Authentic Mongolian two days tours in Terelj & Khustai National P

Exploring Mongolia through this two-day tour promises a blend of wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and genuine local insights. While it’s not a budget option, the experience offers incredible value for those eager to see Mongolia’s iconic landscapes and iconic animals like the Przewalski’s wild horse.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see Khustai National Park, home to the rare Takhi (Przewalski’s wild horse), the guides’ deep knowledge, and the chance to relax amidst nature’s beauty. Plus, the visit to Moltsog sand dunes adds a unique twist to the journey. On the flip side, the tour’s pace might feel a bit rushed for those wanting more immersion or more time at each stop, especially if you love lingering over scenic views.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate wildlife, stunning scenery, and local culture, especially if they prefer organized, guided travel with convenience and comfort. It suits those who value expert guides and are comfortable with a packed schedule over just relaxing in one spot.

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Key Points

Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see the rare Przewalski’s wild horses, red deer, marmots, and other native animals.
Expert Guides: Guides like Augi are praised for their deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the experience informative and memorable.
Stunning Scenery: From the forest-steppe dunes in Khustai to the sand dunes of Moltsog, the landscapes are spectacular and photogenic.
Comfort & Convenience: The tour includes all fees, meals, bottled water, and transportation in a 4WD SUV—no surprises.
Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure, offering peace of mind.
Authentic Experience: A private tour tailored to your group, avoiding crowded, impersonal groups.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

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Day 1: Khustai National Park

Your adventure begins early at 9:00 am in Ulaanbaatar, where you’ll be picked up by a professional driver in a comfortable 4WD SUV. The journey to Khustai National Park takes approximately a few hours, depending on traffic and stops, but it’s part of what makes this trip so scenic and relaxed.

Once inside Khustai, you’ll find yourself amidst rolling hills, open plains, and patches of forest. The highlight here is the chance to see Przewalski’s wild horses—a true success story in conservation. These horses, once extinct in the wild, now roam freely thanks to reintroduction efforts. Tour guides like Augi are known to provide detailed insights into their history and significance, making the wildlife sightings more meaningful.

Reviewers highlight how knowledgeable guides elevate the experience—they’ll tell you about the wild horses’ adaptation and conservation challenges, which adds depth beyond just snapping photos. Beyond horses, expect to see red deer, marmots, and possibly other wildlife. The landscape includes sand dunes that offer unusual views in this forest-steppe zone, creating a striking contrast with the greenery.

Day 2: Moltsog Sand Dunes and Return to Ulaanbaatar

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off back toward Ulaanbaatar but not before stopping at the Moltsog sand dunes. These dunes are a standout feature—massive, sweeping expanses of sand that seem almost out of place in the lush surroundings of the park. It’s a perfect spot for photos and stretching your legs before the drive back.

The journey offers an opportunity to reflect on the wildlife and landscape you’ve experienced, with the guide filling in details about Mongolia’s ecological diversity and cultural significance. Expect to arrive back in Ulaanbaatar by late afternoon or early evening.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusions make it a good deal considering the price of $500 per person. Meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are covered, which is a significant convenience, especially in a remote area. Bottled water, all fees and taxes, fuel, and experienced guides also come as part of the package, ensuring a smooth and informative trip.

However, keep in mind that personal expenses and gratuities are not included, so budgeting a tip for your guide is advisable if you feel they went above and beyond. Travel insurance isn’t part of the package either, so it’s worth securing your own coverage.

Transportation and Logistics

Traveling in a 4WD SUV ensures comfortable navigation over unpaved or uneven terrain, which is typical of national parks and dunes. The tour is private, meaning your group will have the guide’s full attention, making questions and personalized insights easy. Starting at 9:00 am in Ulaanbaatar means you’ll have plenty of daylight for sightseeing and avoiding the rush of larger group tours.

Guides like Augi are praised for their approachability and depth of knowledge. According to reviews, they’re well-versed in Mongolia’s culture, history, and wildlife. Travelers appreciated guides who provided detailed commentary and made the experience engaging.

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Timing and Pace

The overall schedule is efficient, but it might feel a bit rushed for those wanting more time at each location. The focus is on seeing the highlights—wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights—without lingering too long. This setup suits travelers who prefer a curated experience over a slow-paced exploration.

Authenticity and Value

While the tour isn’t cheap, it offers considerable value for travelers eager to see Mongolia’s iconic wildlife and landscapes with expert guidance. Reviews emphasize the quality of the guiding and the stunning scenery as major highlights, making it a worthwhile investment.

The fact that it’s a private tour makes it easier to customize or ask questions, adding to the sense of an authentic adventure rather than a crowded bus ride. The inclusion of all fees, meals, and bottled water also simplifies planning, allowing you to focus on enjoying each moment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This two-day experience is best suited for travelers who:

Value wildlife encounters, especially with rare species like the Przewalski’s wild horse
Appreciate scenic landscapes and want to capture stunning photos
Seek knowledgeable local guides who can deepen their understanding of Mongolia
Prefer organized, hassle-free trips with all logistics handled in advance
Enjoy a mix of cultural and natural sights in a compact timeframe

It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a busy schedule and want a meaningful introduction to Mongolia’s wilderness and conservation efforts. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced experience, you might prefer spending more time in fewer locations or exploring independently.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Ulaanbaatar to Khustai National Park?
The drive typically takes a few hours, depending on traffic and stops, but is part of the scenic experience.

Is this a private or group tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner—meals that are thoughtfully included to keep you energized for the day.

Are all fees and taxes covered?
Yes, all fees and taxes are included in the tour price, so no surprises.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility.

Is transportation comfortable and suitable for rough terrain?
Yes, a 4WD SUV is used, ensuring a comfortable ride over unpaved or uneven surfaces common in national parks and dunes.

Final Thoughts

This two-day Mongolian tour offers a well-rounded mix of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to get a taste of Mongolia’s wild heart. You’ll love the chance to see the famous Przewalski’s wild horses, learn from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy picturesque vistas at every turn.

While it’s a somewhat full schedule, the convenience of organized transport, meals, and expert guidance makes it an excellent value for those wanting a curated, authentic experience. If wildlife and natural beauty are top priorities, and you’re comfortable with a packed itinerary, this tour is hard to beat.