Tsaatan Reindeer Herders 9 days tour
TSAATAN REINDEER HERDERS 9 DAYS TOUR
Capture Mongolia’s remote reindeer culture in this 9-day photo tour with the Tsaatan people, set deep in the taiga wilderness of the north.
📌 QUICK FACTS
🔍 | TOUR CATEGORY | Filming & Photography |
---|---|---|
📅 | AVAILABILITY | Year-Round |
⏱️ | DURATION | 9 Days, 8 Nights |
📍 | DESTINATION | Northern Mongolia |
🏕️ | ACCOMMODATION | Hotel, Ger Camp, Teepee |
🧭 | ACTIVITY LEVEL | Moderate to Active |
📷 | PHOTO GENRE | Portrait, Landscape, Travel, Night |
🗣️ | GUIDE LANGUAGE | English-speaking photo guide |
🛫 | START/END | Ulaanbaatar |
📸 ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
Explore the photogenic landscapes of Mongolia’s Taiga Mountains and Darkhad Valley
Immerse in the nomadic lifestyle of the Tsaatan (Dukha) people
Capture stunning portraits and daily scenes of reindeer herders in their natural setting
Stay in traditional teepees deep in the wilderness
Ride horseback or reindeer through pristine forest and alpine tundra
Visit local villages and learn about Darkhad and Tsaatan history and culture
Experience shamanic rituals and fireside storytelling
Scenic domestic flight and overland drive through Khuvsgul province
Photograph Khuvsgul Lake—Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl”
Guided by experienced local photography and cultural experts
🦌 WHO ARE THE TSAATAN (DUKHA) PEOPLE?
The Tsaatan, also known as the Dukha, are one of Mongolia’s smallest ethnic groups, numbering just a few hundred people. They live in the remote Taiga forests of Northern Mongolia near the Russian border and are among the last reindeer-herding nomads in the world. Tsaatan families live in teepee-style yurts and migrate seasonally with their reindeer, relying on them for transportation, milk, and spiritual connection. Deeply rooted in shamanistic beliefs, their culture and traditions remain remarkably intact despite modernization. This tour offers an extraordinary chance to live among them and experience their way of life firsthand.
🐾 TOUR PACE
Moderate to Active
This photography tour includes a mix of domestic flights, long drives, horseback or reindeer rides, and stays in remote wilderness settings. You’ll need a basic level of fitness for walking and light riding. While not fast-paced, the tour involves camping and rustic conditions, especially in the taiga.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this tour suitable for beginner photographers?
Yes! Photographers of all levels are welcome. Our guides assist with framing, light, and composition.
Can I charge my camera batteries in the wilderness?
Limited solar charging is available. Bring extra batteries and power banks.
What’s the accommodation like?
Hotels in Ulaanbaatar and Murun, ger camps near Khuvsgul Lake, and teepees in the taiga with the Tsaatan.
Will there be translation during interactions with locals?
Yes, your guide will translate during all interactions with Tsaatan families.
Are there any age restrictions?
We recommend this tour for ages 16 and above due to the remoteness and basic facilities.
🎒 WHAT TO BRING
DSLR or mirrorless camera with wide-angle and portrait lenses
Tripod for landscape and night photography
Power bank and spare batteries
Waterproof and warm clothing (layers recommended)
Hiking boots
Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Personal hygiene items and medications
Notebook for journaling or documenting experiences
Gifts for host families (optional but appreciated)
TSAATAN REINDEER HERDERS 9 DAYS TOUR PACKAGE PRICE
Group size | 1 pax | 2-3 pax | 4-6 pax | 7-9 pax | 10-12 pax | 13-15 pax | More than 16 pax |
Price/Per person | 4230$ | 3220$ | 3150$ | 3080$ | 2990$ | 2700$ | 2500$ |
No | Include service | Exclude service | Include service of Meals |
1 | Vehicle with a driver. | Items of personal nature | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
2 | English speaking guide | Beverages, alcoholic drinks, bar bills, laundry | Per day 3 bottle water for per person /1,5 liter/ |
3 | Accommodation/Ger camps and Hotel/ | Travel and insurance | One time Mongolian traditional food /lamb with vegetables/ |
4 | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | International transportation | |
5 | All cooking and camping gears. | Taxi | |
6 | Airport shuttle | Optional activities | |
7 | National park and border office permits (area you will go is close to China and Russia border) | Single supplement /For hotel or Ger camp/ | |
8 | Domestic flight tickets | Gratuity for the tour team |
TSAATAN REINDEER HERDERS 9 DAYS TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1 - Ulaanbaatar capital city of Mongolia

Upon your arrival at Chinggis Khan International Airport, our dedicated driver and guide will warmly welcome you. We'll start your exploration by driving to your selected hotel, ensuring a comfortable and convenient transfer. The adventure kicks off with a visit to the vibrant local outdoor market, where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, exploring the diverse array of goods and experiencing the local culture. Next on the itinerary is a visit to the magnificent Gandan Monastery, a spiritual and cultural center adorned with traditional architecture and Buddhist significance. You'll have the opportunity to witness the serene ambiance and perhaps engage in a moment of contemplation. Following the spiritual journey, we'll delve into Mongolia's rich history at the National Museum, providing insights into the country's past, traditions, and cultural heritage. It's a captivating experience to better understand the unique tapestry of Mongolia's story. As the day winds down, you'll have leisure time in Ulaanbaatar city to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to stroll through the city streets, indulge in local cuisine, or simply relax, the evening is yours to enjoy. Rest assured, your overnight stay at the hotel will provide a comfortable and restful conclusion to your first day in Mongolia. Get ready for more adventures that await you in this enchanting land.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Hotel | Dinner |
Day 2 - Khuvsgul lake, Murun city, Khuvsgul province

Embark on a domestic flight to Murun town, where you'll be warmly welcomed at the local airport. Following this, journey towards the breathtaking Khuvsgul Lake, often referred to as the "Blue Pearl." This natural wonder is the second-largest freshwater lake globally, nestled amidst stunning pine-covered mountains. Enjoy a leisurely time at the lakeshore, taking in the serene beauty and capturing the reflection of countless stars on the tranquil blue waters. Your overnight stay will be in a comfortable ger camp, enhancing your connection with the pristine surroundings.
Distance | Route | fly time | Accommodation | Food |
850km | Air route | 2 hours | Hotel | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 3 - Khuvsgul lake

Embark on a captivating half-day photography session amidst the awe-inspiring landscape of the Khovsgol Lake area, where you'll be surrounded by a symphony of stunning colors. This immersive experience will not only offer you the chance to capture the breathtaking scenery but also provide valuable tips and tricks to elevate your photography skills. Following this enchanting session, the journey takes you to Tsagaan Nuur village, a unique settlement of the Tsaatan people. As you drive through the Darkhad Depression, immerse yourself in one of Mongolia's must-photograph landscapes. This region is celebrated for its extraordinary natural beauty, featuring rugged mountains, serene meadows, marvelous lakes, and crisp, clear air—an ideal backdrop for your photographic pursuits. Every moment in this picturesque setting becomes an opportunity to create lasting memories through your lens.
Distance | Route | fly time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 4 - Ulaan Uul village

The Darkhad Valley, nestled between the Ulaan-Uul, Renchinlkhumbe, and Tsagaannuur sums, is a captivating region marked by its rich cultural tapestry and diverse inhabitants. Primarily home to the Darkhad people, from whom the valley draws its name, and also inhabited by the Tsaatan community, this area spans an expansive 4270 km². The valley's history is intertwined with geopolitical shifts, as it was transferred from the People's Republic of Tagna Tuva to the Mongolian People's Republic in 1925. This transfer occurred as a Soviet concession to the Mongolians, reflecting the complex dynamics of the time. The Mongolian desire to incorporate the territory of Tagna Uriankhai played a role in these historical developments, shaping the cultural landscape that defines the Darkhad Valley today.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
200km | off road | 6 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 5 - Reindeer family

Embark on an immersive journey into the lives of the Tsaatan, a nomadic community with a unique way of life centered around reindeer herding. As you visit a Reindeer family in the pristine wilderness, you'll have the opportunity to witness and document their daily routines, cultural practices, and the profound connection they share with their reindeer companions. Capture the mesmerizing scenes of Tsaatan life against the backdrop of the vast, untouched landscapes that characterize this remote region. Engage in meaningful photography sessions with the reindeer families, capturing the symbiotic relationship between humans and animals that defines their existence. Learn about their traditional practices, folklore, and the challenges they face in preserving their age-old way of life. This encounter with the Tsaatan promises not only stunning visual opportunities but also a deeper understanding of a nomadic culture intricately woven into the fabric of the Mongolian wilderness.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
150km | Offroad | 4 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 6 - Reindeer Famliy

Embark on a captivating exploration of the Tsaatan community's way of life, delving into the intricate tapestry of their daily routines and cultural practices centered around reindeer herding. Spend your morning immersing yourself in the unique lifestyle of different Reindeer families, gaining insights into their traditions, rituals, and the harmonious bond they share with their reindeer companions. This immersive experience provides ample opportunities to engage with the community, learn about their storytelling, and capture the essence of their nomadic existence through photography. Enjoy the company of the Tsaatan families, share in their traditions, and appreciate the delicate balance they maintain with nature in this remote and enchanting corner of Mongolia.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 7 - Ulaan Uul village

As we embark on the next leg of our journey, the road to Murun city unfolds before us like a ribbon of discovery, winding through landscapes that are both rugged and serene. Our first pause is nestled in the heart of Ulaan Uul village, a place where time seems to slow, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the traditions and rhythms of local life. As the sun sets on this picturesque village, we anticipate the adventures that await us on the morrow. With the break of dawn, our caravan will resume its course, tracing the path toward Murun city. Each mile traversed is a step deeper into the soul of Mongolia, where the vast expanses and hidden gems of this enchanting land unveil themselves in splendid harmony. The journey is not just about the destination; it's about the moments etched into the fabric of the road, the stories whispered by the wind, and the anticipation of the unknown awaiting us in Murun city.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
150km | Offroad | 3 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 8 - Murun city, Khuvsgul province

Embarking on the road to Murun city, our expedition takes us through the heart of Darkhan nomad territory. Along the way, the nomads' timeless way of life unfolds like a living tapestry against the backdrop of Mongolia's wild and untamed nature. The vast expanses stretch before us, revealing the symbiotic dance between the nomads and the land they call home. As we traverse this landscape, every passing mile becomes a chapter in the story of the Darkhan nomads—a narrative woven with the threads of tradition, resilience, and the ebb and flow of nomadic existence. The journey itself becomes a testament to the profound connection between the nomads and the untamed beauty of Mongolia, an intimate exploration of a lifestyle that has stood the test of time. The road to Murun city becomes a conduit for experiencing the synergy between humanity and nature, where each bend in the path holds the promise of a new revelation. In this journey, the destination is not just a place on the map but a gateway to understanding the soul of the nomadic spirit and the wilderness that cradles it.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
200km | off road | 6 hours | Ger camp | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 9 - Ulaanbaatar city

Commencing the day with an early start, our expedition sets the course for Murun, ensuring a timely return for your flight to Ulaanbaatar. The journey retraces the scenic path, with each passing mile echoing the tales of the nomadic landscapes and the enduring spirit of the Darkhan nomads. Upon arrival in Murun, a seamless transition awaits as a dedicated driver and comfortable vehicle stand ready to usher you back to Ulaanbaatar. This return journey becomes a reflective interlude, allowing the memories of the wilderness and nomadic encounters to settle, much like the dust stirred by the nomads' timeless existence. As you make your way back to Ulaanbaatar, the transition from the vast Mongolian landscapes to the urban heartbeat of the capital encapsulates the diverse facets of Mongolia. The journey's bookend in Ulaanbaatar becomes a nexus where the nomadic odyssey converges with the pulse of modernity, creating a holistic experience that spans the cultural spectrum of this remarkable nation.
Distance | Route | fly time | Accommodation | Food |
850km | Air route | 2 hours | Hotel | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 10 - Home sweet home

As your time in Ulaanbaatar concludes, our dedicated driver will ensure a timely drop-off at Chinggis Khan International Airport. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for choosing to explore the wonders of Mongolia with us.
Thank you for being part of our journey, and we hope the memories created during your visit will linger as souvenirs of a truly enriching experience. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Mongolia in the future. Until then, farewell and bon voyage!
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
70km | Highway | 1 hour | n/a | Breakfast |
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