MONGOLIAN NOMADS: 2-Day Horse Trekking & Cow Milking Tour

Imagine spending two days in the company of a Mongolian nomadic family, riding horseback across endless steppes, helping herd sheep and goats, and sleeping in a traditional ger under a star-studded sky. For those looking to step off the tourist trail and into a world where life moves at a different rhythm, this private 2-day tour in Töv Province offers an authentic glimpse into Mongolia’s enduring nomadic culture. At $309 per person, it’s an investment in genuine experiences and intimate connections with local families, guided by knowledgeable hosts who take pride in sharing their way of life.

What we love about this experience is the personal touch it offers—since it’s a private tour, you’ll never be part of a large group, and your schedule can be flexible. The chance to herd sheep and goats on horseback is a hands-on activity that many travelers find unforgettable, and sleeping in a traditional ger under the night sky makes for a truly unique memory. Our other favorite detail? The opportunity to sample authentic Mongolian meals and even try milking cows—an honest, unfiltered look at rural life.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the cold evenings and early mornings, especially in summer months when the temperature can dip. Also, since the tour involves outdoor activities and travel in remote areas, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or a dislike of dairy or cold weather. It’s best suited for travelers who are eager to step outside comfort zones and genuinely connect with Mongolia’s nomadic traditions.

If you’re in Ulaanbaatar for a limited time and craving something beyond city sights—something deeply cultural and personal—this tour fits the bill. It appeals especially to adventurous souls, culture seekers, and anyone who’s curious about life in one of the world’s last remaining nomadic communities.

Key Points

• Authentic Nomadic Experience: Spend two days living alongside a Mongolian family, herding animals, and sleeping in a traditional ger.
• Private & Flexible: No crowds, personalized schedule, and direct interaction with local hosts.
• Hands-On Activities: Horseback herding, milking cows, and traditional Mongolian meals provide genuine participation.
• Stunning Scenery & Stargazing: Open steppes and clear skies offer breathtaking views and a digital detox.
• Limited Time & Remote Location: Cold nights and basic facilities mean travelers should be prepared.
• Excellent Value for Authenticity: For $309, you gain a rare glimpse into a timeless way of life, far from typical tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Nomad Tour

Setting the Scene: Why This Tour Matters

This tour isn’t about ticking off a few boxes on a travel checklist. Instead, it’s about living the life of a Mongolian nomad for a couple of days. While many travelers might visit Mongolia for its history, temples, or the Gobi Desert, this experience brings you directly into the heart of its pastoral traditions. It’s ideal for those who crave a personal connection and want to understand how Mongolian families sustain themselves amid vast, open landscapes.

Day 1: From Ulaanbaatar to the Steppes

The tour begins early in the morning with a pick-up from your hotel in Ulaanbaatar. The drive to Töv Province, where the nomadic family lives, takes a few hours but offers a scenic transition from urban hustle to rural tranquility. Once you arrive, your hosts welcome you into their ger, the iconic circular tent that’s been home for centuries.

A traditional Mongolian lunch is served—think hearty, simple fare that fuels you for the afternoon. The highlight here is the hands-on herding experience: you’ll join your hosts in herding sheep and goats, either on horseback or on foot, depending on your preference and comfort level. Many reviews mention how engaging and real this activity is, with one traveler noting how “nothing around the ger except for us and over 600 animals”—a reminder of the scale and self-sufficiency of nomadic life.

Day 2: Disconnect and Reflect

The next morning begins with a traditional nomadic breakfast, usually consisting of dairy products, bread, and perhaps some preserved meats. After some relaxed hours, you’ll bid farewell to your hosts and begin the journey back toward Ulaanbaatar, enriched by the experience.

Throughout the stay, you might also get to try making mare’s milk wine or cheese, adding another layer of cultural insight. The evening in the ger allows for quiet reflection, stargazing, and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of rural Mongolia. One review beautifully described how “lying on the ger beds, gazing at the sky through the open ceiling, felt like a digital detox”—a chance to truly unplug.

