Today we’re off to Khustai National Park, a wild paradise where nature and history meet. The park is famous for its Przewalski’s Horse, or Takhi — the last truly wild horse in the world. Once extinct in the wild, these incredible creatures have been reintroduced to Mongolia, and today about 350 Takhi roam free here, alongside hundreds of plant and bird species. At the camp in the park, we’ll meet the staff and hear about their conservation projects, then spend the afternoon exploring the park’s stunning landscapes. Bring binoculars for spotting wildlife from a distance. Carry water and snacks, as facilities are limited inside the park. Best be observed early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see the Takhi.

Accommodation:

• Nomadic homestay without facilities. Multi shared. L, D

Activities:

• Spot the Przewalski’s horses (Takhi) in their natural habitat — the main highlight!
• Look out for red deer, roe deer, and marmots roaming the steppe.
• Birdwatching — over 200 species of birds live here, including eagles and falcons.
• Explore the park’s diverse flora, from steppe grasses to wildflowers and forested hills.
• Explore Khustai national park

Today we head west into the legendary Orkhon Valley, where the Orkhon River winds through stunning landscapes. This valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with history and ancient artifacts dating back to the 6th century and earlier. It’s also where the great Mongol Empire established its capital, Karakorum, in the 12th–13th centuries. The valley is still home to nomadic herders, keeping centuries-old traditions alive and offering a living glimpse into Mongolia’s historic way of life.

Fun geology moment: During the Quaternary period, a volcanic eruption near the White Stallion River (Tsagaan Azarga) sent lava flowing into the valley, forming a 10-meter-thick basalt layer. Over time, the Orkhon River carved through it twice, creating the dramatic canyon and waterfall you’ll see today.

Accommodation:

• Nomadic homestay without facilities. Multi shared.  B, L, D

Activities:

• Explore the Orkhon Valley
• Discover the stunning Orkhon Waterfall
• Meet a nomadic family and learn about their life raising horses and yaks
  Optional horseback ride through the stunning steppe landscapes

Today we start with a hike to Tövkhön Monastery, founded in the 1650s by Zanabazar, one of Mongolia’s most revered spiritual leaders. Perched near a hilltop, the monastery’s wooden buildings blend with natural caves, offering amazing views of the Orkhon Valley and pine forests. At the very top, you’ll find a sacred Ovoo (stone cairn) honoring the mountain god — a cool spot for photos and quiet reflection. After exploring the monastery, we head west into the Khangai Mountains, a stunning range rising 2,500–3,000 meters above sea level. These mountains stretch some 800 km across Mongolia and act as a natural continental divide — epic, right? In the evening, we arrive at Tsenkher Hot Spring Resort. Time to relax and soak in the steamy outdoor pool, which is fed by natural hot water at over 80°C. A clever pipeline system keeps it at the perfect temperature, so you can chill, chat with friends, and stargaze while enjoying the mountain

Accommodation:

• Nomadic homestay without facilities. Multi shared. B, L, D

Activities:

• 7 km hike to Tovkhon Monastery (3 to 4 hours)
• Relax at the hot spring pool (don’t forget your swimsuits)

Today we arrive in Tsetserleg Town in the morning, a charming stop to dive into Mongolian culture and history. Here, we’ll visit a local museum dedicated to traditions and Buddhism from the early 1800s. Fun fact: the museum was originally a Buddhist temple, later dismantled during the Soviet era — a fascinating glimpse into Mongolia’s past. After exploring the museum and town, we continue to Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, one of Mongolia’s most stunning natural spots. Formed by ancient lava flows and surrounded by extinct volcanic craters, the lake stretches 15 km long and reaches a maximum depth of 20 meters. The landscape is dotted with black volcanic rocks, rolling hills, and woodland steppe, making it a picture-perfect setting for adventure and photography.

Accommodation:

• Nomadic homestay without facilities. Multi shared.  B, L, D

Activities:

• Explore Tsetserleg Town
• Discover the Zayiin Gegee Museum
• Experience the breathtaking Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur Lake

Today is all about adventure and exploration around the stunning Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake. In the morning, we’ll hike to the summit of Khorgo Volcano, just 4 km from the lake. The crater is 200 meters wide and 100 meters deep, framed by trees — an incredible spot for photos and epic views.

Nearby, you’ll see fascinating basalt formations, some over 1.7 meters tall, formed as lava cooled into “Gers” with gates and openings. We’ll also check out the Single Man Cave, which may look tiny from the outside but is surprisingly spacious inside. The afternoon is yours to relax or dive into optional adventures:

Accommodation:

• Guesthouse with facilities / Shower. Multi shared. B, L, D

Activities:

• Horseback riding across the scenic valley
• Boating on the lake or swimming
• Trekking through the surrounding hills
• Visiting a local family to experience nomadic life

Today we journey to Karakorum, the legendary capital of Genghis Khan’s Mongolian Empire in the 13th century. Founded in 1220 on the ruins of Turug and Uigur cities, it was completed under Ögedei Khan and quickly became a bustling, multicultural hub. The city’s iconic Silver Tree from Möngke Khan’s palace symbolized its wealth and importance. Between 1220–1260, Karakorum thrived as a center of politics, trade, and culture.

History had its ups and downs: when Kublai Khan moved the capital to Beijing, Karakorum lost its status, and later, in 1388, it was destroyed by Ming troops. In 1588, the Main Zuu Temple was restored, giving rise to the Erdene Zuu Monastery, once home to over 100 temples and 1,000 lamas. Today, three temples remain — Dalai Lama, Zuu of Buddha, and Lavrin Temple — all within the monastery’s 400 m × 400 m walls.

Next, we explore the Karakorum Archaeological Museum. Small but fascinating, it’s packed with artifacts from the 13th–14th centuries, prehistoric tools, pottery, coins, religious sculptures, and stone inscriptions. Highlights include a half-excavated kiln, a scale model of 1250s Karakorum, and a Turkic noble tomb with wall paintings, gold objects, and jewels — complete with a short video showing the burial site.

Accommodation:

Guesthouse with facilities / Showers. Multi shared. B, L, D

Activities:

• Explore the Erdene Zuu monastery
• Discover the Karakorum Archaeological Museum
• Turtle Rock
• Local market featuring handmade crafts by

Today we venture into Khogno Khan National Park, a playground of mountains, hills, sand dunes, and grasslands. We’ll trek through the Khogno Khan Mountains and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, we’ll also visit the beautiful Ovgon Monastery, tucked into the hills for a spiritual touch. Next, we explore the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, also known as the Little Gobi, which stretch for 100 kilometers of golden sands — perfect for wandering, photos, or just soaking in the scenery. We’ll also meet a local camel-breeding family, and for those who want a bit more adventure, there’s the option to ride a camel (approx. 20 USD for an hour plus the same for your guide/camelman).

Accommodation:

• Nomadic homestay without facilities. Multi shared. B, L, D

Activities:

• Explore Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes
• Discover Khogno Khan mountain
• Visit Ovgon monastery
• Meet a camel-breeding family
• Optional camel ride adventure

It’s time to head back to Ulaanbaatar, the vibrant capital of Mongolia. Along the way, you can optionally stop/ dropped off at Narantull/black market to pick up souvenirs and local crafts. In the evening, there’s also the optional chance to enjoy a colorful cultural show featuring amazing contortionists, traditional throat singing, and dynamic Mongolian dances — a fun way to celebrate the end of your adventure.

Activities:

• B, L
• Attend a folklore show featuring throat singers. Optional
• Optional shopping for souvenirs or cashmere