Reindeer Tribes of Mongolia
10 Days Starting and ending in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Visiting: Ulaanbaatar, Murun, Ulaan Uul, Tsagaan nuur, Taiga, Khogiin Gol River, Khuvsgul Lake
Tour operator:
Tour code:
6553
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
- Camp in the wilderness amongst wildflowers
- Travel by horse into the remote location where the Tsaachin tribe live
- Live with the Tsaachin Tribe in their teepees and slip into their daily life
- Meet a Tsaachin Shaman
- Enjoy a boat ride on the beautiful Lake Khuvsgal
Mongolia - one of Asia's last frontiers and one of the world’s last unspoilt destinations. Travel by horse to the nomadic Tsaachin tribe who have a spiritual connection the reindeer herds that they live with.
Once a thriving community, the Tsaachin tribe has dwindled in recent years leaving only 200-400 members left in northern Mongolia. This is the perfect way to explore and mingle with this shrinking tribe in the spectacular landscapes of Mongolia. Return from your journey with spectacular images, memories and new found knowledge. Mingle with friendly nomads as you learn their way of life. Ride through lush meadows, wooded hills and ruins from the ancient Mongolian Empire before reaching the magnificent turquoise Lake Khuvsgul, known in Mongolia as ‘Blue Pearl’.
The Tsaachin or Tsaatan’s entire existence is based on their reindeer herds which provide them with milk for producing cheese, antlers for carving and medicinal purposes, transportation and on the odd occasion, meat. Part of the Tuvan ethnic group, this small tribe is truly nomadic, regularly moving in search for a rare type of lichen and grass for their reindeer. The Tsaachin people do not stay in the traditional Mongolian gers we commonly recognise as a symbol on the country, but live in urts, similar to the Native American teepees which were traditionally made from birch bark.
A culture rich in Shamanism, these spiritual healers play an important role to the community providing traditional remedies for injury and illness. Previously a self sufficient tribe with only their reindeers, the Tsaachin now have to forage for berries, wild potato and pine nuts in the Autumn as well as occasionally fish or hunt to simply survive. The reindeer are said to have been domesticated several thousands of years ago and play a key role in the spiritual, socio economic and linguistic traditional of the local community.
Your visit to the reindeer herding people plays an important role to help them and their culture survive. Although very few travellers venture into this realm, our tourism initiative provides them with a supplemental income and cultural exchange education for both our travellers and local Tsaachin people. To spend time with these tribes people is truly remarkable and brimming with cultural practices that provide a deep insight into this fascinating way of life.
Travelling on horseback is the best way to reach the remote settlement with a full support crew of guides, cooks and horse tenders there to assist. Sleep in teepees like the locals and after visiting this isolated land, continue on through the spectacular scenery of rolling mountains, lush forests before venturing the turquoise waters of Lake Khuvsgul.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive In Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Bayangol Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Welcome to Mongolia! Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar the capital city of Mongolia, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.
Overnight Best Western Premier Tuushin or similar
Day 2 - Fly To Murun Town – Ujig River Valley
Location: Murun
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Khuvsgul province (1.5hrs). On arrival at local airport of Murun, the centre of the Khuvsgul, you will meet your driver and for an hour before stopping for a picnic lunch. You will cross rivers and passes and take in the scenic view over the mountain ranges. Breathe the fresh mountain air as you explore this spectacular scenery. Here you will be surrounded by stunning towering rocky mountains. The view from our camp ground is spectacular. This evening we will be camping in tents. A shower tent, toilet and kitchen tent are also provided. (B,L,D)
Overnight Camping
Day 3 - Ulaan Uul Town - Tsagaan Nuur Town - Horse Ride To Orten Khyarkh
Location: Ulaan Uul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Local Tsaachin teepee
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is long driving day. You will officially enter the shamanic region and visit the 13 ovoo shrine where you will stop to participate in offerings. Continue driving through Ulaan Uul town and arrive our tented camping site. (B,L,D)
Overnight Camping
Day 4 - Ulaan Uul Town - Tsagaan Nuur Town - Horse Ride To Orten Khyarkh
Location: Tsagaan nuur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Local Tsaachin teepee
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, you will drive to Tsagaan nuur town (approx. 2-3hrs) before continuing beyond the town another 40 mins to meet with your local horse specialist guides and trail finders and of course, your horses. After having a brief instruction on riding Mongolian horses, you will get acquainted with your own horse before it is time to set off. Start riding towards Taiga, the region where part of the Tsaachin communities live. You will be introduced to the amazing but sadly dwindling world of the reindeer-herding people (Tsaachin). Due to the marshy road conditions, we will not use vehicles to reach the area, entire our luggage and food supply will be transported by horses. Horse riding today is approx. 8-9 hours. We may break this up over two days depending on the groups ability and weather. (B,L,D)
Stay overnight in a local Tsaachin teepee
Day 5 - Tsaachin Community & Shaman Experience
Location: Taiga
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Tented camp near the Shaman’s home
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the next day staying amongst the Tsaachin people and experience their everyday life. Learn of their unique traditions such as milking reindeer and processing milk products like cheese. Spend time talking with the local people and understanding their local culture and how they have managed to maintain such a traditional way of life for so long. You will have the opportunity to ride into the Taiga forest where the area is so energetic and mysterious. Explore Bor Khuyag river valley, which is rich in crystals and other minerals. Take in the beauty of the larch forest and wildflower patches. Be inspired and gain power while meditating in untouched wilderness.
You will witness a traditional shaman ritual and meet a shaman custodian of a hidden realm. Shamanism is a traditional spiritual belief system based on worshipping nature. Shamanism plays an important part in Tsaachin; the shaman also acts as a healer, providing traditional remedies for ailments to the local people. They also perform many mystical holy rituals and use many different magic charms in their daily life, for hunting, calling, and preventing the rain. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Taiga To Khogiin Gol River
Location: Khogiin Gol River
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Tented camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning is a free morning at the reindeer herder’s camp before you ride to Khogiin Gol River. You will need a rest after today and what a stunning location to relax or explore on foot for the afternoon. (B,L,D)
Overnight Camping
Day 7 - Beltes Gol River
Location: Khuvsgul Lake
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tented camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will drive through beautiful mountains before arriving at your final night of wilderness camping. (B,L,D)
Overnight Camping
Day 8 - Khuvsgul Lake
Location: Khuvsgul Lake
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Ger camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, farewell your cook and crew before you drive to the shore of the blue pearl, Lake Khuvsgul. The Lake is sacred and is known as the ‘Mother Lake’ to Mongolians and holds 2% of the worlds fresh water. Khuvsgul Lake is surrounded by beautiful high mountains of the Khoridol Saridag and Bayan Mountain Ranges, along the west shore. Even though it is summer, some parts of the lake will be icy. This area is often referred to as Mongolia’s most scenic region and you will certainly see why. Enjoy walking along the lake shore or hike through the surrounding mountains to take in the panoramic view over the lake. There is an optional boat trip on the lake this afternoon for those who are interested in getting a different perspective from the water of the spectacular surrounds. There is also the option to go for a short horse ride (payable locally). This evening, build up your appetite for an authentic Mongolian barbeque! This will be prepared in the traditional way with the meat grilled with hot stones which gives it a unique taste. (B,L,D)
Overnight at Ger Camp
Day 9 - Fly To Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Bayangol Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, drive back to Murun town. Transfer to the domestic airport for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. This evening, enjoy a local folk concert as your farewell dinner. (B,L,D)
Overnight Best Western Premier Tuushin or similar
Day 10 - Departure
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning is at leisure until it is time to transfer to airport for your onwards departure. (B)
What's Included
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Return airport transfers
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9 nights accommodation
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9 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 9 Dinners
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English speaking Guide
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Local Mountain Guide and pack horses
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Domestic flights Ulaanbaatar/Murun/Ulaanbaatar in economy class
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Entrance fees and National Park fees and permits to protected areas
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Bottled water
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Private transportation
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Horses
What's Not Included
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International and domestic flights not mentioned above
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Visas
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Travel insurance
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Items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc
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Early check-in / Late check-out
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes domestic flights between Ulaanbaatar and Murun, private transportation, and horse rides into remote areas. Scenic drives through mountains and valleys are also part of the journey, with luggage and supplies transported by horses in certain regions.
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What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?
The tour offers a variety of accommodations including the Bayangol Hotel in Ulaanbaatar, camping in tents with shower and kitchen facilities, staying in local Tsaachin teepees, and experiencing a Ger camp near Khuvsgul Lake.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 9 dinners.
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Will there be opportunities to interact with the local Tsaachin community?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to live with the Tsaachin Tribe, experience their daily life, and learn about their unique traditions such as milking reindeer and processing milk products. You will also meet a Tsaachin Shaman and witness a traditional shaman ritual.
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Is there any special equipment needed for the horse riding part of the tour?
You will be provided with a brief instruction on riding Mongolian horses and will get acquainted with your own horse before setting off. All luggage and food supplies will be transported by horses due to marshy road conditions.
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What unique experiences does the tour offer at Khuvsgul Lake?
At Khuvsgul Lake, you can enjoy walking along the lake shore, hiking through the surrounding mountains, and an optional boat trip on the lake. There is also an option for a short horse ride. In the evening, you can enjoy an authentic Mongolian barbeque prepared in the traditional way.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
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What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
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Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
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What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
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Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
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I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
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Low Deposit
Crooked Compass requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of crooked compass charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.