Embark on a horseback adventure through the legendary Orkhon Valley. Gallop through endless green plains, channelling the freedom and grandeur that once inspired ancient Mongol warriors. Explore Genghis Khan's legendary city, Karakorum, and discover the beautiful landscapes of the "Eight Lakes". Find refuge in the warmth of a local yurt, where welcoming local families share their traditions with your group of riders.
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Trail Riding
13 days / 7 days riding
From £1,698
From the horse’s mouth
Itinerary
Highlights
- Ride in the heart of the Orkhon Valley - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Experience the power and hardiness of the Mongolian horse!
- Meet nomadic families and share in their daily life.
- Experience a variety of landscapes such as lakes, mountains, rivers, fields, forests and hot springs.
- Visit three large Buddhist monasteries.
- Opportunity on one departure to attend the Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar.
- Experience the power and hardiness of the Mongolian horse!
- Meet nomadic families and share in their daily life.
- Experience a variety of landscapes such as lakes, mountains, rivers, fields, forests and hot springs.
- Visit three large Buddhist monasteries.
- Opportunity on one departure to attend the Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar.
Dates & prices
Price details
- International flights are not included but can be booked for you upon request - please contact us for rates.
- Groups are composed of between 4 and 8 international riders, plus guides.
- Rates are per person, based on 2 or more riders sharing yurts and rooms at hotels.
- It is possible to confirm a departure for 2-3 riders with the payment of a supplement. Once the group has reached 4 people, we will remove this supplement from your invoice and refund you if you have already paid it.
For two riders, the supplement is c. $700 / £520 / €600 per person.
For three riders, the supplement is c. $125 / £95 / €110 per person.
- There is no single supplement if you are willing to share. Please note, yurts may be shared between male and female riders, and up to 5 people. It is possible to guarantee a single room in the hotel (on the first and last nights of the trip) on payment of a supplement of c. $125 / £95 / €110. It is also possible to book a single yurt at the tourist camp for an additional $50 / £40 / €45. Please note that single accommodation is not possible when staying with local families.
- Airport transfers are included.
- You can arrive a day earlier in Ulaanbaatar if you wish. For an extra night at a hotel in Ulaanbaatar, there is an additional fee of $105 / £80 / €90 for a single room and $75 / £60 / €70 for a twin or double room.
- It is possible to organise a 1-day/night extension to enjoy the Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar on the departure 29/06/2026 - 11/07/2026, staying until 12/07/2026. The price for the extension is $195 / £150 / €170 (shared hotel room) and $225 / £170 / €195 (single room). There is no single supplement if you are open to sharing a room with another rider of the same sex.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.
- Groups are composed of between 4 and 8 international riders, plus guides.
- Rates are per person, based on 2 or more riders sharing yurts and rooms at hotels.
- It is possible to confirm a departure for 2-3 riders with the payment of a supplement. Once the group has reached 4 people, we will remove this supplement from your invoice and refund you if you have already paid it.
For two riders, the supplement is c. $700 / £520 / €600 per person.
For three riders, the supplement is c. $125 / £95 / €110 per person.
- There is no single supplement if you are willing to share. Please note, yurts may be shared between male and female riders, and up to 5 people. It is possible to guarantee a single room in the hotel (on the first and last nights of the trip) on payment of a supplement of c. $125 / £95 / €110. It is also possible to book a single yurt at the tourist camp for an additional $50 / £40 / €45. Please note that single accommodation is not possible when staying with local families.
- Airport transfers are included.
- You can arrive a day earlier in Ulaanbaatar if you wish. For an extra night at a hotel in Ulaanbaatar, there is an additional fee of $105 / £80 / €90 for a single room and $75 / £60 / €70 for a twin or double room.
- It is possible to organise a 1-day/night extension to enjoy the Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar on the departure 29/06/2026 - 11/07/2026, staying until 12/07/2026. The price for the extension is $195 / £150 / €170 (shared hotel room) and $225 / £170 / €195 (single room). There is no single supplement if you are open to sharing a room with another rider of the same sex.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.
