How we work
Safety and preparation
Remote travel is about experiencing Mongolia as it is, not expecting the comforts of home. A flexible attitude, patience and a sense of adventure will take you a long way.
What to expect
- Limited or no showers, running water and mobile reception in remote areas
- Basic toilets and simple accommodation, including gers, cabins or tents
- Long days outdoors in changing weather conditions
- Limited access to shops and medical services
- Travel by horse and 4WD across remote terrain
- Bring only what you need and be prepared to carry your personal essentials
Preparing for remote travel
Our expeditions take you far from the usual tourist trail, where comfort is simple, facilities are limited and nature sets the pace. Being prepared and adaptable is part of the adventure.
Fitness expectations
You'll need good general fitness, stamina and the ability to ride for extended periods, walk over uneven terrain and manage basic camping or remote-living conditions. For reindeer riding, the general weight limit is 75–80 kg to protect the wellbeing of the animals. That said, we don't want physical limitations to stop you from experiencing Mongolia — talk to us.
Horse-riding requirements
Our expeditions involve long hours in the saddle across remote, uneven terrain. You don't need to be an expert rider, but you should be comfortable riding independently at a walk and able to manage a horse outdoors. Beginners can join suitable expeditions with some preparation.
Prepare for your expedition
Build up your riding time gradually, practise riding for several hours at a time, work on balance, core strength and stamina, break in comfortable riding boots before departure, and let us know about your riding experience so we can help you prepare.
Remote accommodation
Depending on the expedition, you may stay in traditional gers, cabins, tents or simple local accommodation. Facilities can be basic, with limited or no running water, showers or mobile reception. We ask our explorers to come prepared, adaptable and respectful of the environment and local hosts.
Our safety planning
Your safety is important to us. Mongolia is a remote destination, and our expeditions are carefully planned around the environment, local conditions and the activities involved. We provide pre-trip guidance so you know what to expect and how to prepare.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is essential for every Mongol Trails expedition. Your policy must cover multi-day horse riding, remote and wilderness travel, medical treatment and emergency evacuation, trip cancellation and interruption, and lost or damaged luggage. Check the wording carefully, as standard policies may not cover horse riding or remote evacuation. We may ask for proof of suitable insurance before you travel.
If Mongolia is on your bucket list, don't let uncertainty hold you back. Talk to us and we'll help you understand what to expect and how to prepare.
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