3 day itinerary for Mongolia

Itinerary

Mongolia is a stunning country with vast landscapes, rich culture, and a unique nomadic lifestyle. Here’s a fun and adventurous 3-day itinerary that includes pony riding and takes you to different parts of this beautiful land. Let’s saddle up and dive in!

## Day 1: Ulaanbaatar to Terelj National Park

Morning:

• Start your day in Ulaanbaatar: Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some buuz (steamed dumplings) or a traditional Mongolian breakfast with milk tea.
• Head to Terelj National Park: It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from the city. The scenery is breathtaking, with rolling hills and granite cliffs.

Afternoon:

• Pony Riding Adventure: Once you arrive, you can rent a pony and explore the park. There are guided tours available, and you can ride through the lush valleys and visit the famous Turtle Rock.
• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature or dine at a local ger camp.

Evening:

• Visit a Nomadic Family: Experience the warm hospitality of a local family. You can learn about their lifestyle, try some traditional dairy products, and even participate in making yogurt or cheese.
• Overnight in a Ger Camp: Spend the night in a cozy ger (yurt) and enjoy the starry sky. It’s a magical experience!

## Day 2: Terelj to Khustai National Park

Morning:

• Breakfast in the Ger Camp: Enjoy a traditional breakfast before heading out.
• Travel to Khustai National Park: After breakfast, set off for Khustai, which is about a 2-hour drive. This park is famous for its wild horses, the Takhi (Przewalski's horse).

Afternoon:

• Explore Khustai National Park: Upon arrival, you can take a short hike or a guided tour to spot the wild horses. The landscape is stunning, with rolling hills and open steppe.
• Lunch: Have a packed lunch or eat at a local camp.

Evening:

• Pony Riding in Khustai: If you’re up for it, you can go for another pony ride in the park, enjoying the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
• Return to Ulaanbaatar: Head back to the capital city in the evening.
• Dinner: Treat yourself to a nice dinner at a local restaurant. Try some khorhog (Mongolian barbecue) for a delicious end to your day.

## Day 3: Ulaanbaatar to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

Morning:

• Breakfast in Ulaanbaatar: Start your day with a good breakfast in the city.
• Head to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park: This is a different part of the park, about an hour’s drive from Ulaanbaatar.

Afternoon:

• Pony Riding and Hiking: Rent a pony again and explore the beautiful landscapes. You can ride to the Aryabal Meditation Temple, which offers stunning views of the area.
• Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch or eat at a local ger camp.

Evening:

• Visit the Zaisan Memorial: On your way back to Ulaanbaatar, stop by this memorial for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
• Final Dinner in Ulaanbaatar: Celebrate your adventure with a farewell dinner at a traditional Mongolian restaurant. Don’t forget to try some local beer or vodka!
• Optional Evening Activity: If you have the energy, check out a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance.

And there you have it! A whirlwind 3-day adventure in Mongolia filled with pony riding, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences. Make sure to pack your camera, as you’ll want to capture all the breathtaking views and memorable moments. Enjoy your trip! 🐴🌄