The Wild Spirit of the Steppe

The track takes us into the heart of the Orkhon Valley with several ford crossings and small hills. We notice that the landscapes become ever more mountainous. The steppes gradually give way to the rugged foothills of the Khanghai volcanic mountains. We arrive mid-afternoon at our hosts' place, near the Orkhon waterfalls.

Early in the morning, we explore our camp. We make the most of the calm and visit one of the region's most beautiful waterfalls. On the way back, we help the family chef prepare a typical nomad dish. We set off again after lunch, enjoying the tracks and a slalom between volcanic rocks.

We head northeast on superb tracks. We ride alongside Orkhon river one last time. By lunchtime, we arrive at the ancient capital of Genghis Khan’s empire: Karakorum. In the museum, we immerse ourselves in the history of the capital and the steppe empires pre- and post-Genghis Khan, and then have lunch.

Today, we visit the Khogno Khan dunes, nicknamed "Mini Gobi". For eons the steppe winds have carried sand to the foot of Mount Khogno Khan (1,967 m), creating a long stretch of dunes spanning around 50 miles. Called Elsen Tasarkhai, the name literally means "an isolated torn-off piece of sand". We take on plenty of tracks and make the most of some wild riding, as the end of the tour is in sight!

We make our way back to Ulan Bator on a wonderful stretch of asphalt crossing the desert plains, then the steppes. This is our last day to soak up these mind-blowing landscapes. We end the day in the capital. You’re transferred to the hotel and you have a free late afternoon and evening.

Those with a late flight can have a free day in the city. You can enjoy the capital’s unique atmosphere, which is both harsh and welcoming at the same time. Ulan Bator is one of those cities that everyone has an opinion about. A taxi will take you to the airport, where our services end.