Olgiy is a fascinating hub for travelers craving authentic Mongolian adventures. It’s not just a small town; it’s the gateway to some of the most stunning landscapes in Western Mongolia. The region’s rugged terrain, snow-capped peaks, and nomadic culture make it an ideal spot for outdoor lovers and cultural explorers alike. We particularly love the 6 Day Western Mongolia Trekking Tour because it combines hiking, glacier walks, and cultural exchanges with Kazakh nomads, offering a well-rounded taste of the wilderness and local traditions. Plus, it includes horseback riding and glacier hikes that are sure to challenge both body and spirit. If you’re interested in a longer, more immersive experience, the Horse Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park takes you deep into the heart of Mongolia’s wild side, with multiple days on horseback and authentic interaction with local communities. For those who prefer a comfortable, guided exploration, the 8 Day Altai Tavan Bogd Private Trekking provides a more leisurely pace, with opportunities to see petroglyphs and camp beside alpine lakes.
Quick Overview
Our list features three distinct tour styles in Olgiy. The 6 Day Western Mongolia Trekking Tour offers a compact, adventure-packed experience ideal for those wanting a mix of trekking and culture []. The Horse Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is perfect for horse enthusiasts and those seeking a flexible, multi-day ride through the mountains []. Lastly, the 8 Day Altai Tavan Bogd Private Trekking caters to travelers who want a comprehensive, multi-day trek with a focus on local culture and scenic highlights [].
1. 6 Day Western Mongolia Trekking Tour Tavan Bogd National Park
This 6-day trek is a fantastic introduction to Western Mongolia’s remarkable landscapes. Starting with a flight from Ulaanbaatar to Olgiy, you’ll then drive to the Tavan Bogd National Park, a UNESCO-listed area famous for its dramatic mountain scenery. The trip includes a hike around Potanin Glacier, where snow-capped peaks dominate the skyline, and a visit to Khoton and Khurgan lakes, which are stunning alpine bodies of water fed by glaciers. One of the highlights is meeting Kazakh nomadic families, where you can learn about eagle hunting and traditional life—an authentic taste of local culture. You’ll also hike to see waterfalls in the Ikh Turgen valley and camp beside serene lakes, enjoying nature’s quiet majesty.
What makes this tour stand out is its perfect balance between adventure and culture, all packed into a manageable 6 days. The inclusion of horseback riding, glacier hikes, and visits to nomadic families provides a deep sense of connection to both land and people. With a 5.0/5 rating from one review, travelers find this tour to be well-organized and genuinely authentic. The price of $1,450 per person offers solid value for a trip that covers mountains, glaciers, lakes, and local hospitality in such a short span.
Bottom Line: This tour is a great choice if you want a fairly quick, action-packed introduction to the wild beauty and nomadic life of Western Mongolia.
$1,450.00 per person
2. Horse Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
At number 2 on our list, the Horse Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park offers an immersive 9-day experience riding through Mongolia’s rugged landscape. Starting with a flight to Bayan-Ulgii Province, you’ll then drive to the park’s ranger station at Oigor, where your horse trek begins. This trip is designed for those who love being on horseback, exploring the mountains, river valleys, and remote villages. Over the course of the trek, you’ll travel toward the Potanin Glacier, with days spent riding along the Tsagaan Gol River and through stunning valleys. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to extend or modify your ride as you wish, and luggage is transported by camels—a traditional support method—so you can focus on the riding experience.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on cultural exchange and the nomadic way of life. Guides share stories of local traditions, and you’ll camp in traditional gers. While it’s the priciest option at $2,200, it offers the most authentic multi-day horseback experience available in the region. The potential downside is that there are currently no reviews, so you’ll need to trust the description and guides’ expertise. This tour suits travelers who are comfortable on horseback and eager for a deep, extended adventure into Mongolia’s wild frontier.
Bottom Line: For serious horse lovers wanting a multi-day trek with cultural insights, this tour offers a unique, hands-on experience in the Altai Mountains.
$2,200.00 per person
3. 8 Day Altai Tavan Bogd Private Trekking
Our top pick for those wanting an all-around, comprehensive trek is the 8 Day Altai Tavan Bogd Private Trekking. Starting from Olgiy, this trip takes you through some of the most dramatic scenery in Western Mongolia. You’ll camp beside alpine lakes, hike to glaciers, and visit ancient petroglyphs and burial mounds. The tour emphasizes local Kazakh culture, with opportunities to see eagle hunters practicing their craft and to share traditional meals in gers. The journey includes a mix of challenging hikes and relaxing moments, making it ideal for active travelers who want a full experience.
Though priced at $1,880, the benefits include a well-rounded itinerary with time to appreciate both natural wonders and cultural traditions. The guides are experienced, and the trip offers flexibility for those wanting a deeper dive into the region. Since there are no reviews, it’s important to note that this tour is best suited for those comfortable with trekking and camping in remote areas. The focus on scenery, culture, and outdoor activity makes this a top choice for adventure travelers seeking a more personalized, private experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a longer, flexible trek that combines glacier hikes, cultural encounters, and scenic camping in the Altai mountains.
$1,880.00 per person
How to Choose
When selecting among these tours, consider your fitness level, time constraints, and interests. If you want a quick but rich taste of Western Mongolia, the 6 Day Western Mongolia Trekking Tour offers a balanced mix of hiking and cultural visits. For horseback riding enthusiasts, the Horse Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park provides the deepest immersion into nomadic life, ideal for a longer, active adventure. If you prefer a personalized experience with more time to explore and enjoy, the 8 Day Altai Tavan Bogd Private Trekking might be your best bet.
Think about your budget—this varies from $1,450 for the shorter trek to $2,200 for the extensive horseback journey—and your level of outdoor experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons in summer when these remote areas are most accessible.
Olgiy offers a diversity of outdoor and cultural adventures, from rugged treks to horseback journeys and immersive cultural encounters. Whether you prefer a quick adventurous getaway or a longer expedition into Mongolia’s wild heart, there’s a tour for you. For a balanced experience of scenery, culture, and activity, the 6 Day Western Mongolia Trekking Tour is a fantastic option. For those seeking deeper engagement and a longer trek, the 8 Day Altai Tavan Bogd Private Trekking provides a comprehensive adventure. And for horseback riding aficionados wanting a multi-day ride, the Horse Trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is unmatched.
No matter which you choose, booking early and preparing for some rugged conditions will ensure your trip to Olgiy is memorable.