7 days Mongolian Heartland

Planning a trip to Mongolia? The 7 days Mongolian Heartland tour offers an exciting way to explore the country’s vast landscapes, historic sites, and nomadic culture without the stress of planning every detail yourself. While it’s not a budget trip, the price of around $862 per person reflects an immersive experience that includes transportation, guiding, meals, and stays in traditional ger camps.

What we love about this tour is its diverse itinerary—covering everything from ancient ruins like Kharhorin, the former capital of the Mongol Empire, to the breathtaking scenery of the Orkhon Valley, and the chance to engage in authentic horseback riding and camel treks. Plus, the knowledgeable guides are a highlight, making the journey not only scenic but also informative.

However, the tour does involve long drives—sometimes through rough roads—so it’s best suited for those with an adventurous spirit and patience for travel hours. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of culture, natural beauty, and active outdoor experiences, all within a week.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visits to ancient sites and monasteries provide genuine insight into Mongolia’s history and spiritual traditions.
• Diverse Landscapes: From waterfalls and volcanic lakes to mountains and deserts, the scenery is incredibly varied.
• Active Experiences: Horseback riding, hiking, and camel treks offer hands-on adventures typical of Mongolian life.
• Travel Logistics: Ground transportation in 4WD vans and group sizes of up to 24 travelers keep the experience manageable and social.
• Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of each site and local customs.
• Value for Price: All meals, park entrance fees, and activities like rides are included, which simplifies budgeting.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Kharhorin – The Ancient Capital

The tour kicks off with a 365 km drive from Ulaanbaatar to Kharhorin, once the heart of the Mongol Empire. Despite being called an ancient capital, few remains survive, but the significance is palpable. Visiting ruins and the old city site gives a sense of Mongolia’s imperial past. We note that the drive is a bit long, and the roads aren’t always smooth, but seeing the countryside’s sweeping vistas makes up for it. A reviewer, Mrz_P, remarked, “Drives were long as roads do not exist in Mongolia, takes a little to get used,” but appreciated the “splendid sights and natural beauty.”

Day 2: Exploring Orkhon Valley and the Waterfalls

Next, you’ll traverse 200 km to reach the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, the highlight is the Ulaan Tsutgalan waterfall, located at the confluence of the Ulaan and Orkhon rivers. This spot offers stunning views and a chance to experience Mongolia’s pristine nature. Expect some light walking to get close to the falls, with the sound of rushing water providing a peaceful backdrop. As the guide explains, this area is steeped in history and natural beauty, making it a favorite among travelers looking for scenic landscapes.

Day 3: Tuvkhun Monastery and Mountain Trekking

Driving 70 km into the mountains, you’ll visit Tuvkhun Monastery, a historic spiritual site perched in the mountains. The trek to the monastery involves walking through forests and rugged terrain, which our reviewer notes as “a beautiful hike with rewarding views.” The monastery was built by Zanabazar, Mongolia’s first spiritual leader, adding spiritual significance to the site. Expect a peaceful atmosphere, and don’t forget your walking shoes.

Day 4-5: Discovering Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park

A longer drive—about 190 km—takes you to this volcanic lake area, created by eruptions centuries ago. The park’s highlight is the Khorgo volcano, an extinct volcano that rises 2,240 meters high. The landscape here is surreal, with lava flows, forests, and the shimmering lake. You’ll hike along the shores and visit the volcano crater, with panoramic views that make for incredible photo opportunities. One reviewer mentioned, “From the top of the volcano, you’ll see lava flows covered with forest and a splendid view of the surrounding mountains,” emphasizing the visual drama of this site.

Day 6: Khugnu Khaan Natural Reserve and the White Lake

Continuing eastward, the tour visits Khugnu Khaan Nature Reserve, a mix of mountains, forests, and steppe—an ideal spot for outdoor lovers. The scenery is varied, and the guide will point out the unique flora and fauna, including the rare wild horses—Takhi or Przewalski horses. It’s one of the rare places where you can see these elusive animals in the wild. The journey is about 290 km, but the diverse landscapes make the drive worthwhile.

Day 7: Return to Ulaanbaatar via Khustain Nuruu

On your final day, you’ll visit Khustain Nuruu National Park, home to the Przewalski’s wild horse. This is a rare opportunity to see these horses in a natural setting, and the guide’s knowledge about the conservation efforts adds depth to the experience. Afterwards, the drive back to Ulaanbaatar is roughly 280 km and offers a chance to reflect on the trip’s highlights.

Practicalities and Value

The tour fee of $862.11 covers most essentials: all meals, park fees, transportation, and guiding. Staying in ger camps and nomadic families ensures authentic overnight experiences, although they may be quite basic compared to urban hotels. This setup is ideal if you’re eager to truly see what Mongolian life is like outside the city.

Transportation is via 4WD vans in the countryside, which is necessary due to the rough roads. The group size of up to 24 travelers strikes a balance between social dynamics and personal space, with a guide always present to explain and navigate.

While the long drives might seem daunting, they are part of the adventure, giving travelers a chance to see Mongolia’s sprawling landscapes and rural life firsthand. As one reviewer pointed out, “It takes a little to get used,” but the views and experiences make it worth it.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 7-day Mongolian Heartland tour shines for travelers who crave an active, culturally immersive experience in a land of wilderness and history. If you’re comfortable with long road trips and enjoy engaging with local landscapes and traditions, this journey offers tremendous value. The knowledgeable guides are a major plus, enriching your understanding of Mongolia’s past and present.

However, those seeking luxury accommodations or a leisurely pace might find the ger stays and long drives less appealing. Also, if you’re not keen on outdoor activities like trekking and horseback riding, parts of this tour may feel physically demanding.

Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for adventure seekers, history buffs, and nature lovers eager to see Mongolia’s genuine spirit. The combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and authentic nomadic experiences makes it a well-rounded introduction to the Heartland of Mongolia.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all ground transportation, guide services, park entrance fees, all meals, and activities such as horseback and camel rides. Lodging in ger camps or nomadic families is also provided.

Are airport transfers included?
Transfers upon arrival and departure are included, making it easier to coordinate your flights.

What’s the accommodation like?
In the countryside, you’ll stay in traditional ger camps or with nomadic families, giving an authentic experience. The tour does not include hotel stays in Ulaanbaatar, so plan accordingly.

How long are the drives between destinations?
Drive times vary from about 70 km to 365 km, with some roads being rough, so expect long hours on the road. The journey is part of the adventure, offering scenic views along the way.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most activities involve walking, hiking, and horseback riding, so some physical fitness is recommended. The terrain can be rugged, but the guide can advise on how to pace yourself.

What should I bring?
Be prepared for variable weather with layered clothing, sturdy shoes for trekking, and essentials like sun protection, water, and personal items. The tour provides 1.5 liters of water daily.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rich, authentic taste of Mongolia’s landscapes, history, and nomadic lifestyle. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers eager to experience Mongolia beyond the typical tourist spots, provided you’re comfortable with the travel pace and outdoor activities. With knowledgeable guides and a well-rounded itinerary, it promises a memorable week of discovery in the Heartland.