The Yak festival tour
Summary
The Yak festival is one of the most important festivals in Mongolia. Yak is considered the most productive animal as its milk and meat is nutritious, fur is warm and it can carry huge loads on its back. Mongolians use the yak for moving and fetching water. The programs in the yak festival are fascinating to see; yak polo, yak race, rodeos, and beauty contest. As always, Mongolians put their best traditional clothes on to come and participate in this festival. There are many surprises and entertaining activities, thus it has become a favorite local event. In addition to the fascinating yak festival, you will explore Ugii lake, and the Tuvkhun temple and relax in the hot springs of Tsenkher.
Highlights
- Taste the famous Mongolian barbecue in a local restaurant.
- Visit the religious center monastery, National history museum, and the central square.
- Discover the statue of Chinggis Khaan.
- Introduction to camel-related activities such as milking a camel and making dairy products.
- Discover the monument in honor of the Mongolian racing horses, in the steppe of Arvaikheer, where horse breeders and racing horse trainers come to find protection.
- Learn horse-related activities such as catching horses with Durga, milking a mare, and training a semi-wild horse.
- Observe the beautiful scenes of nomadic life.
What is included in this tour?
Items that are included in the cost of tour price.- Airport - hotel - airport transfers
- Accommodations: 2 nights in hotels, 1 night in a tourist camp, 7 nights in a nomad family,
- All transportations
- English speaking guide
- Full board for 10 days
- Entrance fees to the parks and museums mentioned
- Performance of traditional songs and dances
What is not included in this tour?
Items that are not included in the cost of tour price.- Air tickets for international flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance (assistance, repatriation)
- Extra meals (excluding 3 meals a day) and personal drinks
- Tips
Day by day Itinerary
Day 1
UlaanbaatarYour guide and driver will meet you at your hotel in Ulaanbaatar. Time to rest in your hotel. For lunch, we will taste the famous Mongolian barbecue in the traditional restaurant. Then, we will visit the religious center Gandan Monastery, the National History Museum, and the central square, where we will discover the statue of Chinggis Khaan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the Folk Art concert, featuring traditional Mongolian dance and khoomii /throat singing/, followed by dinner at your hotel.
Explore the untamed beauty of Mongolia with Adventure Asia!
Day 2
Ulaanbaatar - Baga GazarAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel, then we will begin our adventure toward the Gobi Desert. We drive to the south through vast steppes and discover our first images of Mongolia: a vast open space where herds of livestock which are horses, sheep, goats, cows, camels, and yaks, graze freely.
On the way, we will stop at an “Ovoo-cairn,” to ask for protection from the spirits of nature. In the afternoon, we will discover Baga Gazariin Chuluu /granite rock formations/ in the heart of the steppes. Stroll around the interesting rocky forms to the Sudut Gorge with aspen trees.
We will meet our first nomad family. According to Mongolian tradition, we will be offering Suutei Tsai - the traditional milk tea with salt and Aaruul -dried curd. We prepare our dinner together: Buuz - Mongolian dumplings. Everyone can get their hands busy, a real moment of cultural sharing!
Vehicle trip: 240 km or 4-5 h, walking: 1-2 h, Check-in at the nomad family.
Day 3
Baga Gazar - Ongi MonasteryAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the nomad family, then we cross through the vast and wild desert steppe to the skyline. Discovery of the Erdene Dalai Monastery in Saikhan Ovoo, one of the few rescued monasteries from Communist repression. In the distance, the impressive Saikhan Ovoo mountain range rises as we move forward. Here, a river named Ongi amuses its beauty that is, only one river flows to the South part of Mongolia. The Ongi river, the only river that flows southward, into the Gobi desert, fleets here to create a wonderful Gobi oasis.
On the bank of the Ongi river, we will discover the ruins of the Ongi Monastery, the biggest Buddhist monastery in the Gobi desert, between the 16th- 18th centuries. It was home to 1000 llamas and was destroyed during the anti-religious purge in 1939.
Vehicle trip: 240 km or 5 - 6 h, walking: 1 - 2 h, Check-in at the yurt camp.
Day 4
Ongi Monastery - Uush CliffAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the yurt camp. We will continue our route to the southwest, where you feel in the middle of nowhere and it will be hard to imagine there is life. Soon, we will arrive at the Uush cliff which has an impressive color of red and orange. At the top, we will discover a magnificent panorama view, where red-colored Uuch cliffs contrast with the surrounding valleys and mountains in the background. Also, feel free to wander the Mongolian naturally formed pyramid.
In the evening, we will be welcomed by Boldoo’s family, the camel herder's family, who will introduce us to camel-related activities such as milking a camel and making dairy products.
Vehicle trip: 200 km or 5 - 6 h, walking: 1 - 2 h, Check-in at the nomad family.
Day 5
Uush Cliff - KhujirtAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the nomad family. Leaving the Great Gobi behind us, we will cross our last kilometers before we reach the Khangai region. For Mongolians, Khangai refers to a mountainous region with abundant resources, where livestock grazes peacefully.
Today will be devoted to the horse cultures of Mongolia. First of all, we will discover the monument created in honor of the Mongolian racing horses, in the steppe of Arvaikheer, were horse breeders and racing horse trainers come to find protection.
Then, we will meet Lkhavgaa's family who lives on the southern side of the Khangai Range. This family will show us horse-related activities such as catching horses with uurga, milking a mare, and training a semi-wild horse.
Vehicle trip: 4-6 hours, walking: 1-2 hours, Check-in at the nomad family.
Day 6
Khujirt - GyatruunAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the nomad family. Now we dive into the famous Orkhon Valley, the true cradle of the Mongolian people, registered as a World Heritage by UNESCO. The diversity of landscapes makes this region a thousand colors of the sumptuous painting. The Orkhon Valley is one of the most populated areas by herders in the country. Many archaeological remains belong to this valley dating back to the 6th century.
We cross the valley from East to West to reach the encampment of the next nomadic family, located about fifty kilometers from the bottom of the valley. Surrounded by ancient dormant volcanoes, we cross vast grassy plains, dotted with basaltic rocks. The Orkhon river flows between the Edelweiss floor and steep gorges just next to us. We will discover the unexpected Ulaantsutgalan waterfall. This waterfall was about 20m high and appeared 20,000 years ago by the consequences of repeated earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Our slow driving on the bumpy road gives us plenty of time to observe the different scenes of nomadic life. Tonight, we will arrive at Batsukh’s family who is a famous yak breeder and an excellent wolf hunter.
Vehicle trip: 4-6 hours, Check-in at the nomad family.
Day 7
Yak FestivalAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the nomad family. Today is a special day. We will go to the palace, where the proud herders of yak gathered together to show us their great herding skills. On the program: the yak racing, the rodeo, the famous Polo match with the yaks, and even a beauty contest yaks. After spending a joyful time with nomads, we will return to our encampment, where there is another special event waiting for us. We will spend the evening cooking Khorkhog, - Mongolian traditional barbeque, made in a special way using hot rocks, All an art! The result is unique.
We will enjoy our dinner around a campfire, dancing and singing together, under the millions of stars.
Check-in on the nomad family.
Day 8
Gyatruut - TuvkhenAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the nomad family. Today, we will discover Tuvkhen Monastery which was founded in 1648, and built by Zanabazar, who is the first Buddhist spiritual leader of Mongolia. Tuvkhun Monastery is located on the top of a Shireet Ulaan sacred mountain. We will do horse trekking to the monastery and it will be a gorgeous fall in the forest with horses. When we arrive at the bottom of the rock formations, we will see the monastery that is perfectly integrated into its natural environment. Immediately, we will feel the calmness and the serenity emerging from this sacred place. After the discovered monastery, we will head back to the hosting nomad family with horses.
Vehicle trip: 2-3 h, by horse: 3 - 4 h, Check-in at the nomad family.
Day 9
Tuvkhen - Kharkhorin - Khugnu KhanAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the nomad family. Road to Kharkhorin, the legendary city of Genggis Khan, was founded in 1220. Kharkhorin was the first capital of the Mongol Empire and the prosperous center of the Silk Road in the 13th century. It played an important role in the world's economic, political and cultural life. Discovery of the monastery "Erdenezuu", which is one of the most beautiful monasteries and the first religious center of the country. Also, we will visit the local museum that will give us detailed information about the ancient capital Kharkhorin.
Then we will drive to the Khugnu Khan Nature Reserve, where the beauty of Mongolian nature makes sense. Indeed, there is an interesting coexistence of the green steppe and the great sand dune "Elsen Tasarkhai".
Vehicle trip: 4-6 h, Check-in at the nomad family.
Day 10
Khugnu Khan - UlaanbaatarAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the nomad family, then we will drive to Ulaanbaatar. On the way, you will have lunch, and in the afternoon, you will arrive in Ulaanbaatar city. If you want, it is possible to visit the biggest cashmere factory store in the world for shopping. After these memorable days, you will relax at your hotel and be free to do a leisure tour by yourself.
Vehicle trip: 3-4 hours; Check-in at the hotel.
Day 11
DeapartureAfter breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel and drive you to the Chinggis Khaan International Airport.
The Yak festival tour
The Yak festival is one of the most important festivals in Mongolia. Yak is considered the most productive animal as its milk and meat is nutritious, fur is warm and it can carry huge loads on its back. Mongolians use the yak for moving and fetching water. The programs in the yak festival are fascinating to see; yak polo, yak race, rodeos, and beauty contest. As always, Mongolians put their best traditional clothes on to come and participate in this festival. There are many surprises and entertaining activities, thus it has become a favorite local event. In addition to the fascinating yak festival, you will explore Ugii lake, and the Tuvkhun temple and relax in the hot springs of Tsenkher.
Orkhon Valley Trek
Throughout history, from prehistoric times up till the beginning of the last century, the Orkhon valley has been a major center of life for the Mongolians. Capital cities have risen and fallen, monks have meditated here, kings have been buried and nomads have settled their tents next to the water of the Orkhon river. We will be following the river past ancient monasteries, waterfalls and national parks. It is an amazing experience, you should be a part of it!
Diving in Mongolia
This trip is an amazing adventure you definitely don't want to miss! The highlight of this tour is, of course, the dive center. If you've never tried diving before, but are interested in what lies beneath the surface, there are a lot of opportunities for you to give it a go. Some other highlights of this tour include tasting the famous Mongolian barbecue in a traditional restaurant, visits to the National history museum, and the central square, and discovering the statue of Chinggis Khaan.
Into The Heart Of Mongolia
Mongolia as you imagine it! That of the steppes, yurts, and nomads, waiting for you in this 7-day trip to the heart of authentic Mongolia. Our trip starts with discovering the equestrian statue of Chinggis Khaan and meeting Terelj National Park, where the Siberian forests end surrounded by unique rock formations. Then take you to the heart of the Mongolian wilderness, watching mythical Przewalski wild horses. Then we will move through the vast lush steppes where you can observe the many scenes of rural life.
A true Nomadic adventure tour
A true nomadic adventure tour in Mongolia allows you to explore the most beautiful landscapes of central Mongolia and learn the authentic nomadic culture of Mongolia. Spend your time with local nomads, ride through wild nature and discover the historical Orkhon valley. Some other highlights of this trip include the introduction to activities related to horse breeding, a visit to the National history museum, and the central square. You also get to explore activities related to camel breeding and discover the Khongor sand dune, one of the largest and most spectacular sand dunes in Mongolia.
Dog sledding tour in Mongolia
On this dog sled tour, you will be exploring Mongolian nature, the nomadic way of life and also observing the wild flora and fauna in the winter season, in Terelj and Khentii National parks. With an experienced dog team, you will slide on the ice, through endless and peaceful landscapes, in perfect silence, under the sky. This is one of the best ways to discover Mongolia in winter, to approach wild animals and live an incredible adventure in the heart of Mongolian winter accompanied by professional mushers, come and enjoy the serenity and amazing atmosphere of Mongolia!
Adventure trek in Mongolia
This trek is an exciting one that exposes you to the steppes and forested valleys in Mongolia. You'll also be introduced to Mongolia's fascinating culture. This trip is perfect for travelers who wish to get a truly authentic experience of the country. Some other highlights of this trip include a taste of the famous Mongolian barbecue, participation in the daily herding activities, learning how to make cheese, yogurt, and alcohol from milk, as well as the breathtaking view of the entire chain of Khangai mountain.
The Yak festival tour
The Yak festival is one of the most important festivals in Mongolia. Yak is considered the most productive animal as its milk and meat is nutritious, fur is warm and it can carry huge loads on its back. Mongolians use the yak for moving and fetching water. The programs in the yak festival are fascinating to see; yak polo, yak race, rodeos, and beauty contest. As always, Mongolians put their best traditional clothes on to come and participate in this festival. There are many surprises and entertaining activities, thus it has become a favorite local event. In addition to the fascinating yak festival, you will explore Ugii lake, and the Tuvkhun temple and relax in the hot springs of Tsenkher.
Into The Heart Of Mongolia
Mongolia as you imagine it! That of the steppes, yurts, and nomads, waiting for you in this 7-day trip to the heart of authentic Mongolia. Our trip starts with discovering the equestrian statue of Chinggis Khaan and meeting Terelj National Park, where the Siberian forests end surrounded by unique rock formations. Then take you to the heart of the Mongolian wilderness, watching mythical Przewalski wild horses. Then we will move through the vast lush steppes where you can observe the many scenes of rural life.
Dog sledding tour in Mongolia
On this dog sled tour, you will be exploring Mongolian nature, the nomadic way of life and also observing the wild flora and fauna in the winter season, in Terelj and Khentii National parks. With an experienced dog team, you will slide on the ice, through endless and peaceful landscapes, in perfect silence, under the sky. This is one of the best ways to discover Mongolia in winter, to approach wild animals and live an incredible adventure in the heart of Mongolian winter accompanied by professional mushers, come and enjoy the serenity and amazing atmosphere of Mongolia!
Adventure trek in Mongolia
This trek is an exciting one that exposes you to the steppes and forested valleys in Mongolia. You'll also be introduced to Mongolia's fascinating culture. This trip is perfect for travelers who wish to get a truly authentic experience of the country. Some other highlights of this trip include a taste of the famous Mongolian barbecue, participation in the daily herding activities, learning how to make cheese, yogurt, and alcohol from milk, as well as the breathtaking view of the entire chain of Khangai mountain.
The Yak festival tour
The Yak festival is one of the most important festivals in Mongolia. Yak is considered the most productive animal as its milk and meat is nutritious, fur is warm and it can carry huge loads on its back. Mongolians use the yak for moving and fetching water. The programs in the yak festival are fascinating to see; yak polo, yak race, rodeos, and beauty contest. As always, Mongolians put their best traditional clothes on to come and participate in this festival. There are many surprises and entertaining activities, thus it has become a favorite local event. In addition to the fascinating yak festival, you will explore Ugii lake, and the Tuvkhun temple and relax in the hot springs of Tsenkher.
Orkhon Valley Trek
Throughout history, from prehistoric times up till the beginning of the last century, the Orkhon valley has been a major center of life for the Mongolians. Capital cities have risen and fallen, monks have meditated here, kings have been buried and nomads have settled their tents next to the water of the Orkhon river. We will be following the river past ancient monasteries, waterfalls and national parks. It is an amazing experience, you should be a part of it!
Diving in Mongolia
This trip is an amazing adventure you definitely don't want to miss! The highlight of this tour is, of course, the dive center. If you've never tried diving before, but are interested in what lies beneath the surface, there are a lot of opportunities for you to give it a go. Some other highlights of this tour include tasting the famous Mongolian barbecue in a traditional restaurant, visits to the National history museum, and the central square, and discovering the statue of Chinggis Khaan.
Into The Heart Of Mongolia
Mongolia as you imagine it! That of the steppes, yurts, and nomads, waiting for you in this 7-day trip to the heart of authentic Mongolia. Our trip starts with discovering the equestrian statue of Chinggis Khaan and meeting Terelj National Park, where the Siberian forests end surrounded by unique rock formations. Then take you to the heart of the Mongolian wilderness, watching mythical Przewalski wild horses. Then we will move through the vast lush steppes where you can observe the many scenes of rural life.
