5 Day experience how to ride a horse , Real Mongolian experience

Travelers looking to truly connect with Mongolia’s unique nomadic culture will find this 5-day tour from Ulaanbaatar offers an immersive, authentic glimpse into rural life and wild landscapes. From learning to ride Mongolian horses to exploring ancient sites like the Orkhon Valley and Khar Khorum, this journey promises a blend of adventure, cultural discovery, and scenic beauty. It’s particularly appealing for those eager to go beyond typical sightseeing and engage in hands-on experiences.

What really stands out is the opportunity to learn to ride horses from local families—an experience many reviews highlight as both rewarding and challenging. Yet, the tour’s timing and pace might be less ideal for travelers with limited mobility or tight schedules.

This tour is a perfect fit for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and those craving genuine interaction with Mongolian traditions. If you’re after a memorable, active trip that’s more about experiences than ticking boxes, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Authentic Horse Riding: Learn horse control from local trainers, not just sightseeing.
• Cultural Immersion: Stay in traditional gers and dine on Mongolian cuisine.
• Stunning Landscapes: Traverse the vast, rugged scenery of Bulgan and Orkhon Valleys.
• Active & Adventurous: Long-distance horseback trekking and camping are highlights.
• Inclusive Activities: Besides riding, enjoy camel rides, hiking, and monastery visits.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Private tour experience tailored to your group, with optional extra rides.

In-Depth Review of the Mongolia 5-Day Horse Riding Tour

What to Expect at a Glance

This tour is a comprehensive 5-day adventure that combines horseback riding, culture, and sightseeing across Mongolia’s stunning central regions. Price-wise, at $850 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience that emphasizes interaction and authentic living—certainly good value considering the depth of activities included. The tour is booked an average of 10 days in advance and includes pickup, making logistics straightforward for travelers arriving in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 1: Into the Mongolian Countryside

Your Mongolian adventure begins with a drive to Bulgan Province, approximately 290 kilometers northwest of Ulaanbaatar—about five hours on the road. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering travelers a chance to take in Mongolia’s sweeping landscapes, from rolling hills to semi-arid plains.

Once in Bulgan, you’ll meet a local horseman who trains racing horses—a rare opportunity to see traditional Mongolian horsemanship in action. Staying in a ger (yurt) provides an authentic taste of nomadic life, something many travelers find both charming and eye-opening. As one reviewer notes, “staying in a ger made us feel like true nomads for a night.”

Dinner with a local family introduces you to authentic Mongolian cuisine, often featuring simple yet hearty dishes. The day ends with a relaxed overnight stay in your ger, allowing you to absorb the rural atmosphere and prepare for what’s ahead.

Day 2: Learning to Ride Mongolian Horses

The second day is dedicated to horse riding lessons. This isn’t just about getting on the horse; it’s about understanding how to control and communicate with these intelligent animals. The local trainers teach riding basics, safety, and how to interpret a horse’s feelings—skills that, once mastered, can make even beginners feel more confident.

A reviewer shared, “The trainers explained everything clearly, and by the end of the day, I was able to trot around a small field—something I never thought I’d do!” Lunch is included, along with a chance to learn Mongolian cooking, adding a cultural dimension to the day.

Overnight remains in a ger, with some guests noting how immersive and peaceful the experience is—close to nature, with starry nights and fresh air.

Day 3: Long-Distance Horse Trekking

Day 3 takes the riding to the next level with a long-distance horse trek into the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its untouched landscapes and historical significance. Expect to ride through lush meadows, past rolling hills, and along winding rivers. The journey is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding.

You’ll camp overnight near a river, surrounded by wild nature. As one traveler put it, “Camping next to that river and waking up to the sound of flowing water was surreal.” Meals are provided—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—giving you energy for the trek while allowing you to experience traditional Mongolian camping life.

