Driving in Mongolia: A Guide for Travelers
October 17 2024

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Discover the Magic of Mongolia : A family Adventure to the Taiga
This summer, at TTR Mongolia we had the pleasure to guide a family of four on an
unforgettable 12-day journey through the stunning landscapes of Mongolia,
specifically the Taiga region West of Khuvsgul Lake. Together, we embarked on a
unique adventure mixing culture, nature, and unforgettable experiences to this
region home of the Tsaatan People, reindeer herders.
JOURNEY TO THE TAIGA
With the family, our guide and driver, our adventure began when reaching the
Khuvsgul Lake, often referred to as the “Blue Pearl” of Mongolia, the perfect
start to our exploration of the majestic Taiga.
After settling down and getting everything ready, we set off on horseback to
reach the Tsaatan camps. Riding through the deep forests, we immersed ourselves
in the tranquility of the Taiga, a region renowned for its nature and diverse
wildlife. After 5 to 6 hours of horse riding with our guide, we reached the
summer camp of the Tsaatan community.
A WARM WELCOME FROM THE TSAATAN PEOPLE
Upon reaching the Tsaatan camps, we were welcomed by the Tsaatan, a nomadic
reindeer herding community. This was our chance to learn about their traditional
lifestyle, one that has thrived in this remote region for generations. We
participated in daily activities, such as milking reindeer and helping prepare
traditional meals.
Our guide help the communication between the family and the Tsaatan and provided
insights into their unique customs and practices.
MEMORIES
As our tour concluded, everyone left not only with a deeper appreciation for the
beauty of Mongolia but also with memories of our experiences. The combination of
horse riding, cultural exchanges with the Tsaatan, and the serene landscapes of
the Taiga created a magical tapestry of adventure that the family will carry for
a lifetime.
At TTR Mongolia, we believe that travel is about creating connections—both with
nature and with the people we meet along the way. Our guided tours offer
immersive experiences that allow travelers to truly engage with the places they
visit.
If you're looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich
culture, and unique experiences, our 12-day tour to the Taiga is perfect for
you. Join us next summer and create your own unforgettable memories in the heart
of Mongolia!
A video filmed during this family tour :
September 21 2024

Journey to the Tsaatan Tribe
This summer, we had the privilege of organizing a very special adventure in
collaboration with Pangaea, a tour company from Saudi Arabia. Together, we
welcomed nine travellers who embarked on an unforgettable 12-day journey across
Mongolia to meet the Tsaatan Tribe in the north Khuvsgul Region
Our expedition began from Ulaanbaatar with three Land Cruisers, carrying us
through some of Mongolia’s most beautiful and wild landscapes. Over 12 days ,
the group experienced both the cultural richness and raw wilderness that make
Mongolia such a unique destination.
AMARBAYASGALANT MONASTERY
The first highlight was Amarbayasgalant Monastery, one of the most beautiful and
oldest Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia. Located in a peaceful valley, it gave
travellers an inspiring view into Mongolia’s spiritual heritage. There, we had
the chance to meet the monks and visit the Monastery and its temples. Later at
night, the travellers were enchanted by a traditional music concert of horse
fiddle.
KHUVSGUL LAKE – THE WILD EAST SIDE
From there, we headed to Khuvsgul Lake, often called the “Blue Pearl of
Mongolia.” Instead of staying on the more accessible western shore, we ventured
to the eastern side of the lake – a remote area reached after driving two-hour
on a dirt road. This wild setting, far from the usual tourist routes, offered
great scenery and true tranquility.
MEETING SHUKHERT IN ULAAN-UUL
Our journey continued to Ulaan-Uul, where we were welcomed by our local guide
and true legend, Shukhert. Staying with him and his family for three nights gave
the group a warm introduction to northern Mongolian hospitality and culture.
THE HORSEBACK ADVENTURE TO THE TSAATAN
The most anticipated and challenging part of the journey was, of course, the
visit to the Tsaatan Tribe. To reach them, we set off on a 5–6 hour horseback
ride through mountains, rivers and forest. The landscapes of the Red Taiga are
incredible and truly unique, found nowhere else. For many in the group, it was
their first time riding a horse – a real challenge that tested their endurance
and spirit. After a long day, we finally reached the Tsaatan camp at night.
LIVING WITH THE TSAATAN TRIBE
The group spent two extraordinary days with the Tsaatan reindeer herders,
learning about their unique way of life and traditions. This rare encounter left
a deep impression on everyone – a glimpse into a way of life that few travellers
in the world have the chance to experience. Travellers followed the family and
tribe in their daily activities, and we had the chance to witness a very rare
Naadam Celebration in the Red Taiga, regroupping families from all around.
A JOURNEY TO REMEMBER
After saying goodbye to the Tsaatan, we retraced our path and eventually
returned to Ulaanbaatar. The journey was not always easy, but the reward was
immense. Every traveller was left in awe of the landscapes, the challenges
overcome, and the cultural encounters along the way.
This tour was more than just a trip – it was an adventure of a lifetime. We
thank Pangaea and all nine of their wonderful travellers for trusting us with
this unique experience, and we look forward to many more journeys together in
the future.
September 4 2025

Mongolia Winter Travel: A True Adventure at –43°C
This winter, we had the pleasure of welcoming a solo traveller for a winter
journey across northern Mongolia. Travelling in Mongolia in January, the coldest
month of the year, is not for the faint-hearted. But for those seeking a genuine
adventure, it offers a rare opportunity to experience the country’s wild
landscapes and nomadic culture in their most authentic form.
With temperatures dropping as low as –43°C, this expedition became a true test
of endurance and discovery — an unforgettable Mongolia winter travel experience
far beyond traditional tourism.
TRAVELLING ACROSS MONGOLIA IN JANUARY
The adventure began in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital, before heading north
through endless snowy steppes, frozen rivers, and remote valleys.
Winter travel in Mongolia can be unpredictable. Long distances, icy roads, and
extreme temperatures make the journey itself part of the adventure. For this
trip, our traveller was accompanied by an experienced local driver, Ganaa, whose
knowledge of winter conditions ensured the journey remained safe and
comfortable.
Even when the team encountered a leaking tire on the road, Ganaa handled the
situation quickly and calmly — a reminder that travelling through Mongolia’s
remote landscapes requires both flexibility and experience.
STAYING WITH NOMADIC FAMILIES IN WINTER
One of the highlights of travelling in rural Mongolia is the chance to stay with
local families in traditional gers (yurts). During the journey, our traveller
spent time in small northern villages, experiencing the warmth and generosity of
Mongolian nomadic hospitality.
Life in these remote regions is simple and authentic. Facilities are basic,
especially during winter, but sharing meals, drinking hot milk tea by the stove,
and spending time with local families offers a meaningful cultural connection
that few travellers experience.
Our guest even recommended bringing small gifts from home as a kind gesture when
visiting host families — a wonderful way to create a cultural exchange.
PREPARING FOR MONGOLIA’S EXTREME WINTER
For travellers considering winter travel in Mongolia, preparation is essential.
January temperatures in northern Mongolia can fall below –40°C, making proper
winter equipment extremely important.
Layered clothing, insulated boots, and high-quality winter gear are necessary
for staying comfortable in such extreme conditions. Many travellers also find it
helpful to consult with their tour operator about recommended gear before
arriving, or purchase additional winter equipment locally in Ulaanbaatar.
Despite the extreme cold, the reward is extraordinary: frozen landscapes
stretching to the horizon, crystal-clear winter skies, and the silence of
Mongolia’s vast wilderness.
A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME MONGOLIA ADVENTURE
Travelling across Mongolia in winter is not about luxury — it is about authentic
adventure and unforgettable experiences. Long drives, remote villages, and
extreme weather push travellers outside their comfort zones, but they also
create memories that last a lifetime.
For our traveller, this journey became exactly that: a once-in-a-lifetime
experience filled with adventure, challenges, and meaningful encounters along
the way.
We are grateful they chose to explore Mongolia with us, and we hope to welcome
them back for another adventure — perhaps in a different season, when Mongolia
reveals yet another side of its incredible landscapes.
February 27 2026
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