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Yak & Horse Trek in the Khan Khentii
Khan Khentii
Mongolia
-on Horseback or on foot in Mongolia-
You need to travel like, and use the same modes of transport, as the Mongol herdsmen themselves, in order to get a real feeling for and experience a close up encounter with the pace and lifestyle of the local people. During this dramatic journey you will wander on horseback or by foot into the Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area, a beautiful wilderness area closing up on the Hentii Mountains. For horseback riders, a horse will be available on three days (the local horse guide may not speak English). We will be equipped as a true expedition, yak carts bringing the luggage. We will also bring all necessary provisions, a cook and his assistant plus a ger (yurt) to house our mobile restaurant unit. In connection with this, you will get the experience of assembling this comfortable Mongol style dwelling with our local herdsmen.
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Camping Ride with pack horses Walking Tour
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Meeting:
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Ulaanbaatar Hotel
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Airport:
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Ulaanbaatar
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Transfer:
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Ulaanbaatar Airport
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
Max
10 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2012
Rates include:
Accommodations - 1 night Hotel in UB, 4 nighs in Ger/tents, 3 riding days (horse or camel), Guide, all meals outside Ulaanbaatar
| A | 2012 | 6 day trip, AP 3 riding days | 6d / 5n | $810 |
| Single hotel & tent supplement | $220 |
| Medevac Insurance | $45 |
| Naadam Extension July 10 to 12 | $580 |
| Naadam Extension July 10 to 13 - 3 days 3 nights | $660 |
| Night in Ulaanbaatar per room (Single) from | $134 |
| Night in Ulaanbaatar per room (dbl) from | $144 |
| Day Trip - Hustai National Park - Przewalskii’s horse pp (min of 2) | $130 |
| Day Trip - Hustai National Park - Przewalskii’s horse -1 only | $240 |
Group Leader stays FREE with group of 7+
Transfer Option:
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2012
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Transfers from Ulaanbatar (hotel) are included on set days
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$0
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2012
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Airport transfer pp each way (minimum of 2)
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$18
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2012
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Railway Station transfer pp each way (minimum of 2)
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$13
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Tour Dates for 2012
Check here for details and availability
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| A |
2012
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05/10
- 05/15
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Expired
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| A |
2012
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05/30
- 06/04
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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06/09
- 06/14
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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06/19
- 06/24
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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06/29
- 07/04
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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07/11
- 07/16
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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07/21
- 07/26
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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07/31
- 08/05
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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08/10
- 08/15
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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08/20
- 08/25
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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08/30
- 09/04
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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09/09
- 09/14
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP 3 riding day...
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2
/10
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Reserve
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Private departures are available with a minimum of 4.
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Rates do not include:
Imported drinks, rent of riding horse, transfers and accommodation in Ulaanbaatar.
Air or train tickets in and out of Mongolia. Visa fee. Bring your own sleeping bag.
Brief Outline Itinerary
On this journey we use low impact traditional modes of transport. Our equipment will be carried on carts, the same way the locals use to transport their belongings, moving from one pasture to another. For this purpose we will use yaks and horses. We will also carry a ger, which is the traditional felt tent, which most Mongols live in to this day. Essentially, this means we can utilize the services of the local people in the area where we are to travel. They are the experts, and we will be able to get a first hand experience of how to move a camp in the Mongolian traditional way.
Day 1: Arrival
Arrive to the Mongolian capital by air (via Moscow or Beijing) or from our Gobi Camel Trek. Meet for dinner with our guide to discuss the upcoming trip.
(Dinner is not included)
Day 2 : To Jalman Meadows
After breakfast we leave Ulaanbaatar for the Upper Tuul River Valley in the Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area some 110 km away. A three-hour drive by bus or car. We drive one hour on tarmac road, one hour through a beautiful steppe valley with many herdsmen with their livestock. The last hour crosses the ridge at Zamtiin Davaa, and through forests we reach the Upper Tuul River Valley. It is the winter grazing lands of the local herdsmen, which is why most of them are not in the area at the time. It allows for a profusion of wildflowers, such as edelweiss. Our yak carts and the local herdsmen who will be our hosts in the area meet us. Pitch camp next to the Tuul River. BLD
Day 3 : Khan Khentii
We load our luggage on to the carts. Your private horse guide maybe not be fluent in English, but has a fast knowledge of horses and the riding country. The riding pace is according to your riding level. Some participants will be hiking along the ways - so this trip is very suitable for rider and non riders at the same time. Our first campsite is in a steppe valley, surrounded by the Hentii hills, covered with larch and birch forests. The protected area was established in December 1993, covering most of the Hentii wilderness areas stretching all the way up to the Russian-Siberian frontier. Herdsmen keep their livestock in the southern areas, and they follow a lifestyle that essentially has been the same since the time of Gengis Khan. Overnight in tents.
During the trek we will see and make contact with herdsmen, thus coming close to the fascinating and hospitable nomads of the Mongolian steppe who have maintained a similar lifestyle since the time of the Huns: that is, at least 200 BC - a living archaeology indeed! In fact, this was the period the Chinese began joining the different walls into the Great Wall of China under the Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi. The Mongol lifestyle has survived up to this date, and the Chinese have rebuilt the Great Wall at least two times since. Overnight in tents. BLD
Day 4 : Khan Khentii
We trek for three full days toward the Hentii wilderness areas, and soon we touch the limits of human habitation. Although rarely seen, wolves are numerous in the area. There are also wild boars, moose, red deer (Cervus elaphus), marmots and gazelle. We will use yaks to pull the wooden traditional carts on which all our equipment will be loaded and transported. Our Mongol staff will accompany us on horseback. No support vehicles will be required, let alone practical in the area where we are to trek. The yaks will set the pace of the nomadic journey over easy terrain (max. 20 km per day). A cook who knows western and Mongolian cooking will be with us in the field. Members will be able to learn how to build a ger: this can be very quick if several people join in. Overnight in tents. BLD
Day 5 : Khan Khentii
We are now in a scenic area, where rivers flow down broad steppe valleys. Around are forested hills and mountains. Along the rivers there are wooded and alluvial meadows with broad leaf forests. Today we will reach back to the road. BLD
Day 6 : To Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast transfer back to Ulaanbaatar (3-3,5 hrs). Arrival in the afternoon and end off services. BL
On this day you may also transfer to Hustai National Park to view the Przewalskii horses or go to nearby Jalman Meadows Ger Camp, 8km further up the Tuul River Valley, and extend your stay in the zone.
Hustai National Park - Takhi re-introduction
- available as a day trip or a 3 day excursion
Hustai National Park is the site of a unique re-introduction scheme of Przewalskii’s horse (Equus przewalskii), called "takhi" by Mongolians. It became extinct in the wild in 1969 and, since 1992, have been successfully re-introduced to Hustai from zoos around the world. This has been an international effort monitored by The Foundation for the Przewalskii Horse, based in the Netherlands and MACNE (Mongolian Association for Conservation of Nature and the Environment). The national park is rolling steppe mountains with rather large patches of birch and aspen forests. There are also visible remains of neolithic graves. In addition, red deer (Cervus elaphus) and wolf (Canis lupus) have increased quite a bit during the last few years, as well as Mongolian gazelle. Species present in Hustai but usually not seen include Lynx, Argali Sheep and Roe Deer.
Combinations: This journey extends very well to Arburd Sands Ger Camp. You may transfer to Arburd Sands, instead of back to Ulaan-baatar at a total additional cost USD 50.
-- subject to changes --
Meeting:
Ulaanbaatar Hotel
Airport:
Ulaanbaatar
Transfer:
Ulaanbaatar Airport
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Tack:
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MongolianBuryat Soldier Saddles
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Horses:
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Mongolian
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Pace:
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according to riding level
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(2
to
2
out of 5) Novice+
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Age:
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Min
12
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Max
75
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Weight:
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Max
200
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Horse Riding: Horses are included on 3 days (unless you prefer to hike). You will be riding with a local guide (he most likely does not speak much English). Mongolian horses are peculiar and horsemanship is somewhat different among the Mongols as compared to home. We suggest you bring your own riding hat with you, since none are available in Mongolia.
Transport: Mongolian families frequently move from one pasture to another using wooden traditional carts. These are tied to the animals available in the region. Here we will use yaks and horses: the services of some herdsmen will be hired by the expedition, and they will provide us with their animals.
Staff: A Mongolian leader will accompany the group at all times. For these groups the service will be in English. There will also be an assistant to the cook. In addition, the services of the local herdsmen will be hired along with their animals.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passports Passport valid for at least six months required by all nationals referred to in the chart. Visas Required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except: 1. nationals of the USA, if . more
It is important to understand what kind of climate you will meet in Mongolia. The mean elevation of Mongolia is about 1400 meters above sea level (5000 ft), which enhances the sharp continental climate. Mongolia has the highest atmospheric pressure in the World and the pronounced elevation – and the distance from the moderating effects of the oceans - makes Ulaanbaatar the coldest capital city on Earth. This fact does not rule out extreme heat waves in the middle of the summer. Heat waves have in the last two years, during specifically hot days in the end of June and early July also carried with it large quantities of flies and horse flies in forested areas. Due to warmer previous winter, this enhances survival conditions for such insects. In Mongolia the Central Asian desert zones meet with the Siberian taiga, hence, Mongolia is a transition zone with climatic extremes. Most of the year it is very cold, especially at night. Precipitation is low and skies are usually clear during the wintertime. Summers, however, are very pleasant just as in the US and Europe. There is a short rainy season in July and August during which most of the annual rain will fall. Around 70 percent of all precipitation falls during these three summer months. When raining it tend be heavier and shorter, if extended it may cause floods locally. Occasional strong winds can come and go quickly. Spring and fall pass very quickly. Even if this sounds like a lot, precipitation during the summertime it is just about the same as in Europe at the equivalent time.
Mongolia is known as the Land of the Blue Sky and throughout the year, there are 278 sunny days and 9-23 cloudy days.
Dress is very informal but Mongolian sensibilities dictate a degree of modesty in the cut of the clothing worn. Hotel laundry services are available but you will need to bring two or three changes of clothing for the camping portion of the trip. This basic list will be adequate for the demands of our trips. While in Mongolia we will have weather in the 60's and 70's during the day, but nights will be cold. If you are passing through Beijing on the way to or from Mongolia, be aware that Beijing is hot and humid.
Useful items: Small binoculars, travel alarm clock, earplugs, journal and pen, pocket knife (put in checked luggage, not allowed as carry‑on), lightweight snacks like granola bars, fruit bark, jerky, trail mix, nuts, tea bags that you can't start the day without, vitamins, water purification tablets, Mongolian phrasebook. Our support structure is free from vehicles. All our provisions, camping equipment, luggage will be loaded on to yak carts. Even a ger (yurt) will be brought, and we will learn how to use it.
This list is only a guideline for you...
Travel documents and Voucher Flight tickets Passport Visa (check with your consulate)
RIDING GEAR Comfortable riding jeans or Jodhpurs Riding boots (well broken in) or ankle-high riding shoes meant for endurance rides or ‘ride & ties’. These work especially well when worn with a pair of ‘half chaps’ (knee-high leather gaitors). They have a riding heel, but are comfortable enough to be used for your city and village footwear too. Rubber overboots, especially if your riding boots have leather soles. Riding gloves Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection Good rain gear: parka and rain pants or “duster” (no ponchos)
PERSONAL CLOTHING Pile jacket or down vest Wool sweater or wool shirt Warm gloves wool cap or other warm hat Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts Jeans Shorts Underwear and socks Long underwear for cold nights (polypropelene or capilene) Women: Jogbra or other suitable sporty support Pyjama Bag for dirty clothes Comfortable footwear for city and village walking (sturdy walking shoes or tennis shoes or lightweight hiking boots well broken in) Swimsuit Bandana or scarf For Camping trips: Sturdy large duffel bag (30x15x14) Sleeping bag (four‑season) Ground mattress (supplied) ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING Personal Toiletries Insect protection Personal medications Sore cream (for the emergency) small towel Camera and enough extra films and batteries Belt pack Sun glasses with strap Sun tan lotion and lip balm Biodegradable campsuds Minimum 1 liter water bottle (leather bota bags work great for riding) Flashlight with change of batteries Toilet paper Extra baggage tags ("collecting" tags is popular with baggage handlers in Asia) 5 large trash bags to line duffel and sleeping bag stuff sack 6 small & medium zip loc bags for trash disposal Luggage padlocks 25 feet of nylon parachute cord (useful for tying raingear and saddle bags behind saddle)
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
First night is at a hotel in UB, all other overnights are in tents or ger camps (4 nights). Please note: extra overnights in Ulaanbaatar at the end of the trip are not part of the package!
Meals: At the hotel in UB - only breakfast is included. On the trail our cook will prepare the meals. We pride ourselves in having cooks adapt with both western and Mongolian cooking on our trips. There are always vegetables available, and we have no problem accommodating vegetarians on our trips. For breakfast we can usually buy fresh yogurt from the herdsmen in the local area.
Transport: Mongolian families frequently move from one pasture to another using wooden traditional carts. These are tied to the animals available in the region. Here we will use camels and horses. The services of some herdsmen will be hired by the expedition, and they will provide us with their animals.
Staff: A Mongolian leader will accompany the group at all times. For these groups the service will be in English. Other language interpreters are available upon request. There will also be an assistant to the cook. In addition, the services of the local herdsmen will be hired along with their animals.
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Tack:
|
|
MongolianBuryat Soldier Saddles
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Mongolian
|
|
Pace:
|
|
according to riding level
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(2
to
2
out of 5) Novice+
|
|
Age:
|
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Min
12
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Max
75
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
200
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|
Riders:
|
|
Min
2 riders
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Max
10 riders
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|
Horse Riding: Horses are included on 3 days (unless you prefer to hike). You will be riding with a local guide (he most likely does not speak much English). Mongolian horses are peculiar and horsemanship is somewhat different among the Mongols as compared to home. We suggest you bring your own riding hat with you, since none are available in Mongolia.
Transport: Mongolian families frequently move from one pasture to another using wooden traditional carts. These are tied to the animals available in the region. Here we will use yaks and horses: the services of some herdsmen will be hired by the expedition, and they will provide us with their animals.
Staff: A Mongolian leader will accompany the group at all times. For these groups the service will be in English. There will also be an assistant to the cook. In addition, the services of the local herdsmen will be hired along with their animals.
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months required by all nationals referred to in the chart.
Visas
Required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
1. nationals of the USA, if entering the country as a tourist, for stays of up to 90 days.
Visa Note
(a) All foreign nationals staying in Mongolia for longer than 30 days are required to register with the police within 10 days of arrival. (b) Nationals entering Mongolia for stays up to 30 days should apply for an Entry and Exit visa; for stays over 90 days nationals should apply for an Entry visa. (c) Nationals transiting via trains can apply for a single-, double- or multiple-entry Transit visa.
Types of Visa and Cost
Entry and Exit visa: £40 (single-entry, 30 days); £55 (double-entry, 30 days per visit). Entry visa: £35 (single-entry, 90 days). Transit visa: £35 (single-entry); £40 (double-entry); £45 (multiple-entry).
Validity
Visas are valid for three months from date of issue.
Applications to:
Consulate (or consular section at embassy); see Contact Addresses. If travelling on an organised tour, visas can be obtained through tourism companies or travel agencies. A group visa in the name of the tour leader is valid for all tourists on the list attached, provided relevant details (nationality, sex, date of birth, passport numbers, and dates of issue and expiry) are given at the time of application.
Working Days Required
Two to five. An express service is available which costs an additional £20.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
1 |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Yak & Horse Trek in the Khan Khentii
Tour Code:
IT-MGHKNJ02
6 days /
5 nights
~$810.00
Dates :
May to Sept
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :

Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Tack:
MongolianBuryat Soldier Saddles
Horses:
Mongolian
Pace:
according to riding level
Walk,
Trot,
Canter,
Airport:
Ulaanbaatar
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF
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