpful. We learned a lot about Mongolia and the Altai Mountains specifically. The food during our trek was amazing, especially the various soups we had every evening. Our tent was even heated with a little wood stove on the cold nights. Mongolia Expeditions also organized a city tour for us, our city tour guide provided us with a lot of information about the country and culture in general. She was impressively informed.
Ian T - from Australia
First-rate trekking experience in western Mongolia with Mongolia Expeditions
I organised a group comprised of friends and members of my local hiking club to trek in Mongolia using Mongolia Expeditions, based on recommendations from participants in a 2019 trip. Mongolia Expeditions did not disappoint. We spent three weeks in Mongolia, focused on two treks in western Mongolia (Kharkhiraa-Turgen area and Altai Tavan Bogd, including Malchin Peak) and had a very positive and enjoyable experience. The landscape was impressive and varied and we appreciated the cultural interactions we experienced. Mongolia Expeditions provided a very professional level of service, both in dealing with their Ulaanbaatar office and on the treks. The treks were well-planned and managed. There was positive, friendly interaction with the staff during the treks and we appreciated the good line of communication we had through our chief guide, who spoke fluent English. Meals were good and fairly varied. The cook even managed to bake fresh bread on a couple of occasions! I will be recommending Mongolia Expeditions to other people I know who are interested in exploring Mongolia.
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