Price includes
Support Team
1 English-speaking guide
1 or 2 local equestrian guide(s) during the trail
1 or 2 local equestrian guide(s) during the trail
Logistics
1 support vehicle
Inland transport
Airport transfers
Accommodation
Hotel in Ulaanbaatar - shared room (2-4 riders) with private bathroom
Yurts - shared between 2 and 5 people
Yurts - shared between 2 and 5 people
Meals
Full board from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 13
Water
Water
Extras
Entry fees to parks and museums mentioned in the itinerary
Price doesn't include
Meals
Beverages and personal extras
Accommodation
Sleeping bag - available to rent
Transport
International flights
Extras
Tips to the local team
Insurance
Visas
Cancellation and travel insurance are not included in the above listed price. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation
Cancellation and travel insurance are not included in the above listed price. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation
Optional
Accommodation
Single room in the Ulaanbaatar hotel
Extras
Naadam Festival Extension (one departure only)
Equestrian info
Horses
The legendary Mongolian horse, known for its role in conquest and history, is small but energetic, enduring, and perfectly suited for equestrian trekking across all terrains. Though renowned for their gentle nature, these horses are semi-wild, requiring some adaptation from riders. While some horses are livelier than others, all are carefully selected by the team for their temperament.
Guide & local team
You will be accompanied by at least two local horse guides. There will also be a cook to prepare meals (camping night only), and a vehicle driver. An interpreter will accompany you during the ride.
Minimum riding ability
Minimum riding ability
You need to be an experienced rider who is used to riding outdoors across varied terrain for several hours. Please note that Mongolian horses, while friendly, may also be semi-wild. Riders should be prepared for a range of temperaments, and to adjustment their riding as required.
Weight limit: 80 kilos, 176 lbs, 12.6 st.
(N.b. Heavier riders with the relevant experience may be able to pay an additional fee to arrange for a second horse -- please contact us).
Weight limit: 80 kilos, 176 lbs, 12.6 st.
(N.b. Heavier riders with the relevant experience may be able to pay an additional fee to arrange for a second horse -- please contact us).
Pace
While a significant part of the ride is at walk, this is still an active ride, with lots of trots, spirited canters and some gallops.
Tacking ability and participation
Each horse is saddled and unsaddled by the accompanying Mongolian herders. Feel free to participate in the process if you'd like – but please check with the herders first and ask for their guidance.
Trip conditions and Requested experience
You should be in good health as you will be riding in a remote location, far away from medical help. Riders should also be physically fit, as you will be spending several hours in the saddle on riding days.
Previous experience of a trail riding holiday is recommended but not required. Riders who do not ride regularly are requested to get riding fit before the holiday.
Please also note: This ride is designed for those seeking adventure – you should be comfortable spending long periods outdoors in a remote area (with no phone service in some parts), and with staying at family camps where there are limited bathroom facilities. Please inform your travel advisor of any allergies or medical conditions in advance.
Visiting a new country offers the opportunity to meet other cultures with different mentalities, therefore it is important to accept these differences and respect the local way of life. Be prepared to adapt to a different style of riding and accept that Mongolians relate to their horses in a different way to us.
Previous experience of a trail riding holiday is recommended but not required. Riders who do not ride regularly are requested to get riding fit before the holiday.
Please also note: This ride is designed for those seeking adventure – you should be comfortable spending long periods outdoors in a remote area (with no phone service in some parts), and with staying at family camps where there are limited bathroom facilities. Please inform your travel advisor of any allergies or medical conditions in advance.
Visiting a new country offers the opportunity to meet other cultures with different mentalities, therefore it is important to accept these differences and respect the local way of life. Be prepared to adapt to a different style of riding and accept that Mongolians relate to their horses in a different way to us.
Equestrian equipment
The saddles used include Kazakh, Russian, and Mongolian styles. Comfort levels may vary from rider to rider, so please inform the team of any discomfort on the first day so adjustments can be made.
Recommendations:
• Riders over 1.90m tall should bring their own adjustable stirrup leathers, as local saddles may not offer sufficient length.
• Consider bringing a sheepskin or extra padding to ensure comfort during long rides. Use strings to attach it securely to the saddle.
• A helmet is strongly recommended for safety and hygiene. Be sure to bring your own riding helmet or hat.
• Please note: Saddlebags are not available on this ride as Mongolian horses aren’t used to them. But you will have a support vehicle and the guides will carry water. Backpacks are not to be worn whilst riding.
Recommendations:
• Riders over 1.90m tall should bring their own adjustable stirrup leathers, as local saddles may not offer sufficient length.
• Consider bringing a sheepskin or extra padding to ensure comfort during long rides. Use strings to attach it securely to the saddle.
• A helmet is strongly recommended for safety and hygiene. Be sure to bring your own riding helmet or hat.
• Please note: Saddlebags are not available on this ride as Mongolian horses aren’t used to them. But you will have a support vehicle and the guides will carry water. Backpacks are not to be worn whilst riding.
Travel info
Comfort
- For the 2 nights in Ulaanbaatar, you will stay in a hotel with private bathrooms and wifi.
