Mongolia - Orkhon Valley and Przewalski Horses - Winter Trail

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from SL of Bern on 25/05/2017

Day 1
Meet the English speaking translator at UlaanBaatar airport for a group transfer. The transfer time is set to the arrival of the Turkish Airlines flight, but you can book any flight that arrives before it does. Those who have arrived a day early will be met at their hotel. Lunch in UlaanBaatar followed by a short walk through the yurt (ger) district to the Gandantegchinlin Monastery. Attend a late afternoon show of traditional Mongolian dance, music and song including the amazing Khoomei (overtone chanting). No dinner is included on the first night. Return to the hotel to relax with a swim, a gym workout, or a spa treatment. (extra charge to be paid locally). Overnight at a 4* hotel (twin room). Depending on the group size, riders may be split between hotels with walking distance of each other

Day 2
After breakfast, drive to the Hustai National Park, best known for hosting the conservation project to protect the endangered Przewalski's horse. Only a few specimens were present in zoos around the world until a breeding and reintroduction program was initiated in 1992. This has resulted in a wild and sustainable population of over 250 horses inside the Khustai park. To observe the horses, it is best to travel by vehicle to the banks of rivers where they come to drink early in the morning and evening. The rest of the day, they disperse into the mountains in search for food. After lunch at Hustai yurt camp, prepare for the first horseback ride to get the feel for your horse and equipment, and maybe get another glimpse of the wild horses. This is preparation for the longer rides into the Orkhon Valley. The rest of the afternoon is devoted to resting and enjoying a warm shower. The Hustai yurt (ger) camp has quite modern showers compared to the rest of the country, and even in the heart of winter, riders can normally have a hot shower, so take advantage! Dinner and overnight at ger (yurt) camp.

Day 3
Breakfast at the yurt camp, then drive to Karakorum (Kharkhorin). Lunch at Kharkhorin followed by a visit to the Erdene Zuu Monastery. Dinner and overnight depends on availability as many places are closed at this time of the year. It may be at a yurt camp, or with a nomadic family, or in a guesthouse in Kharkhorin. This adds to the authenticity of the experience.

Day 4
After breakfast, drive through the Orkhon Valley. In winter, the nomads move their yurts and herds to their wintering sites in the hollow of the valley, protected from the winds, or near the forest. An enclosure is often arranged to gather the herd and allow the animals to keep warm. Arrive at the yurts of the nomadic family where we will spend 4 nights. After lunch the group have their first horse ride in the Orkhon Valley with the hosts. Dinner and overnight in a guest yurt installed alongside the host family.

Days 5 - 6
Discover the wonderful Orkhon Valley on horseback during the next two days. Set out each day to a different part of the Valley like the famous Orkhon Falls, frozen by the cold, or a mountain pass with majestic views over the valley. The climate can be challenging in winter and the precise itinerary depends on the weather. The rider's safety is a top priority, and as it is impossible to stop for a picnic lunch because of the cold, the group does not stop during the day's ride, and has a late lunch in the yurt on return to the camp. This close relationship with the locals gives the opportunity to understand the Mongolian nomads and how the whole family cope with winter's extreme cold, how babies and children are protected, how they take care of the yaks, horses and sheep herds. The nomadic family are proud to welcome foreign visitors in wintertime and riders will be well looked after. Dinners and overnights in a guest yurt installed alongside that of our host family.

Day 7
After breakfast, enjoy the last horse ride through this beautiful Valley. Lunch with the hosts who are now friends, and drive through the Orkhon valley towards Khogno Khan / Bayan Gobi Park. Dinner and overnight with a nomadic family.

Day 8
Breakfast and a short horseback ride along the spectacular cliffs (2 hours). The contrast between the cliffs and the frozen marshland that borders them is spectacular. It is difficult to imagine that in summertime, this area is a Garden of Eden teeming with herds. This horse ride may become a camel ride depending on the way the horses manage the conditions. Visit the dramatically located Ovgon Khiid Monastery. Meals and overnight with a nomadic family.

Day 9
Breakfast and departure for the Yumt Resort. Arrive at yurt camp at Khustai for lunch. After lunch there is a 4x4 trip into the park to try and spot the Przewalski Horses. Although it can't be guaranteed of seeing them, the park is also home to deer and marmots (cost included). Dinner and overnight at the Yumt Resort.
Day 10
Breakfast and transfer to airport on time for flights departing after 08:45am.

No single rooms available in UlaanBaatar

Depending on the group size, in UlaanBataar riders may be split between hotels with walking distance of each other

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

The Mongolian horse is small, with a particularly developed forequarters, and a short, massive neck. Compared to its size, the Mongolian horse is very strong, and very tough. The horses are almost never shod, except in winter in the Lake Khovsgol region. This is in order to fix spikes to horses that pull the sleigh on the frozen lake. Almost all colours are possible, including those with very old signs such as zebra stripes. Mongolian nomads do not have a name for their horses, they call them by their colour, and they have dozens of different terms to describe the subtleties of possible colours of their horses.

The Mongolian horse has a docile temper, despite spending months of freedom in the steppe it shows a very quiet behaviour as soon as its owner catches it for the ride. The traditional Mongolian saddle has a short base and high pommel and cantle. They are ridden very differently to the Western style, you do not kick to increase speed, simply use voice commands. Reins are held in one hand and the ponies are steered by neck-reining. In trot and canter riders should stand in their stirrups as much as possible.

Must be confident in walk, trot and canter. This is an adventurous ride and riders will be required to participate in horse care, tacking up etc. Must be fit enough for long hours in the saddle in harsh conditions. The minimum age for this ride is 12 years.

We strongly recommend that you wear a riding helmet in compliance with the standards in force in Europe or in your country of origin, as the practice of riding in Mongolia presents specific risks in addition to those related to the usual practice of riding as you know it. You will need to bring your own hat.
We would like to draw your attention to the following points:
- This ride takes place in remote areas, where the rescue teams - even organized by your repatriation assistance company - can need several hours to reach you.
- There are very few hospitals outside Ulan Bator, and they lack efficient equipment.
- The low level of road infrastructure considerably extends any time of transport to a hospital.
- Mongolian horses live free and even if they are trained, they may have surprising reactions compared to the horses to which you are accustomed because of their strong instincts.
- The saddles used are adapted to the characteristics of the Mongolian horse and are therefore different from the ones you are accustomed to, requiring a period of adaptation during which the risk of fall is higher.

The weight limit for this ride is 209 lb/95 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

Guest-yurts with nomadic families: This accommodation is a unique opportunity to share and discover the traditional way of life of the nomadic herders in Mongolia. 2 or 3 guest-yurts are set close to the the family's yurt, surrounded by the free-roaming horses, yaks, sheep and goats. A guest-yurts will contain 4 or 5 single beds, heated with a traditional stove and meals are served either in the family's yurt or outside, weather permitting.

Your host will prepare traditional Mongolian dishes and it can be interesting to see how women cook only with the central stove of the yurt. For comfort, a shower tent is provided close to the yurts where water can be heated on the stove. There are dry toilets. You will be offered some tea mixed with milk and salt. You will soon get used to it, but you will also find "Lipton" tea in the yurt (ger) camps.

Touristic Yurt camps (Ger camps): These are the most comfortable accommodation in Mongolian countryside. Sleep in traditional yurts (called gers in Mongolia), furnished with single beds (from 2 to 5 beds / yurt), small tables and a stove. It is very difficult - or impossible - to have single yurts in most of the camps, so be ready to share your yurt with other travellers from the group. Some camps offer yurts with double beds, but it can not be guaranteed. There are showers, washbasins and toilets in a separate building and a restaurant provides breakfast and meals.

Good to know: Yurt camps are the most comfortable accommodation available in Mongolia, but don't expect luxury: hot water in the showers is often unpredictable, electrical standards are "unique" and food at the restaurants relies on good supply conditions due to their remote situation. Yurt camps offer simple international food, adapted to their different clients: Mongolian people and tourists from European, American and other Asian countries (China, Korea, Japan).

2025: No single rooms available in Ulaan Bataar.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures Your passport should be valid for six months from the date you arrive. In 2023, the Mongolian Government announced a visa exemption* for stays up to 30 days for 34 more countries for 2023, 2024 and 2025:Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom. (Longer stays still need a visa). *However, we still advise contacting the nearest Mongolian Embassy for the most up-to-date advice on entry requirements and visas. Arriving passengers should follow instructions given by the authorities on arrival. Arrival requirements into Mongolia are subject to regular change. Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mongolia In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mongolia.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mongolia

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

Ulan Bator (Ulaanbaatar) has a continental climate with dry winters and short cool summers.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

The standard of healthcare is variable in Mongolia. Ensure you have sufficient travel insurance to cover any emergencies. If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial +976 103 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company as soon as possible to inform them of what has happened.
You should always bring any regular prescription drugs you may need with you, and spare, just in case.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Mongolia and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

Please ensure take along sun cream and anti-allergy medicine for possible insect bites.

Mongolia is a relatively healthy country, with no vaccines needed other than the usual ones for travelling in the developing world (typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio). We suggest taking a small personal medical kit as above. A comprehensive group medical kit will be carried at all times.

Drink only bottled water and avoid raw fruits and vegetables.

It is important to be physically fit to undertake a trip to Mongolia, because some areas are very remote.

Always take your usual medications in sufficient quantities and place them in your hand luggage to be sure to have them in case of lost luggage.

In Mongolia the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

Most yurt camps have electricity and you can charge phones and cameras in the evening.

Keep in mind that your clothes have to be large: the air between the layers will keep you warm, so don’t take too small sizes.

- Riding Helmet - we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384, please bring your own.
- Riding Boots - it is important to have correct shoes or boots for horse riding. Jodhpur or ankle boots with a rubber sole are recommended but sturdy shoes with a definite heel are acceptable (such as walking boots)
- Merino wool top“1st layer” (and for nights)
- Thin polar fleece jumper “2nd layer” (and for nights)
- Thick polar fleece jumper “2nd layer”
- Softshell jacket (for the evening, and as possible “2nd layer”)
- Very warm down jacket + Gore Tex windbreaker or ski jacket (“3rd layer”)
- Being unlikely to encounter wet conditions, a lightweight windbreaker in addition to a very warm down jacket should suffice
- Merino wool “1st layer” tights (and for nights)
- Polar fleece trousers (for evenings and nights)
- Softshell breeches, or ski pants as 2nd+3rd layer
- A polar hood covering head + nose + neck
- A very warm hat or a chapka
- A polar beanie for the nights
- Silk or merino under-gloves
- Very warm gloves (ice-climbing gloves are very suitable as they are designed to be warm, waterproof with good grip control)
- Very warm boots (Baffin or Sorel brands are OK)
- Very warm merino socks
- Personal toilet bag with small towel
- High protection sun screen and lipstick
- Soothing drops for the eyes
- Tissues and wipes + mineral water facial sprays as it will be impossible to have a shower during most of the trip
- Personal Items - toiletries, any medicines you require and please be sure to take insect repellent
- Refillable Water Bottle - it's very important to drink a lot of water when it's hot, especially when doing physical activities
- Soap and shampoo (biodegradable if possible)
- Antibacterial product for hands.
- Sleeping bag (comfort temperature -5°C/-10°C).
- Thermolite sleeping bag liner
- Inflatable pillow if required
- Hand and feet warmers (plan to use a pair of feet warmers + a pair of hands warmers per day)
- Pocket knife and lighter (in the registered luggage)
- Fire starter cubes (to be able to start the fire in your stove easily by yourself during the night if needed – carry in your registered luggage)
- Headlamp
- Good sunglasses
- Camera, spare Batteries/Chargers - an absolute must! It is also a good idea to take a camera case you can strap around your waist or onto a belt for whilst you are riding
- Powerbank
- Ear plugs
- Electric adaptor if needed
- A sheepskin can help with keeping warm in the saddle

This is an 10 day/9 night programme on set dates from October to April. In early February there will be a special itinerary to include a celebration of the Mongolian New Year - the Tsagaan Sar.

2025: 5, 12, 19, 26 Jan; 2, 9, 16, 23 Feb; 2, 9, 16, 23 Mar; 6, 13, 20 Apr

No single rooms available in Ulaan Bataar.

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Edge of Blue Heaven, by Benedict Allen 

Mongolia Lonely Planet, by Michael Kohn (2005)  The essential guide to Mongolia.

On the trail of Ghengis Khan - Tim Cope

Hearing birds fly - Louisa Waugh

Genghis Khan, Life Death and Resurrection - John Man

Gantsara, by Ian Robinson

Hunting with Eagles: In the Realm of the Mongolian Kazakhs Photographer Palani Mohan

How to establish contact with a nomadic family

Simple tips will help you, especially with the children;
- Be creative, do not stay in a role of simple spectator, get involved: for example, if you take some paper and coloured pencils, do not distribute them to the children as a Santa Claus, sit with them and draw too. You'll be guaranteed some giggles when you will compare your drawings! You can also try origami which will amaze the children and their and parents.

- Learn simple magic tricks before leaving, your success is guaranteed, in the evening around the stove!

- Ask your guide to teach you how to play jacks and other traditional games for the evenings in the yurt with your nomadic friends.

- Dare to sing, the Mongols adore it and the evening can end in a crazy karaoke!!!

- Ask the women if you can help them to milk animals, to prepare the meal...

- Ask the men if you can help them with the herds...

Above all, be curious and open minded, try as much as possible to be an actor instead of a spectator, so that this journey turns into a real human adventure for you, reinventing the simplicity and the happiness to be together...

The Orkhon Valley:
Classified in 2004 as World Heritage Site by UNESCO as the cradle of nomadic Mongolia, the "cultural landscape of the Orkhon Valley", about 121,967 hectares, covers an extensive area of pastureland that stretches approximately 80km from long and 15 km wide on both banks of the Orkhon river. The site also includes Karakorum.
Grasslands are still used today by Mongolian nomadic herders, and many families keep perpetuating the traditional way of life. In the valleys and around the rivers are nestled yurts that house the nomadic families. In the wild, herds of horses, yaks, sheep and goats are moving in these protected areas.

The Orkhon Falls are actually the Ulaan Tsutgalan River Falls. The river falls into a spectacular canyon formed after an earthquake and a volcanic eruption more than 20 000 years ago, forming a cascade of 20m high and 10m wide.

The site is enchanted by the contrast between the whiteness of the foam and the black rock that forms the canyon walls. Going down along the walls to the foot of the fall, you will discover trees and flowers (wild peonies in June) that take advantage of the abundance of water to grow.

Mongolia is a huge landlocked country, more than six times the size of the UK, sandwiched between Russia and China. It is also one of the highest countries in the world, with an average elevation of 1580m. Mongolia can be divided into six distinct zones including desert, steppe, mountain and taiga. The southern third of Mongolia is dominated by the Gobi Desert.

The name 'Mongolia' has always stirred up visions of the untamed - Genghis Khan, camels wandering the Gobi Desert and wild horses galloping across the steppes. Even today, outside of Ulaan Baatar you may get the feeling you've stepped into another century rather than another country.

Mongolia is seven or eight hours ahead of GMT depending on which part of the country you are in. They use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. There is approximately 1.6 kilometres in a mile and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram.

The major religion is Tibetan Buddhism.