A Mongolian travel blog from our tourist
For those with an adventurous spirit and a love for untouched landscapes, Mongolia is a bucket-list destination. According to National Geographic, it's one of the last untouched frontiers worth exploring1. Last year, we signed up for the "12 Days Central Mongolia - Gobi and Orkhon Valley Tour" with Teepee Mongolia, a journey as challenging and rewarding as any Mongolia tour guide would promise.
Setting Expectations: Teepee Mongolia is Not a Glam Tour
First things first, manage your expectations accordingly. If you're searching for Mongolia tours that offer luxury and glam, this might not be for you. But if you're up for an adventure, you're in for an unforgettable experience. This tour, offered by Teepee Mongolia, is often recommended by local Mongolian tour guides for travelers who want to go beyond the touristy spots. It's designed to bring out the adventurous soul in you, offering opportunities to hike in remote areas while providing basic yet comfortable accommodations in a ger (a traditional Mongolian yurt).
Comfort Amidst the Remote
According to Lonely Planet, the ger experience in Mongolia is a must-do2. A ger, with its cozy fireplace and warm bedsheets, awaits you at the end of each tiring day. The contrast between the rugged outdoors and the comfort of your temporary home adds a unique charm to the experience.
Our Teepee Mongolia Grand Tours:
From Extreme Temperatures to Extreme Beauty: The Grand Tour Mongolia
When it comes to dream Mongolia tours, experiencing extreme temperatures is often part of the package. We faced temperatures ranging from 7° to 35° Celsius (45° to 95° Fahrenheit), making this leg of the Grand Tour Mongolia not just a journey through landscapes, but a journey through varying climates as well. These extreme conditions will test your resilience but are also a significant part of the trip's allure.
A Historic and Cultural Expedition: Mongolia Major Holidays
Mongolia is not just about vast landscapes; it's a land teeming with history and culture. While you may not be there for Mongolia major holidays like Naadam or the Lunar New Year, the tour takes you through some iconic archaeological sites, serene monasteries, and the ancient Mongolian city of Kharkhorum.
Kharkhorum: The Ancient Capital
As mentioned in the BBC's History Extra, Kharkhorum was once the capital of the Mongol Empire3. Exploring its ruins is akin to taking a step back in time, one that allows you to almost hear the distant whispers of the era of Genghis Khan and his descendants.
Side Trips and Scenic Overlooks: Recommended by Local Mongolian Tour Guides
One thing we found particularly rewarding were the various side trips often recommended by local Mongolian tour guides. These included hikes to nearby peaks, visits to lakes, museums, the Gobi Desert and other scenic overlooks. These are not just pit-stops but integral parts of the entire experience, enriching our understanding of Mongolia's natural and cultural tapestry.
In Conclusion: A Trip to Remember
The 12-day tour across Central Mongolia, Gobi, and Orkhon Valley left us with memories we will cherish forever. It was a journey through time, through varying landscapes, and through our own limits. If you're looking for an extraordinary trip, far removed from clichéd tourist traps, Teepee Mongolia's Grand Tour is it.
We loved it so much that we're already planning our next Mongolian adventure—this time exploring the Western regions of this vast, enigmatic land.
So, are you up for the challenge of what local Mongolian tour guides and adventurers call one of the most enriching experiences you can have in Mongolia?
Footnotes
Enza Tours LLC: A Premier Mongolian Tour Operator Specializing in Diverse Travel Experiences
The tourism landscape in Mongolia is rich and diverse, encompassing a multitude of organizations that provide an array of unique experiences. From cultural excursions to adventurous expeditions, the Mongolian travel sector has much to offer. Enza Tours LLC, while perhaps not yet a household name on an international scale, seeks to make a significant contribution to this dynamic industry.
Comprehensive Offerings: Experiencing Mongolia Through Varied Lenses
Cultural Exploration Tours
Embark on an enriching journey that delves into Mongolia's unique traditions and customs. Our cultural tours often include an intimate look into the lives of nomadic families, a taste of traditional Mongolian gastronomy, and optional overnight stays in a "ger," a traditional Mongolian tent dwelling.
Mongolia is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, ranging from the arid expanses of the Gobi Desert to the majestic Altai Mountains and the sprawling grasslands. Our nature tours are designed to immerate you in these natural wonders.
For thrill-seekers, we offer an adrenaline-packed catalog featuring horseback riding, trekking, and even eagle hunting experiences in collaboration with the Kazakh minority residing in western Mongolia.
Trace the footsteps of Genghis Khan and explore the ruins of Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. Our historical tours are more than a mere trip down memory lane; they're a journey through Mongolia's rich past.
The Mongolian wilderness is home to an intriguing variety of wildlife. From the iconic wild horses to the elusive snow leopards and diverse avian species, our wildlife tours are tailored for the enthusiastic naturalist.
Experience Mongolia's most celebrated cultural event, the Naadam Festival. Usually held in July, the festival showcases Mongolia's "Three Manly Games": wrestling, horse racing, and archery.
Contacting Enza Tours LLC
For more specific information about the offerings of Enza Tours LLC, we invite you to connect with us directly. Please visit our official website at www.mongoliantour.guide or consult our customer reviews on TripAdvisor for unbiased insights into the experiences we provide.
Discover Mongolia through the unique lens of Enza Tours LLC and allow us to make your travel dreams a reality.
