Mongolian Steppe Adventure

Mongolia is justifiably one of the last unspoilt destinations in the world. Home to beautiful natural surroundings filled with diverse and distinctive plant life, the country welcomes travellers to experience a variety of landscapes and wildlife habitats. Contrary to other nations on the planet, horses rule the country, roam the plains, and even outnumber the Mongolian population.

For outdoor lovers, Mongolia is not only a prime but also a challenging destination offering unique experiences. As riders pedal, hike and horse ride through this steppe nation, they are rewarded for their determination with a once-in-a-lifetime experience sure to leave a lasting memory.

From stargazing nights in tented camps by crystal-clear waters, riders learn Mongolian traditions passed down for centuries, sample horse milk and cheese, and have the full nomadic experience with a night in a "ger," a traditional felt-covered tent.

The tour covers a total of 218 kilometres across six adventure-packed days: 120km cycling over two days, 37km trekking over two days, and 61km horse riding over two days. Highlights include a steep climb over a 1,930m pass by bike, a seven-hour trek to the summit of 2,656m Mount Altan Olgii, and two days riding sturdy Mongolian horses to the confluence of the Tuul and Terelj Rivers and into Terelj National Park, famous for its granite rock formations.

The tour begins and ends in Ulaanbaatar, with a city tour, Mongolian folk concert and traditional dinners bookending the wilderness adventure.

Highlights:

• Cycle over a steep 1,930m mountain pass and descend across open steppe grassland
• Ride past herders' encampments and flocks on remote steppe trails
• Trek the Sutsadav Ridge and summit 2,656m Mount Altan Olgii
• Horse ride to the confluence of the Tuul and Terelj Rivers
• Explore Terelj National Park's granite formations, including "Turtle Rock," on horseback
• Overnight in tented camps and a traditional Mongolian ger (yurt)

Surface and terrain:
Off-road throughout the cycling days: compressed earthy terrain and dirt trails, generally smooth but with loose gravel, sandy patches and rocky sections on descents and stream crossings. No paved cycling. Two mountain passes exceed 1,880m.

Weather:
Extreme and changeable. Summer (June–August) sees daytime temperatures of 20–30°C (15°C evenings) and is also the rainy season. Autumn (from September) is cooler, 15–25°C days. Snow is possible at any time of year; appropriate cold-weather clothing is essential.

Suitable for:
Rated "Sport" difficulty. Recommended for confident, physically fit riders comfortable on rough off-road terrain; also requires moderate fitness for one tough mountain trek. Group size 2–16, minimum age 18.