North Mongolia: 13-Day Reindeer Family Visiting Tour

Travelers craving a journey into Mongolia’s rugged wilderness and unique nomadic culture will find this 13-day Reindeer Family Visiting Tour from Danista Nomads Tour a captivating option. It promises a blend of breathtaking landscapes, culture, and authentic adventure with a manageable pace for those ready to step outside typical tourist routes.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the chance to visit the pristine Khuvsgul Lake, often called the “Dark Blue Pearl,” offers remarkable scenery and tranquility. Second, the opportunity to meet and stay with a reindeer herding family provides genuine insight into a rare way of life. Lastly, the horse trekking sections allow you to explore the vast Mongolian steppe and mountains as the locals do — on horseback, with stunning views at every turn.

However, a possible consideration is the long travel days involved, especially the drive back to Ulaanbaatar at the end, which might feel tiring after almost two weeks of physical activity and remote locations. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity, outdoor experiences, and don’t mind the rustic, sometimes rugged, travel conditions.

If you’re seeking an immersive, well-organized, and richly authentic Mongolian adventure, this tour could be just right. It suits those who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, cultural exchange, and active days — all with a knowledgeable guide and small-group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic culture with a reindeer herding family
• Stunning landscapes like Khuvsgul Lake and White Lake
• Horse trekking for a hands-on Mongolian experience
• Multiple nights in traditional yurts (gers), offering genuine nomadic comfort
• Expert guides who enhance the understanding of local customs and nature
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 13-Day Mongolia Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience Day by Day

Starting with the adventure on the first day, the tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel around 9 am, heading towards Uran Togoo Volcano Mountain. This set-up day offers a gentle introduction to Mongolia’s volcanic landscape, with lunch and dinner included, and accommodation in a ger hostel that provides basic but comfortable amenities, including showers. The initial day primes you for the rugged beauty ahead, with views that hint at the wilderness to come.

Day 2 is centered around Khuvsgul Lake, often regarded as Mongolia’s most scenic freshwater lake, famed for its deep blue color and expansive surface. Expect a day filled with lakeside views, optional boat rides, and opportunities for photography. Reviewers mention that guides are attentive and eager to share local insights, adding depth to the experience.

On Day 3, the journey drives to Ulaan Uul province, where you’ll meet a horseman family. This is where the tour truly begins to feel authentic. You get a taste of local life, learning about traditional nomadic practices and horse culture. The following days intensify this experience with horse trekking over nights spent camping in tents, giving you a taste of real Mongolian nomad life.

Days 4-6 involve multiple days of horse riding along scenic routes, with tents as your base. The days involve riding on roads and trails, with opportunities to learn riding techniques and experience the tranquil steppe landscape. The presence of well-informed guides ensures safety and cultural storytelling at every step.

Days 7 and 8 mark the highlight of the trip — visiting a reindeer herding family. Staying overnight with them allows you to witness their daily routines, learn traditional reindeer herding practices, and even participate in simple tasks. Reviewers highlight the warmth of these families and the uniqueness of this rare cultural exchange. You’ll find that this interaction is the core of the tour’s appeal, providing insights that few travelers get elsewhere.

The return journey involves riding back to the herder family, then heading back to a ger camp, before driving to Murun city for an overnight stay in a hotel, offering a brief Western-style comfort break. The last few days include visits to White Lake, another stunning natural site, and the drive back to Ulaanbaatar.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation on this tour is a mix of private vehicle drives and horseback riding. The drives are long — the final day involves a long drive back to Ulaanbaatar, so be prepared for a full day of travel. The group size is kept small, fostering camaraderie and personalized attention, with guides speaking multiple languages, including English, French, German, Japanese, and Korean.

Accommodation: From Ger Hostels to Tents and Hotels

The tour emphasizes local ger (yurt) stays which offer a more authentic experience but also include shower facilities for comfort. Camping nights are rustic but well-organized, with tents set up for overnight stays in scenic locations. The hotel in Murun offers a welcome break from the rural settings, with basic amenities.

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Highlights and Must-See Stops

• Khuvsgul Lake: Its serenity and clear waters make it a highlight. Many reviews mention the picturesque views and the peaceful ambiance.
• Khar Khorum and Elsen Tasarkhan: These lesser-known sites offer snapshots of Mongolia’s varied terrain, from mountains to steppe.
• White Lake: A pristine spot for reflection and photography, often praised for its peacefulness.
• Meeting the Reindeer Family: The most unique aspect, providing an authentic glimpse into the reindeer herders’ way of life, rarely accessible to outsiders but a highlight for those who want genuine cultural exchange.

Guides and Local Knowledge

Reviews praise the guides for their passion, knowledge, and ability to enhance the experience with local stories and practical support. Many mention guides like Tsolmon and Bat, who are described as attentive and informative, making sure travelers feel both safe and engaged.

Practical Considerations

• Cost vs. Value: The tour covers a lot, from natural beauty to cultural interactions. The inclusion of authentic stays, horseback riding, and reindeer encounters offers excellent value for travelers interested in immersive experiences.
• Physical Demands: Expect days of horseback riding and some camping; the tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with outdoor activities.
• What to Bring: Essential gear includes a camera, cash, a charged smartphone, and binoculars. Be prepared for rustic conditions — pack warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and perhaps a hat for sun protection.

Booking and Flexibility

With options to reserve now and pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, this tour offers flexibility for travelers with unpredictable schedules. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a carefully curated experience with reliable cancellation policies.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This 13-day tour offers a rare chance to see Mongolia’s less-visited northern regions in depth. The combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and authentic cultural exchanges makes it ideal for adventurous travelers looking for something beyond the usual tourist trail. The knowledgeable guides, small-group setting, and variety of sights ensure a well-rounded experience.

While the journey involves some long travel days, the overall value lies in the authentic immersion and breathtaking scenery. The nights spent in gers, the horseback rides, and the encounters with reindeer herders create memories you’ll cherish long after the trip ends.

This experience is best suited for active, culturally curious travelers who are comfortable with rustic accommodations and outdoor adventures. It may not be ideal for young children, babies, or those seeking luxury comfort, but for those craving genuine Mongolian life, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation, accommodations in ger hostels, tents, and a hotel, meals, and guided cultural and nature excursions.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included daily, with some days offering more traditional Mongolian dishes.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, cash, a charged smartphone, binoculars, warm clothing, and sturdy shoes suitable for riding and camping.

Is horseback riding difficult?
The tour includes riding on roads and trails. Guides are experienced and will support beginners; expect to learn riding techniques along the way.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, and reservation payments can be deferred until later.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 10, babies under 1, or travelers over 95 years old. The typical age limit is under 70 or 75, depending on physical fitness.

What is the accommodation like?
Expect a combination of ger stays with shower access, tent camping, and a hotel in Murun city, providing a mix of rustic and comfy options.

How long are the driving days?
The final day involves a long drive back to Ulaanbaatar, making it a full travel day with scenic views on the way.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small group sizes and guided excursions make it a friendly environment for solo travelers seeking adventure.

Final Thoughts

This 13-day tour offers an intense yet rewarding dive into northern Mongolia’s natural splendors and nomadic traditions. It’s a perfect pick for travelers eager to explore beyond the typical, seeking authentic encounters, stunning landscapes, and outdoor adventure. The balance of culture, scenic beauty, and active days ensures you’ll come away with a true appreciation of Mongolia’s wild heart.

While the journey involves some rustic conditions and long travel hours, the opportunity to meet reindeer herders, ride through pristine wilderness, and sleep in traditional gers makes it worth every effort. Guides and small-group sizes help create a personalized, insightful experience that’s both educational and memorable.

For anyone interested in stepping into Mongolia’s lesser-known northern regions, this tour provides excellent value and a truly authentic experience rooted in the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

In summary, if you’re seeking a meaningful adventure that combines physical activity, cultural exchange, and scenic exploration, this tour is a standout option. It’s especially suited for active travelers with a curiosity for genuine rural life, who don’t mind the rustic side of wilderness adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: