Welcome to Mongolia! Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar the capital city of Mongolia, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.
Overnight – Novotel Ulaanbaatar or similar
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10.06-19.06.27 scheduled
Itinerary
Mongolia - one of Asia's last frontiers and one of the world’s last unspoilt destinations. Travel by horse to the nomadic Tsaachin tribe who have a spiritual connection the reindeer herds that they live with. Once a thriving community, the Tsaachin tribe has dwindled in recent years leaving only 200-400 members left in northern Mongolia. This specialist photography tour with leading photographer Chris Van Ryn is the perfect way to explore and mingle with this shrinking tribe in the spectacular landscapes of Mongolia whilst improving your photography skills. Become more confident with your equipment and return from your journey with spectacular images, memories and new found knowledge. Mingle with friendly nomads as you learn their way of life. Ride through lush meadows, wooded hills and ruins from the ancient Mongolian Empire before reaching the magnificent turquoise Lake Khuvsgul, known in Mongolia as ‘Blue Pearl’.
The Tsaachin or Tsaatan’s entire existence is based on their reindeer herds which provide them with milk for producing cheese, antlers for carving and medicinal purposes, transportation and on the odd occasion, meat. Part of the Tuvan ethnic group, this small tribe is truly nomadic, regularly moving in search for a rare type of lichen and grass for their reindeer. The Tsaachin people do not stay in the traditional Mongolian gers we commonly recognise as a symbol on the country, but live in urts, similar to the Native American teepees which were traditionally made from birch bark.
A culture rich in Shamanism, these spiritual healers play an important role to the community providing traditional remedies for injury and illness. Previously a self sufficient tribe with only their reindeers, the Tsaachin now have to forage for berries, wild potato and pine nuts in the Autumn as well as occasionally fish or hunt to simply survive. The reindeer are said to have been domesticated several thousands of years ago and play a key role in the spiritual, socio economic and linguistic traditional of the local community.
Your visit to the reindeer herding people plays an important role to help them and their culture survive. Although very few travellers venture into this realm, our tourism initiative provides them with a supplemental income and cultural exchange education for both our travellers and local Tsaachin people. To spend time with these tribes people is truly remarkable and brimming with cultural practices that provide a deep insight into this fascinating way of life.
Travelling on horseback is the best way to reach the remote settlement with a full support crew of guides, cooks and horse tenders there to assist. Sleep in teepees like the locals and after visiting this isolated land, continue on through the spectacular scenery of rolling mountains, lush forests before venturing the turquoise waters of Lake Khuvsgul.
Tour program
Day 1
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar
Day 2
Ulaanbaatar - Flight to Murun – Ujig River Valley
Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Khuvsgul province in northern Mongolia (1.5hrs). On arrival at local airport of Murun, the centre of the Khuvsgul, you will meet your driver and drive for an hour before stopping for a picnic lunch. You will cross rivers and passes and take in the scenic view over the mountain ranges. Breathe the fresh mountain air as you explore this spectacular scenery. Here you will be surrounded by stunning towering rocky mountains. The view from our campground is spectacular.
This evening, we will be camping in tents. A shower tent, toilet and kitchen tent are also provided. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camping in tents
Day 3
Ujig River Valley - Ulaan Uul
Today is a long travel day, driving through mostly wilderness. You will officially enter the shamanic region and visit the 13 ovoo shrine where you will stop to participate in offerings. Continue driving through Ulaan Uul town (5.5 hrs) and from there it is another 1.5 hrs to our tented camping site. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camping in tents
Day 4
Ulaan Uul Town - Tsagaan Nuur Town – East Taiga
Today we will continue driving towards East Taiga, and as we drive we will see lots of nomad families and animals such as yaks and horses. First, we will drive to Tsagaan Nuur (approx. 3 hrs) before continuing beyond the town for another 2 hours to East Taiga, where our campsite is located.
Overnight – Camping in tents
Day 5
Horse Ride to Tsaachin Community
This morning you will meet your local horse specialist guides and trail finders and of course, your horses. After having a brief instruction on riding Mongolian horses, you will get acquainted with your own horse before it is time to set off.
We will then begin riding through the Taiga, the region where part of the Tsaachin communities live. You will be introduced to the amazing but sadly dwindling world of the reindeer-herding people (Tsaachin). Due to the marshy road conditions, we will not use vehicles to reach the area, our entire luggage and food supply will be transported by horses. Horse riding today will likely be approx. 4-5 hours, however it can be up to 8-9 hours, dependant on where the nomadic Tsaachin communities are located at the time, and the riding abilities of the group. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you make your way on horseback to the Tsaachin people.
Upon arrival into the Tsaachin community, you will meet the local families and settle into your Tsaachin teepee, a traditional structure used by Mongolia’s reindeer herders. It is similar in appearance to a Native American tipi but adapted for the unique needs of the herding lifestyle in Mongolia’s taiga region. Inside the teepee, a cast iron stove – like the ones commonly found in a traditional Mongolian ger – is placed at the centre for warmth and cooking. (B,L,D)
Overnight – local Tsaachin teepee
Day 6
Tsaachin Community
Spend the next day staying amongst the Tsaachin people and experience their everyday life. Learn of their unique traditions such as milking reindeer and processing milk products like cheese. Spend time talking with the local people and understanding their local culture and how they have managed to maintain such a traditional way of life for so long.
You will have the opportunity to ride through the Taiga forest where the area is so energetic and mysterious. Explore Bor Khuyag river valley, which is rich in crystals and other minerals. Take in the beauty of the larch forest and wildflower patches. Be inspired and gain power while meditating in untouched wilderness.
You may also have the chance to meet a traditional shaman. Shamanism is a traditional spiritual belief system based on worshipping nature and plays an important part in Tsaachin life. The shaman acts as a healer, providing traditional remedies for ailments to the local people. They also perform many mystical holy rituals and use many different magic charms in their daily life, for hunting, calling, and preventing the rain. In the community you will be staying in, there are 2 shaman, one who is very old, and a younger female shaman. While not guaranteed, we will hope to meet one of the shaman’s, talk to them about their lives, and possibly receive a blessing. (B,L,D)
Overnight – local Tsaachin teepee
Day 7
Taiga to Hooloi Lake
This morning is a free morning at the reindeer herder’s camp before beginning we ride on horseback back down the mountain. We will ride to Hooloi Lake, where we will bid farewell to your horses as the journey continues by vehicle from this point onward.
We will take the rest of the afternoon to rest and soak in the beauty of this stunning location. Whether you choose to unwind or explore on foot, it’s the perfect spot to recharge.
Overnight – Camping in tents
Day 8
Darkhad Depression
Today you will discover the Darkhad Depression, also known as Darkhad Valley, a remote, high-altitude valley that was once glaciated, leading to its dramatic landscape.
Walk through an icy gorge and experience the stark beauty of the icy landscape. From here we continue to our campsite. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camping in tents
Day 9
Beltes
After breakfast at your campsite, travel to the home of a nomadic family who have livestock such as yaks, sheep and goats. You will be their guests for the night, camping near their gers and learning about their daily lives. You can get involved as much as you like – perhaps try your hand at driving sheep, ride a horse or learn how to milk a yak. Share meals and enjoy time alongside the family, observing how they work with their animals and manage daily life in this remote environment. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camping in tents
Day 10
Beltes Gol River
Today, you’ll travel through a narrow river valley surrounded by beautiful mountains. The area is remote, with few nomadic families or animals along the 6.5-7-hour drive. We’ll arrive at our campsite for our final night of wilderness camping.
Overnight – Camping in tents
Day 11
Khuvsgul Lake
This morning, farewell your cook and crew before you drive to the shore of the blue pearl, Lake Khuvsgul, stopping at Khatgal town enroute. The Lake is sacred and is known as the ‘Mother Lake’ to Mongolians and holds 2% of the worlds fresh water. Khuvsgul Lake is surrounded by beautiful high mountains of the Khoridol Saridag and Bayan Mountain Ranges, along the west shore. Even though it is summer, some parts of the lake will be icy. This area is often referred to as Mongolia’s most scenic region and you will certainly see why.
This afternoon, dependant on weather conditions, you will take a boat ride on the lake (40min-1hr) for a different perspective from the water of the spectacular surrounds. You will also have some time at leisure where you can enjoy walking along the lake shore or hike through the surrounding mountains to take in the panoramic view over the lake. This evening, build up your appetite for an authentic Mongolian barbeque! This will be prepared in the traditional way with the meat grilled with hot stones which gives it a unique taste. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Standard Ger Camp with shared bathroom facilities
Day 12
Flight to Ulaanbaatar
This morning, drive back to Murun town. Transfer to the domestic airport for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. This evening, enjoy a local folk concert as your farewell dinner. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Novotel Ulaanbaatar or similar
Day 13
Departure
This morning is at leisure until it is time to transfer to airport for your onwards departure. (B)
Cancellation Policy
Prices
In the unlikely event of price increases from our suppliers, taxes or a reduction in numbers of passengers travelling below the minimum passenger numbers, Crooked Compass reserves the right to pass on these increases in costs to passengers. This may occur with or without warning to the passengers. In the unlikely event that a tour fails to attract the minimum passenger numbers, the tour may be cancelled at the discretion of Crooked Compass. Crooked Compass may also cancel, at its discretion, any tour for operational or other reasons. If a tour is cancelled, monies already paid by passengers will be refunded or credited towards future travel. Crooked Compass will not be responsible for any other travel arrangements affected by, or costs imposed because of, our cancellation.
Crooked Compass reserves the rights to correct any errors in rates quoted or calculated, or any omissions made at any time during your booking. Any verbal quote given is an indication only of the final price and is subject to confirmation in writing.
Pricing Validity
Itineraries and prices advertised are based on exchange rates as at 01 Jan 2017. Once a customer has paid in full, the price of the tour is guaranteed, subject to any tax changes or levies imposed by any government or their agencies or any airline. Crooked Compass reserves the right to make alterations to itineraries and prices due to circumstances beyond their control.
Deposits
A non-refundable deposit of AUD$1000 per person, per tour, is required to secure your place on each tour within 7 days of booking. For tours that include domestic flights or permits, payment in full for these is required at the time of deposit. Some hotels may require pre-payment in peak seasons. You will be advised of this at time of booking. For bookings under the value of AUD$1000, full payment is required to secure your place. By sending a deposit you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions set forth on this website.
Final Payment
Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to travel on your Crooked Compass tour unless otherwise specified. Should you not make your final payment by this deadline, Crooked Compass reserves the right to cancel your place. Regular cancellation fees will apply.
Cancellations
All cancellations must be received in writing and will be subject to the following cancellation charges from the date the written cancellation is received.
More than 60 days prior to departure; loss of deposit plus any administration fees
Between 59 - 45 days prior to departure; 25% of total tour cost
Betwen 44 - 39 prior to departure; 50% of total tour cost
38 days or less prior to departure; 100% of total tour cost
Any ‘no show’; 100% of total tour cost
International or domestic flights that form part of your itinerary, permits and any accommodation that requires pre-payment must be paid for in full at the time of deposit and are non-refundable.
Please note that employees of any overseas ground suppliers are not authorised to give any guarantees or agreements to customers in respect of refund or any other matters.
The above mentioned cancellation fees are in addition to any that may be charged by travel agents, airlines, hotels or other tour operators. Regrettably cancellation charges and fees cannot be waived.
Refunds
To the extent permitted by law, no refund is available for cancellations after travel has commenced or in respect of any tours, accommodation, meals or any other services not utilised.
Amendments
The following fees will apply:
Amendments to confirmed and deposited itineraries outside of 30 days prior to departure where the value of the booking is decreased - AUD$25 per change (a change to the booking that increases the value will incur no fee)
Amendments within 30 days prior of departure - AUD$50 per change
Reissue of airline tickets - AUD$100 per person (other fees may apply)
Booking of only 3 nights accommodation or less - AUD$30 per booking
Rail tickets and passes only - AUD$50 per booking
Amendments after departure, loss of cancelled services, plus a fee of AUD$50 per person per change
NOTE: Once a booking is confirmed, name transfers are not permitted as this will be regarded as a cancellation - See ‘Cancellation’ for applicable fees and details
Travel documents
Travel documents will be sent to you approximately 21 days prior to departure (providing full payment has been received). If you are leaving home earlier, please advise us so that we can deliver your documents before you depart.
