Mongolia: Tsaatan Tribe and Lake Khövsgöl 8-Day Tour

If you’re craving a journey that gets you off the beaten path and into the heart of Mongolia’s wild, untouched wilderness, this 8-day tour offers a compelling mix of authentic cultural encounters and breathtaking scenery. While it’s not a casual sightseeing trip—be prepared for some serious adventure—those who love seeing local traditions and rugged landscapes will find it a rewarding experience.

What strikes us most about this tour is how it combines the remote lifestyle of the Tsaatan reindeer-herders with iconic natural sights like Lake Khövsgöl. Plus, the two-day horseback expedition isn’t just a walk in the park—it’s a chance to really connect with the landscape and local way of life. That said, it’s not suited for everyone—those with mobility issues or a low fitness level might want to consider other options.

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, immersive Mongolian adventure that offers a taste of nomadic culture combined with stunning scenery and some physical activity. Just come prepared for a bit of a trek and the rustic comforts of life in the wilderness.

• Authentic culture with the Tsaatan reindeer-herding tribe
• Spectacular scenery at Lake Khövsgöl, Mongolia’s cleanest, most pristine lake
• Two-day horseback journey through challenging terrain for an unforgettable adventure
• Opportunity to ride reindeer and horses, connecting with local nomadic traditions
• Visiting Amarbaysgalant Monastery offers insight into Mongolia’s spiritual heritage
• Preparation required for rugged terrain and long horseback rides; high fitness levels recommended

An Overview of What to Expect

This tour takes you to Mongolia’s far north, a land largely untouched by mainstream tourism. Over 8 days, you’ll go from the comfort of pickup points in Ulaanbaatar to the remote, lush taiga forests where the Tsaatan Tribe lives. The highlight? The chance to meet reindeer herders who maintain one of the most distinctive nomadic cultures you’re likely to find anywhere in the world.

You’ll also get plenty of time to appreciate Lake Khövsgöl, often called Mongolia’s mirror because of its crystal-clear waters and stunning reflections of surrounding mountains. The two-day horseback trek is designed to take you through rugged forested terrain—think steep slopes, dense woods, and open plains—culminating in a visit to the reindeer families’ camps.

Adding to the itinerary is a visit to Amarbaysgalant Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most significant Buddhist sites, giving a spiritual dimension to your adventure. It’s a comprehensive experience that balances natural beauty, cultural insight, and physical challenge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Pickup in Ulaanbaatar

Starting from either Sukhbaatar Square or the Mongolian State University of Education, your adventure begins with a comfortable transfer northward. The journey sets the tone for the trip—expect scenic drives with occasional photo stops, especially around Lake Khuvsgul, Mongolia’s second-largest freshwater lake. Travelers have noted the importance of remembering your meeting details, as the tour includes a pickup and drop-off service.

Day 2: Lake Khövsgöl

Your first full day at the lake involves a one-hour photo stop that offers fantastic vistas of the water’s clarity and surrounding mountains. Many visitors find this a highlight—the chance to take stunning photos and get a feel for the tranquility of Mongolia’s most pristine lake.

Days 3–4: Horseback Journey to the Tsaatan

The core adventure begins with a two-day horseback trek covering roughly 25 km through dense forests and rugged terrain. The journey is challenging, so good physical preparation is essential. Reviewers mention that the terrain can be “steep and difficult,” but the reward is the chance to see the reindeer herders’ way of life up close.

This part of the tour is the most physically demanding. You’ll ride reindeer and horses, experiencing traditional modes of transport that the Tsaatan have used for generations. The landscape is described as “beautiful but tough,” with dense woods, open plains, and possibly uneven ground. Many travelers appreciate the chance to disconnect from modern life and enjoy the quiet sounds of the forest.

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Day 5: Reindeer Camps and Cultural Insights

Arriving at the Tsaatan families’ camps, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their daily routines, reindeer-herding traditions, and how they sustain their nomadic lifestyle in Mongolia’s remote wilderness. Authentic encounters here are often highlighted as the most meaningful part of the trip.

