Authentic Adventure in Mongolia
New Trip Dates for 2024 TBA
Enjoy the Treks, Festivals, Food, Local Lure and the Women of Influence
Image Courtesy of @Cam Cope
Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Mongolia. We arrive in the buzz of the busy city of Ulaanbaatar for your first two days. Then, we will step as far off the path as one can imagine.
After the city, we kick things off at the iconic Nadaam Festival. We will witness traditional exhibitions of archery, horseback riding, and wrestling. Women and girls are now participating in the first two events.
After the bright colors and culture seen and experienced in the Nadaam Festival, we are off to trek and disconnect. We will cook with local families, spend time with nomadic Mongolian women, and sleep in traditional ger camps. This is a truly immersive and authentic experience.
Seeing wild ‘Takhi’ horses in Khustain Nuruu National Park is the pitch-perfect finish to an otherworldly endeavor.
Mongolian Adventure
2024
Group size: 10-16
New Dates for the Mongolia Trip 2024 TBA - Email us ASAP to Secure Your Spot
Image Courtesy of World Expeditions
Adventure Details
About the Trip
Step off the beaten path as you step back in time to join an adventurous group of women on this authentic journey to the beautiful country of Mongolia. Upon arrival, you will immerse yourself into the local culture in the remote communities as we meet the local women, celebrate their festivals, and trek throughout their parks and mountain ranges, sharing their unspoiled landscape and trails with no one but wild horses.
Commencing in Ulaanbaatar, the capital and the largest city of Mongolia, we will meet with various women of influence throughout. As the cultural and business center of Mongolia, this is the hub of the country connecting the Trans-Siberian Railway with the Chinese rail system. With half of the country’s population, it has become a thriving urban center in one of the most remote locations in the world.
After our city dip, we are off to experience the Naadam festival, also known as "the three games of men." The games are Mongolian wrestling, horse racing, and archery. Women are now participating in the archery and girls in the horse-racing games.
We then head west of the capital to the Hangai Nuruu mountain range. The range pops with color as it is home to a great variety of native plants and wildflowers. On our trek, we will experience the pristine scenery of the Eight Lakes region of Central Mongolia.
After completing our days of trekking and sleeping under a starry sky, we travel to the ancient capital of Harhorin, located in the Orkhon Valley of central Mongolia. It was once the capital of the Mongol Empire from 1235 to 1263 CE. We will enjoy a dip in the Tsenkheriin Hot Springs before returning to Ulaanbaatar via Khustain Nuuru National Park. There we will have a unique opportunity to see the wild 'Takhi' horses before heading back home.
Trip Basics
Dates - 2024
New Mongolia Trip Dates for 2024 TBA
(Email asap to secure a spot.)
Days - 15 Days/14 Nights
Size - Minimum 10, Maximum 16
Style - Adventure, Women, Wellness, Culture & Photography
Needs - $1,000 non-refundable deposit to hold your spot.
Treats - Celebrate Nadaam Festival, Incredible Trekking, Sleep in a ger, See Wild Horses.
Accommodations - Sleep in an urban hotel, a traditional ger, and in tents while trekking.
Host - Karen Loftus
Fees - TBD Based on shared accommodations.
Trip Highlights
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Exhibitions of archery, wrestling & horse-riding at the Nadaam Festival
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Spend a day in the life of a Mongolian woman
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Explore the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar
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Visit a local nomadic family
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Trek in the stunning Eight Lakes area of Central Mongolia
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Camping in the Mongolian steppe
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Overnight in traditional ger camps
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See the wild 'Takhi' horses in Khustain Nuruu National Park
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1 | 2024
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar
Upon arrival at Ulaanbaatar airport, you will be met and transferred to our conveniently located hotel by private vehicle. In the afternoon, we take a brief orientation city tour.
We'll walk to the central Sukhbaatar square named after the revolutionary hero of 1921, Damdiny Sukhbaatar, who declared independence from China.
There may be special displays to visit already set up in the square in anticipation of the Naadam Festival. Next, we will visit the Natural History Museum to see real-life-sized reconstructed dinosaur skeletons collected from the Gobi.
A welcome dinner will be held tonight in a local restaurant. Overnight at the hotel.
Note: We recommend arriving one day early to allow for jet lag or flight delays.
![Mongolian_family-[8212] ©Cam Cope.jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/27dd21_a0b7d836affc4b3abf40ddc5e127511c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_147,h_98,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/Mongolian_family-%5B8212%5D%20%C2%A9Cam%20Cope.jpg)
Image Courtesy of @Cam Cope
Day 2 | 202
Sightseeing in Ulaanbaatar
Today, we will have the opportunity to explore the nation’s capital city. We visit Gandan Monastery, Mongolia's largest and most famous functioning monastery.
We will arrive in time for the morning chanting and may experience monks in worship.
The Golden Buddha Statue of Migjid Janraisig stands at 90 feet tall. After lunch, we will meet with women of influence in the city (TBA).
You will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about their challenges and triumphs.
This evening, we will enjoy a multi-disciplined concert that includes both traditional and modern displays, followed by dinner in a local restaurant. Overnight at the hotel.
Image Courtesy of World Expedtions
Day 3 | 2024
Zuunmond Town, Naadam Festival
Today, we will drive into Zuunmond town, the center of Tuv province, to witness the Nadaam Festival. Naadam is the most colorful and vibrant of all of the Mongolian festivals and events.
It is a time when the entire country celebrates the three sports of horse racing, archery, and wrestling.
While these are traditional "men's sports," you will see women and children participating today. Children race the horses from as young as four years of age and for distances as long as 20 miles. The costumes and tools are distinctive for each sport.
Mongolia's real pride is the wrestler. Much skill and training go into this sport, and the winner is revered as a hero by all Mongolians and hence awarded the most prestigious title of the “Avarga” (titan).
This evening, we spend our first night in a traditional Mongolian ger (pronounced "gaire"). Overnight at ger camp.
Image Courtesy of World Expeditiions
Day 4 | 2024
Khogno Khan Mountain
Today, we will drive west of the capital until we reach the Khogno Khan mountain. It is approximately a 4-5 hour drive with stunning landscapes and stops throughout.
The mountain is well worth the drive as it is a distinctive location with ruined Buddhist temples nearby. Your guide will provide you with the history of this region.
You will be able to explore it before we continue driving past the landscape for which Mongolia is most famous.
The endless green steppe, with grazing herds of sheep accompanied by lone horsemen and white, nomadic Gers are dotted over the countryside. In the evening, we take a walk in the surrounding area. Overnight at ger camp.
Day 5 | 2024
Shireet Pass
We will continue our journey and drive approximately 155 miles (4-5 hours) to camp by the Shireet Pass. On the way, we will explore the monuments of the Turkish period (7th – 8th century).
We will walk in the surrounding area, exploring the biodiversity and the local plants. Overnight at tented camp.
Image Courtesy of World Expedtions
Day 6 | 2023
The Nomadic Woman
We will meet a nomadic family this morning and spend a full day with them. We will experience and help with the women's daily work: making dairy, cooking, sewing, crafting, and any other activities that she typically takes care of at home. We will have lunch with the family.
We will cook a traditional Mongolian meal with them, learning how to make the dumplings they call “Buuz.” Horse riding is possible here for an additional cost.
Please speak to your local guide and advise us at WAT before your travel so they are ready for you. Overnight at ger camp.
Image Courtesy of World Expeditions
Day 7 | 2024
Trek to Shireet Lake
This morning, we will leave our vehicles behind as we set our trek. Yaks will carry all tents and camping equipment during these trekking days. We will carry only light daypacks.
We will trek seven to nine miles to Shireet Lake. It will take us approximately five to six hours for this.
Nestled in Hangai Nuruu, Mongolia’s second-largest mountain range, it is in the area of the Eight Lakes, which lies 9,200 feet above sea level. The park contains many lakes scattered over two big valleys.
Very few families inhabit the area. It is a perfect place to see a large variety of wildflowers, birds, and small animals.
We begin with the ascent over Shireet Pass and will continue to our camp by Shireet Lake.
We will have plenty of time to stop and absorb the sights of Central Mongolia. Overnight at tented camp.
![Local_people_Mongolia-[19091].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/27dd21_9993f77ec00c4e94acd043b308c91846~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_147,h_110,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/Local_people_Mongolia-%5B19091%5D.jpg)
Image Courtesy of World Expeditions
Day 8 & 9 | 2024
The Valley of Eight Lakes &
Khorgoi Khurem vi Uliin Pass
We will continue trekking (seven to nine miles for five to six hours) through the Valley of Eight Lakes. We pass through a variety of terrain, from rocky exposed shorelines to forested trails following the rivers that connect the lakes from the mountains above us.
We will be privy to some of the most pristine areas of Mongolia and perhaps the world. If you are a stargazer, these will be the best nights for dark skies to see the Milky Way and constellations. Overnight at tented camp.
On day nine, we will trek (nine to eleven miles for six to seven hours) over Uliin Pass and reach the Khorgoi Khurem valley. The area is abundant with trees, flowers, and plants, including almonds.
Here, we will say goodbye to our local herdsmen. Overnight at tented camp.
Image Courtesy of World Expeditions
Day 10 | 2024
Orkhon Waterfall/ Tuvkhun Monastery
On our way to Tuvkhun Monastery (30 miles and a two-hour drive), we will break to view Orkhon Waterfall. It was formed by volcanic eruptions about 20,000 years ago and cascaded from a height of 65 feet.
After a brief stop, we will continue our journey until we reach the Tuvkhun Monastery.
Rested on the armchair-shaped peak of Shireet Ulaan Mountain at 7,585 feet, the monastery dates back to the initiative of Zanabazar (first Bogd) and is where many of his most famous artworks were created.
To the right of the temples, a path leads upward to the summit of the peak.
One branch of the path leads to the so-called Mother’s Womb, a narrow passageway that pilgrims crawl through to be symbolically reborn, cleansed of their sins.
After hiking and exploring the Monastery, we will make our tented camp in the nearby mountains. Overnight at tented camp.
![Takhi_horses_Mongolia-[19084].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/27dd21_4b0fded1731c4709a1a68141ca5c559d~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_103,w_2160,h_1459/fill/w_147,h_99,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/Takhi_horses_Mongolia-%5B19084%5D.jpg)
Image Courtesy of World Expeditions
Day 11 | 2024
Orkhon Waterfall/ Tuvkhun Monastery
Today, we will continue to Tsenkheriin Hot Springs. We will have the opportunity to experience the relaxing and restorative properties of the waters.
The hot springs sprout directly from the mountains and reach high temperatures of up to 180°F. Make sure you bring your swimsuit to relax after our days of trekking.
In the afternoon, we'll explore the surrounding area. We will also visit a nearby local nomadic family and learn more about the Mongolian way of life. We will spend tonight at a ger camp near the springs.
Image Courtesy o World Expeditions
Day 12 | 2024
Harhorin
After breakfast at the ger camp, we will set out in the vehicles and drive for ninety miles to the township of Harhorin along the Orkhon River.
This was once a thriving metropolis in the days of Genghis Khan when he and his sons controlled the biggest empire the world has ever known.
The township of Harhorin is Soviet-built with apartment blocks. On arrival, we will head to the majestic Erdene Zuu Monastery and visit the large complex.
In its former days, the walls of the monastery housed hundreds of temples and thousands of monks. Today, these places of religious beauty are being restored. Overnight at Ger camp near the Orkhon River.
![Naadam_Festival_Mongolia-[4292].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/27dd21_db135bf7816a495c9a66b402832fff62~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_132,h_89,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/Naadam_Festival_Mongolia-%5B4292%5D.jpg)
Image Courtesy of World Expeditions
Image Courtesy World Expeditions
Day 14 & 15 | 2024
Ulaanbaatar & Departure
Today, we return to Ulaanbaatar. After check-in at the hotel, your afternoon is free to rest, shop, or explore more of the busy city. The group will re-connect for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant in the evening. Overnight Ulaanbaatar at the hotel.
Your trip concludes after breakfast on our final day. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flights.
Accommodations
In your fourteen nights in Mongolia, you will spend three nights in a hotel in the city, two upon arrival and one on the back end before flying back out. There will be six nights spent camping while trekking. The other five nights will be spent in a ger.
A ger traditional is a traditional Mongolian dwelling and is very durable. Many are made of wood, felt, and other natural
insulation materials.
All accommodations are shared.
Single occupancy is available at an additional rate.
Please enquire regarding rates.
Accommodations, Rates, Availability
New Dates, Deadlines, and Prices for WAT's Mongolia Trip 2023 TBA
SHARED ACCOMMODATION
Payment deadline90 Days Prior to Departure
(Spots will fill up prior as it is on a first-come basis.)
Please note: A $1,000 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your spot on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Availability - Our exclusive program welcomes a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 16 travelers.
Email us ASAP to Secure Your Spot!
Inclusions
All accommodation in hotel, ger or tent as outlined in the itinerary
Use of private vehicles for all group travel
Expert bilingual female guide
14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 14 dinners
Transfers to or from the airport on day 1 and day 15
Oxcart support during trek
Fully supported camping during the trek
Comfortable well-located hotels
Site entry fees
Sightseeing as listed in the itinerary
Exclusions
International airfare and departure taxes, contact World Expeditions for a quote
Sleeping bag - this can be hired in Mongolia, $20 USD for the trip
Optional horse hire: you may choose to hire a horse and horseman for the trekking days. Costs are $15 USD/day for a horse and $20 USD/day for a horseman. Two to three people can share a horseman.
Aerated and alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, email, etc
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Passports & visas
Tips
Your Host
Karen Loftus is a well-known and respected luxury travel and lifestyle writer and photographer with a sense of humor, a wicked sense of adventure, and an insatiable appetite for off-the-beaten-path endeavors.
She hit her international stride twenty-plus years ago as an award-winning feminist playwright. She was also a groundbreaking international comedian in the US, Europe, Asia, and The Middle East.
She also ran her nonprofit, Body Comedy, where she used humor to heal. She worked with thousands of survivors of physical and sexual violence, women, and children in many facilities, juvenile halls, prisons, and shelters.
Ten years later, Karen ended up on Hollywood's red carpet, interviewing the celeb set and writing about travel, fashion, beauty, food and wine, and the Hollywood lifestyle. Since then, she has traveled seven continents and 70+ countries while working as a writer and photographer.
Her compelling and entertaining stories have appeared in Vogue, Architectural Digest, Forbes, Robb Report, American Way, Hemispheres Magazine, The NY Daily News, The Globe & Mail, South China Morning Post, The Gulf News, Huffington Post, and Men's Journal among many others.
This serial entrepreneur has produced comedy tours and theatrical events worldwide through her production company, Goddess Productions, and lifestyle and fashion-driven events through her event company, The Lofty Style Lounge.
Lofty loves hitting the road, sharing her wild stories and entrepreneurial endeavors with other women. She speaks at college campuses, conferences, and corporate events.
In addition to WAT, she also arranges well-curated travel for individuals and groups under her travel advisor umbrella, Lofty Traveler. Lofty Traveler is a part of Cloud 10 Travel - An Independent Affiliate of Cadence Travel, a Virtuoso Agency.
Your Tour Operator
The tour operator we are working with on this trip adheres to Positive Impact Travel Practices. By joining this trip, you are directly supporting a positive impact in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
They offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water, and climate action.
Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, the South Pole, which are invested in projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.
Final Notes
Mongolia is that other-worldly destination. It is untouched in many ways but very much on the rise. It is on many travel hit lists. So, if you are interested in a somewhat off-the-beaten-path destination, go now while it is still authentic, somewhat untouched, and less crowded.
This trip is for the more intrepid traveler and may be less luxurious than other WAT trips. The luxury here is seeing Mongolia. The accommodations are more remote and more authentic and include six nights of camping and trekking between sites.
Mongolia is a trip of a lifetime for the camper, trekker, photographer, and those in the Deep Dive Tribe of travel. However, it is not for everyone. If you have any questions, drop us an email, and we can arrange a call to talk further about this trip.
