Mongolia expedition overview

Mongolia is one of the last unspoilt destinations in Asia. It is a country of mountains, stunning lakes, vast deserts, rolling grasslands, dense forests and unique wildlife.

Northern Mongolia contains Khovsgul Nuur, the deepest lake in Central Asia. The lake is surrounded by dozens of mountains, thick pine forests and lush meadows and presents endless opportunities for trekking, horse riding and fishing! Also visited is the Arkhangai area, an ideal region for trekking on both foot and horse, through mountains, across rolling steppe, past waterfalls and volcanic lakes. To the north east is where the famous Ghengis Khaan was born and within the Khentii Region there are several historical sites as well as a chance to explore one of the world's last undisturbed grasslands.

Like everything else in Mongolia, the climate is extreme. In summer, this usually means sunny days with glorious blue skies. This is an ideal destination for a team who wants to be challenged by a vastly different culture, but be prepared to work to "Mongolian time". Due to the huge scale of the country, teams should be prepared to travel for long periods of time, although this gives one an appreciation of the remoteness and scale of the country. Horse trekking is an integral part of a Mongolia expedition, it is therefore important that teams have some experience of horse riding or are prepared to acquire some experience before commencing the expedition. Teams may well experience on their travels the incredible hospitality of the locals and nomadic farmers and be invited into the traditional Ger's.

Expedition highlights

• Experience the unique hospitality in a Mongolian ger, making sure you know your etiquette!
• Eat the traditional delicious buuz, mutton dumplings, eaten especially around festival time.
• Try your hand at wrestling - not for the faint hearted!
• Experience a throat singing performance in Ulaan Baatar.
• Visit the Great Wall of China whilst in transit in Beijing and marvel at its sheer size.

Things to know

• They are still extremely nomadic to the extent that kindergartens in rural communities pack up and move with the families in the summer months!
• Mongolians are so incredibly polite that haggling is not really done and they shake your hand if they bump into you!