This unique journey combines mountain biking through Mongolia’s remote valleys with a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the Dukha, the last reindeer-herding people in the country.
Fly from Ulaanbaatar to Mörön, the northern center of the province, on a domestic flight, and return the same way. From Mörön, set out cycling toward the vast and stunning Darkhad Valley, a pristine expanse of forests, rivers, and alpine meadows. The ride takes you through untouched wilderness where nomadic families graze their herds, and crystal-clear rivers flow between endless rolling hills.
At the edge of the taiga forest, the adventure shifts from wheels to hooves. You’ll continue by horseback for a full day’s ride, venturing deep into the larch forests where the Dukha people live with their reindeer. This transition from mountain biking to horse riding is not only practical but also a cultural bridge, echoing the traditional way nomads have traveled through these landscapes for centuries.
Spending time with the Dukha reindeer herding families is the heart of this adventure. You’ll witness their unique way of life, shaped by the taiga, their deep bond with the reindeer, and traditions that trace back generations. Few travelers ever make it this far, and the hospitality of the Dukha — combined with the beauty of their homeland — makes this journey truly unforgettable.