Explore the far west of Mongolia on horseback – observe Kazakh culture – hike through the Tavan Bogd Mountain Range, climbing its peaks and crossing the Potanin Glacier – return to Ulaanbaatar for a well-deserved foot massage!

Mongolia is a mountainous country. The Mongolian Altai Mountain Range stretches across nearly two-thirds of the country. Tavan Bogd is the highest range of the Altai Mountains. This mountain range lies at the meeting point of three borders, Mongolia, China, and Russia. The 4370m Khuiten peak is the highest in Mongolia. Though modest in terms of the world scale, it offers a challenge to any experienced climber, due to the technical nature of the climb. The 19km long Potanin Glacier lies at the foot of the mountain. The climate in this high mountain area can be extreme and since it is above the tree line there is very little vegetation, giving the surrounding landscape a barren appearance. Very few species have adapted to these harsh conditions and the area is characterized by tundra, lichen-covered rocks, alpine meadows and high mountain swamps.

To reach this remote peak located in the very western province of Bayan Ulgii, we will go by plane, jeep and on foot. This province not only holds some of the most spectacular peaks of the Altai Mountain Range, but is also a home to a diverse ethnic population with interesting culture and traditions. The Kazakh minority along with Tuvan people makes up the highest number of Ulgii’s inhabitants.

Atop the gently rocking comfort of the camel’s back we leave the succor of family life and venture back into the wilderness, far from any signs of life or human habitation. While our camels take us on safari we will experience “how time goes by” in the heart of the desert. There is no rush or hurry, only the endless singing of the wind.

Before returning to Ulaanbaatar we drive through Ikh Bogd Mountain, which is a massive mountain in the Gobi with the tranquil Lake Orog at its foothills.