Day 6: Return Journey & Local Life

The return journey might be via horseback or a different route, depending on the group’s pace and weather conditions. Along the way, you’ll see more of the forested landscape and perhaps encounter local nomads. Visitors mention the warm hospitality of the Tsaatan, making these interactions memorable.

Day 7: Visit to Amarbaysgalant Monastery

On this day, you’ll explore one of Mongolia’s renowned Buddhist monasteries, founded by Zanabazar, the first spiritual leader of Mongolia. The architecture and serene atmosphere provide a peaceful contrast to the rugged wilderness. It’s a reminder of the spiritual tradition that persists alongside Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle.

Day 8: Return to Ulaanbaatar

After a final morning in the countryside, you’ll head back to the city, with time to reflect on this extraordinary journey. The whole experience offers a balanced mix of adventure, cultural discovery, and scenic beauty.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practicalities

The tour operates as a private group, which means more personalized attention and flexibility. Transportation is included for the transfers from and back to Ulaanbaatar, and the two-day horseback ride takes place on horseback, with some travelers noting the importance of being comfortable with riding and rugged terrain.

Travelers should be prepared for weather variations—layered clothing and sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but the horseback riding and terrain might be challenging for those with mobility issues or recent surgeries.

The tour provider, Eternal Gobi Tour, offers a flexible “reserve now, pay later” policy, with full refunds available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, which adds a layer of convenience.

Cost and Value

While the specific price isn’t listed, this type of experience provides significant value for those interested in authentic nomadic culture and natural landscapes. The cost encompasses transportation, guided visits, camping or local accommodations, and cultural interactions. Given the remote nature, the inclusion of a two-day horseback journey, and unique cultural encounters, many find the experience worth the investment.

What’s the real value?

It’s the chance to see Mongolia’s untouched wilderness, meet the Tsaatan reindeer herders, and participate in activities like reindeer riding—rare experiences that few travelers get elsewhere. Plus, visiting the spiritual site of Amarbaysgalant adds a cultural depth often missing from purely natural tours.

Final Thoughts

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers prepared for physical activity and rustic conditions. It offers a rare window into Mongolia’s least accessible, most authentic nomadic traditions, combined with spectacular scenery at Lake Khövsgöl. If you’re seeking a journey that pushes your boundaries and connects you deeply with local culture and nature, this experience checks all those boxes.

However, it’s important to be aware of the terrain and physical demands, especially the horseback riding over two days. Those with mobility issues, low fitness levels, or pregnant women should consider other options.

This adventure delivers a compelling mix of authentic culture, scenic beauty, and physical challenge. It’s a rare chance to witness a way of life that’s rapidly changing, making it a meaningful addition to any Mongolia travel plans.

FAQs

What are the pickup locations?
You can be picked up from Sukhbaatar Square or the Mongolian State University of Education in Ulaanbaatar.

How long is the horseback journey?
The two-day horseback trek covers about 25 km through forested and rugged terrain, requiring good physical preparation.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 11 years due to the physical demands of horseback riding and rugged terrain.

What should I bring?
Pack warm clothing, a camera, hiking shoes, weather-appropriate gear, and trekking equipment to handle the outdoor conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It’s wheelchair accessible, but the horseback riding and terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility impairments or recent surgeries.

How do I prepare for the two-day horseback ride?
Ensure you’re comfortable with riding, especially over rugged terrain, and pack suitable clothing and gear for outdoor riding.

What cultural sites are included?
The visit to Amarbaysgalant Monastery offers insight into Mongolia’s spiritual history and is a peaceful cultural highlight.

What makes this tour unique?
The opportunity to meet the Tsaatan reindeer herders and ride reindeer, combined with the remote wilderness experience, makes this trip truly one-of-a-kind.

This 8-day adventure in Mongolia offers a rare glimpse into a fading nomadic world, woven with stunning landscapes and meaningful cultural exchanges. It’s a compelling choice for those eager to see Mongolia’s hidden treasures beyond the usual tourist trail.

You can check availability for your dates here: