Reindeer people of Mongolia

Central and Northern MONGOLIA · Nov-Mar

Winter Wonders of Mongolia tour

Meet the Tsaatan reindeer herders, experience nomadic life, and explore breathtaking landscapes by dog sled.

91+ reviewson Tripadvisor

Expert guides · Best Accommodation · Halal meals · All inclusive tour

DEPARTURES · CHOOSE EITHER DAYAnytime November-April
DURATION11 days · Moderate pace
FROM / PERSON2,880 USD
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01 / THE EXPERIENCE

Winter Wonders of Mongolia

Explore Mongolia’s winter wonderland on an 11-day adventure. Meet Tsaatan reindeer herders in the remote taiga, discover Lake Khuvsgul, and experience nomadic hospitality. Ride camels across the Mini Gobi dunes, enjoy dog sledding in Terelj National Park, and explore ancient Karakorum. Travel by private 4×4 with an English-speaking guide, staying in hotels, local guesthouses, and traditional ger camps.

Meet the Tsaatan Reindeer Herders — Visit families in the remote northern taiga, learn about their traditions, and experience reindeer riding.
Dog Sledding in Terelj National Park — Feel the excitement of travelling by dog sled through Mongolia’s winter landscapes.
Discover Lake Khuvsgul — Enjoy peaceful mountain scenery, a horse-drawn sleigh excursion, and a lakeside ger camp stay.
Camel Riding in the Mini Gobi — Explore the rolling Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes on camelback.
Explore Ancient Karakorum — Discover the former capital of the Mongol Empire and visit Erdene Zuu Monastery.
Journey into Northern Mongolia — Travel by 4×4 through remote valleys, forests, and rugged mountain scenery toward Tsagaan Nuur.
Experience Local Hospitality — Share local meals, meet reindeer herding families, and stay in traditional Mongolian ger camps.
Visit the Chinggis Khan Statue — Stand beneath the towering equestrian monument and explore Mongolia’s imperial heritage.

02 / YOUR ITINERARY

Itinerary

11 days · Moderate
DAY 1:

ARRIVE IN ULAANBAATAR

Upon arrival at Ulaanbaatar International Airport, the Kazakh Tour team will warmly welcome you and transfer
you to your downtown hotel. A welcome dinner will be arranged at 18:00

Meals
Dinner
Accommodation
5 Star hotel
Activities
Airport pickup, welcome dinner
Driving
50 kmApprox. 1.5 hours
ARRIVE IN ULAANBAATAR
DAY 2:

Driving Journey to Ancient Capital Karakorum

You will be picked up at 8:30 a.m. to begin your journey westward along a paved road toward the Elsen Tasarkhai
sand dunes. Along the way, we’ll make several stops at scenic locations, allowing you to admire the breathtaking
landscapes and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as we may spot vultures, brown deer, or even
antelopes during the drive.
In the afternoon, we’ll reach the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes, where you’ll have the chance to ride a camel for 30
to 50 minutes while taking in the stunning views of the rolling dunes and their peaceful surroundings.
Following this memorable experience, we’ll continue our drive to Karakorum, the historic ancient capital of the
Mongol Empire. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the iconic Erdene Zuu Monastery, a treasure of Mongolia’s cultural
heritage. If time permits, we’ll also explore the local museum to delve deeper into the fascinating history of the
region. After a full day of adventure, you’ll settle in for the night at a hotel.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities
Camel riding, monastery visit, sightseeing, photography
Driving
420 kmApprox. 8 hours
Driving Journey to Ancient Capital Karakorum
DAY 3:

JOURNEY TO MURUN CITY

Embark on a remarkable journey through Mongolia’s breathtaking landscapes as you make your way to Murun
City, the gateway to some of the country’s most pristine and awe-inspiring natural wonders. This long drive offers
countless opportunities to marvel at the untouched beauty of Mongolia, from rolling green hills and vast open
plains to rugged mountains that stretch endlessly into the horizon.
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.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities
Scenic drive, landscape photography
Driving
490 kmApprox. 10 hours
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.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Basic dorm type Guest house
Activities
Off-road journey, winter scenery, photography
Driving
320 kmApprox. 8 hours
DAY 5:

VISIT REINDEER PEOPLE

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.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Basic dorm type Guest house
Activities
Reindeer riding, Tsaatan family visits, local lunch and tea, cultural photography
Driving
60 kmApprox. 2 hours
VISIT REINDEER PEOPLE
DAY 6:

DRIVE TO KHUVSGUL LAKE

Enjoy a scenic drive from Tsagaan Nuur Village to the stunning Khuvsgul Lake, 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.
Upon arrival, you’ll settle into a comfortable touristic ger camp, where you can relax and take in the serene views
of the lake and surrounding mountains, providing the perfect peaceful retreat

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Tourist camp
Activities
Scenic drive, Lake Khuvsgul views, ger camp stay
Driving
339 kmApprox. 10 hours
DRIVE TO KHUVSGUL LAKE
DAY 7:

RELAXING DAY AT KHUVSGUL LAKE

It is going to be more like relaxing day today, after lunch we will drive to Khatgal town and will horse sleigh on the
Khuvsgul lake. that will also give us great opportunity to photograph these people on their horse sleigh and nature.
In the late afternoon, we’ll return to our camp, reflecting on the fascinating traditions and fun-filled moments of
the day.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Tourist camp
Activities
Horse-drawn sleigh ride, Khatgal visit, photography
Driving
70 kmApprox. 2 hours
RELAXING DAY AT KHUVSGUL LAKE
DAY 8:

DRIVE TO ERDENET CITY

Drive from Khuvsgul Lake to Erdenet City, journeying through Mongolia’s diverse landscapes, from tranquil
lakeside views to rolling hills and vast plains. The scenic route offers a peaceful and scenic transition as you head
toward Erdenet, one of the country’s largest cities, known for its mining industry and lively atmosphere. We will
stay at hotel in Erdenet city

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities
Scenic drive, landscape photography
Driving
532 kmApprox. 9 hours
DRIVE TO ERDENET CITY
DAY 9:

DRIVE TO ULAANBAATAR

Drive from Erdenet City to Ulaanbaatar, traveling through the picturesque Mongolian countryside. The route
offers stunning views of open plains, rolling hills, and rugged landscapes, providing a peaceful journey back to
the bustling capital city, where the adventure will come to a close.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities
Countryside drive, return to Ulaanbaatar
Driving
420 kmApprox. 8.5 hours
DAY 10:

CHINGGIS KHAN EQUESTRIAN COMPLEX and DOG SLED

Visit the iconic Chinggis Khan statue, a symbol of Mongolia’s rich history and heritage. Explore the country’s past
as you learn about its legendary leader before heading to Terelj National Park. Here, enjoy an exhilarating dog
sledding experience through stunning landscapes and drive back to Ulaanbaatar.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel
Activities
Dog sledding, Chinggis Khan statue visit, sightseeing, photography
Driving
165 kmApprox. 2 hours
CHINGGIS KHAN EQUESTRIAN COMPLEX and DOG SLED
DAY 11:

DEPARTURE

Depending on your departure time, we will pick up you from your hotel and transfer to airport.

Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Airport transfer, departure
Driving
50 kmApprox. 1.5 hours

there are 8 Scheduled group departures · Private dates on request.

04 / DATES & DETAILS

The practical things, made clear.

Choose your departure

8-18 DEC 2026Enquire ↗
18-28 DEC 2026Enquire ↗
10-20 Jan 2027Enquire ↗
20-30 Jan 2027Enquire ↗
2-12 Feb 2027Enquire ↗
12-22 Feb 2027Enquire ↗
8-18 March 2027Enquire ↗

Price per person

RECOMMENDEDJoin a group -per personBook your place ↗2,880 USD
Private tour — minimum 2 travelers - per person costs3,270 USD

Prices in USD. Ask us about your group size.

Book now · Pay deposit ↗

Included in your journey

  • All meals indicated in the detailed itinerary, including restaurants in towns, local eateries along the route, and meals prepared by host families
  • 4×4 Land Cruiser with Expert driver
  • English-speaking guide
  • All hotels and ger camps—the best available options at each location
  • Photography payments to reindeer herder families
  • All national park and attraction entrance fees
  • Dog sledding
  • Camel ride
  • Horse sleigh ride

Plan for separately

  • International flight tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Personal expenses
  • Meal that are not mentioned on the tour itinerary

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Getting here & getting around.

Starting and Ending Point

The tour starts and ends in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Our team will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. An airport transfer is also arranged for your departure.

Transport and Guide

Travel in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser with an experienced driver and an English-speaking guide. Expect long driving days, including rough roads in remote northern Mongolia, with stops for meals, photography, and sightseeing.

Accommodation and Facilities

Stay in hotels, traditional ger camps, and basic guesthouses. Facilities in Tsagaan Nuur are limited, with no showers and simple outdoor toilets

Packing and Preparation

Mongolia’s winter requires warm layered clothing, insulated winter boots, a warm hat, and gloves. Come prepared for extreme cold, long drives, and basic facilities in remote areas. Before your trip, we will email you a detailed packing list and practical preparation advice so you know exactly what to bring

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Arrive ready for the adventure.

Winter Clothing and Packing

Advice / details: Pack thermal layers, a warm winter jacket, insulated boots, wool socks, gloves, and a hat that covers your ears. We will email you a detailed packing list and preparation advice before your trip.

Fitness and Remote Travel

Good general fitness and a flexible attitude are important. Be prepared for long drives on rough roads, cold outdoor activities, and basic guesthouses with limited facilities. Showers are unavailable during the Tsagaan Nuur stay.

Camera and Personal Essentials

Bring spare camera batteries, a power bank, a head torch, personal toiletries, and enough of your usual medication for the journey. Cold weather drains batteries quickly, so keep spares warm and protected.

GUEST STORIES

In their own words.

Meeting the Tsaatan families and spending time with their reindeer was the highlight of our Mongolia winter tour. Learning about their daily lives and herding traditions gave the journey meaning beyond sightseeing. We highly recommend Kazakh Tour for travellers interested in Mongolia’s people, culture, and remote northern landscapes.

Karen Johnson - USAJan / 2026
Read about us on Tripadvisor

From the Mini Gobi dunes to Lake Khuvsgul and the northern taiga, this trip offered wonderful variety for photography. The reindeer encounters, wide-open landscapes, and dog sledding made each stop memorable. We highly recommend Kazakh Tour to anyone looking for a winter adventure with beautiful scenery and distinctive photographic opportunities.

Daniel Tan - SingaporeDec / 2025
Read about us on Tripadvisor

Meeting Davt and his family was the highlight of our journey. They welcomed us warmly and gave us a wonderful glimpse into the Tsaatan way of life and their close bond with their reindeer. Riding reindeer through the snow-covered taiga felt like stepping into a magical story. The forests, mountains, and peaceful landscapes were simply breathtaking. An unforgettable experience that will stay with us for years to come.

James Whitmore – United KingdomFeb / 2026
Read about us on Tripadvisor

BOOKING & PEACE OF MIND

Plan your visit with confidence.

How to book your place

To secure your place on the Wild Winter Mongolia tour, a deposit of USD 500 per person is required. The deposit is credited toward your total tour price.
Once your payment is successful, you will receive an automated payment confirmation email. Our team will then send a separate email confirming your place on the tour.

Cancellation policy

This tour follows Kazakh Tour’s general cancellation policy. Please review our Terms & Conditions before booking for details on cancellation deadlines, applicable charges, and refunds. If you need to cancel, contact our team as soon as possible.

Book now · Payment ↗

05 / GOOD TO KNOW

A little preparation. A better journey.

Where does the tour start and end?

This 11-day tour starts and ends in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Our team will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Your departure airport transfer is also included.

Will we meet the Tsaatan reindeer herders?

Yes. From Tsagaan Nuur, we journey into the northern taiga to meet Tsaatan reindeer herding families and experience reindeer riding. We visit their traditional homes, share a local lunch and tea, and spend time talking with our hosts about their daily lives and traditions. In the late afternoon, we return to our guesthouse in Tsagaan Nuur for the night.

What accommodation and facilities can I expect?

You will stay in hotels, traditional ger camps, and basic local guesthouses. Hotels and tourist ger camps offer showers, while guesthouses in Tsagaan Nuur have simple outdoor toilets and no shower facilities. These simpler stays are part of experiencing everyday life in remote northern Mongolia, offering a closer connection to the places and communities you visit. Come prepared for modest comforts and a memorable cultural experience.

How challenging is the tour, and what should I bring?

This tour is rated moderate, with winter cold, long drives on rough roads, and basic facilities in remote areas forming the main challenges. Good general fitness, a flexible attitude, and proper winter clothing will help you enjoy the journey. Pack thermal layers, an insulated jacket, warm boots, a hat, and gloves. We will email you a detailed packing list before departure. Come prepared for an adventure that offers a rare glimpse into Mongolia’s winter landscapes and nomadic life—an experience to remember for a lifetime.

YOUR MONGOLIA. YOUR WAY.

Have a different journey in mind?

Tell us what you’d love to experience. We’ll help you find your way.

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A CLOSER LOOK

Tsaatan Reindeer Herders and Mongolia’s Living Nomadic Traditions

Beyond the City: Life with Mongolia’s Reindeer Herders and Nomads

Leave the rush of city life behind and discover how Mongolia’s Tsaatan reindeer herders and nomadic families live by the rhythms of animals, landscapes, and seasons.

From City Schedules to Seasonal Rhythms

In a big city, daily life often revolves around traffic, appointments, and the clock. In Mongolia’s countryside, priorities shift with the weather, the availability of pasture, and the needs of livestock. Visiting a herding family offers a different perspective on work, home, and our relationship with nature.

Meet the Tsaatan Reindeer Herders

In the remote taiga of northern Mongolia, the Dukha people, commonly known as the Tsaatan, maintain a distinctive reindeer herding culture. Reindeer provide milk and transport, while their grazing needs help determine the seasonal movements of herding families.

Where navigating a city requires knowing streets and transport routes, life in the taiga depends on understanding forest trails, animal behaviour, and changing weather. These skills develop through daily experience and knowledge shared between generations.

Nomadic Life on Mongolia’s Open Steppe

Beyond the northern forests, Mongolia’s pastoral families raise livestock including horses, sheep, goats, cattle, and camels. Their traditions differ from those of the Tsaatan, but caring for animals and adapting to seasonal conditions remain central to life.

Instead of a permanent apartment, many herding families live in a ger, a portable dwelling that can move with them between seasonal pastures. Home is shaped by family routines, familiar belongings, and the work of maintaining a household wherever the herd needs to graze.

Winter Beyond the Comforts of the City

For a city visitor, winter may mean a heavier coat and a heated commute. For Mongolia’s herders, it brings demanding responsibilities: protecting livestock, managing feed, preparing fuel, and finding shelter from harsh weather.

The quiet landscapes travellers admire are also working environments. Behind the warmth of a stove and a welcoming cup of tea are practical skills, careful preparation, and cooperation.

A Living Culture, Not a Journey into the Past

Mongolia’s herding communities are part of the modern world. Families balance cultural traditions with education, technology, and changing opportunities. Their lives continue to evolve while retaining close connections to animals and the land.

A respectful visit creates space to listen and learn. Ask before taking photographs, follow your hosts’ guidance around animals, and allow daily routines to take priority. Sharing tea or hearing why a family chooses its next campsite can reveal more about nomadic life than a photograph alone.

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THE JOURNEY IN MOTION

A few moments. A lasting memory.

Get a glimpse of your Mongolia winter adventure. Watch the journey unfold through remote taiga forests, reindeer encounters, and sweeping winter landscapes. Discover the people, places, and experiences that make this 11-day tour so memorable.

Tsaatan - Reindeer people tour video

From / person2,880 USD
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THE JOURNEY IN PICTURES
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