Farm to Table: Organic Farm Visit and Mongolian Cooking Class

Our review of the Farm to Table: Organic Farm Visit and Mongolian Cooking Class offers a detailed look at this engaging experience just outside Ulaanbaatar. While we haven’t personally joined, the glowing reviews and comprehensive itinerary suggest it’s a must-do for those eager to dig into Mongolia’s local food scene beyond the usual tourist spots.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to learn how to make buuz, Mongolia’s iconic steamed dumplings, from scratch, guided by a friendly local family. Second, visitors get to gather fresh produce directly from a greenhouse and vegetable garden, offering an authentic farm-to-table experience. Lastly, the panoramic views from the farm’s elevated terrace provide a perfect backdrop for savoring your creations with a glass of wine.

One potential hurdle? The journey to the farm can take between 1 to 2 hours each way, depending on traffic — so it’s worth planning accordingly. This tour suits travelers who love hands-on activities, local food, and scenic countryside, making it ideal for those seeking a genuine, relaxed experience outside the city buzz.

Key Points

• Authentic experience with a local family in their organic farm.
• Learn to prepare traditional Mongolian dishes from scratch.
• Enjoy spectacular steppe views from an elevated terrace.
• A perfect mix of culinary skill, culture, and scenery.
• Suitable for most travelers, with a small group size (max. 6).
• Free cancellation offers peace of mind for flexible planning.

Getting There and Transport

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or designated points within two kilometers of the State Department Store, a central Ulaanbaatar landmark. From there, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away on a roughly 1 to 2-hour drive to the Ger Garden organic farm, located about 40 km from the city center. This drive offers a taste of Mongolia’s outskirts, where the city gradually gives way to open steppe.

Travel time can vary due to traffic, so early mornings or avoiding peak hours might make the journey smoother. The small group size (capped at 6 travelers) ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of space to ask questions or just enjoy the scenery.

Arrival at the Organic Farm

Once you arrive, the welcoming hosts will treat you to light refreshments, often local teas or simple snacks that set the tone for a relaxed day. From here, it’s a guided walk through the vegetable garden and greenhouses, where you’ll see the variety of seasonal produce cultivated on-site. Guests have been particularly impressed by the lush greenhouses and the range of vegetables, which are actually harvested for the meal later.

According to reviews, the hosts are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share insights about organic farming practices. One guest mentions, “The family was very informative and helpful with a tour of the facilities and greenhouses, and we all had a great time in the kitchen.” Their passion for sustainable farming and food quality shines through, making the entire experience more meaningful.

Cooking Class: Making Mongolian Dishes from Scratch

The heart of this tour is the hands-on cooking session. You’ll learn how to prepare two staples: buuz and a garden salad. The buuz process involves kneading the dough, filling it with seasoned ground beef—raised pasture-fed, according to the tour—and shaping the dumplings. The host guides you through each step, ensuring everyone gets the hang of folding and pinching the delicate parcels.

Meanwhile, you’ll also pick fresh vegetables for your garden salad, harvesting from the farm’s own beds. This part is especially satisfying, as you see, smell, and taste the freshness of ingredients grown just hours earlier. As one reviewer notes, “We harvested some fresh vegetables from the garden for the salad,” which adds a genuine farm-to-table element rarely experienced on standard tours.

A Taste of Local Flavors with a View

Once your dishes are prepared, you’ll enjoy your meal—hot, freshly steamed buuz paired with your garden salad—in a scenic setting. The outdoor elevated terrace offers sweeping views of the surrounding steppe valley dotted with farmers and grazing livestock, providing a tranquil backdrop. Many guests mention the spectacular scenery as a highlight, along with the relaxed atmosphere.

To complement the meal, a glass of local wine is included, adding a touch of celebration to the experience. One reviewer describes it as a “great conversation over some food and wine,” emphasizing how social and enjoyable the setting is.

Return Journey and Practicalities

After about 2 hours of culinary fun, the group boards the vehicle for the return trip back to Ulaanbaatar, following the same 1 to 2-hour window depending on traffic. The tour wraps up with a drop-off at your original pickup point, leaving you with a full stomach, new skills, and memorable views.

Value and Pricing

At $100 per person, this tour offers excellent value by blending cultural insight, culinary skills, and scenic beauty. The experience is well-organized, with transportation, a guided farm walk, and a cooking class included. The small group size enhances interaction, making it feel more like a visit to friends’ countryside home than a commercial activity.

Guardian of Quality: Why It’s Worth Your Time

The attention to detail and authentic approach make this tour particularly appealing. Guests have praised the guides—despite the official name not listing a specific guide, the host family’s warmth and knowledge shine through. The greenhouse tours, organic ingredients, and interactive cooking are features that elevate this beyond typical food tastings.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — it’s perfect if you’re curious about Mongolian food, enjoy hands-on activities, or love beautiful countryside views. It’s especially great for foodies, families, or small groups who value authentic, local experiences. If you’re after a relaxed day that combines culinary learning, scenic landscapes, and cultural interaction, this tour will meet your expectations.

For those wanting a genuine taste of Mongolia’s culinary traditions combined with the scenic tranquility of the steppe, this farm-to-table experience hits the mark. The opportunity to harvest vegetables, prepare traditional dishes, and enjoy panoramic views from a charming farm makes it a memorable addition to any Ulaanbaatar itinerary.

It’s a thoughtfully curated activity that balances culture with relaxing countryside scenery, all at a reasonable price. The small-group setting, friendly hosts, and delicious homemade food create a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels genuine and unhurried.

Whether you’re a food lover eager to learn new skills or someone wanting a peaceful escape with stunning views, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Mongolian experience worth considering.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle for pickup and return, making the journey to and from the farm hassle-free.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 8:00 am with pickup from your hotel or specified points within 2 km of the State Department Store in Ulaanbaatar.

How long does the whole experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time, the farm visit, cooking class, and return to the city.

Can beginners participate in the cooking class?
Absolutely. The guides are friendly and helpful, ensuring everyone can follow along, regardless of cooking experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing suitable for outdoor walking and kitchen activities. Layering is advised, as the farm’s outdoor area can be cooler in the morning.

Is there a vegetarian option?
The tour mainly features pasture-raised beef for the buuz, but you might find it helpful to inquire beforehand if you have specific dietary restrictions.

What if the weather is poor on the day?
The experience requires good weather, but if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

This farm-to-table journey offers a unique window into Mongolia’s food culture, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality. It’s perfect for travelers seeking meaningful interactions and authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail.