Overview
Mystical Lake Hovsgol (“Blue Water Lake”), sacred to Mongolians, is 85 miles long and 18 miles wide, and ringed by 9,000-foot peaks, pristine larch forests, and wildflower-filled meadows. Home to traditional nomad families and their herds, the lake is a sublime place to enjoy nature walks and cultural interactions. Hovsgol lies at the southern end of the Baikal Rift zone and is a sister to Baikal in Siberia.
(Note: This itinerary is for a post-trip extension; call us for details regarding a pre-trip extension.)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Ulaanbaatar / Lake Hovsgol
After a morning at leisure, take a quick flight to Muron, capital of Hovsgol Province. From here, a 2- to 2.5-hour drive on a rugged road brings you to remote Lake Hovsgol, one of the most beautiful regions of Mongolia. This crystal-clear alpine lake, known as Mongolia’s “dark blue pearl,” remains untouched by industry and is set among some of the most pristine forests and mountains in the world. Accommodations at the lake are in welcoming two-person gers specially designed for visitors and modeled after the traditional tents of nomadic herders. There is a large ger dining tent where all meals are served...LD
Ulaanbaatar / Lake Hovsgol - Day 1
Mongolian Ger Camps
Mongolia
Days 1 to 3 (3 nights)
Gers are the traditional yurt-like tents used by Mongolian nomads for centuries, and these simple fixed camps are specially built and operated for visitors. They come equipped with beds and linens (and may also have a small table and stools), and are heated by a wood or coal stove. Meals are served in a central lodge or tent. Most of the camps have centrally located shared bathrooms. Please be prepared for limited shower use, as shower water is often solar heated and may not be available daily. Gers provide an authentic and memorable taste of Mongolian culture and allow us to visit areas that otherwise lack traveler accommodations. Most visitors find their stays at ger camps to be among their most enjoyable experiences in Mongolia.
Days 2-3
Lake Hovsgol
Explore the lakeshore on foot or by horseback, with optional kayaking excursions. Overnights in ger camp...BLD each day
Lake Hovsgol - Days 2-3
Mongolian Ger Camps
Mongolia
Days 1 to 3 (3 nights)
Gers are the traditional yurt-like tents used by Mongolian nomads for centuries, and these simple fixed camps are specially built and operated for visitors. They come equipped with beds and linens (and may also have a small table and stools), and are heated by a wood or coal stove. Meals are served in a central lodge or tent. Most of the camps have centrally located shared bathrooms. Please be prepared for limited shower use, as shower water is often solar heated and may not be available daily. Gers provide an authentic and memorable taste of Mongolian culture and allow us to visit areas that otherwise lack traveler accommodations. Most visitors find their stays at ger camps to be among their most enjoyable experiences in Mongolia.
Days 4-5
Ulaanbaatar / Depart
Return to Muron on Day 4, with a picnic lunch en route at beautiful Lake Irkh, and fly to Ulaanbaatar. Depart on Day 5...BLD on Day 4, B on Day 5
Ulaanbaatar / Depart - Days 4-5
Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Day 4 (1 night)
You can expect traditional Mongolian friendliness and hospitality at this large modern hotel, set in the heart of Ulaanbaatar. It’s close to all the major sites of the city and an ideal place to relax during your time in Mongolia’s capital city. Guest rooms are spacious, and there’s a great view from the bar on the top floor. Facilities include three restaurants, a fitness center, sauna, and spa, where you can treat yourself to a relaxing massage.
