2 Days Terelj National Park with Horse riding

Travelers craving a taste of Mongolia’s rugged beauty and nomadic lifestyle often find themselves drawn to Terelj National Park, a sprawling area just a couple of hours from Ulaanbaatar. This 2-day tour offers a blend of horseback riding, sightseeing, and culture — all with the comfort of a small, private group. With a price tag of around $371 per person, it’s an investment in both scenery and authenticity, promising a memorable peek into rural Mongolia.

What makes this experience stand out? We really appreciate the personalized touch — a small group (limited to four people) ensures a more intimate connection with guides and the landscape. The inclusion of traditional Mongolian meals adds flavor and local charm. However, travelers should be mindful of the physically active itinerary, which involves several outdoor activities like hiking and horse trekking. It’s best suited for those who enjoy adventure, nature, and cultural exploration, and who are comfortable with some physical exertion.

Key Points

• Small group experience: Personal and less crowded, ideal for those seeking intimacy and genuine interaction.
• Cultural highlights: Visits to Gorkhi-Terelj, Zaisan Hill, Turtle Rock, and meditation monasteries offer cultural and scenic insights.
• Active itinerary: Expect a good amount of horse riding, hiking, and exploring rugged landscapes.
• Authentic meals included: Traditional Mongolian dishes, often accompanied by local beer, enhance the culture.
• Flexible planning: Plus, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind.
• Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers: Those who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural sites will find this tour rewarding.

What to Expect from the 2-Day Terelj National Park Tour

This tour is designed to give you a full taste of Mongolia’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and nomadic lifestyle—without feeling rushed or overloaded. It’s an excellent way to see some of the most iconic sights around Ulaanbaatar, all while enjoying horseback riding and outdoor adventures.

Day 1: Exploring Gorkhi Terelj National Park

Your adventure begins with a pickup in Ulaanbaatar, and then it’s a scenic 75 km drive to Gorkhi Terelj National Park. The landscape is immediately captivating — granite rocky hills, lush meadows, and the chance to see nomads’ gers (yurts) dotting the terrain.

A key highlight on this day is visiting the Ovoo, a traditional stone pile dedicated to the gods of nature and the sky, which provides a fascinating glimpse into Mongolian spiritual beliefs. Walking around, you’ll notice the Turtle Rock, a natural formation that’s become a symbol of the park, perfect for photos and a little soft trekking. The park’s natural beauty and serenity are truly impressive, with endless green valleys and sweeping views.

You’ll also visit notable sites like Zaisan Hill, which offers panoramic city views, and the Aryabal Meditation Monastery, set on a hillside with peaceful surroundings ideal for reflection. The Biggest Chinggis Khaan statue is an iconic stop, offering a chance to appreciate Mongolia’s most celebrated hero.

Throughout the day, expect to do some horse trekking around the park’s open spaces, which many reviewers found to be a highlight. As one reviewer noted, “The horses were well-trained, and riding through these scenic landscapes felt like stepping back in time.” The combination of outdoor activity and cultural stops makes for a well-rounded, engaging day.

Day 2: Horseback Riding and Scenic Hikes

The second day continues with more outdoor exploration. After breakfast, you’ll saddle up for about an hour-long horseback ride through the park’s stunning scenery. The riding is described as suitable for all levels, so whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, you should feel comfortable.

Following the ride, there’s an opportunity to hike through the lush landscapes, taking in the fresh air and panoramic views. The day’s focus on walking and horseback riding emphasizes truly experiencing the natural environment. The tour wraps up with a traditional Mongolian lunch, often featuring local meats and beer, offering a satisfying end to the adventure.

Later, you’ll return to Ulaanbaatar, likely in the late afternoon, feeling enriched by your time in the countryside. The whole day, including the horseback riding, is designed to give a genuine taste of Mongolia’s rural life and rugged beauty.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transportation and Logistics

Transportation is via private vehicle, which ensures comfort and flexibility. The pickup point is Danista Nomads on Orkhon Street, centrally located in Ulaanbaatar. The drive to the park is around 2 hours, giving you scenic views along the way.

