Reindeer herders Northern Mongolia
Horsback Ride
North
Guaranteed
7 days
Description
Visiting the Dukha Reindeer Herders (often called the Tsaatan) in northern Mongolia is one of the most unique cultural experiences in the world. They live in the remote taiga forests of Khuvsgul Province, near the border with Russia.
- Meet the Dukha Reindeer Herders and learn about their nomadic lifestyle and reindeer herding.
- Experience reindeer riding in the remote taiga forest.
- Stay with families in traditional teepees (orts) and experience their daily life.
- Explore the wild taiga landscapes of the Darkhad Valley and the forests of East Taiga.
- Reach the camps by horseback riding or trekking from Tsagaan Nuur.
- Taste traditional foods made from reindeer milk and learn about survival in the taiga.
- Discover their shamanic traditions and close connection with nature.
- Enjoy a remote and authentic cultural experience with one of the world’s last reindeer-herding communities.
Tour map
Includes
Day by day itinerary
Drive to Moron
Today we will take an evening long-distance bus at 6:00 pm to Mörön, the capital of Khuvsgul Province in northern Mongolia. The distance between Ulaanbaatar and Mörön is about 800 km.
The bus will depart from the western bus station in Ulaanbaatar and arrive in Mörön the next morning around 8:00 am. The journey is on a 45-seat regular long-distance bus with standard seating (not sleeper). Please note that this is a long overnight journey, so it is best to come prepared and bring some patience.
Drive to Tsagaannuur village
Today we will drive to Tsagaan Nuur village. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of the northern taiga as we travel through this remote and scenic region of Mongolia. The distance is about 300 km, mostly on challenging off-road tracks, and the journey will take approximately 8–10 hours, depending on the road conditions.
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse B, L, D. Basic showers and basic flush toilets.
Activities:
- Driving
- Visit Tsagaannuur village
The Tsaatan, also known as the Dukha Reindeer Herders, are among the last remaining reindeer herders in the world. Their unique way of life revolves around their reindeer and is deeply rooted in Shamanism, an ancient spiritual tradition that honors and connects with the forces of nature. We will drive a short distance from the village and meet our horses and guide, then begin our horse trek to the Tsaatan settlement through the taiga forests of Khuvsgul Province in northern Mongolia.
The distance is about 20 km, and the ride will take approximately 4–5 hours.
Accommodation:
- Tsaatan huts or tents B, L, D. No washing facilities at all. Toilet in the bush.
Activities:
- Horseback riding to Tsaatan settlement from Tsagaannnur village for about 5 to hours.
- Activities with reindeer tribes
Spend time with the reindeer tribes
The Tsaatan people depend deeply on their reindeer for almost every aspect of daily life. The animals provide milk, cheese, meat, and transportation, while their hides are used for clothing, their dung for fuel, and their antlers for tools.
During our three-day stay, we will immerse ourselves in the community—taking part in daily activities, learning traditional skills, and helping care for the reindeer.
Accommodation:
- Tsaatan huts or tents B, L, D. No washing facilities at all. Toilet in the bush.
Activities:
- Activities with reindeer tribes
Ride back to Tsagaannuur village
Today we will say goodbye to our hosts and begin the horse trek back to Tsagaan Nuur village.
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse B, L, D. Basic showers and basic flush toilets.
Activities:
- Horseback riding back to Tsagaannuur village
Drive back to Moron town
Today we will drive back to Mörön. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the northern taiga as we travel through this stunning landscape. At 6 pm we will take back 6 pm bus to Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar
We will arrive in Ulaanbaatar early morning and transfer to your accommodations.
Gallery