Mongolia travel blog

Mongolia, a landlocked country in Eastern Central Asia, is bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. As the fifth largest country in Asia and the seventeenth largest in the world, a Mongolia tour offers vast landscapes and unique experiences. Known for its nomadic lifestyle, Mongolia is the only country where such a way of living is still prevalent. It also boasts one of the world's largest deserts, making it an adventurous destination. Embarking on a Mongolia tour means discovering one of the last undiscovered travel destinations in the world. It’s also one of the safest countries to visit. When planning your Mongolia tour, be sure to include these unforgettable experiences: visiting a nomad family, horse riding, camel riding, and exploring the stunning natural scenery. A Mongolia tour promises a perfect mix of cultural immersion and adventure, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

Horse Riding

The Mongol horse is the native horse breed of Mongolia, believed to be largely unchanged since the time of Genghis Khan. One of the main attractions for tourists on a Mongolia tour is horseback riding. Horses play a vital role in the nomadic lifestyle, serving as essential transportation for daily chores. As a result, you can easily spot these horses in every corner of Mongolia. The nearest and best destination for horse riding from Ulaanbaatar is Terelj National Park. The optimal time for horse trekking in Mongolia is during the summer and early fall, from June to October.

Camel Riding

Mongolia is home to the largest population of two-humped Bactrian camels in the world. Historically, camels played a significant role in transportation along the Silk Road and the Tea Road between Asia and Europe. A popular activity for tourists on a Mongolia tour is certainly camel riding, with the experience of sitting atop a camel being particularly memorable. You can enjoy camel rides in the southern Gobi Desert and the Central Semi Gobi area. Additionally, camel-back experiences are available at Terelj National Park, the nearest destination from Ulaanbaatar.

Golden Eagle Festival

The Golden Eagle Festival is an annual traditional event held in Bayan-Ölgii aimag, organized by the Mongolian Association of Falconers. This festival marks the beginning of the hunting season and serves as a vibrant showcase of Kazakh culture to the world. It also plays a crucial role in promoting heritage to the next generations. During the Golden Eagle Festival, Kazakh falconers honor their cultural traditions and compete in various events. Attending the Golden Eagle Festival is a must-see experience in Asia, particularly on a Mongolia tour.

Naadam Festival

The Naadam Festival, known as "Eriin Gurvan Naadam" or "The Three Games of Men," is the most renowned traditional event and the grandest national holiday in Mongolia. Celebrated annually from July 11 to 13, this vibrant festival is deeply rooted in Mongolia's history and culture, offering a rare glimpse into the nation’s rich heritage. The festival's origins date back to the times of the great Khans, serving as a showcase of the martial skills necessary for survival and success on the steppes. Today, Naadam provides a unique opportunity for travelers on a Mongolia tour to experience the country's authentic traditional culture firsthand. Unlike a typical tourist attraction, Naadam is a genuine celebration where Mongolians from all walks of life come together to compete in and enjoy the three traditional sports: horse racing, wrestling, and archery.