Mongolia Reindeer Herder Tour in the Taiga
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.
Included
Here is everything included in your Mongolia reindeer herder tour:
- Accommodation throughout the tour
- Private transportation
- Experienced guide and driver
- Daily meals
- Permits and local arrangements
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses
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.
The Tsaatan (Dukha) people are among the last reindeer-herding cultures on earth. Learn more about the Tsaatan reindeer herders of Mongolia on Wikipedia.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Tsaatan, also known as the Dukha, 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. They are among the last reindeer-herding peoples in the world and this Mongolia reindeer herder tour gives you rare and respectful access to their way of life.
Basic riding experience is helpful but not required. Your guide will assist you throughout the journey. The ride into the Taiga is an essential part of the experience and our team will make sure you feel comfortable and safe every step of the way.
The best time to visit is between June and September when the Taiga is accessible and the weather is manageable. July and August are the warmest months. June and September offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, making the experience even more intimate.
In the Taiga you sleep in a traditional urts — a tipi-style tent used by the Tsaatan people. It is warm, authentic, and one of the most memorable parts of the entire Mongolia reindeer herder tour. On other nights you stay in ger camps, guest houses, and 3-star hotels in Ulaanbaatar and Mörön.
This tour is rated moderate to challenging. The drive to Tsagaannuur on Day 4 is long and rough — up to 12 hours on remote roads. The ride into the Taiga requires a reasonable level of fitness. If you have any health concerns please contact us before booking and we will advise accordingly.
Yes — completely. Trinity Adventure Mongolia has built genuine relationships with Tsaatan families over years of respectful visits. You are welcomed as a guest into their daily life, not as a tourist watching a performance. This is one of the things that makes our Mongolia reindeer herder tour truly different from any other.
We recommend warm layers for cold nights in the forest, waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, insect repellent, and a good sleeping bag. We will send you a full detailed packing list after booking so you are fully prepared.
imply contact us through our website or click the Book Now button on this page. We will respond within 24 hours to discuss your travel dates, group size, and any special requirements.