A true Nomadic adventure tour
A true nomadic adventure tour in Mongolia allows you to explore the most beautiful landscapes of central Mongolia and learn the authentic nomadic culture of Mongolia. Spend your time with local nomads, ride through wild nature and discover the historical Orkhon valley. Some other highlights of this trip include the introduction to activities related to horse breeding, a visit to the National history museum, and the central square. You also get to explore activities related to camel breeding and discover the Khongor sand dune, one of the largest and most spectacular sand dunes in Mongolia.
Dog sledding tour in Mongolia
On this dog sled tour, you will be exploring Mongolian nature, the nomadic way of life and also observing the wild flora and fauna in the winter season, in Terelj and Khentii National parks. With an experienced dog team, you will slide on the ice, through endless and peaceful landscapes, in perfect silence, under the sky. This is one of the best ways to discover Mongolia in winter, to approach wild animals and live an incredible adventure in the heart of Mongolian winter accompanied by professional mushers, come and enjoy the serenity and amazing atmosphere of Mongolia!
Adventure trek in Mongolia
This trek is an exciting one that exposes you to the steppes and forested valleys in Mongolia. You'll also be introduced to Mongolia's fascinating culture. This trip is perfect for travelers who wish to get a truly authentic experience of the country. Some other highlights of this trip include a taste of the famous Mongolian barbecue, participation in the daily herding activities, learning how to make cheese, yogurt, and alcohol from milk, as well as the breathtaking view of the entire chain of Khangai mountain.
The Yak festival tour
The Yak festival is one of the most important festivals in Mongolia. Yak is considered the most productive animal as its milk and meat is nutritious, fur is warm and it can carry huge loads on its back. Mongolians use the yak for moving and fetching water. The programs in the yak festival are fascinating to see; yak polo, yak race, rodeos, and beauty contest. As always, Mongolians put their best traditional clothes on to come and participate in this festival. There are many surprises and entertaining activities, thus it has become a favorite local event. In addition to the fascinating yak festival, you will explore Ugii lake, and the Tuvkhun temple and relax in the hot springs of Tsenkher.
Into The Heart Of Mongolia
Mongolia as you imagine it! That of the steppes, yurts, and nomads, waiting for you in this 7-day trip to the heart of authentic Mongolia. Our trip starts with discovering the equestrian statue of Chinggis Khaan and meeting Terelj National Park, where the Siberian forests end surrounded by unique rock formations. Then take you to the heart of the Mongolian wilderness, watching mythical Przewalski wild horses. Then we will move through the vast lush steppes where you can observe the many scenes of rural life.
Dog sledding tour in Mongolia
On this dog sled tour, you will be exploring Mongolian nature, the nomadic way of life and also observing the wild flora and fauna in the winter season, in Terelj and Khentii National parks. With an experienced dog team, you will slide on the ice, through endless and peaceful landscapes, in perfect silence, under the sky. This is one of the best ways to discover Mongolia in winter, to approach wild animals and live an incredible adventure in the heart of Mongolian winter accompanied by professional mushers, come and enjoy the serenity and amazing atmosphere of Mongolia!
Adventure trek in Mongolia
This trek is an exciting one that exposes you to the steppes and forested valleys in Mongolia. You'll also be introduced to Mongolia's fascinating culture. This trip is perfect for travelers who wish to get a truly authentic experience of the country. Some other highlights of this trip include a taste of the famous Mongolian barbecue, participation in the daily herding activities, learning how to make cheese, yogurt, and alcohol from milk, as well as the breathtaking view of the entire chain of Khangai mountain.
Essential China Tour
Encounter the essence of China in all its wonderful diversity- climb the Great Wall and stare down the Terracotta Warriors before heading down South on this tour of China’s cultural and natural highlights. Rest your gaze on the giant Buddha of Leshan and explore ancient mountainside monasteries at Emei Shan, then float down the world-famous Three Gorges of the Yangtze River before stepping out to experience the vibrant rural life and stunning scenery of Yangshuo. This adventure offers a great combination of must-see highlights and free time to explore on your own.
Silk Road China Tour
A journey through time down this ancient trade route is a true adventure for travelers intrigued by the less-frequented parts of the globe. You’ll follow in the footsteps of generations of nomads, visiting some of the most important world heritage sites connected to the East and West. Cross sprawling desert landscapes, visit glittering Islamic monuments and stop at small villages, where you will meet the locals and learn about traditional ways of life. Buckle up for the ride, this is no ordinary road trip.
Welcome to nomads Land in Kyrgyzstan
Experience the sublime landscapes and fascinating nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan on this special tour. This tour covers the most rugged, mountainous stretch of the old Silk Road between China and Uzbekistan- a region of sunlit snow peaks, vast blue-green glacial lakes, and pastures dotted with yurt encampments. In addition to seeing some of the most spellbinding vistas in Central Asia, you’ll also get to experience life in a genuine nomad camp, some traditional Kyrgyz and Uyghur cuisine, cooking local food, and also learn about the region’s Russian colonial legacy through its art and architecture.
Kyrgyzstan Mountain Adventure Tour
Explore the best of the Alay mountains on this tour and discover one of the most stunning mountain regions in the world that are still unknown. This tour combines some of the best landscapes, trekking, and nomadic cultural experiences in all of Kyrgyzstan, including incredible mountain vistas at Sary Mogul and Jiptick mountain passes, where you will feel as though you’ve landed on another planet. Diverse landscapes, from turquoise alpine lakes and lush green valleys to high desert moonscapes, and the red rock formations of ‘ Three Dragon Gorge’, sleeping in a traditional yurt where you’ll have an opportunity to meet Kyrgyz shepherds, learn about the conventional Nomadic culture and enjoy home-cooked meals.
Essential China Tour
Encounter the essence of China in all its wonderful diversity- climb the Great Wall and stare down the Terracotta Warriors before heading down South on this tour of China’s cultural and natural highlights. Rest your gaze on the giant Buddha of Leshan and explore ancient mountainside monasteries at Emei Shan, then float down the world-famous Three Gorges of the Yangtze River before stepping out to experience the vibrant rural life and stunning scenery of Yangshuo. This adventure offers a great combination of must-see highlights and free time to explore on your own.
Silk Road China Tour
A journey through time down this ancient trade route is a true adventure for travelers intrigued by the less-frequented parts of the globe. You’ll follow in the footsteps of generations of nomads, visiting some of the most important world heritage sites connected to the East and West. Cross sprawling desert landscapes, visit glittering Islamic monuments and stop at small villages, where you will meet the locals and learn about traditional ways of life. Buckle up for the ride, this is no ordinary road trip.
Welcome to nomads Land in Kyrgyzstan
Experience the sublime landscapes and fascinating nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan on this special tour. This tour covers the most rugged, mountainous stretch of the old Silk Road between China and Uzbekistan- a region of sunlit snow peaks, vast blue-green glacial lakes, and pastures dotted with yurt encampments. In addition to seeing some of the most spellbinding vistas in Central Asia, you’ll also get to experience life in a genuine nomad camp, some traditional Kyrgyz and Uyghur cuisine, cooking local food, and also learn about the region’s Russian colonial legacy through its art and architecture.
Kyrgyzstan Mountain Adventure Tour
Explore the best of the Alay mountains on this tour and discover one of the most stunning mountain regions in the world that are still unknown. This tour combines some of the best landscapes, trekking, and nomadic cultural experiences in all of Kyrgyzstan, including incredible mountain vistas at Sary Mogul and Jiptick mountain passes, where you will feel as though you’ve landed on another planet. Diverse landscapes, from turquoise alpine lakes and lush green valleys to high desert moonscapes, and the red rock formations of ‘ Three Dragon Gorge’, sleeping in a traditional yurt where you’ll have an opportunity to meet Kyrgyz shepherds, learn about the conventional Nomadic culture and enjoy home-cooked meals.