Explore the Beauty of Mongolia by bike

For those with an adventurous spirit and a love for the great outdoors, Mongolia offers some of the most breathtaking and unique bike tours in the world. From vast steppes to rugged mountain ranges, the country’s diverse landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for cyclists looking to explore beyond the beaten path. Here, we delve into some of the best routes and the optimal times of year to embark on a bike tour in Mongolia.

Best Routes

The Central Mongolia Loop
The Central Mongolia Loop is a quintessential route for cyclists wanting to experience the heart of Mongolia. This tour typically starts in Ulaanbaatar and takes you through the ancient city of Karakorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire. Highlights of this route include the scenic Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the stunning Khustain Nuruu National Park, home to wild Przewalski horses. The route combines challenging terrains with cultural landmarks, offering a well-rounded and enriching cycling experience.

The Gobi Desert Traverse
For those seeking a truly extraordinary adventure, the Gobi Desert Traverse is an unparalleled choice. This route takes you across the expansive and iconic Gobi Desert, encompassing vast sand dunes, dramatic cliffs, and remote oases. Cyclists will encounter the Flaming Cliffs, renowned for their rich fossil deposits, and the Yolyn Am gorge, known for its ice field remnants. This route is not for the faint-hearted, but it promises an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most remarkable deserts.

The Altai Mountains Expedition
The Altai Mountains Expedition offers an exhilarating and challenging ride through Mongolia’s westernmost region. This route traverses the rugged Altai Mountain Range, passing through pristine alpine forests, glacial rivers, and high-altitude passes. Cyclists will be rewarded with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and encounters with nomadic Kazakh herders. This route is ideal for experienced cyclists looking for a demanding and awe-inspiring adventure.

When to go

Late spring (May-June) is one of the best times to embark on a bike tour in Mongolia. During this period, the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush and green. The temperatures are comfortable for cycling, and the countryside is adorned with wildflowers. This season is also less crowded with tourists, providing a more serene and immersive experience.

Summer (July-August) is the peak season for bike tours in Mongolia, offering warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the ideal time to explore higher altitudes and mountainous regions, as the weather is generally stable and dry. However, it is also the busiest time of year, so cyclists should be prepared for more crowded popular routes.

Early Autumn (September to October) is another excellent time for bike tours, with cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage. The landscapes transform into a tapestry of golden hues, providing a picturesque setting for cyclists. This season offers a balance between favourable weather conditions and fewer tourists, making it a popular choice for many.

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Mongolia’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a premier destination for bike tours. Whether you’re traversing the vast steppes, the rugged mountain ranges, or the iconic desert, each route offers a unique and unforgettable experience. By choosing the best times of year to go, cyclists can ensure a more enjoyable and memorable adventure. So, gear up and get ready to explore the uncharted terrains of Mongolia on two wheels.

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These are the tours we've found so far - if you know of others please let us know.
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