This Mongolia reindeer herder tour takes you deep into the remote Taiga forest of northern Mongolia to live alongside the Tsaatan (Dukha) people, one of the last reindeer-herding cultures on earth. Over 11 unforgettable days, you travel from Ulaanbaatar north through Mörön and into Khövsgöl Province, then journey on horseback or reindeer through untouched forests and mountain valleys to reach the Dukha families of the Taiga. This is a rare, respectful encounter with a nomadic way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries, combining wilderness travel, cultural immersion, and genuine human connection.

Living with the Tsaatan Reindeer Herders

The Tsaatan, also known as the Dukha, are among the very last reindeer-herding peoples in the world. For generations they have lived in harmony with their reindeer in the high Taiga, moving with the seasons and depending on these gentle animals for milk, transport, and companionship. During your stay, you sleep in a traditional urts (tipi), share meals with the family, and witness daily herding life up close. It is not a performance for tourists, but a genuine glimpse into a fragile and beautiful culture.

11-Day Mongolia Reindeer Herder Tour Itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival in Ulaanbaatar. Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, meet your guide, and transfer to your hotel in the city center. Rest and prepare for the journey ahead. Overnight: 3-star hotel in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 2 — Ulaanbaatar to Bulgan Aimag. Head north out of the city as the landscape opens into rolling steppe. After roughly 6 hours of driving, we camp under the stars. Overnight: wild camping in tent.

Day 3 — Bulgan to Khatgal, Lake Khövsgöl. Continue north toward Lake Khövsgöl, home to some of the purest freshwater on earth. Arrive in Khatgal village and breathe in the mountain air. Overnight: ger camp by Lake Khövsgöl.

Day 4 — Khatgal to Tsagaannuur. The most challenging day, a 12-hour drive on rough, remote roads deep into the north, with rest stops to enjoy the wilderness. Overnight: Erdene’s Guest House, Tsagaannuur.

Day 5 — Tsagaannuur to the Taiga. The real adventure begins. Ride into the Taiga by horse or reindeer as the forest deepens around you, arriving at the camp of the Tsaatan herders. Overnight: yurt stay in the Taiga.

Day 6 — A Full Day in the Taiga. Live alongside the Tsaatan people, meet the reindeer, hear their stories, and experience a way of life unchanged for centuries. Optional trekking and herding activities. Overnight: yurt stay in the Taiga.

Day 7 — Taiga to Tsagaannuur. Say goodbye to the Taiga and ride back down to Tsagaannuur for a well-earned rest, a hot meal, and a shower. Overnight: Erdene’s Guest House.

Day 8 — Tsagaannuur to Mörön. A long drive south back to Mörön, the regional capital of Khövsgöl Province. Overnight: 3-star hotel in Mörön.

Day 9 — Mörön to Ulaanbaatar. The final long drive, roughly 10 hours back to the capital, reflecting on the journey as the steppe rolls by. Overnight: 3-star hotel in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 10 — Free Day in Ulaanbaatar. Explore the Chinggis Khaan Museum, browse cashmere shops, or simply relax after your adventure. Overnight: 3-star hotel in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 11 — Departure. Morning transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport. Safe travels, and thank you for being part of the Taiga.

About Tsaatan people

The Tsaatan are one of the smallest ethnic minorities in Mongolia, with only a few hundred people still living the traditional reindeer-herding life in the Taiga. Their culture, language, and shamanic traditions are deeply tied to the reindeer and the forest. To learn more about their history and daily life, National Geographic has documented the Tsaatan reindeer herders in beautiful detail. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/exploring-mongolian-taiga-with-tsaatan-reindeer-herders

Watch Our Reindeer Tour Vlog

Ready to experience this once-in-a-lifetime Mongolia reindeer herder tour? Reserve your place today.

Every Mongolia reindeer herder tour is privately guided and limited to a small group, ensuring an authentic and respectful experience in the Taiga.