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Transportation & Logistics

Transportation is by air-conditioned jeep, which makes the journey comfortable despite the rougher roads. The tour is private—meaning you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers—allowing for a more relaxed, personalized interaction with your hosts. The schedule is well-paced, with enough free time to explore, rest, or chat.

Accommodation: Sleeping in a Ger

Your overnight stay is in a nomadic ger, which provides basic but cozy shelter. The beds are simple, but warm fire lighting, especially in cooler months, keeps the cold at bay. Some travelers mention the importance of bringing comfortable outdoor clothing and a towel—and perhaps an extra layer or two if temperatures drop at night.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers all major costs: meals, guide, transportation, and overnight stay. You’ll get bottled water and all taxes and fees included in the price. However, personal expenses and travel insurance are outside the package, so plan accordingly.

Authenticity & Personal Touch

What sets this experience apart is the direct connection with the nomadic family. According to reviews, guides like Toya and Sok go out of their way to facilitate meaningful interactions. One traveler mentioned that their guide was “super attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly,” which improves the overall experience immeasurably.

Considerations & Tips

• Cold weather: Nights can be chilly, so packing warm outdoor clothing and a down jacket are recommended.
• Limited facilities: There’s no running water or modern amenities, so bringing wipes or hand sanitizer helps.
• Dairy sensitivity: Since dairy is a large part of the diet, those with lactose intolerance might want to prepare accordingly.
• Footwear: Bring shoes you’re willing to get dirty or even dispose of, as traveling among animals can be messy.
• Connectivity: Be prepared for limited or no cell service in remote areas—an excellent chance to disconnect.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience appeals most to curious travelers eager to see the authentic Mongolian way of life—not just the well-trodden tourist spots. It’s for those comfortable with outdoor activities and basic living conditions who want to step into a world where tradition still rules. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a meaningful, private experience will appreciate the personalized attention and genuine cultural exchange.

It’s also perfect for travelers who value slow travel—taking time to observe, participate, and truly understand a different lifestyle. If you’re after a quick cultural fix, this might be too long or involved; but if you’re seeking something memorable and substantial, it’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main activity involved?
You’ll be herding sheep and goats, horseback riding, and participating in traditional routines like cow milking—hands-on activities that make this experience real and personal.

How much time do we spend on the road?
The journey from Ulaanbaatar to the nomadic family’s home takes a few hours by jeep, but the focus remains on the authentic rural experience once there.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, outdoor clothing suitable for variable weather, a towel, and possibly a light down jacket for evening warmth. Wipes or hand sanitizer are handy since there’s no running water.

Are the facilities basic?
Yes, sleeping in a ger means no electricity or running water; it’s about experiencing simple, traditional living. Fire keeps the ger warm at night.

Is it suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally accessible for most, the outdoor activities and basic facilities may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or sensitivities to cold.

What if it rains or the weather is bad?
Check the forecast and pack accordingly. The experience is outdoor-focused, so weather can impact the activities and overnight comfort.

Is there internet or cell phone service?
Likely limited or nonexistent, making it a true digital detox—a chance to disconnect and relax.

Can I participate in making traditional foods?
Yes, some reviews mention trying mare’s milk wine and cheese, which adds to the culture.

Do I need to worry about hygiene?
Bring wipes for washing since there’s no running water, especially after handling animals.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Mongolian nomad experience offers a rare chance to step into a way of life that’s been largely unchanged for generations. The personal nature of the tour, combined with active participation and the stunning simplicity of rural Mongolia, makes it a memorable journey. You’ll leave with not just photos, but stories, skills, and a deeper understanding of what sustains these resilient communities.

If you’re eager for authenticity, enjoy outdoor adventures, and don’t mind basic comforts, this tour hits just the right note. It’s an opportunity to slow down, connect deeply with nature and people, and see Mongolia through the eyes of its nomads. Perfect for curious adventurers, cultural explorers, and those craving a meaningful escape from the city.

In summary, this tour stands out as a genuine, personal, and beautifully simple experience. It’s a chance to learn and participate in a tradition that’s still very much alive—something that many travelers find profoundly rewarding. Just come prepared for the outdoors and embrace the slow pace, and you’ll find yourself with memories that last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: