Khovsgol Province, nestled in the northern part of Mongolia, is a hidden gem for adventurers seeking a raw and unfiltered experience. This region, renowned for its pristine landscapes and the stunning Khovsgol Lake, offers a gateway to one of Mongolia’s most unique cultural experiences: a horse trek to visit the Tsaatan tribe.
The Tsaatan people are one of the last remaining reindeer herding nomads in Mongolia. Their way of life, intricately linked to their herds of reindeer, is a testament to centuries of tradition and survival in the harsh northern environment. The trek to visit them is not just a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth but also a deep dive into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged.
The Horse Trek Experience
Embarking on a horse trek to the Tsaatan tribe is an adventure filled with stunning vistas and unique challenges. The trek took us two days to reach the tribe, followed by a day of rest and two days to return. The experience was a blend of awe-inspiring beauty and physical challenge.
My favorite part of the journey was the descent into the valley where the Tsaatan were camped. As the sun set, the valley came alive with the warm glow of twilight, highlighting the traditional tipis and the smoke rising from the chimneys. It was a picturesque scene that felt almost magical.
Cost Breakdown – Get Ready for some Math
When we got to the Time of payment is was difficult to understand as they don’t speak English too well. So I made it simple for you! For a group of six people, the costs for the horse trek are as follows:
- Horses for Tourists: 6 horses @ 40,000 MNT per day = 240,000 MNT per day
- Guides: 2 guides for 6 people @ 50,000 MNT per day each = 100,000 MNT per day
- Equipment Horses: 2 horses for equipment (for the entire group) @ 40,000 MNT per day = 80,000 MNT per day
For a 5-day trek:
- Total for horses for tourists: 240,000 MNT x 5 days = 1,200,000 MNT
- Total for the guides: 100,000 MNT x 5 days = 500,000 MNT
- Total for equipment horses: 80,000 MNT x 5 days = 400,000 MNT
Total Cost:
1,200,000 MNT + 500,000 MNT + 400,000 MNT = 2,100,000 MNT
Conversion to USD and EUR
USD: 2,100,000 MNT ≈ $592 USD (1 USD ≈ 3,545 MNT)
EUR: 2,100,000 MNT ≈ €563 EUR (1 EUR ≈ 3,735 MNT)
The Tsaatan Tribe and Their Way of Life
The Tsaatan people live in harmony with their environment, relying heavily on their reindeer for transportation, milk, and meat. Their traditional dwellings are portable tents made from reindeer hides, which provide insulation against the cold. Visiting the Tsaatan tribe offers a rare glimpse into their daily life, from milking reindeer to herding and traditional ceremonies.
Their reindeer herding practices are not just a livelihood but a crucial part of their cultural identity. During your visit, you might witness the intricate bond between the Tsaatan and their reindeer, a relationship that has sustained them through generations.
The Trek to the Tribe
Getting to the Trek Starting Point
The journey to the Tsaatan tribe begins in Ulaanbaatar, where you can arrange for a van or jeep to take you to Murun, the capital of Khovsgol Province. The drive from Ulaanbaatar to Murun takes approximately 12-14 hours, depending on road conditions. It’s best to plan for an overnight stay in Murun to rest and get any last-minute supplies. Be sure to obtain the necessary permit for the trek at the local permit office in Murun; our driver handled this process for us, which saved time and hassle.
The next morning, you’ll start early for a long, off-road drive to the trek’s starting point. This part of the journey can be quite bumpy and rough, so be prepared for a challenging ride. The drive takes you to a small village called Ulaan-Uul, where most tour agencies have arrangements with local families who provide accommodation. You’ll stay with one of these families overnight, enjoying a traditional meal and getting to know your hosts. The next morning, you’ll begin your horseback adventure.
The Horse Trek to the Tsaatan Tribe
The horse trek covers approximately 70 km over two days, heading north toward the Tsaatan tribe. The ride can be intense and physically demanding, especially for those not accustomed to horseback riding. It’s highly recommended to get some practice in beforehand to build endurance and get comfortable with the saddle. Each day, you’ll ride for about 8-10 hours, depending on your group’s speed.
You’ll spend the nights along the route either camping in tents or staying with local families who offer shelter and meals. The trek takes you through breathtaking landscapes, from dense forests to wide-open valleys, and crosses rivers, all while ascending to higher altitudes. The journey can be challenging but is incredibly rewarding for those who embrace the adventure.
Arriving at the Tsaatan Tribe
Upon reaching the remote and stunning valley where the Tsaatan tribe resides, you’ll be greeted by a landscape dotted with traditional teepees and surrounded by mountains. You’ll have the opportunity to stay in one of the tribe’s teepees for two nights, allowing for a full day to experience their unique way of life and spend time with the reindeer. This immersive experience includes learning about reindeer herding, traditional crafts, and the Tsaatan’s deep connection to their environment.
After your stay, you’ll begin the journey back, retracing your route over the next two days to return to the horse family in Ulaan-Uul, where you’ll rest for the night before the drive back to Murun.
It was truly an amazing experience. Challenging but definitely rewarding.
can’t recommend it enough, Just get out there!
