Mongolian Winter Festivals Tour 2023
Mongolian Winter Festivals Adventure tour 2020
Mongolia Winter Festivals Tour
REINDEER FESTIVAL - ICE FESTIVAL - EAGLE FESTIVAL TOUR IN MONGOLIA
Discover the magic of Mongolia in winter on this unique journey combining three spectacular festivals and unforgettable landscapes.
The adventure begins in Ulaanbaatar before traveling north through the historic capital Karakorum and the vast wilderness of northern Mongolia to reach the remote Tsagaan Nuur region, home of the legendary Tsaatan reindeer herders. Here you will experience the rare Reindeer Festival (Feb 28 – Mar 1) and visit the traditional winter camps of Mongolia’s last reindeer nomads.
From there, the journey continues to the breathtaking Lake Khövsgöl, often called the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” where the famous Ice Festival (March 3) takes place on the frozen surface of the pristine lake.
After exploring Mongolia’s winter landscapes, the tour returns to Ulaanbaatar where you will witness the thrilling Winter Golden Eagle Festival (March 6), showcasing the ancient Kazakh tradition of hunting with golden eagles.
This carefully designed expedition allows you to experience three remarkable festivals, nomadic cultures, and Mongolia’s stunning winter scenery in one seamless journey.
A truly unforgettable winter adventure in Mongolia.
Mongolian winter Festivals tour would give you the best opportunity to attend 3 different festivals in one package tour.
Join us for a powerful once in a lifetime trip that includes all THREE WINTER FESTIVALS in one package.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Experience Mongolia’s spectacular winter and frozen wilderness
• Meet the Tsaatan reindeer herders, the last reindeer nomads of Mongolia
• Attend the unique Reindeer Festival in the remote Tsagaan Nuur region
• Explore the breathtaking Lake Khövsgöl, the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia”
• Enjoy the vibrant Ice Festival on the frozen lake with traditional winter games
• Witness the thrilling Winter Golden Eagle Festival and ancient eagle hunting tradition
• Travel across Mongolia’s vast steppes by 4x4 expedition vehicles
• Visit historic Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire
• Experience authentic nomadic culture, hospitality, and winter lifestyle
• Capture unforgettable photographs of Mongolia’s pristine winter scenery
Itinerary at a Glance:
DAY 1: Arrive to Ulaanbaatar
DAY 2: Drive to KARAKORUM, mini Gobi
DAY 3: Drive to Murun
DAY 4: Drive to Tsagaannuur village
DAY 5: Reindeer Festival
DAY 6: Ride reindeer, Reindeer village
DAY 7: Drive to Khuvsgul lake
DAY 8: ICE FESTIVAL
DAY 9: Drive to Darkhan
DAY 10: Ulaanbaatar - Shopping
DAY 11: EAGLE FESTIVAL
DAY 12: Departure
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1-24 Feb 2027 - Arrive to Ulaanbaatar
Get picked up from Ulaanbaatar airport and transfer to hotel. Our guide would meet you at hotel lobby at 18:00 and you would have dinner at one of the known restaurants in downtown Ulaanbaatar city. stay at Hotel. (D-Dinner) ** 5 Star hotel.
Day 2 - Driving to KARAKORUM - Genghis khan's old capital
After breakfast at the hotel we leave Ulaanbaatar and begin our journey toward the historic city of Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire founded by Chinggis Khan in the 13th century. The drive takes us west across Mongolia’s vast open steppe landscapes where nomadic families herd their livestock throughout the year. Along the way we will visit the beautiful Mini Gobi – Elsen Tasarkhai, a unique area where sand dunes meet grassland and rocky mountains. Here you will have time to explore the dunes, enjoy the scenery and even experience an optional camel ride through the small desert. In the afternoon we continue driving to Karakorum where we visit the famous Erdene Zuu Monastery, the oldest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia surrounded by its historic 108 stupas. Overnight stay at hotel near Karakorum. (BLD – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 3- Drive to Murun (Khövsgöl Province)
After breakfast we depart from the historic town of Karakorum and continue driving north toward Murun, the capital of Khövsgöl province. Today’s journey takes us through beautiful steppe landscapes, More than half of the road to Murun consists of dirt tracks, adding a touch of adventure to the journey as you navigate the raw, unpaved terrain that showcases the country’s rugged charm. Despite the challenges, the changing scenery and peaceful atmosphere make this drive an unforgettable experience. Once you arrive in Murun, you’ll settle in for a comfortable night at a hotel, resting and preparing for the exciting adventures that await. *BLD- Driving distance: 465km.
Day 4 - DRIVING TO TSAGAANNUR VILLAGE
Set off on an unforgettable adventure to the remote village of Tsagaan Nuur, one of the most secluded and peaceful destinations in northern Mongolia. As you travel through this pristine wilderness, you'll witness stunning landscapes that remain largely untouched by time, offering a rare glimpse of nature in its purest form. The journey will take you along bumpy, rugged roads, winding through dense forests, towering mountains, and icy rivers, each stretch revealing new, awe-inspiring vistas. The raw beauty of this region captures the essence of Mongolia’s wild nature, where every corner brings a fresh sense of wonder. Tsagaan Nuur Village, surrounded by this dramatic landscape, feels like a world apart—peaceful, remote, and truly captivating. Though the road may be challenging, it leads you deep into the heart of Mongolia's untouched northern wilderness. We will stay at basic guest house with very limited facilities. *BLD - Driving distance: 320km. (BLD)
Day 5 - TSAATAN REINDEER FESTIVAL
Today we attend the unique Tsaatan Reindeer Festival held in the remote Tsagaan Nuur region. The festival brings together the Tsaatan reindeer herders, one of the last reindeer nomadic cultures in Mongolia. Visitors can see traditional costumes, reindeer riding demonstrations, cultural performances, and local competitions. It is a rare opportunity to experience the lifestyle and traditions of the reindeer people and capture unforgettable moments of this remarkable culture. Overnight at basic guest house . (BLD – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6 - VISITING TSAATAN REINDEER VILLAGE
After a local breakfast, we’ll continue our journey toward the eastern Taiga, where we’ll meet the reindeer and ride toward the village of the reindeer people. In this remote region, there are about 13 families known as the Tsaatn, who are traditional reindeer herders. These nomadic families live in teepees, breed reindeer, and milk them, maintaining a way of life that has been passed down for generations. Upon reaching their camp, we’ll enjoy a local lunch before visiting 2-3 different reindeer herders. This will be a unique opportunity to learn about their daily life, customs, and traditions. Throughout the day, you’ll have countless chances to capture unforgettable moments, with stunning photo opportunities of the reindeer, the herders, and the dramatic landscapes. As the day comes to an end and before it gets dark, we’ll drive back to Tsagaan Nuur Village center to settle in at a guest house for the night. *BLD - Driving distance: 60km.
Day 7 - DRIVE TO KHUVSGUL LAKE
Enjoy a scenic drive from Tsagaan Nuur Village to the stunning Lake Khövsgöl, passing through rolling hills, forests, and open plains. The journey offers breathtaking views of Mongolia’s untouched wilderness, with each turn revealing new natural beauty. Along the way we will visit the incredible Jargalant River, one of Mongolia’s most remarkable winter natural wonders. Even when the outside temperature drops to –35°C, this river never freezes. Beneath the clear flowing water, you can still see green grass growing on the riverbed, while the surrounding forest remains covered in deep snow. The landscape looks truly magical — like something out of a fairytale. Upon arrival at Lake Khövsgöl, you will settle into a comfortable touristic ger camp, where you can relax and enjoy the serene views of the frozen lake and surrounding mountains — the perfect peaceful winter retreat. BLD – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Driving distance: 200 km
Day 8 - BLUE FEARL ICE FESTIVAL
Today we attend the famous “Blue Pearl” Ice Festival held on the frozen surface of Lake Khövsgöl, often called the Blue Pearl of Mongolia. This colorful winter festival brings together local communities who celebrate the beauty of the lake with traditional games, ice competitions, horse-sled races, cultural performances, and ice sculptures. Walking across the vast frozen lake surrounded by snow-covered mountains offers an unforgettable winter experience and excellent opportunities for photography. The festival provides a unique chance to see Mongolia’s winter traditions and local culture in a lively and festive atmosphere. By end of the activities we will drive 1 hour to get to Murun and stay at hotel. BLD – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 - Drive to Darkhan city
After breakfast we depart from Murun and begin our journey south toward Darkhan, Mongolia’s second largest city. The drive takes us through vast steppe landscapes and small rural towns, offering views of Mongolia’s open countryside and nomadic life. Darkhan was established in 1961 as Mongolia’s main industrial center and today it is known for its factories, including cement, steel, construction materials, and food production plants. The city plays an important role in Mongolia’s economy and development. Arrival in Darkhan late afternoon and check in to the hotel. (595Kms) Overnight in hotel. (BLD – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10 - Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast we depart from Darkhan and drive south to Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia. Along the way we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival in the city, you will have a free afternoon to explore and enjoy some shopping at cashmere stores and souvenir shops, a great opportunity to find quality Mongolian products and gifts. In the evening we will enjoy dinner at one of the well-known restaurants in Ulaanbaatar, Overnight in hotel. (BLD – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11 - 6th March - GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL
Today we attend the spectacular Winter Golden Eagle Festival held near Ulaanbaatar. Around 20 selected Kazakh eagle hunters from western Mongolia gather to demonstrate their remarkable hunting skills with trained golden eagles. Throughout the day you will witness exciting eagle hunting demonstrations, competitions between eagle hunters, traditional horseback games, cultural performances, and traditional dances that visitors can also join. The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the ancient Kazakh eagle hunting tradition up close. We will spend the full day at the festival site. For your comfort, a traditional Mongolian ger will be arranged for our group where you can warm up, relax, and enjoy coffee or tea during the day. Return to the hotel after the activities. Overnight in hotel. (BLD – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12 -7th March- DEPARTURE
Kazakh Tour team would take you to airport according to your international flight departure schedule.
We would always welcome you and happy to serve you again in Mongolia in the future!
Dates 2027: 24th Feb-7 th March.
| Group size | Price per person |
| 2 pax - private tour | $3240USD |
| 3 pax - join tour | $2990USD |
| 4-7 pax - join tour | $2880USD |
| 8-OR MORE pax - join tour | $2780USD |
| Tour cost includes: English speaking local guide -Accommodation- All meals included which are mentioned in the itinerary – festival tickets- Everything related Transport – 4×4 Land cruisers – Airport transfers – No hidden fee VAT included | Tour cost doesn’t include: International airfare-airport departure taxes, any meals not specified in full itinerary-optional tipping or gratuities to tour crew – any additional hotel/ger camp nights that may be necessary due to schedule changes or other factors- pre-trip expenses of medical immunizations-visa fees – travel insurance and other expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc) |
- BOOKING YOUR TRIP
To secure your spot on a Kazakh Tour trip complete our trip application and lodge your deposit. We'll then send you a detailed pre-departure trip planning packet. It tells you all you'll need to know about prepping for your trip, and then some. If we can't offer you a place we'll return your deposit within 14 days.
We accept US$ in the form of personal or bank checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Wire transfer (contact us for bank details). The payment schedule is as follows:
US$500 per person upon booking (to secure your spot).
Final payment on the 1st of the month, in the 3rd month before your departure.
If we haven't received your payment and no special arrangements have been made, we will assume that you've canceled and fill your spot from our wait list. If someone else is paying for any portion of your trip, you (the traveler) are responsible for payments and cancellation fees.
Additional payments may be required on customized itineraries. We will inform you of these once you have placed your initial deposit.
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Travel Safe and Happy
with KAZAKH TOUR team in MONGOLIA!