Group Size and Guides

The tour is limited to four travelers, which enhances the personalized experience. Guides, such as the well-versed and friendly local experts, are knowledgeable about both the landscape and cultural sites — adding depth to your understanding of Mongolia.

Meals and Inclusions

All meals are included, with breakfast and dinner provided throughout the trip. Lunch is optional on the first day but included in the second-day itinerary. The meals feature traditional Mongolian dishes — expect hearty meats, chums (flatbreads), and local beer. Reviewers appreciate the authenticity and quality of the food, which complements the experience nicely.

Costs and Value

At $371.43 per person, this tour offers a good value considering the inclusion of activities, meals, and private guiding. Because it is a small group tour, it’s more expensive than larger bus excursions but offers far more intimacy and tailored attention. The focus on cultural and natural highlights justifies the price for travelers seeking an immersive experience.

What’s Not Included

Personal items, optional activity costs, alcoholic drinks outside of local beer, travel insurance, tips, fruit, and snacks are not included. Travelers should come prepared with essentials like sun protection, comfortable shoes, and any personal necessities.

Cancellation and Weather

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, which is helpful if plans change. Be aware that it’s weather-dependent — poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, and you’ll be offered alternative dates or a full refund.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews, the horse trekking is a key highlight. Riders appreciated the well-trained horses and the setting, describing it as a peaceful yet invigorating activity. Many noted that the landscape’s stunning views made the riding especially memorable.

Travelers should be comfortable with outdoor activities, as the itinerary involves hiking, riding, and exploring natural sites. The walk to Turtle Rock, for example, is gentle but scenic, and the hikes around Zaisan Hill are leisurely but rewarding.

Guides like Munkhtogtokh are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, making the journey more engaging. Reviewers also mentioned how the experience felt authentic, with many opportunities to learn about Mongolia’s spiritual and cultural traditions.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want more than just a sightseeing list — it’s ideal for adventure lovers, culture curious travelers, and nature enthusiasts. If you enjoy horseback riding, walking in open landscapes, and discovering historical sites in a setting that feels genuine and untouched, this tour will suit you well. Families with children comfortable with outdoor activities will find it enriching, as will solo travelers seeking a personalized experience.

It’s also a great choice if you want to combine outdoor adventure with culture, all wrapped in a manageable 2-day trip from Ulaanbaatar.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour offers a compelling glimpse into Mongolia’s natural beauty and nomadic culture, wrapped in a personal, small-group format. The scenery alone — from the granite rock formations to the rolling green meadows — makes it worthwhile. The horseback riding, cultural visits, and authentic meals add layers of depth, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

For travelers eager for fresh air, stunning views, and an authentic taste of Mongolian life, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate active outdoor experiences and want to avoid overly touristy, large-group excursions.

To sum it up, if your idea of a memorable Mongolia trip includes scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and horseback riding, this 2-day adventure in Terelj National Park should be on your list.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Ulaanbaatar to Terelj National Park is included, and it’s via private vehicle, ensuring comfort and timing flexibility.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to four people, providing a more personalized experience with fewer crowds.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, dinner, and a traditional Mongolian lunch are included, featuring local dishes and sometimes local beer.

Can beginners participate in horse riding?
Yes, the ride is suitable for most levels, and guides are experienced in handling different riders. Reviewers mentioned the horses are well-trained.

What should I bring?
Comfortable outdoor clothes, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and any personal essentials. Weather can change, so layers are advisable.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families with children who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with some physical exertion will find this trip rewarding.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled.

In summary, the 2 Days Terelj National Park with Horse Riding tour offers an authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching escape into Mongolia’s countryside. It’s a fantastic choice for adventurous travelers eager to experience Mongolia beyond the city.