Orkhon Valley & Eight Lakes Region · Mongolia
A 9-day immersive journey into nomadic Mongolian life — riding on horseback through one of the world's last great wildernesses, hosted by a family whose roots run as deep as the land itself.
This isn't a curated tourist experience. You'll wake up in a ger, ride across open steppe with experienced local horsemen, and camp under skies that have no end. Every meal is shared. Every kilometer is earned.
8 Lakes Tours is built for people who want to be somewhere real — not just pass through it.
Riders Welcome
Intimate Group
Family Partnership
“This experience is not operated for the community — it is created with them.”
8 Lakes Tours exists through a close collaboration with a Mongolian nomadic family who host and guide every journey. Guests stay with them, eat with them, ride with them, and learn from generations of knowledge that no guidebook can teach.
Every booking directly and fairly supports the host family. This is sustainable tourism done honestly.
Our host family is led by Ganbold, a deeply respected nomadic horseman whose family has called the Orkhon Valley home for generations. We first met Ganbold while learning to ride and trek across Mongolia — his family welcomed us with the same warmth and generosity they extend to every guest. Their knowledge of the land, the horses, and the nomadic way of life is unmatched. This partnership was built on mutual respect and a shared belief that meaningful travel should benefit the people and places it touches.
Travel from the capital into the countryside and be welcomed by your host family. Settle into traditional gers and begin learning daily nomadic life.
Four days on horseback through Mongolia's stunning Eight Lakes region. Remote camping under open skies, guided by experienced local horsemen.
Return to the village for rest, shared meals, and reflection. Organized transportation back to the capital city included.
From Ulaanbaatar, take a public bus to Bat-Ulzii, Uvurkhangai — about an 8-hour ride through stunning Mongolian countryside. Use the apps below to find the right route and purchase your ticket.
Once you arrive in Bat-Ulzii, your host family will meet you and bring you to the ger village. Coordinate your arrival time directly via WhatsApp before departure.
Need Help?
Contact us on WhatsApp and we'll help you sort out your bus and coordinate pickup with the family.
WhatsApp Us →Recommended Apps
UB Smart Bus
Find bus routes and schedules from Ulaanbaatar to the countryside
UBCab
Get around Ulaanbaatar before your departure
UBCARD
Load credit for bus payments in the city
Your $1,500 covers the full experience. No hidden costs.
A few essentials to sort before you arrive.
All participants must sign a liability waiver and provide proof of travel insurance before the trip begins.
We're running our inaugural trip at a special introductory rate of $1,500 per person — limited to 8 participants.
Do I need riding experience?
No experience necessary. Beginners are welcome — our local guides will teach you everything you need to know before the trek begins.
How physically demanding is the trek?
Moderate. You'll ride several hours a day across open terrain and camp outdoors. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended but you don't need to be an athlete.
What airport do I fly into?
Fly into Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar (UB). From there you'll take a public bus to Bat-Ulzii — about an 8-hour ride through stunning countryside.
Do I need a visa?
US citizens receive a 90-day visa on arrival. All other nationalities should check with their local Mongolian embassy for current requirements.
What is the weather like in the summer?
Expect warm days between 15–24°C (60–75°F) and cold nights that can drop to 0–5°C (32–41°F), especially at higher altitudes. Pack layers — mornings and evenings in the Naiman Nuur region can get very cold.
What do we eat?
Three traditional Mongolian meals are provided daily. Meals are meat-heavy but vegetarian options can be accommodated — let us know in your booking form.
Is there WiFi or cell service?
Cell service is limited to none in the remote trek areas. Starlink internet is available while staying at the ger village.
What happens in a medical emergency?
Basic first aid is available on site. All participants are required to have travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage before the trip begins.
Can I bring my children?
This experience is designed for adults only. We do not accept participants under 18.
What is your cancellation policy?
The $450 deposit is non-refundable. The remaining balance of $1,050 is paid directly to the host family in cash upon arrival.