ARRIVAL IN ULAANBAATAR
Route: Chinggis Khaan International Airport – Ulaanbaatar | Transfer: Approx. 1 hour

Welcome to Mongolia!

After arriving at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, we’ll meet our local female guide before making the short journey into Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s fascinating capital. A city where modern life meets centuries-old traditions, it’s the perfect introduction to one of the world’s most extraordinary countries.

After checking into our hotel, we’ll have time to relax after our journey before we come together for our first dinner as a group. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet our fellow adventurers and hear more about the unforgettable experiences waiting over the coming days.

Overnight: Ramada Hotel (or similar), Ulaanbaatar
Meals: Dinner

ULAANBAATAR TO TERELJ NATIONAL PARK
Route: Ulaanbaatar – Gorkhi Terelj National Park – Turtle Rock | Transfer: Approx. 2 hours | Dog sledding: Full day

After breakfast, we’ll leave the city behind and head into the spectacular landscapes of Gorkhi Terelj National Park. Famous for its dramatic granite rock formations, wide open valleys and traditional nomadic culture, it’s one of Mongolia’s most beautiful natural areas and the perfect place to begin our winter adventure.

Today is all about experiencing Mongolia in a completely different way as we spend the day dog sledding through snow-covered forests, frozen rivers and open wilderness. Guided by a team of energetic Alaskan Huskies, we’ll learn how to handle the sled before setting off across some of the country’s most breathtaking winter scenery.

Later, we’ll visit the famous Turtle Rock, one of Mongolia’s best-known natural landmarks, before settling into our traditional ger camp for the evening. Sitting around the fire with a warm drink after a day in the snow is an experience you’ll never forget.

Overnight: Traditional Ger Camp, Terelj National Park
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

TERELJ NATIONAL PARK
Route: Terelj National Park | Fat-bike ride: Full day

After yesterday’s introduction to Mongolia’s winter wilderness, today we’ll explore it on two wheels.

Fat bikes are specially designed for riding across snow and frozen trails, making them the perfect way to discover the landscapes of Terelj National Park. We’ll cycle through peaceful valleys, beneath towering granite formations and across crisp winter terrain that feels a world away from everyday life.

There’s no rush today. We’ll stop regularly to take in the scenery, warm up with hot drinks and enjoy the incredible silence that makes Mongolia such a special place. It’s hard to believe somewhere this wild and beautiful is only a couple of hours from the capital.

This evening we’ll return to our cosy ger camp for another night beneath Mongolia’s spectacular winter skies.

Overnight: Traditional Ger Camp, Terelj National Park
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

TERELJ NATIONAL PARK TO RENCHINLKHUMBE VIA FROZEN KHUVSGUL LAKE
Route: Terelj National Park – Ulaanbaatar – Murun – Frozen Khuvsgul Lake – Renchinlkhumbe | Domestic flight: Approx. 1.5 hours | Transfer: Approx. 3–4 hours

After an early breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport for our domestic flight north to Murun, the gateway to Mongolia’s remote taiga region. From here, our adventure continues by road as we journey towards one of the country’s most spectacular natural wonders.

Today’s route takes us across the frozen surface of Lake Khuvsgul, often called the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia”. During winter, the lake transforms into an incredible sheet of crystal-clear ice stretching to the horizon. Driving across its frozen surface is an experience few travellers ever forget, with endless mountain scenery surrounding us in every direction.

We’ll continue over the scenic Jigleg Mountain Pass before arriving in the small northern town of Renchinlkhumbe, where we’ll settle into our guesthouse and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead in Mongolia’s remote far north.

Overnight: Wooden Guesthouse, Renchinlkhumbe
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

RENCHINLKHUMBE TO THE JARGANT RIVER
Route: Renchinlkhumbe – Jargant River – Renchinlkhumbe | Transfer: Approx. 15 km

Please note: The Maanar ceremony is only available on our 12th–23rd January departure. For the 25th January – 5th February departure, this will be replaced with a smaller, more intimate shamanic ceremony or a similar cultural offering.

Today offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Mongolia’s most fascinating spiritual traditions. We’ll travel to the Jargant River to take part in the Maanar ceremony, an important cultural gathering where ancient customs, ceremonies and community come together in one unforgettable setting.

Throughout the day we’ll discover the traditions of the Darkhad people, sharing ceremonial teas, learning about local customs and witnessing offerings made to the guardian spirits of the land and water. Rather than simply watching from the sidelines, we’ll gain a genuine insight into beliefs and traditions that have shaped life in this remote region for generations.

As darkness falls, we’ll gather around the fire for an evening of traditional shamanic ceremonies, storytelling and cultural performances beneath Mongolia’s incredible night sky. It’s a truly unique experience and one that few visitors to Mongolia ever have the chance to witness.

Overnight: Wooden Guesthouse / Tourist Camp
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

RENCHINLKHUMBE TO THE TSAATAN REINDEER HERDERS
Route: Renchinlkhumbe – Tsagaannuur – Tsaatan Community | Transfer: Approx. 100 km

Today we’ll travel deeper into Mongolia’s remote northern wilderness to meet one of the last remaining nomadic reindeer-herding communities in the world.

Life here has changed little for generations, with the Tsaatan people living in close harmony with their reindeer and the surrounding taiga. We’ll spend time getting to know our hosts, learning about their unique way of life and discovering how reindeer remain at the heart of their culture, traditions and survival.

We’ll have the opportunity to help milk the reindeer, learn about daily life in the taiga and, for those who wish, enjoy the unforgettable experience of riding one of these remarkable animals. More than anything, today is about slowing down, connecting with a completely different way of life and appreciating the simplicity of living so closely with nature.

Tonight we’ll stay in traditional accommodation, giving us the chance to experience life in one of Mongolia’s most remote regions.

Overnight: Teepee / Ortoq
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

RENCHINLKHUMBE TO AR BOSGOT GORGE
Route: Renchinlkhumbe – Ar Bosgot Gorge – Renchinlkhumbe | Transfer: Approx. 200 km

Today we’ll explore the spectacular landscapes of Ar Bosgot Gorge, one of northern Mongolia’s hidden gems. Surrounded by snow-covered forests, frozen rivers and dramatic rock formations, it’s a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Later we’ll visit a local family, where we’ll be welcomed into their home to experience everyday life in this remote corner of Mongolia. Sharing a meal together and learning about their traditions offers a genuine insight into the warmth and hospitality that Mongolian families are famous for.

After another unforgettable day in the taiga, we’ll return to Renchinlkhumbe for our final evening in this extraordinary region.

Overnight: Wooden Guesthouse / Tourist Camp
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

RENCHINLKHUMBE TO MURUN VIA KHORIDOL SARIDAG
Route: Renchinlkhumbe – Jargant River – Ulaan-Uul – Khoridol Saridag Protected Area – Murun | Transfer: Approx. 280 km

Today we’ll begin our journey south, but not before making a few final stops in Mongolia’s breathtaking northern wilderness.

We’ll visit the peaceful Jargant River before continuing to the remarkable Singing Spring, a unique natural phenomenon that continues flowing even through the depths of winter. From here we’ll travel into the spectacular Khoridol Saridag Protected Area, home to dramatic mountain scenery, pristine rivers and one of Mongolia’s most important freshwater ecosystems.

After lunch, we’ll continue to Murun, where we’ll settle into our guesthouse for the evening and reflect on everything we’ve experienced over the past few days in Mongolia’s remote north.

Overnight: Guesthouse, Murun
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

MURUN TO ARKHANGAI PROVINCE
Route: Murun – Arkhangai Province | Transfer: Approx. 440 km

Today we’ll leave Mongolia’s northern forests behind and journey south into the rolling valleys and wide-open grasslands of Arkhangai Province. The changing scenery offers a fascinating glimpse into Mongolia’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to endless steppe stretching as far as the eye can see.

This afternoon we’ll be welcomed by a local nomadic yak-herding family, where we’ll experience a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Together we’ll help milk the yaks, learn how traditional dairy products are made and discover how families thrive in one of the world’s most remote environments.

As the sun begins to set, we’ll settle into our traditional ger for an unforgettable evening with our hosts, sharing stories, home-cooked food and a true taste of Mongolian hospitality.

Overnight: Traditional Ger, Nomadic Family
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

ARKHANGAI PROVINCE TO ULAANBAATAR
Route: Arkhangai Province – Ulaanbaatar | Horse ride: Half day | Transfer: Approx. 570 km

We’ll begin the day on horseback, exploring the beautiful landscapes surrounding our nomadic camp just as Mongolian herders have done for centuries. There’s simply no better way to experience the vast open steppe than from the saddle.

After lunch with our hosts, we’ll say goodbye to our nomadic family and begin the journey back to Ulaanbaatar. It’s a longer drive today, giving us time to reflect on the incredible experiences we’ve shared over the past ten days, from frozen lakes and dog sledding to reindeer herders and life in the taiga.

This evening we’ll return to the comfort of our hotel for one final night together before tomorrow’s city exploration.

Overnight: Ramada Hotel (or similar), Ulaanbaatar
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

DISCOVER ULAANBAATAR
Route: Ulaanbaatar | City tour: Approx. 3–4 hours

Our final full day offers the perfect balance of culture and relaxation.

Together we’ll explore Mongolia’s fascinating capital, visiting historic landmarks including Gandantegchinlen Monastery, Sukhbaatar Square and the Chinggis Khaan National Museum, learning more about the country’s remarkable history and rich cultural heritage.

Later we’ll enjoy a very different side of the city as we’re welcomed into the home of a local craftswoman. We’ll discover traditional Mongolian craftsmanship, hear her story and gain a deeper understanding of skills that have been passed from generation to generation.

After days of adventure, this afternoon is yours to unwind. Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment or massage, browse for beautiful cashmere and locally made souvenirs, or simply enjoy a final wander through the city before we come together for our farewell dinner and celebrate an unforgettable Mongolian adventure.

Overnight: Ramada Hotel (or similar), Ulaanbaatar
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

DEPARTURE FROM ULAANBAATAR
Route: Ulaanbaatar – Chinggis Khaan International Airport | Transfer: Approx. 1 hour

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Mongolia.

We’ll transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for our onward flights home, leaving with unforgettable memories of frozen lakes, endless steppe, nomadic hospitality, ancient traditions and extraordinary adventures shared with an incredible group of women.

Meals: Breakfast

You’re very welcome to join us solo, most of our guests do! We’ll pair you with another woman for twin-share rooms and shared gers, so there’s no additional charge. If you’d prefer your own room where available, the single supplement is $500.

This trip includes a mix of hotels, traditional ger camps and locally run guesthouses.

3 nights | Ulaanbaatar
Centrally located hotel (Ramada or similar), twin-share rooms with private en-suite facilities.

2 nights | Terelj National Park
Traditional ger camp with heating provided. Twin-share accommodation. Bathroom facilities may be shared.

4 nights | Northern Mongolia (Khuvsgul Lake, Murun & Taiga Region)
A combination of wooden guesthouses, tourist camps and locally run accommodation. Twin-share rooms with basic facilities suitable for remote winter travel.

1 night | Tsaatan Reindeer Herder Community
Traditional ger, wooden house or local accommodation depending on conditions. Shared facilities.

1 night | Nomadic Family Stay
Stay with a local nomadic family in a traditional ger. Simple conditions with shared facilities.

All accommodation has been selected for suitability for winter travel. Standards outside Ulaanbaatar are simple and reflect the remote regions visited, providing a genuine insight into life in Mongolia’s wilderness regions.

What’s included

What’s not included

Passport Requirments

A valid passport is required with at least six months’ validity beyond your departure date from Mongolia.

Passport and visa requirements

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. At present, US passport holders can visit Mongolia visa-free for up to 90 days, while Canadian and German passport holders can visit visa-free for up to 30 days. The current visa exemption for UK, Irish, Australian and many European passport holders expires on 31 December 2026. As this trip takes place in January 2027, a visa may be required unless the exemption is extended. Visit to check your visa requirement status www.visahq.com

We will update this information once Mongolia confirms its 2027 entry requirements. All travellers are responsible for checking the latest requirements applicable to their passport before departure via the Mongolian Immigration Agency or their nearest Mongolian embassy.

Arrival & Departure

Fly into Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) on Day 1.

You will be met on arrival by your ShePeaks host and our professional local female guide. A private transfer (approximately one hour) will take you into Ulaanbaatar.

A return domestic flight between Ulaanbaatar and Murun (for the Khuvsgul region) is included in the trip cost.

International Transport

During the expedition we travel by private 4×4 vehicles and Russian vans in rural regions, domestic flight between Ulaanbaatar and Murun, snow vehicles where required, and by dog sled, horse and reindeer during activity days.

Road infrastructure outside the capital is basic and journey times can be long. Flexibility and patience are part of travelling in this remote environment.

Travel & health insurance is mandatory

Comprehensive travel insurance is required for this trip.

Your policy must include emergency medical treatment and evacuation, trip cancellation and delays, cover for hiking up to 3,000m, winter activities such as dog sledding, fat biking and horse riding, and travel in remote locations.

Proof of insurance will be requested prior to departure. Please refer to our Insurance section for further details and recommended providers.

Currency & Money

The local currency is the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT).

Credit cards are widely accepted in Ulaanbaatar hotels and larger restaurants. Outside the capital, particularly in the Khuvsgul and Taiga regions, cash is essential.

ATMs are available in Ulaanbaatar and Murun but not in remote areas. We recommend withdrawing sufficient currency before leaving the city.

Climate & Conditions

Winter temperatures typically range between –10°C and –30°C, especially in northern Mongolia and the Taiga.

Expect snow, ice, dry air and sustained sub-zero conditions. Proper winter clothing is essential, contact our support team if you’d like to discuss this further.

Support Crew

You will be accompanied by our ShePeaks local guide, experienced drivers and specialist activity handlers including dog sled guides and reindeer herders.

This is a fully supported expedition with luggage transported between locations.

Dietary Requirements and Allergies

We can accommodate most dietary requirements, including vegetarian and gluten-free diets. However, Mongolia is traditionally meat-based and options in remote regions can be limited.

All dietary requirements and allergies must be declared at the time of booking.

While we make every reasonable effort to accommodate needs, we cannot guarantee allergen-free environments in rural or nomadic settings and cannot accept liability for accidental exposure.

If you have strict dietary requirements, we recommend bringing personal snacks or specialist items.

How cold does Mongolia get in winter?
Winter temperatures in Mongolia can range from –10°C to –30°C, particularly in the northern Taiga region. With proper layering and expedition-grade clothing, it is entirely manageable, but preparation is essential.

Is dog sledding physically demanding?
Driving a husky sled requires balance and moderate physical effort, but it is accessible to active participants. Full instruction is provided.

Are the domestic flights included and what distance do we cover?
Yes. The return domestic flight between Ulaanbaatar and Murun is included, and the luggage allowance for this flight is 15kg. The rest of our non essential items can be left with the reception at our Ulaanbaatar hotel. Overall, we’ll travel approximately 2,850 km by road and air.

What standard of accommodation should I expect?
In Ulaanbaatar, you will stay in a comfortable hotel. In rural areas, accommodation includes traditional gers (yurts), teepees and guesthouses. Facilities are basic but authentic.

Are there toilets showers during the expedition?
Showers are available in Ulaanbaatar. As we travel deeper into remote Mongolia, facilities become much more basic, with shared washing facilities and simple toilets.

Is Mongolia safe for female travellers?
Yes. Mongolia is generally considered very safe, and you will be accompanied throughout by your ShePeaks host, local female guide and experienced support crew.

How remote is the Taiga region?
Very remote. Once we leave the city, infrastructure is minimal and medical facilities are distant. This is a genuine expedition environment.

Will I have phone signal or internet access?
Mobile signal is available in Ulaanbaatar and some larger towns. Once we travel into the Khuvsgul and Taiga regions, connectivity becomes very limited or unavailable. This trip offers a genuine digital switch-off experience. We recommend informing family in advance that you may be offline for several days.

How physically demanding is the trip overall?
This is an active winter expedition rather than a technical endurance challenge. Days include time outdoors in sub-zero temperatures, dog sledding, optional fat biking and cultural visits. You do not need extreme fitness, but you should be comfortable being active in cold conditions and spending extended periods outside.

Is English widely spoken in Mongolia?
The official language is Mongolian. English is spoken in Ulaanbaatar and by many younger people and those working in hospitality or guiding roles. In rural regions, English is less common, which is why you will be accompanied by an English-speaking local guide throughout the trip. Learning a few Mongolian phrases is always appreciated:
Hello – Sain baina uu
Thank you – Bayarlalaa
Please – Guij baina
Yes / No – Tiim / Ugui