Tours in Mongolia: A Complete Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Mongolia is one of the world’s last great travel frontiers—vast, wild, and deeply connected to its nomadic heritage. From endless степpe grasslands and dramatic mountains to ancient festivals and eagle hunters, Mongolia offers travelers a rare chance to experience authentic culture and untouched nature.

If you are planning your journey, here is a complete guide to the most popular tours in Mongolia and what makes each experience special.

1. Altai Mountains & Western Mongolia Tours

Western Mongolia is perfect for adventure travelers seeking remote landscapes and cultural immersion. The Altai Mountains form Mongolia’s highest and most dramatic region, home to glaciers, alpine lakes, and Kazakh eagle hunters.

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Highlights:

• Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

• Visiting Potanin Glacier (Mongolia’s largest glacier)

• Meeting Kazakh eagle hunters

• Horse riding in alpine valleys

• Exploring Khoton & Khurgan Lakes

Best time: June – September

2. Golden Eagle Festival Tours

The Golden Eagle Festival is one of Mongolia’s most famous cultural events, held in Bayan-Ulgii each autumn. Kazakh hunters showcase their trained golden eagles through competitions, traditional games, and cultural performances.

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What you’ll experience:

• Eagle hunting demonstrations

• Traditional Kazakh clothing & music

• Horseback games

• Nomadic family visits

• Photography opportunities

Best time: Late September – Early October

3. Gobi Desert Adventure Tours

The Gobi Desert offers a completely different landscape—vast dunes, flaming cliffs, and dinosaur fossil sites. It’s ideal for travelers who love geology, wildlife, and desert adventures.

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Top attractions:

• Khongor Sand Dunes (“Singing Dunes”)

• Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag)

• Yolyn Am Ice Canyon

• Camel riding

• Stargazing in the desert

Best time: May – September

4. Central Mongolia & Cultural Heritage Tours

Central Mongolia blends history, culture, and natural beauty. This region is home to Mongolia’s ancient capital and Buddhist landmarks.

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Key experiences:

• Erdene Zuu Monastery

• Karakorum (ancient capital of the Mongol Empire)

• Orkhon Valley UNESCO site

• Nomadic homestays

• Hot springs relaxation

Best time: May – September

5. Lake Khuvsgul & Northern Mongolia Tours

Often called the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” Lake Khuvsgul is one of the country’s most scenic destinations, surrounded by forests and mountains.

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Activities:

• Horse riding along the lakeshore

• Boat trips & kayaking

• Visiting Tsaatan reindeer herders

• Hiking & camping

• Fishing

Best time: June – September

Types of Tours Available in Mongolia

Travelers can choose from different travel styles:

• Private Tours – Personalized itineraries

• Group Tours – Budget-friendly shared trips

• Trekking Tours – Multi-day hikes

• Horse Riding Tours – Nomadic travel style

• Jeep Expeditions – Explore remote regions

• Festival Tours – Cultural events & celebrations

Why Choose Mongolia for Your Next Trip?

• Authentic nomadic culture

• Vast, untouched landscapes

• Unique festivals

• Adventure travel opportunities

• Warm nomadic hospitality

• Excellent photography destinations

When Is the Best Time to Travel Mongolia?

• June – July: Best for nature, trekking, and lakes

• August: Cultural travel & Naadam Festival

• September: Eagle Festival & autumn colors

• Winter: Eagle hunting & snow landscapes

Final Thoughts

Tours in Mongolia offer more than sightseeing—they provide deep cultural connections and raw natural experiences. Whether trekking the Altai Mountains, riding camels in the Gobi, or attending the Golden Eagle Festival, Mongolia promises an unforgettable journey far from the typical tourist trail.