12 days 11 nights
Daily Tour
8 people
English
Immerse yourself in the secluded wilderness, where ancient tribes maintain a profound harmony with nature. Our Spiritual Shaman Tour of Mongolia invites you to follow a remote path, staying with nomadic Dukha reindeer herders and immersing yourself in the delicate culture of the Tsaatan or Dukha, residing in their traditional teepee dwellings.
Experience a profound healing of mind and spirit as you are welcomed into the home of a shaman deep in the Darkhad Depression area. Witness the sacred rituals of shamanism that will guide you on your spiritual quest, receiving a special blessing in the heart of the Taiga. Discover inner clarity through meditation and physical exercises amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Mongolia.
This extraordinary and unforgettable journey promises to leave you with lasting memories and a renewed sense of self. Join us on the Spiritual Shaman Tour Mongolia and become part of a transformative adventure that will touch your soul.
Upon your arrival via international transportation to Mongolia, the first day is dedicated to exploring Ulaanbaatar city's main square after enjoying a satisfying lunch. In the evening, you can experience an authentic folk concert featuring traditional arts and performances. Following this leisurely evening, we will warmly welcome you to Mongolia with a delightful Welcome dinner at the hotel. Please note that the schedule for this day may vary depending on your arrival time. (Hotel, Lunch, Dinner included)
In the morning, we will arrange your transfer to the airport for a one-hour domestic flight from the capital to Murun town, situated north of Ulaanbaatar city. Upon arrival in Murun, the Nomadic Trails team will greet you warmly. Following this, you'll have a brief excursion to the town and its supermarket to stock up on snacks and refreshments. This is also an opportune moment to acquire offerings like rice or milk for the "Ovoo" we'll encounter during our journey the following day. Additionally, we'll obtain border permission since we'll be in close proximity to the Mongolian and Russian borders. This day marks your first experience of camping in the wilderness. Our initial campsite will be in the vicinity of the Ujig river valley, depending on preferences regarding insect proximity, either closer to or away from the river itself. (Tented camping, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)
Invigorated by the thrilling first day amidst the wild, our expedition continues as we venture northward, leaving the beaten path behind. These untamed realms beckon with endless mountainous terrains and verdant valleys, inviting you to imbibe the breathtaking panoramas that unfurl before us. Today's journey shall traverse two formidable mountain passes and lead us past the humble local town of Ulaan Uul. At one of these lofty passes, we shall encounter 13 revered "Ovoo" – sacred shamanic offering sites. Here, we shall offer the ceremonial tokens procured from the preceding day in Murun town, beseeching blessings for a prosperous journey ahead. Pressing onward, our path shall lead us into the Darkhad Depression, a realm replete with 300 shimmering lakes and mighty rivers. As dusk falls, we shall establish our encampment for the night, embracing the serene tranquility of nature under tented accommodations. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
As we traverse the breathtaking Darkhad Depression, our path today shall lead us to the abode of our esteemed shaman, nestled in the Hogorog River Valley, a journey spanning 4-5 hours from our previous night's encampment. This encounter shall grant you the privilege of meeting the shaman in person, basking in his warm hospitality and engaging companionship. Our accommodations for the night shall be a traditional ger – the quintessential Mongolian dwelling, meticulously erected by the shaman himself in close proximity to his own homestead, where he resides with his family and tends to his livestock. This authentic guest ger shall provide us with an immersive experience in the nomadic way of life. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Prior to embarking on our equestrian adventure, you shall receive a concise initiation into the art of riding the magnificent Mongolian horses, after which you will be paired with your trusty steed for the journey ahead. Our odyssey commences as we take to the saddle, traversing towards the Taiga region – the domain of the Tsaachin communities. Here, you shall unveil the captivating lifestyle of the Tsaachin people, nomads who have mastered the herding of reindeer. Owing to the rugged and unforgiving terrain, we shall rely upon horses specially prepared to bear our luggage and provisions. Today's horseback expedition shall span approximately 4-5 hours, culminating in an immersive Shamanic Ritual experience. As night falls, our accommodations shall be the traditional tee-pees, offering an authentic taste of nomadic dwellings. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Immerse yourself in the daily rhythms of the Tsaachin people as you spend the next day enveloped in their community. Gain firsthand insights into their singular traditions, such as the intricate art of milking reindeer and the processing of dairy delicacies like cheese. Engage in dialogues with the local denizens, fostering an understanding of their rich cultural tapestry and the remarkable resilience that has enabled them to preserve their traditional way of life across generations. Our esteemed shaman shall escort us to a hallowed site, where a special blessing shall be bestowed upon our journey. Bask in the untamed beauty of the larch forest, punctuated by vibrant wildflower patches that paint the landscape with their vivid hues. Let the pristine wilderness be your muse, inspiring profound meditation and a renewed sense of vigor. Our accommodations for the night shall once again be the authentic tee-pees, offering an immersive experience in nomadic living. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Fortified by a hearty morning repast, we shall embark on an equestrian odyssey, winding our way through the majestic mountains as we retrace our footsteps back towards the vast expanse of the Khogorog River. Let the rhythmic cadence of our steeds' hooves accompany your reflections on the rare and unparalleled experiences that have graced the past days. Our destination for the day is a picturesque camping haven, nestled along the tranquil riverbanks, offering a serene and scenic respite amidst nature's splendor – the perfect setting to lay our heads for the night. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Energized by an early breakfast, we shall bid farewell to our esteemed shaman and embark on a journey that will traverse the expansive Darkhad Depression, our path leading us towards Tsagaan Nuur, the northernmost town that graces the Mongolian landscape. Thereafter, our expedition shall continue as we make our way to the Guniin Gol River Valley. This day shall be devoted to a leisurely exploration by road, affording you ample opportunities to revel in the ever-changing vistas that unfurl before your eyes. As dusk falls, we shall establish our tented camp for the night, embracing the serene tranquility of nature under canvas accommodations. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
We shall embark on an unhurried journey today, our destination being the serene Ujig River Valley, where an offering ceremony awaits us – a sacred ritual advised by the wisdom of our esteemed shaman. As night falls, we shall establish our tented encampment amidst nature's embrace.
