3-day Mongolian Bike Tour

Itinerary

• Grasslands and the Statue of Chinggis Khan

  A short drive out of the capital brings you to the edge of the grasslands. We start cycling at a leisurely pace on packed soil, pedaling across an open plain where you quickly feel as though you’ve traveled centuries back in time. Large flocks of sheep and goats, herds of horses racing alongside, and the occasional white dome of a nomadic tent are all you will see along the way.

  The cycling route features gentle climbs followed by easy downhill riding. The sense of freedom found when cycling through this pristine environment—past carpets of wildflowers and distant mountain ridges—is truly inexpressible.

  Halfway through the day, we encounter ancient burial mounds of forgotten steppe tribes, remarkably well-preserved by the dry, cold climate of this landlocked country. After a picnic lunch, we arrive at the Chinggis Khan Statue Complex. The giant steel structure stands 40 meters tall; from its observation deck, we enjoy sweeping views over the rolling plains and distant ridges.

  The ride concludes at a resort comprising traditional felt-covered tents designated as guest rooms.

  • Lunch, dinner
  • Ger camp
  • 46.5 km +517 m / -560 m

• In the land of nomads

  Once again, we pedal at a leisurely pace, catching a glimpse of a way of life that has seemingly remained unchanged for centuries. Observe nomadic tents and massive herds of horses, sheep, and goats grazing grassy valleys.

  This afternoon, we climb toward a wooded pass—the gateway to the Khentii wilderness—which marks the southern edge of the Siberian mountain forest ecosystem. A moderately challenging ascent to the ridge-top rewards you with a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountains and woods. An easy descent on smooth, packed soil brings us to our next camp in a wide-open valley.

  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner
  • Ger camp
  • 38.9 km +459 m / -360 m

• Khentii mountain wilderness

  We have saved the best for last. Throughout the day, we cycle across a lush valley running between two forested ridges. Bear, wolf, lynx, and boar inhabit the depths of this wilderness, as do herbivores such as elk, several species of deer, and many fur-bearing animals typical of Siberia. While it is unlikely to encounter wild animals during the warm season—especially on trails frequented by people—you can still acutely feel the immensity of the wild.

  We follow double-track trails through gently undulating terrain, enjoying a predominantly downhill incline. Along the way, we pass carpets of wildflowers and massive flocks of sheep and goats. It is a thrilling sight to see horses galloping alongside or across your path, driven by their natural instinct to outrun anything moving fast.

  The gentle descent allows for a leisurely pace, with plenty of opportunities for photography and quiet reflection, adding to the magical feeling of being completely disconnected from the modern world. We conclude our ride by 4:00 p.m. and begin our two-hour transfer back to Ulaanbaatar. (Breakfast, lunch; distance 51.1 km +280 m / -417 m)

  • Breakfast, lunch
  • 51.1 km +280 m / -417 m