Olgiy is a fantastic place for travelers craving remote wilderness and authentic nomadic culture. The region’s rugged beauty and deep traditions make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and curious explorers alike. Whether you want a comprehensive trek across the towering peaks of Altai Tavan Bogd, a shorter adventure with cultural insights, or a flexible private expedition, Olgiy offers a range of unforgettable options. One of our favorites is the Mongolia Trekking Tour in the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, which combines stunning landscapes with visits to nomadic families. It’s perfect if you want an expertly planned trip with local interaction.
If you’re pressed for time but still want a meaningful experience, the 6 Day Western Mongolia Trekking Tour Tavan Bogd National Park offers a concentrated dose of mountain scenery and nomad life. For those interested in horse riding and a more immersive nomadic lifestyle, the Horse Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park provides a flexible, less structured journey. And for a longer, more private adventure, the 8 Day Altai Tavan Bogd Private Trekking takes you deep into the wilderness with fewer travelers. Below, we explore each tour in detail to help you choose the perfect experience.
1. Mongolia Trekking Tour in the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
This comprehensive 10-day expedition is arguably the most well-rounded way to experience western Mongolia’s rugged beauty. Starting in Olgiy, the tour includes highlights like trekking to the base camp of Mount Khuiten, the highest peak in Mongolia, and visiting nomadic families, including Kazakh eagle hunters. The trip is built for flexibility; you can opt for a private version or customize parts of the journey, making it ideal for travelers who want a tailored experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the seamless combination of outdoor adventures—like camping beside glaciers and hiking to panoramic viewpoints—and culture. The itinerary includes a 6-hour drive from Olgiy into the Altai Mountains, setting the tone for a remote wilderness experience. During your trek, all camping gear is transported by camels, allowing you to focus on the scenery and your guide. You’ll see glaciers, mountain peaks, and learn about nomadic traditions firsthand. Guests praise the expert local guides and the flexibility to customize the trip. At $2,300 for 10 days, it’s a significant investment but offers a deep, authentic look at this rugged corner of Mongolia.
Bottom line: Ideal for serious trekkers who want a well-organized, culturally rich adventure with stunning mountain vistas and the chance to meet local nomads.
2. 6 Day Western Mongolia Trekking Tour Tavan Bogd National Park
For travelers short on time but eager to experience Mongolia’s wild side, this 6-day trek offers a concentrated dose of mountain landscapes and nomadic life. Starting with a flight from Ulaanbaatar to Olgiy, you’ll immediately get a taste of the region’s rugged terrain. The trip includes a trek around Potanin Glacier, which is a highlight for its snow-capped peaks and glacier views. You also visit Khoton and Khurgan Lakes, where the serene waters and surrounding mountains make for excellent photo ops.
One of the most memorable parts of this tour is spending a night with a Kazakh nomadic family, experiencing their daily routines and traditions. The itinerary features hiking, horseback riding, and exploring ancient burial mounds along Snake River Valley. The tour is praised for its balance of adventure and cultural exchange, at just $1,450 per person, making it a good value for a well-rounded experience. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a shorter yet fulfilling journey into Mongolia’s wilderness.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want a shorter, action-packed adventure with key highlights and cultural exchanges.
3. Horse Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
If you’re dreaming of exploring Mongolia on horseback, this 9-day journey offers a flexible, immersive experience. Starting with a flight into Bayan-Olgii Province, the trip involves riding through stunning mountain scenery, with the route transporting you to the base camp of Potanin Glacier and beyond. The itinerary is very adaptable; you can extend or modify riding days based on your fitness and interests.
What sets this tour apart is the emphasis on local nomadic lifestyle and horseback riding as the main mode of exploration. You’ll stay in traditional gers, interact with Kazakh families, and experience the freedom of riding tall horses across the wild terrain. The journey is less structured, giving you the chance to set your pace and focus on personal interests. The price point of $2,200 reflects the extensive riding and flexible approach, making it suitable for experienced riders or those eager for a true adventure.
Guests note the incredible scenery and the chance to connect deeply with local communities. The guide’s knowledge about the region’s history and nomadic ways adds richness to the experience. Since the trip involves significant riding, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable on horseback.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure-minded travelers who want to explore Mongolia on horseback and enjoy flexible, culturally immersive riding.
4. 8 Day Altai Tavan Bogd Private Trekking
For travelers seeking a private, customizable trek, this 8-day journey is one of the most flexible options available. It’s designed for those who want to tailor their experience, whether that’s focusing more on hiking glaciers, visiting petroglyphs, or spending extra time with nomadic families. The trip includes hiking past glaciers, alpine lakes, and ancient burial sites, all while staying in traditional gers.
The appeal lies in the tailored approach—this is not a cookie-cutter tour but a personalized trek that can be adjusted to your fitness level and interests. The tour includes camping alongside Bactrian camels and semi-wild horses, immersing you in the nomadic lifestyle. Pricing at $1,880 reflects its private nature and the extensive, in-depth experience it offers. Since it’s less structured than larger group tours, it’s a good choice for those who want more control over their itinerary.
Reviewers emphasize the beauty of the landscapes and the authenticity of staying with local Kazakh families. The tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with camping and hiking.
Bottom line: Ideal for independent-minded travelers or groups wanting a personalized, in-depth exploration of Mongolia’s wilderness.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a comprehensive 10-day trek with culture, the Mongolia Trekking Tour offers excellent value at $2,300. For a shorter, more intense adventure, the 6-day tour is perfect at $1,450. Those interested in horseback riding may prefer the flexible Horse Trekking experience, especially if they’re comfortable on a horse. If privacy and customization matter most, the 8-day private trek provides a tailored journey.
Think about your fitness level — trekking and riding require a good level of physical fitness. Also, check the best times to go, usually in summer months when the weather is most stable. Booking early ensures you get the dates and options that suit your plans.
Olgiy offers a stunning array of adventure opportunities that go beyond typical sightseeing. Whether you’re after a multi-day trek in the towering mountains or a culture with nomads, these tours deliver authentic experiences in one of Mongolia’s most remote and fascinating regions. For a full, personalized journey through the wild beauty of the Altai, any of these options will serve you well—just pick the one that matches your style and start packing.