Mongolia Altai Expedition

The Altai Expedition takes us deep into the remote Altai Mountains of western Mongolia, where vast open steppe gives way to high mountain valleys, glacier-fed rivers, and rugged peaks. After a night in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, we travel to Ölgii, home of Mongolia’s Kazakh eagle hunters. Ride out with the eagle hunters to learn about the centuries-old tradition. From there, we travel into the mountains to meet a local Kazakh family and get to know the small, incredibly tough Mongolian horses that will carry us on our journey.

We set out on a four-night pack trip, traveling with a camel caravan as nomadic families have done for centuries. Ride across wide-open grasslands, along lakes and creeks, and through the high valleys of the Altai. Along the way, we are welcomed into gers for tea and himiz (fermented mare’s milk), pass through remote nomadic camps, and experience a way of life that remains closely tied to livestock, weather, and the seasons. The terrain allows for plenty of opportunities for faster riding, with long canters across open steppe.

We spend time with Kazakh and Mongolian families, experience traditional throat singing, and gain a firsthand look at the culture of western Mongolia. We finish the trip in Ulaanbaatar for the opening ceremony of Naadam, Mongolia’s largest festival, where horses, wrestling, and archery come together in a celebration of the country’s nomadic heritage.

This is an expedition for adventurous riders who want to experience Mongolia beyond the main tourist trail. We spend our days in the saddle, traveling through remote landscapes and staying close to the people, horses, and traditions that define this part of the country. It’s an immersive journey that combines exciting riding, remarkable scenery, and a genuine connection to Mongolian culture. It is best suited for those who are comfortable getting off the beaten path and embracing the unexpected.