Terelj National Park | Altan Ölgii Trekking Expedition
Live Like a Local: An authentic Mongolia homestay trekking experience with nomadic families in Terelj National Park
Confirmed for 2026
Embark on an unforgettable Mongolia trekking adventure in Terelj National Park, one of the country’s most iconic and accessible wilderness regions, through the Altan Ölgii Trekking Expedition—a carefully designed eight-day trekking and cultural immersion journey for travelers seeking both adventure and authenticity. This Terelj National Park trekking experience combines guided hikes, scenic walking routes, and genuine nomadic homestays, offering rare access to landscapes and communities far beyond standard tourist circuits.
Travel deep into the heart of Gorkhi–Terelj National Park and the surrounding Altan Ölgii region, trekking across open steppe grasslands, forested valleys, granite rock formations, sacred mountain trails, and remote pastoral areas. Along the way, you’ll stay with local nomadic families, sharing meals, daily routines, and stories that reveal the realities of Mongolia’s living nomadic culture—an experience impossible to replicate through hotels or mass tourism.
More than just a hiking trip, this expedition is a “live like a local” Mongolia homestay experience, where each trekking day is balanced with meaningful cultural exchange, traditional hospitality, and insight into Mongolia’s ancient pastoral way of life. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a curious walker drawn to vast landscapes and slow travel, the Altan Ölgii Trekking Expedition delivers a rare blend of wilderness, culture, and intentional exploration—making it one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in Terelj National Park.
For this trip, you’ll need to take the local Terelj bus and pay onboard via the link below:
Community Fee: $445 for 8 Days / 7 Nights
Dates Offered During: May-October
Min: 2 person
Difficulty of trip: Moderate
Additional In-Country Travel Expenses
UB to Terelj Park Bus Fee (approx.): $2 USD
Day 1: Trek to Öndör Ulaan (10 km)
You will depart Ulaanbaatar by local bus to the picturesque Terelj National Park, well known for its scenic mountainous landscapes, stunning river valleys and lush green forests that are habitat to local wildlife and an array of wild flowers too. Upon arrival at the Terelj Village bus stop, our nomadic guide will greet you. Together you will begin your trekking adventure with a scenic 10 km hike to Öndör Ulaan, a beautiful red-hued mountain known for its striking rock formations. As you traverse through rolling hills and grasslands, you’ll encounter nomadic herders and their livestock, offering a glimpse into Mongolia’s traditional way of life.
Day 2: Hike to Bosgiin Guur (15 km)
Continue your journey towards Bosgiin Guur, a historic river crossing surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass tranquil valleys, cross small streams, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Mongolian wilderness.
Day 3: Explore Züün Bayan (20 km)
Today’s trek takes you to Züün Bayan, a region characterized by its lush pastures and diverse wildlife. As you hike, keep an eye out for eagles soaring overhead and marmots peeking from their burrows. In the evening, relax at your campsite and enjoy a peaceful night under the starlit sky.
Day 4: Reach Altan Ölgii (13 km)
A shorter but rewarding hike leads you to the sacred Altan Ölgii, meaning “Golden Cradle” which is the second highest peak in the Khentii Mountains. This revered site is known for its historical and spiritual significance, as well as its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Take time to explore, reflect, and appreciate the serenity of this special place.
Day 5: Journey to Baruun Bayan (18 km)
Leaving Altan Ölgii, you’ll trek towards Baruun Bayan, a picturesque valley filled with rolling green hills and wildflowers. This area is home to nomadic families who graze their animals in the summer, offering you an authentic insight into Mongolian herding traditions.
Day 6: Discover Khorkhiin Adag (17 km)
Trek towards Khorkhiin Adag, a stunning riverside area known for its pristine nature and diverse birdlife. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, listen to the sounds of flowing water, and take in the beauty of Mongolia’s remote landscapes.
Day 7: Final trek to the nomadic family (15 km)
On your final day, you’ll hike back to wrangler’s family, where you’ll celebrate the completion of your trekking adventure. Enjoy a well-deserved rest, a traditional Mongolian meal, and share stories of your journey with fellow travelers. This evening, you will stay overnight with the nomadic family, offering one last opportunity to experience the warmth of Mongolian hospitality.
Day 8: Experience Nomadic Life & Return to Ulaanbaatar
Start the day by participating in traditional nomadic activities—you can milk animals, help prepare Mongolian dairy products, or simply enjoy the peaceful morning by taking time to relax or explore the surroundings at your own pace. After a farewell lunch with the family, your wrangler will guide you to the bus stop, where you will take a local bus back to Ulaanbaatar (UB), marking the end of your extraordinary Mongolian horseback expedition.
Included services:
- All nomadic breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout the itinerary
- Herder guide service on route
- Pack horse on route
- Sightseeing
- Visit nomadic families
- Cultural activities (make dried curds, pack on yak cart etc)
- Boiled water on route
- Camping equipment /sleeping bag, mattress and tent/
Not included:
- Training and Liability Lesson
- Public bus ticket
- Personal use
Important Notes for Mongolian Homestay Travel and Mongolia Homestay: These are “non-touristic” cultural adventures with nomadic families – please do refer to the ‘terms and conditions’ for further clarifications. Winter itineraries are provided for “reference” there will always be changes in activities, methods of travel, etc., to maintain the ‘health/safety’ of travelers and nomadic families. Please double confirm itineraries via email and/or upon arrival at our office during the “training workshop”. ONLINE Itineraries are ONLY meant to provide you a “general” comprehension of day to day experiences and prices (subject to changes), terrain, lifestyles, etc., distances will change in accordance with Nomadic pastures, weather, culture, lifestyles and other factors.
All rights perpetually reserved GERtoGER.org