Day 4: Riding Along the Orkhon River

The next day involves riding along the Orkhon River, with more scenic views and opportunities for photography. This stretch offers a peaceful, almost meditative experience, with the sound of flowing water and the vast sky overhead. Staying in a tent by the river, you’ll get a chance to unwind after your long ride.

Many reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery, with comments like “The views were simply unforgettable—mountains, rivers, and endless sky.” It’s a day for slow exploration, with plenty of time to enjoy the tranquility of nature and the company of your fellow travelers.

Day 5: Return and Reflection

On the final morning, you’ll return to the horseman’s family, enjoying a small tea break and reflecting on your experience. If you wish, you can ask to ride more—many travelers find themselves wanting just a little more time on horseback. After breakfast and lunch, it’s time to say goodbye to the nomadic lifestyle and head back toward Ulaanbaatar.

The journey back is a good moment to process everything you’ve seen and done—think about the landscapes, the culture, and the bonds formed during your days in the wild.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $850 for five days, this tour packs in a lot—horse riding, culture, scenic landscapes, and overnight camping—making it a comprehensive Mongolian experience. The inclusion of meals, accommodations in gers, and guided activities means you’re not just paying for transport but for a full cultural encounter.

Compared to other tours focusing solely on sightseeing, this one emphasizes hands-on learning and authentic living, which many travelers rate as the most memorable parts. The opportunity to learn how to ride from local trainers and to stay in traditional dwellings adds a layer of genuine connection to Mongolia’s nomadic traditions.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is designed for most travelers, keep in mind it involves long hours of horseback riding and camping, which can be physically demanding. The tour’s itinerary is quite packed, meaning you’ll stay busy and active throughout, so it’s best suited for those with a good level of fitness and an adventurous spirit.

The tour is offered as a private experience, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it provides some peace of mind should your plans change.

Logistics and Comfort

Transportation from Ulaanbaatar is included, with a 5-hour drive to Bulgan Province. Accommodation in gers offers a genuine, rustic experience—warm at night and cozy in the open air. The camping nights might be challenging for some, especially if you prefer more comfort, but they are a core part of the authentic experience.

Meals are included for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, often featuring traditional Mongolian dishes. Reviewers mentioned how delicious and hearty the food was, often praised for its simplicity and flavor.

Additional Activities and Flexibility

Optional activities like extra horse rides are welcomed, giving you the chance to spend more time on your favorite pastime. The tour’s structure allows for some flexibility once you’re out in the countryside, which many visitors appreciate.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Mongolia horse riding experience offers a rare chance to connect deeply with the country’s nomadic culture and rugged landscapes. It’s more than a sightseeing tour—it’s an active, immersive journey into the heart of rural Mongolia, perfect for those who love adventure, authentic experiences, and scenic beauty.

You’ll leave with not only incredible photos but also memories of learning to ride, camping under the stars, and tasting traditional Mongolian cuisine. If your idea of travel involves engaging with local traditions and embracing a slower, more connected pace, this tour will satisfy that craving.

While the physical nature and rustic accommodations might not suit everyone, for those ready to embrace a true Mongolian adventure, this tour offers outstanding value and unforgettable moments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes horse riding lessons from local trainers, making it accessible for beginners. However, some physical activity is involved, so a reasonable level of fitness helps.

Are accommodations in gers comfortable?
Staying in gers provides an authentic experience—cozy, warm, and surrounded by nature. Some travelers find it charming, while others should be prepared for basic amenities.

Will I get to ride horses every day?
You’ll participate in riding on Days 2, 3, and 4, with long-distance treks and river rides. If you want to ride more, the guides are happy to accommodate.

What meals are included?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for all five days, often featuring traditional Mongolian dishes like meat stews, bread, and local specialties.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves several hours of horseback riding each day and camping overnight, so a good level of fitness is recommended for comfort and enjoyment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date, giving flexibility and peace of mind.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour experience, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention and flexible scheduling.

This tour offers a rare chance to truly live Mongolia for five days, making it ideal for those seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable landscapes.