Climb Higher. Travel Deeper. Experience the Altai
Altai Tavan Bogd - Eagle hunters
At 4,374 metres, Khuiten Peak is the highest point in Mongolia and the centerpiece of this expedition. But the journey goes far beyond the summit. With Mongol Trails, you will travel deep into the remote Altai Mountains, where dramatic peaks, glaciers, wide open landscapes and pristine wilderness meet a living nomadic culture that has been shaped by the mountains for generations. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit and stay with a traditional Kazakh eagle hunter, experience their hospitality, and gain a genuine insight into the life, traditions and daily rhythm of one of Mongolia's most distinctive cultural communities. This expedition brings together mountains, wilderness and culture — giving you the opportunity to experience Mongolia beyond the usual tourist routes.
Domestic flights between Ulaanbaatar and Ölgii operate according to the airline’s seasonal schedule. The 2027 domestic flight schedule is expected to be released from March 2027. Flight frequency and operating days may vary depending on the season, airline operations and weather conditions. Flight frequency and operating days may vary depending on the travel season, airline operations and weather conditions.
Flight duration:
The flight from Ulaanbaatar to Ölgii takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Return flight times may vary depending on the aircraft, route and operating conditions.
Baggage Allowance
Domestic flights generally have limited baggage allowances, typically around 15 kgs, although the exact allowance depends on the airline and fare conditions.
We recommend keeping your main luggage within the airline’s permitted allowance and carrying only the essential items you need for the domestic flight.
Excess baggage: Additional charges may apply if your luggage exceeds the permitted allowance. Any applicable excess baggage fees are payable directly to the airline.
Itinerary Flexibility
Mountain expeditions are subject to changing weather, road and mountain conditions. Domestic flight schedules may also change due to seasonal operations or weather. As a result, the expedition itinerary may need to be adjusted when necessary.
Flight times, activities and overnight locations may be rearranged to accommodate local conditions and ensure the safety and comfort of the group.
If additional time is required for the Khuiten Peak summit attempt, the planned reserve day will be used accordingly.
If the summit is successfully completed within the planned schedule, the reserve day may instead be used for rest, exploration or additional time around Khoton and Khurgan Lakes.
Any itinerary adjustments will be made with the safety, comfort and overall experience of the group as our priority.
At a glance
- Duration
- 10 days / 9 nights
- Region
- Bayan - Ulgii province, western Mongolia
- Trip type
- Mountaineering, Highest peak in Mongolia
- Minimum age
- 18 years
- Group
- Small, carefully formed group
- Remote conditions
- Participants should be comfortable with limited facilities, changing weather, long travel days and being away from towns and medical services.
Expedition highlights
Khüiten & Malchin Peak Ascents
Climb Khüiten Peak (4,374 m), the highest point in Mongolia, and Malchin Peak (4,050 m) under the guidance of experienced professional mountain guides. The expedition combines technical climbing, high-altitude terrain and careful acclimatisation in the Altai Mountains.
Kazakh Eagle Hunter Heritage
Experience the rich cultural heritage of western Mongolia’s Kazakh nomadic communities and gain an insight into the centuries-old tradition of hunting with golden eagles. Meet local eagle hunters and experience this living tradition firsthand.
Untouched Alpine Wilderness
Travel through pristine high-altitude landscapes, from fresh mountain meadows and vast valleys to the Khüiten Glacier and surrounding moraine terrain. Experience the scale and beauty of one of the Altai’s most remote mountain environments.
Essential Technical Equipment
The expedition is supported with essential mountaineering equipment, including crampons, climbing ropes, harnesses, ice axes and warm sleeping bags, helping you prepare for the demanding conditions of high-altitude travel and glacier terrain.
Daily itinerary
Travel & activity
Your preferred mode of travel. Domestic flight or local transportation
Stay
Staying either in our expedition tents or with a local family in a traditional yurt
Meals
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance
190 km
Elevation
2,400 m
Our team will meet you at Ulgii Airport before departing by 4WD vehicle into the remote Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. We drive towards the Tsagaan Gol (White River) Valley, a journey of approximately 5–7 hours over rugged terrain. In the evening, we settle beside the Tsagaan Gol River, staying either in our expedition tents or with a local family in a traditional ger. Please note: Facilities in this remote region are basic. There are no modern shower or bathroom facilities, and accommodation is in genuine expedition conditions.
What's included
- Domestic airport transfers and off-road transportation throughout the expedition
- All accommodation listed in the itinerary, including ger camps, tents, and other specified stays
- Experienced mountain guides and local horsemen for horseback riding
- Visit to a Kazakh eagle hunter’s home and an authentic introduction to the traditional art and culture of eagle hunting
- Meals and drinking water as specified in the itinerary
- Expedition team support, essential expedition equipment, and permits for protected areas
What's not included
- International & Domestic airfares
- Personal items / Personal belongings/ medications
- Optional activity fees
- Alcoholic beverages and snacks
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities / Tips for service
- Backpack / Daypack
- Personal porter
- Personal climbing accessories / Props
Before you go
Important Notes
- Activity Levels: Our activity levels are based on internationally recognised trekking standards. Please choose a trip that matches your fitness and experience level.
- Passport Requirements: Please ensure your passport is valid for travel and meets the required validity period for your destination.
- Itinerary Changes: Travel in remote areas can be affected by weather, road and local conditions. The itinerary may therefore be adjusted when necessary.
- Pricing: All tour prices are quoted "per person", unless otherwise stated.
- Custom & Private Tours: Looking for different dates or a more private experience? Contact us to discuss custom dates and private tour options.
Travel insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance including high-altitude trekking/mountaineering and emergency medical evacuation is required.
Equipment
Participants need suitable trekking and mountaineering clothing, footwear and personal equipment. Technical equipment required for the expedition is listed separately.
Fitness and endurance
Previous hiking, trekking or mountaineering experience is recommended but not necessarily required, depending on the expedition. Participants should be physically fit for remote, high-altitude travel and disclose any relevant medical considerations to their doctor before departure. Flexibility, patience and comfort with basic conditions are important, particularly when travelling in remote mountain environments.
What to expect
Mountaineering in Mongolia is a rewarding and physically demanding experience, where the journey is just as important as reaching the summit.
Expect long days in the mountains, early starts, changing weather and remote terrain. Conditions can be unpredictable, requiring flexibility, preparation and teamwork throughout the expedition. Technical and uneven terrain and a sense of achievement.
What you will see
