Horse ride and Sightseeing day tour experience in Terelj

Horse Ride and Sightseeing Day Tour Experience in Terelj

Imagine spending a day exploring Mongolia’s rugged beauty, riding a horse through lush landscapes, and visiting iconic sights like Turtle Rock and Chinggis Khaan’s statue—all within a comfortable, well-organized tour for $150. Starting in Ulaanbaatar, this experience offers a blend of active adventure and cultural discovery, perfect for those who want more than just a quick glimpse of Mongolia’s natural and historical treasures.

What we love about this tour is how it manages to fit so many highlights into one day—the horse riding, of course, but also the visit to Aryabal Monastery, Zaisan Hill, and the photogenic Turtle Rock. These spots provide a genuine taste of Mongolia’s spiritual and scenic charms. The fact that the guides are ready to teach riding to beginners is another plus, making this accessible even if you’ve never been on a horse before.

One potential consideration is the early start and long drive from Ulaanbaatar—about 69 km away—which means a full day of activity. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or planning to unwind over snacks on the go, note that snacks aren’t included, and the tour is not suitable for children under 3 or for those over 95.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active days, cultural sights, and a chance to see Mongolia’s countryside without sacrificing comfort. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure and sightseeing with a local guide, this might be just the right fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines horseback riding with visits to major scenic and cultural sites.
• Beginner-friendly: Guides can teach horse riding, making it accessible for all levels.
• Authentic experiences: Lunch at a local family home adds a personal touch to the day.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup from your hotel and a fixed schedule streamline the day.
• Value for money: For $150, you get full-day access to multiple highlights, transportation, and guiding.
• Limited for some: Not recommended for very young children, babies, or seniors over 95.

Exploring Mongolia’s Natural and Cultural Gems in One Day

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Mongolia outside of Ulaanbaatar, weaving together scenic landscapes, spiritual sites, and cultural encounters. Starting with the early pickup at 9 am, you’ll be whisked out of the city, crossing the outskirts to reach Terelj National Park, just 69 km away—roughly a 1.5-hour drive depending on traffic. The journey itself sets the tone: you’ll leave behind the city’s buzz for the tranquility of Mongolia’s wilderness.

First Stops: Aryabal Monastery and Turtle Rock

Our first stop is the Aryabal Monastery, a peaceful place perched on a hillside where monks still practice meditation. Visiting here provides a spiritual pause, offering panoramic views over the valley—a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to reflect. Next, you’ll visit Turtle Rock, famous for its shape resembling a turtle basking in the sun. It’s a favorite among visitors and makes for an eye-catching photo.

The Iconic Chinggis Khaan Statue

After some scenic drives, the tour takes you to the Chinggis Khaan statue, one of Mongolia’s most recognizable symbols. Standing tall against the skyline, it’s a monument that embodies national pride. Walking around or taking photos here offers a sense of the scale and significance of Mongolian history.

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Lunch at a Local Family

A highlight many travelers mention is the chance to enjoy lunch in a local family’s home. This isn’t a fancy restaurant but a genuine opportunity to share a meal with Mongolian hosts. It’s one of those authentic touches that elevates the experience beyond mere sightseeing, allowing you to connect with local life.

The Horseback Adventure

The core activity—a 1-hour horseback ride—is accessible to all participants, thanks to guides ready to teach beginners how to control the horse. We loved the way the guides personalized the experience, pulling the reins for those new to riding while encouraging those with some experience to enjoy the landscape. Expect to traverse paths that wind through the park, giving you a true feel for the terrain. The scenery is largely open, with rolling hills, forests, and distant mountain views.

Additional Sights and Relaxation

Post-ride, the group takes a short tea break, a good time to soak in the surroundings or chat with fellow travelers. Then, the drive continues to Zaisan Hill for sweeping city views and photos that capture Ulaanbaatar’s sprawling landscape against the backdrop of mountains.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up with a visit to Genghis Khan’s statue—a fitting end to the day’s exploration—before heading back to Ulaanbaatar, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening, just in time for dinner or to relax at your hotel.

The Practicalities and Value

At $150 per person, this tour is competitively priced considering the number of sites visited, the included transportation, guiding, and lunch. The flexible booking options—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours before—add peace of mind.

The tour’s logistics are straightforward: pick-up from your hotel, a comfortable vehicle, and a well-organized schedule. The small group atmosphere makes it easier to ask questions and connect with your guide, which can enrich your understanding of Mongolia.

What’s Not Included

While lunch and transport are covered, snacks and alcohol are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to keep energized or toast your adventure. Also, note that baby carriages are not allowed, so if you’re traveling with young children, consider whether the physical aspects of horseback riding are suitable.

Authentic Experiences That Matter

Many reviews note that the tour is “unforgettable,” with visitors appreciating the chance to see both scenic and cultural highlights in one day. The inclusion of a local family meal provides a rare glimpse into Mongolian life, which many travelers find particularly meaningful.

The horse riding is especially praised for being suitable for beginners, with guides providing clear instructions. As one reviewer puts it, “even if you don’t have experience, you’ll be fine,” which makes this tour appealing for first-timers and casual travelers alike.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a practical, all-in-one day experience that combines active adventure with cultural sightseeing, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who want to see Mongolia’s countryside, enjoy light physical activity, and learn about local traditions, all without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced, relaxed day or are traveling with very young children or seniors over 95, you might want to consider alternative options. The early start and full schedule require a moderate level of activity and flexibility.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are happy to teach horse riding, and the landscape is manageable for newcomers. The one-hour ride is designed to be accessible for all.

What should I bring?
A camera is recommended to capture the scenic views and memorable moments. Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity is also advised.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch at a local family’s home is included. Dinners are also mentioned, but snacks and beverages are not, so plan accordingly.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up from your hotel and round-trip transportation to and from the sites.

How long is the drive from Ulaanbaatar?
It’s about 69 km, roughly a 1.5-hour drive each way, depending on traffic.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 or people over 95, and the physical aspects may not suit very young children or older adults.

What makes this tour a good value?
Considering transportation, guiding, entry fees, and a unique local meal, the $150 price provides a well-rounded, memorable Mongolian adventure.

The Sum Up

This horseback and sightseeing day tour in Terelj offers a well-balanced glimpse into Mongolia’s stunning landscapes and cultural sites. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of activity, are open to learning about local traditions, and want an authentic experience without over-complicating logistics. The inclusion of beginner-friendly horse riding, a local family meal, and visits to major sights makes it a memorable choice for a full day outside Ulaanbaatar.

If your idea of travel involves connections to nature, history, and local life—delivered in a comfortable, organized package—this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for an early start, and come ready to enjoy Mongolia’s scenic beauty and warm hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: