Ulaanbaatar may be Mongolia’s bustling capital, but it’s also a gateway to some truly memorable outdoor experiences. Whether you’re craving a challenging mountain hike with sweeping city views or an authentic nomadic horse trek across rolling plains, this city offers plenty of options. The tours listed below highlight the best in the region, combining natural beauty, cultural insights, and adventure. You’ll find options suitable for all fitness levels and interests—from day hikes on Bogd Khan Mountain to multi-day horseback journeys through Mongolia’s heartland. For a taste of history and nature, the Ulaanbaatar: Bogd Khan Mountain Hike with Monastery Tour is a standout, offering panoramic views and a visit to ancient ruins. If you want an adrenaline rush with a dash of culture, the Terelj National Park tour with horse riding and hiking delivers on that front. And for those seeking a truly immersive experience, the Mongolian Nomads: 2-Day Horse Trekking & Cow Milking Tour provides a glimpse into authentic nomadic life. Each offers a different way to connect with Mongolia’s rugged landscape and traditions.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of hiking and trekking tours in Ulaanbaatar, from single-day mountain hikes to multi-day horseback adventures. The tours include:
– Scenic day trips like the Bogd Khan Mountain Hike with Monastery Tour (more info)
– Excursions with cultural stops, such as Private Bogd Khan National Park Hiking Day Trip (details here)
– Family-friendly or beginner options like the Terelj National Park tour with horse riding (see more)
– Authentic nomadic adventures like the 2-Day Horse Trekking & Cow Milking Tour (learn more)
– Extended multi-day journeys exploring Mongolia’s vast interior, such as the 8 Days / 8 Lake area Central Mongolian horse trekking (details)
– The ultimate week-long horseback trek to Mongolia’s Heartland from Kharkhorin (more info)
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail so you can pick the perfect outdoor experience.
1. Ulaanbaatar: Bogd Khan Mountain Hike with Monastery Tour
At number one, this guided day trip offers a fantastic introduction to Mongolia’s natural landscapes and spiritual sites. Starting from Ulaanbaatar, you’ll travel to Tsetsee Gun Peak, the highest summit of Bogd Khan Mountain, reaching 2,268 meters above sea level. The highlight is the forest picnic, where you can enjoy a relaxing lunch surrounded by greenery and fresh air. Your guide, known for being caring and passionate, will share stories that bring the landscape and culturally significant site of the Manzushir Monastery ruins to life.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of physical activity and culture. The hike itself is moderate but offers stunning views of Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding wilderness. The visit to the Manzushir Monastery, destroyed in 1937, provides an evocative glimpse into Mongolia’s religious history. Reviews consistently praise the guide’s friendliness and the natural beauty, with many noting it as one of their most memorable days.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a manageable hike with panoramic vistas, historical interest, and a chance to connect with Mongolia’s sacred mountain landscape.
2. Terelj National Park: Tour with horse riding and hiking
Number two on our list is a versatile tour that combines hiking, horse riding, and visits to iconic natural formations. In Terelj National Park, you’ll encounter the well-known Turtle Rock and an ancient Aryabala meditation temple. The tour kicks off with horseback riding, giving you a taste of Mongolia’s equestrian culture, where beautiful Mongolian horses are a national pride. As you explore the park, you’ll see Chingis Khan’s biggest statue, which also houses a museum, making it a great mix of outdoor fun and cultural insight.
This tour is rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 20 reviews, highlighting its popularity. It’s particularly suited for those who want to combine a bit of everything—scenery, history, and riding—without needing advanced fitness. The tour makes for a flexible day that captures Mongolia’s signature landscapes and traditions.
Key Highlights: Turtle Rock, Aryabala temple, Chingis Khan statue, and horse riding. Expect a relaxed pace, excellent scenery, and plenty of photo ops.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a diverse day experiencing Mongolia’s natural and cultural highlights with a fun horse ride to top it off.
3. Mongolian Nomads: 2-Day Horse Trekking & Cow Milking Tour
Number three offers a truly authentic taste of nomadic life. This private 2-day adventure includes staying with a local family, herding sheep and goats on horseback, and even helping with cow milking. It’s designed for travelers wanting an immersive experience—no large groups, just you and the Mongolian countryside.
The tour’s highlights include herding on horseback, spending a night in a traditional ger, and connecting deeply with local customs. Guests rave about the experience being “once in a lifetime,” noting the friendly hosts and authenticity of the experience. The guide’s knowledge of nomadic traditions enriches the journey, making it more than just a physical trek.
This tour is perfect if you have limited time but want a genuine slice of Mongolia’s pastoral lifestyle. It’s also very flexible, suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. The only caveat is that it involves some physical activity—herding, riding, and living outdoors—but the reward is a profound understanding of Mongolian culture.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious travelers seeking an authentic, private, and memorable nomadic experience in Mongolia.
4. A Day Trekking to Tsetsee Gun Peak
Coming in at number four, this private trek takes you up the highest point in Bogd Khan Mountain, Tsetsee Gun (2,252 meters). The tour is perfect for those who want a full-day adventure—starting with a hassle-free pickup from your Ulaanbaatar hotel, then heading into the wilds for a moderate hike.
This tour is distinctive because it includes an exploration of the Manzushir Monastery ruins and a picnic lunch at the summit. The hike covers about 5 km uphill, rewarding you with spectacular views over Ulaanbaatar and the surrounding landscape. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized experience, as it’s designed solely for your party.
The reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction for the scenery and the knowledgeable guide, with comments like, “The scenery was beautiful, and the guide, Dorj, made the day.” It’s a great option for those who want a balance of physical activity and cultural insights without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers looking for a guided, manageable hike with panoramic views and a touch of history.
5. Private – Bogd Khan National Park Hiking Day Trip
Number five offers a hassle-free full-day hike in Bogd Khan National Park, combining cultural sites with scenic trails. The tour includes hiking to Tsetsee Gun, the highest peak, with a professional guide sharing insights about the area. You’re picked up directly from your Ulaanbaatar accommodation, making it very convenient.
What makes this tour stand out is the visit to the Manzushir Monastery complex, which was originally built in 1733. Although much was destroyed in the 1930s, the renovated main temple now functions as a museum, providing a tangible link to Mongolia’s religious past. The hike is moderate, about 7 kilometers, and the lunch included is a bonus, so you don’t have to worry about packing food.
Reviews mention how friendly the guide is and how the tour provides a good mix of physical activity and cultural exposure. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to enjoy nature and history without the hassle of coordinating logistics.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full-day, guided experience that combines scenic hiking with cultural exploration.
6. 8 Days / 8 Lake Area Central Mongolian Horse Trekking
Number six is the ultimate long-term adventure—8 days exploring central Mongolia with 4-5 days of horseback trekking. Starting in Ulaanbaatar, this private tour takes you through Hustai National Park, Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes, and Orkhon Valley, including a visit to Tuvkhun Monastery and Karakorum ruins.
This tour is for serious outdoor lovers who want to enjoy Mongolia’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to vast grasslands. The horseback riding is substantial, with full days on horseback and some camping nights. It’s a mix of physical challenge and cultural discovery, with comfortable accommodations and all meals included.
Rated 5.0, travelers love the all-inclusive nature and the depth of experience. It’s especially suitable for those with some riding experience and a sense of adventure, eager to see Mongolia’s varied scenery up close.
Bottom Line: Perfect for dedicated outdoor enthusiasts looking to combine trekking, horse riding, and cultural visits in a comprehensive week-long journey.
$1,464.79 per person
7. 7Days Horse Trekking to Mongolian Heartland from Kharkhorin
The final tour is a week-long horse trek starting from the historic city of Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. This 7-day journey explores Mongolia’s vast valleys, pine forests, and lava fields, offering a true sense of wilderness and tradition.
You’ll travel through diverse landscapes on horseback, staying in local guesthouses or yurts, and experiencing the authentic nomadic lifestyle firsthand. The precise itinerary varies, but highlights include visiting Erdene Zuu Monastery and exploring Mongolia’s rural heartland. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking an extended, immersive adventure with a focus on cultural and natural discovery.
While reviews are currently unavailable, the tour’s reputation for customization and deep local insight makes it a promising option. Be prepared for a physically demanding but highly rewarding experience.
Bottom Line: Designed for seasoned trekkers and culture-seekers ready to spend a week on horseback traversing Mongolia’s legendary landscapes.
$1,060.65 per person
How to Choose Your Mongolia Hiking & Trekking Tour
When selecting your ideal trek, consider your budget, time availability, fitness level, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a scenic yet manageable day, the Ulaanbaatar: Bogd Khan Mountain Hike with Monastery Tour (see details) is a top pick. For a more immersive nomadic experience, the 2-Day Horse Trekking & Cow Milking Tour (more info) provides authentic living in Mongolia’s countryside.
If your goal is a longer, multi-day adventure, the 8-day central Mongolia horse trek (see here) offers depth and variety, while the week-long horse trek from Kharkhorin (more info) is perfect for experienced riders wanting a comprehensive exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the multi-day tours, as they tend to fill up quickly. Always check what’s included—meals, transfers, equipment—so you can compare value for money accurately.
Final Thoughts
Ulaanbaatar offers a wide range of outdoor adventures, from easy day hikes to rugged multi-day horse treks. Whether you’re looking for a scenic mountain climb, a cultural horseback ride, or an authentic nomadic experience, there is truly something for all. For those seeking spectacular views and a touch of history, the Bogd Khan Mountain hikes will reward your effort. If you prefer horseback journeys, the extended tours provide immersive ways to see Mongolia’s stunning landscapes and meet its people.
Remember, Mongolia’s outdoors are best enjoyed with a sense of curiosity and respect. Book early, pack appropriately, and prepare for an adventure that will stay with you long after you leave.