Naadam Trek – Ride Through Mongolia’s Living History

12 Days / 11 Nights – A Journey from Genghis Khan to the Present Day

Experience the untamed heart of Mongolia on horseback – amidst endless steppes, dramatic mountain landscapes, and deeply rooted traditions.

This exceptional riding expedition not only takes you through breathtaking natural scenery around our base camp but also immerses you in both the national and a local Naadam Festival, the country’s greatest celebration of culture and heritage.

Step into the world of Mongolia’s “Three Manly Games” – wrestling, archery, and horse racing – and witness the pride, joy, and hospitality of the Mongolian people up close.

Highlights

Daily riding stages of 4–5 hours through pristine steppe and mountain landscapes

Rich cultural program with traditional festivities, local encounters, and hands-on workshops

Authentic insight into the nomadic lifestyle – from milking cows to producing traditional dairy products

Nights spent in wilderness camps under a vast Mongolian sky

Support vehicle accompanying the group to transport luggage and offer a break from the saddle when needed

Upon arrival, you’ll receive a “Deel”, the traditional Mongolian riding coat – your symbol of connection to the land, its people, and their history.

TRIP SCHEDULE

Day 1– Arrival & Start of the Adventure: 

Meet in Ulaanbaatar and drive (approx. 70 km) to our camp east of the capital. After lunch, get acquainted with your horse, receive riding instructions, and prepare your gear. In the afternoon, set out for your first ride and establish camp for the night.

Day 2 – First Steps into the Steppe:

After breakfast under the open sky, ride across vast grasslands and meet the support vehicle for lunch. Continue through rolling hills before ending the day around a cozy campfire.

Day 3 – The Tuul River Valley: 

Ride through open plains into the forested Tuul River valley. Set up camp by the riverside – a perfect spot for an evening by the fire beneath the stars.

Day 4 – Return to the Great Steppe: 

Leaving the forests behind, we ride back into the endless open steppe. Camp overnight and enjoy an unspoiled view of the magnificent night sky.

Day 5 – Meeting the Nomads: 

Ride through remote landscapes to a local herder family. Spend two nights there to fully experience traditional nomadic life – with shared meals, music, and warm hospitality.

Day 6 – Living Like a Nomad: 

Join in daily herding routines – milking cows and mares, preparing milk tea, and making traditional dairy products. Relax in the peaceful Mongolian wilderness.

Day 7 – Into the Time of Genghis Khan: 

Ride to the 13th Century Village, an open-air museum of six themed settlements depicting various aspects of life in the era of Genghis Khan – religion, warfare, art, craftsmanship, and daily life. Camp nearby overnight.

Day 8 – Riding Through History: 

Continue your exploration of the 13th Century Village on horseback. This day combines adventure and culture – with scenic viewpoints, archery, and optional camel rides.

Day 9 – Local Naadam Festival: 

Take part in a traditional Mini-Naadam, a regional celebration with horse racing, wrestling, and archery. You may even cheer for our host Baagii’s horse during the race! Camp near the festival grounds overnight.

Day 10 – Return Ride to Base Camp: 

Ride back through forested hills to our base camp. In the afternoon, return to Ulaanbaatar and transfer to your hotel.

Day 11 – 12 – The Grand National Naadam Festival: 

Experience the unforgettable National Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar’s Central Stadium – a vibrant finale to your Mongolian adventure!

Enjoy the colorful opening ceremony, traditional music, dance, and the proud culture of an ancient nation.

Route subject to change without notice depending on a variety of factors.

Travel with Purpose

Your journey makes a difference: 20% of all proceeds directly support the Misheel Kids Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving children’s dental health and education in Mongolia. Learn more: Misheel Kids Foundation

We highly recommend arranging an annulation or travel cancellation insurance.

Scope of services:

– 10 days of guided horseback adventure with experienced Mongolian guides
– Support vehicle and cooking team
– Tent accommodation throughout the trek
– Three freshly prepared meals daily
– Drinking water throughout the tour
– International, German- and English-speaking tour leader
– Airport transfers

Not included services:

– Tips and personal expenses
– Alcoholic beverages
– Travel or cancellation insurance
– Visa (not required for stays up to 30 days)

Important Information

– Itinerary and activities may vary due to weather or terrain conditions
– Flexibility, curiosity, and a spirit of adventure are your best travel companions for this unforgettable experience

Weather conditions in Mongolia are often unpredictable. Flexibility and endurance are thus essential for a horseback riding.