- For 9 nights, you will be hosted by local families. You will sleep in yurts with other guests, separate from the family. There are 3-5 beds in a yurt. There are no shower facilities but you will have the chance to bathe in lakes and rivers. Toilets are typically compost toilets or holes in the ground.
- You will spend 1 night in a tourist camp, sleeping in yurts with 3-6 beds. There are toilets, showers and a dining area at the camp. You will also be able to shower on Day 10 at the Tsagaan Sum Hot Springs.
Please note:
Yurts may be mixed between male and female guests.
When staying with local families, beds vary in comfort. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and camping pillow.
There is no electricity throughout the ride. We recommend bringing a good solar charger or power bank. You will also be able to charge your devices in the support vehicle on driving days.
- For 9 nights, you will be hosted by local families. You will sleep in yurts with other guests, separate from the family. There are 3-5 beds in a yurt. There are no shower facilities but you will have the chance to bathe in lakes and rivers. Toilets are typically compost toilets or holes in the ground.
- You will spend 1 night in a tourist camp, sleeping in yurts with 3-6 beds. There are toilets, showers and a dining area at the camp. You will also be able to shower on Day 10 at the Tsagaan Sum Hot Springs.
Please note:
Yurts may be mixed between male and female guests.
When staying with local families, beds vary in comfort. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and camping pillow.
There is no electricity throughout the ride. We recommend bringing a good solar charger or power bank. You will also be able to charge your devices in the support vehicle on driving days.
Meals
Meals are overall simple, and consist mainly of meat and some vegetables. Most dinners will be prepared by the Mongolian families who are hosting you, except on the camping night when meals will be prepared by a member of the local team. Vegetarians can be catered for, but please note that nomadic families have a limited amount of vegetables and don't tend to use many spices. Vegetarians are advised to bring some additional food or ingredients to supplement their meals.
Water:
Do not drink from unknown sources. You will be supplied with fresh water to drink. You may also bring water-purification tablets such as Micropur.
Water:
Do not drink from unknown sources. You will be supplied with fresh water to drink. You may also bring water-purification tablets such as Micropur.
Climate
Mongolia enjoys over 260 sunny days a year and experiences very little rainfall. However, summer brings the most precipitation. The country often sits at the centre of a high-pressure system, keeping the skies clear most of the year, earning it the nickname "The Land of Blue Skies."
Despite the sunshine, Mongolia experiences an extreme continental climate due to its geographical features: a vast, semi-desert plateau averaging over 1,500m in altitude. Summer temperatures can fluctuate wildly, ranging from +3°C to +35°C during the day and from -3°C to +6°C at night.
Recommendations:
• Wear loose, comfortable, and warm clothing (fleece jackets are ideal).
• Bring t-shirts for layering, which allows you to adjust your temperature more easily.
• Always carry full rain protection, as weather can change quickly.
Despite the sunshine, Mongolia experiences an extreme continental climate due to its geographical features: a vast, semi-desert plateau averaging over 1,500m in altitude. Summer temperatures can fluctuate wildly, ranging from +3°C to +35°C during the day and from -3°C to +6°C at night.
Recommendations:
• Wear loose, comfortable, and warm clothing (fleece jackets are ideal).
• Bring t-shirts for layering, which allows you to adjust your temperature more easily.
• Always carry full rain protection, as weather can change quickly.
Tips
If you are happy with the service you receive from your local guides and driver then you may wish to leave a tip. In order to remain consistent with their standard of living, we would recommend something in the region of $65-75 / £50-55.
Packing list
Please pack carefully and sensibly: the following guide is here to give you an idea of what to bring. When packing, please use a soft sided case/bag which can easily be transported. A support vehicle will carry your luggage for most of the ride so there is no weight limit as such, but we recommend approximately 20kgs. Please remember that the region can be cold and the weather extremely changeable -- please bring layers and rain gear. We recommend that you pack essentials in your hand luggage - such as your sleeping bag, towel and sanitary products (within allowance), rain jacket and riding gear -- just in case your luggage is delayed.
Please note: you will need to separate your belongings and pack a small bag (we'd recommend a dry bag) for days 5-7 when you visit the Naiman Nuur lakes (max 8-10kg), as the luggage will be carried by pack horses. You can leave the rest of your luggage in the support vehicle and pick it up later.
Head
- Equus Journeys strongly recommend that you wear a riding helmet and that you take your own to ensure a correct fit. There are many lightweight options available nowadays
- Sunhat for when not riding
- Sunglasses - with a cord attached so they don't fly off when riding
- Buff or bandana
- Warm hat for cold nights
Upper body
- Thermals (long or short sleeved)
- Long sleeved shirts provide protection from the sun and are an extra layer
- T-shirts
- Lightweight fleece or jumper
- Warm fleece or jumper (and a spare in case one gets wet)
- Warm and waterproof jacket - it can rain at any time of year and the evenings can be particularly cold. No ponchos or anything that can flap around!
Legs
- Lightweight, comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs - we recommend riding in them at home before taking them on holiday to ensure they don't rub
- Thermals
- Casual trousers for the evenings, such as jeans or tracksuit bottoms
- Waterproof over trousers
Hands and Feet
- Comfortable riding boots. We recommend short boots with half chaps but you may wish to take long chaps as an extra layer against inclement weather. We don't recommend taking your favourite long leather boots in case they get damaged. We would suggest something with a good grippy sole.
- Waterproof shoes/boots can be useful for abundant dew in the mornings or when it rains
- Trainers or equivalent light shoes for moving around in the evenings
- Several pairs of warm, thick socks
- Gloves - your hands are particularly exposed to the sun, cold or rain whilst riding. Waterproof gloves can be particularly useful
Nightwear
- Sleeping bag. You need at least a comfort factor down to minus 5°C, but would recommend at least minus 8 or 10°C (especially outside of July/August). It is possible to request a sleeping bag from the local team (limited availability)
- Sleeping bag liner - silk, cotton or fleece - adds an extra layer
- Pyjamas or tracksuits or thermals for sleeping in
Please remember it can get very cold at night, especially if you are travelling in June/September: pack accordingly.
Other useful items
- Water-purification tablets
- Swimsuit - for swimming/bathing in lakes
- Towels - camping ones will both dry and pack more easily
- Small backpack for accessing items required during the day (carried by support crew)
- Camera and high capacity memory card. Spare battery
- Bumbag for carrying your camera and small items whilst riding
- Headtorch or small torch for moving around camp at night - bring spare batteries and bulbs
- Water bottle (2 litres or 2 x 1 litre)
- Wet Wipes or equivalent (for when washing facilities aren't available)
- Small plastic bags for rubbish
- Ear plugs (for light sleepers)
- Solar charger/powerbank
Medical kit
- Micropur tabs
- Sunscreen and lip balm - should be high factor
- Insect repellent, preferably containing deet
- Any medication you regularly take
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc...
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses
- Eye drops
- Imodium or similar anti-diarrhoea medication
- Re-hydration sachets
- Water purification tablets
- Antiseptic wipes
- Handwash gel
Gifts for local families
Mongolian tradition wants the traveller to thank his host for his kind hospitality by offering small gifts. Some ideas for gifts include fresh vegetables and fruits (to be bought on the way), cakes or sweets (from home or bought locally), other local products/specialities from your home country, toys or books for children, kitchen utensils or camping accessories. You may also wish to take some photographs or postcards of your home with you to show your hosts.
Please avoid offering soaps, pens, or used clothes.
Other recommendations:
- Please print copies of your passport and insurance documents and take them with you.
- Backpacks should not be worn whilst riding. We recommend bringing a small bumbag or a coat with pockets so that you can carry small items with you during the day (camera, sunscreen, lipbalm etc). The guides will carry saddle bags carrying water.
Please note: you will need to separate your belongings and pack a small bag (we'd recommend a dry bag) for days 5-7 when you visit the Naiman Nuur lakes (max 8-10kg), as the luggage will be carried by pack horses. You can leave the rest of your luggage in the support vehicle and pick it up later.
Head
- Equus Journeys strongly recommend that you wear a riding helmet and that you take your own to ensure a correct fit. There are many lightweight options available nowadays
- Sunhat for when not riding
- Sunglasses - with a cord attached so they don't fly off when riding
- Buff or bandana
- Warm hat for cold nights
Upper body
- Thermals (long or short sleeved)
- Long sleeved shirts provide protection from the sun and are an extra layer
- T-shirts
- Lightweight fleece or jumper
- Warm fleece or jumper (and a spare in case one gets wet)
- Warm and waterproof jacket - it can rain at any time of year and the evenings can be particularly cold. No ponchos or anything that can flap around!
Legs
- Lightweight, comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs - we recommend riding in them at home before taking them on holiday to ensure they don't rub
- Thermals
- Casual trousers for the evenings, such as jeans or tracksuit bottoms
- Waterproof over trousers
Hands and Feet
- Comfortable riding boots. We recommend short boots with half chaps but you may wish to take long chaps as an extra layer against inclement weather. We don't recommend taking your favourite long leather boots in case they get damaged. We would suggest something with a good grippy sole.