As the beauty of this day unfolds, we shall bid farewell to our culinary master and support crew, their roles having enriched our journey thus far. Our path then leads us towards the breathtaking Khuvsgul, a sapphire gem revered by locals as the Blue Pearl – one of Mongolia's most captivating lakes. Upon our arrival, we shall transfer to our ger camp accommodations, where leisure time awaits to bask in the splendor of these surroundings. The ger camp shall be our host for midday and evening repasts, allowing us to savor the flavors of this region. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
We'll have an early start with breakfast, then drive to Murun town to catch a domestic flight to Ulaanbaatar. After arriving, we'll transfer to the hotel. You'll have a free afternoon for souvenir shopping or whatever else you'd like. With a farewell dinner, we'll wrap up our journey through Mongolia. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - Hotel stay)
We will transfer you to your international departure.
Ensure you pack top-notch riding boots, waterproof coats, riding gloves, and wind-resistant jackets, among other essentials. No need to worry about saddles or bridles as we provide comfortable western-style saddles, and our horse guide takes excellent care of the horses.
For added comfort and convenience, consider bringing these items:
In the Northern areas of Mongolia, mosquitoes can be active near rivers or lakes in the evenings. Thus, we highly recommend using a highly effective mosquito repellent.
We've successfully arranged horseback trips to the Taiga for participants with no prior riding experience. Rest assured, our Tour Leader will provide thorough instructions on horse riding techniques, including how to mount, sit in the saddle, handle the reins, and more.
All our team members are trained in First Aid, ensuring we can provide immediate medical assistance and transport to the nearest hospital if needed. However, the soft, mossy ground and careful guidance from your horse guide minimize the risk of injuries significantly.
Each day's horseback riding duration varies slightly due to local weather conditions. Expect anywhere from 2 to 8 hours per day, including breaks and meal stops. Keep in mind that activities such as visiting local herdsmen or sightseeing are included in the total riding hours.
If horse riding isn't your preference but you still want to join our group, you have plenty of alternative options. You can engage in activities like fishing, photography sessions, or mountain hikes while your friends enjoy horse riding. Simply reach out to us to discuss your interests.
Traveling with children? If you're comfortable riding, you can ride alongside your child. If not, we can arrange an additional local horse guide to safely escort your child to our destinations with the Taiga reindeer people.
For meals during tented trips, our skilled expedition chef will prepare a mix of Mongolian and European dishes. On days with extended travel, we'll provide packed lunches. Please inform us of any dietary needs or allergies in advance.
We'll supply mineral water, tea, and freshly brewed coffee, but soda and juice won't be available.
For domestic flights in Mongolia, the baggage allowance is 15 kg in total: 10 kg for checked luggage and 5 kg for carry-on items. Additional luggage incurs a fee of 3000-5000 Tugriks per extra kilogram.
Throughout your journey and beyond, certified English-speaking Tour Leaders and Guides will be your reliable companions. Trained by Nomadic Trails experts and the Mongolian Professional Tour Guide Association, our team ensures a seamless and enriching experience.
In the mornings, early risers can enjoy peaceful walks, meditation sessions, yoga practice, or dive into a good book.
During our scenic drives, you'll marvel at breathtaking landscapes and visit welcoming nomadic families eager to share their dairy delights like fermented milk. Taste exceptional cheese made from reindeer milk in the Taiga and connect with reindeer herding families. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of uniquely shaped mountains, tranquil lakes, and vibrant rivers.
Evenings are perfect for unwinding by a bonfire with a glass of wine, reminiscing about our adventures, and gazing at the starry night sky—a simple yet magical moment to cherish.
Member Since 2024
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