Mongolia
Galloping across the steppe in true Chinggis Khann style on a wild-eyed Mongol pony
Drinking ayrag (fermented mares milk) with the Mongolian locals
Watching a spine-tingling shamanistic ceremony in remote Northern Mongolian
Jumping into a bone-chilling cold, fresh water creek to cool off after a long day of riding
Cheering on the child jockeys as they race on spindly ponies across the steppe in Naadam
Learning the lifestyle of the nomadic Tsaatan people and the reindeers that they worship
If you're an intrepid traveller and thrive on a good adventure than Mongolia is the destination for you. It's a country that's still finding its feet in terms of tourism where itineraries don't always go according to plan and spontaneity is the order of the day. That aside, horse enthusiasts will be swept up with the spirit of the wild-eyed Mongolian ponies, the far-reaching, infinite steppe and the thrill of roaming a country that is fence-free and horses are the main mode of transport.
Prepare to drink a lot of vodka, shout 'Choo Choo' to your dread-locked pony, stay in cozy, traditional Gers with your own fireplace and be swept off your feet with the hospitality of the Mongolian people.
Both the Khovsgol and Arhangay rides coincide with local Naadam Festivals, which is a must-see to truly appreciate the mind-blowing culture of the Mongolians. It's a true highlight to watch child jockeys ride like centaurs across the steppe.
time in saddle
4 -7 hours in the saddle a day (approximately 20 kilometres a day)
breed of horses
Local Mongolian working ponies between 13 to 14hh
pace
The pace varies from a walk right through to a canter
riding ability
Beginner to Advanced. Beginner riders have to fit and have a lot of trail riding hours under their belt
weight limit
Maximum weight is 95kg
accommodation
The accommodation varies throughout the trip from home stays, Ger camps, camping and hotels.
group size
Minimum of 3 guests and a maximum of 14 guests
dates
19 Day Khovsgol Horseback Trek with Naadam Festival and Reindeer People
2012 Departure Dates:
June 28 to July 16 (summer Naadam)
July 7 to July 25 (summer Naadam)
August 9 to 27 (Khatgal Naadam)
August 15 to September 2 (Rechinlhumbe Naadam)
13 Day Arhangay Horseback Trek
2012 Departure Dates:
July 2 to 14 (includes Naadam)
July 6 to 18 (includes Naadam)
July 22 to August 3
August 5 to 17
August 5 to 17
prices
Khovsgol Horseback Trek
Between 3 to 5 riders: $3175 USD per person, Between 6 to 12 riders: $2900 USD per person
plus internal airfares approximately $400 USD
Arhangay Horseback Trek
Between 2 to 5 riders: $2350 USD per person, Between 6 to 14 riders: $2150 USD per person
*The price does not include flights, transfers to and from the ride and travel insurance.
*Prices may be subject to change.