Season & Travel Style

This itinerary operates from November through March, when the northern taiga transforms into a world of ice and silence. Days are crisp and bright, with temperatures often below −15°C, but the warmth of log cabins and local hospitality makes it an unforgettable experience. Expect a mix of short drives, local horse rides, and immersive cultural encounters with the Tsaatan herders.

• Accommodation

Hotels in Ulaanbaatar – Comfortable 3★ hotels with private bathrooms, heating, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. Jargant Lodge – Cozy riverside lodge built from timber, offering warm cabins, shared bathroom facilities, and home-cooked meals. Evenings are spent by the wood stove with tea or wine, surrounded by the quiet of the taiga. Lakeside Ger Camp (Khuvsgul) – Standard winterized ger camp with twin-bed gers, stoves, shared bathrooms, and hot showers.

Meals

Meals are included as indicated. Expect hearty Mongolian dishes such as soups, dumplings, and stews, alongside international options. Vegetarian meals are available with prior notice. Bottled water is provided daily.

Transportation

Travel Buddies uses reliable 4WD vehicles suitable for winter travel, driven by experienced local drivers. Domestic flights are operated by MIAT between Ulaanbaatar and Murun.

Guides

Your English-speaking Travel Buddies guide will accompany you throughout the trip. Local taiga guides and horse wranglers assist during visits to the reindeer camps for safety and local connection.

Typical Daily Schedule

07:30–08:30 Breakfast at lodge or camp 09:00–12:30 Morning visit or activity 12:30–13:30 Lunch stop 14:00–17:00 Cultural experience or scenic drive 18:00–19:00 Arrive at camp or lodge 19:30–20:00 Dinner and free time

Connectivity

Mobile signal is available in towns and near Lake Khuvsgul, but not in the taiga. Some lodges offer Starlink Wi-Fi, though connections can be intermittent — an ideal time to disconnect and enjoy the silence.

When to Travel

Best months: December – February for deep winter landscapes, reindeer migration, and frozen lakes. November & March offer softer temperatures and snow-fringed forests. Average daytime temperature: −10°C to −20°C / Nighttime: −20°C to −30°C. Warm clothing, thermal layers, and insulated boots are essential.

What to Expect

A deeply immersive and serene winter adventure into Mongolia’s far north. Expect rustic but comfortable lodges, slow travel, and meaningful encounters with the Tsaatan reindeer people. This is a journey for travelers seeking connection, quiet, and the beauty of Mongolia’s frozen wilderness.  

Booking & Payment

To confirm your booking, a 30% deposit is required, payable via online payment (Visa or Mastercard) or bank transfer. Please note that card payments incur a 3% processing fee, which is borne by the client. Bank transfers do not have any additional charges. The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to your tour departure. There are no hidden fees beyond the card processing cost. Please review our Terms & Conditions for full details. Kindly note that bookings close one month before the tour departure date. 💛 Come as Guests, Leave as Buddies.