Exotics of northern Mongolia

Arrive in Ulaanbaatar

Transfer to the hotel. Unpack and rest in the hotel. Short city tour with Gandan Monastery, the National Museum of Mongolia, which represents Mongolian Culture starting from Stone Age to the 21st century and Buddhism, and Sukhbaatar Square (also known as Chingis Khaan Square). Welcome dinner and briefing on the upcoming tour.

Drive to Erdenet City

Start with a scenic drive to Mongolia's third-largest city, Erdenet. Enjoy lunch at a roadside restaurant en route. Upon arrival, take a city tour to discover its highlights. Stay in the local hotel.

Arrive at Murun town

Continue our trip to the north after breakfast at a local hotel. Arrive in Murun, the central town of Khovsgol province. If we have time, visit a local museum.

Darkhad Valley

We drive through the stunning Darkhad Valley, nestled in northern Mongolia between the Ulaan Taiga and Khoridol Saridag ranges, stretching 160 km long and 40 km wide, the valley is home to the Darkhad and Tsaatan peoples, known for their nomadic lifestyle and shamanic traditions. To enter the valley, we pass through the sacred "13 ovoo" mountain pass, marked by piles of stones used for worshiping deities of nature. Our overnight stop is Ulaan Uul village, where we'll stay in a family-owned guesthouse.

Meet Darkhad ethnic shaman

Continuing our journey to the north, we arrive at Tsagaan Nuur village to meet with the Darkhad ethnic shaman. Here, we'll have the opportunity to experience and photograph shamanic healings, learn about their roots, and witness their rituals. After an enriching day, we'll stay overnight in a cozy family-owned local guesthouse

Documenting the lifestyle of the Tsaatan people, the reindeer herders

We arrive at the winter camp of the nomadic Tsaatan people, the reindeer herders by car, where we'll spend the next 2 days surrounded by the serene beauty of the remote Taiga forest. Here, we'll have the incredible opportunity to witness and photograph the dozens of reindeer herds as they roam close to the Tsaatan people's homes. During winter, the reindeer must stay near their owners' homes due to snow, thunder, and the threat of wolves. The Tsaatan people live a tribal lifestyle, with several families wintering together at the same location to protect and herd their reindeer through the harsh winter months. This communal approach helps them navigate the challenges of the winter season and ensures the well-being of their precious reindeer herds.

Capturing images of the Tsaatan people, who uphold ancient traditions and Shamanistic beliefs, we'll focus on their primitive lifestyle and unique culture. Our lens will capture ethnic faces and portraits of the reindeer herders and the charming Dukha children, enjoying their winter holidays playing and riding reindeer. As night falls, we'll document a spiritual Shaman's performance, honoring the earth. Additionally, we'll have the opportunity to dwell in the traditional teepee-like dwellings of the reindeer herders, offering insight into their nomadic lifestyle amidst the stunning landscape of the high Taiga mountains.

Head back and arrive in Renchinlkhube village

It's time to bid farewell to our incredible Tsaatan friends as we embark on our journey back. Hop into a car and drive back to Renchinlhumbe village, cherishing the memories of our time spent together. If time permits, we'll visit Mongolia's winter wonderland, the Jargant River, renowned for its unfrozen waters even in temperatures as low as -30 Celsius degrees. Here, we'll marvel at the mystical fogs and snowy winter river, surrounded by the magical snowy woods, experiencing the enchanting magic of winter nature. Tonight, we'll stay in a local guesthouse or wilderness lodge, surrounded by the tranquility of the Mongolian wilderness

Drive to Lake Khovsgol

This morning, we head south to Lake Khovsgol, known as the Blue Pearl of Mongolia and one of the must-see places in the country. As we approach, we'll be greeted by the stunning sight of the lake before it freezes over. The thick ice formations and unique waves are truly breathtaking. We'll spend the night at a ger camp by the lake, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience the fresh breeze from one of the world's purest water bodies. By January, the lake is completely frozen, adding to its mesmerizing allure

Back to Erdenet city

Today, we begin our journey back, filled with beautiful memories of our extreme white adventure. Upon arrival in Erdenet city, we'll check into a local hotel for a comfortable stay.

Ulaanbaatar

Drive back to Ulaanbaatar, stopping for lunch at a roadside restaurant en route. Upon arrival, if time permits, optional shopping can be enjoyed, or guests can choose to relax in the hotel

Departure Day

Transfer to the Airport for the departure home