- Waterproof shoes/boots can be useful for abundant dew in the mornings or when it rains
- Trainers or equivalent light shoes for moving around in the evenings
- Several pairs of warm, thick socks
- Gloves - your hands are particularly exposed to the sun, cold or rain whilst riding. Waterproof gloves can be particularly useful
Nightwear
- Sleeping bag. You need at least a comfort factor down to minus 5°C, but would recommend at least minus 8 or 10°C (especially outside of July/August). It is possible to request a sleeping bag from the local team (limited availability)
- Sleeping bag liner - silk, cotton or fleece - adds an extra layer
- Pyjamas or tracksuits or thermals for sleeping in
Please remember it can get very cold at night, especially if you are travelling in June/September: pack accordingly.
Other useful items
- Water-purification tablets
- Swimsuit - for swimming/bathing in lakes
- Towels - camping ones will both dry and pack more easily
- Small backpack for accessing items required during the day (carried by support crew)
- Camera and high capacity memory card. Spare battery
- Bumbag for carrying your camera and small items whilst riding
- Headtorch or small torch for moving around camp at night - bring spare batteries and bulbs
- Water bottle (2 litres or 2 x 1 litre)
- Wet Wipes or equivalent (for when washing facilities aren't available)
- Small plastic bags for rubbish
- Ear plugs (for light sleepers)
- Solar charger/powerbank
Medical kit
- Micropur tabs
- Sunscreen and lip balm - should be high factor
- Insect repellent, preferably containing deet
- Any medication you regularly take
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc...
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses
- Eye drops
- Imodium or similar anti-diarrhoea medication
- Re-hydration sachets
- Water purification tablets
- Antiseptic wipes
- Handwash gel
Gifts for local families
Mongolian tradition wants the traveller to thank his host for his kind hospitality by offering small gifts. Some ideas for gifts include fresh vegetables and fruits (to be bought on the way), cakes or sweets (from home or bought locally), other local products/specialities from your home country, toys or books for children, kitchen utensils or camping accessories. You may also wish to take some photographs or postcards of your home with you to show your hosts.
Please avoid offering soaps, pens, or used clothes.
Other recommendations:
- Please print copies of your passport and insurance documents and take them with you.
- Backpacks should not be worn whilst riding. We recommend bringing a small bumbag or a coat with pockets so that you can carry small items with you during the day (camera, sunscreen, lipbalm etc). The guides will carry saddle bags carrying water.
Sustainable tourism
- Travel light. It's a little known fact, but the lighter you pack, the better for the environment as heavy bags will produce higher emissions (when flying a plane or driving a car!).
- Reduce plastic waste. Take your favorite reusable bottle with you. Avoid single-use bags, cups, or straws.
- Preserve nature. Always take your rubbish with you during the ride and recycle them. Leave all the flowers or plants as you found them, and never get too close when observing wildlife. Make sure to use eco-friendly products such as body wash or laundry detergent (if camping) to protect both your skin and the environment.
- Choose your experiences carefully. Respect animal life by not participating in any activities that abuse wild animals (shows, elephant rides, etc.).
- Support local populations. Buy local handicrafts, be respectful of customs, and learn about the culture of local communities.
- Share! Raise awareness among your family and friends about sustainable tourism.
For more information please see this page.
Did you know?
Did you know?
The yurt
The yurt is a traditional type of accommodation in Mongolia. Nomadic Mongolian people have been living in yurts for more than 5,000 years, and that is also where you will be living during this horse trek. Yurts are easily set up and taken down. They are extremely light and can easily be moved from one camp to another, transported by camels or yaks, still a very common mode of transportation to this day.
The size depends on the number of walls, on average 4 or 5, for a diameter that can reach 5 to 7 m and a height of 2.5 m on average. At the center of the circle, two masts support a round armature called a toono, from which spread several wooden beams. The entrance always face the south, while the walls and the roof are made of several layers of felts and solid white canvas. The masters and the men usually stay on the western side of the yurt, while women occupy the eastern side. Guests sit according to their ages, the eldest at the back and the young generation closer to the entrance.
Staying in yurts is a comfortable option for those who would like to experience a riding holiday in Mongolia, without having to suffer the ups and downs of a camping ride!
On the blog
Mongolia, a country where past and present still coexist, offers a unique experience for equestrian travel. With a lifestyle still strongly influenced by nomadism and a strong horse culture, it's a top destination for many horseback adventurers. If you are unsure where to start, the team at Equus Journeys have put together a comprehensive guide to riding holidays in Mongolia - covering everything you need to know before booking your first equestrian adventure in this fascinating Asian country! Click here to read this on the blog.
You can also click here to read all about the country's Naadam Festival, that happens every July and celebrates the nomadic civilisation of the Mongols.
Customer reviews
Customer reviews
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