Guaranteed departures
Tours marked as ‘Guaranteed Departures’ are guaranteed to depart, regardless of passenger numbers. Please note that we reserve the right to withdraw this guarantee for a force majeure event including but not limited to terrorist attack, economic downturn and war, client safety at risk or for operational reasons such as a the late cancellation of a group parties causing passenger numbers to be below minimum operating numbers.
Should a tour be cancelled due to minimum numbers not being met or unforeseen circumstances as stated above, you will be offered a full refund or offered a replacement travel option.
Airport transfers
On tours that offer airport transfers as an inclusion, an airport transfer to/from your hotel will be provided on the arrival and departure day of the tour (within the ground suppliers operating hours). Flight details must be provided to Crooked Compass. Documentation will not be released until this information is provided. Once transfers are booked they cannot be changed. Only one inbound and one outbound transfer will be included. In the event of flight delays outside Crooked Compass' control, the transfers will be deemed to be cancelled. All transfers are based on group transfers, and no refund is available for missed transfers or passengers not using the transfer service. Airport transfers are provided as a service to passengers and it is the responsibility of the passenger to ensure that any airport transfer will allow them enough time to connect with their flights. Crooked Compass will not be responsible for any flight delays or cancellations caused by the late arrival or departure of an airport transfer, or for cancellation fees associated with a missed flight.
Airline Fuel Levy Surcharge
Since 2004 all airlines servicing flights have been charging a fuel levy surcharge, on top of the normal airline ticket price, in order to cover the increased cost of aviation fuel. As fuel prices have fluctuated, so too has the amount the airlines charge for this levy. This amount is detailed against every tour featured and will also be advised to you at the time of your booking and is subject to change until your airline ticket is issued.
Product descriptions, maps and photographs
Descriptions of tours, attractions and accommodation provided on this website are based on information provided by hotels and suppliers. Any facilities shown as included may change at any time. Crooked Compass makes no representation as to the standard, class or description of accommodation or services provided by third parties. Maps are shown for general information and do not necessarily reflect actual routings, locations or services provided. Photographs may show places in the general area visited, but not necessarily included in the tour. Many of the images are supplied courtesy of tourist bureaux, hotels and tour operators. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided to passengers; however, Crooked Compass cannot be held responsible for typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances.
Travel insurance
It is a condition of travel that each passenger is adequately covered by an appropriate travel insurance policy for duration of travel. Please also check the contingencies of your prospective insurance cover and ensure you are aware of its conditions and omissions. We strongly advise travel insurance from time of booking to provide full cover.
Health Requirements
All customers are required to familiarise themselves with any health requirements specific to countries being visited. All customers should visit their doctor for these aforementioned purposes and/or to confirm that they are physically able to undertake the day-to-day requirements of the tour.
Crooked Compass does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical attention will be provided by a local facility at the passenger’s expense. Crooked Compass is not responsible or liable for any losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on tour, or for the quality of the care or services provided.
Passports and Visas
It is the responsibility of the passenger to have a valid passport (which is valid for at least six months from your last day of travel) and all visas, permits and certificates required for the selected tour. Ask your travel agent for further information. Responsibility for documentation accuracy, passport validity and dispatch of documents rests with the customer. Crooked Compass accepts no responsibility for any failure in this respect.
Baggage
Please check with your airline for applicable baggage allowances. Where a tour includes hotel porterage, this includes one standard suitcase per person, and only applies when the passengers are travelling as part of the group. Porterage is not included when passengers check in and out of a hotel at the start and end of a tour. All baggage and personal effects are at all times and in all circumstances at the risk of the tour participant. Baggage insurance is recommended.
Single travel
On group tours, if you are travelling as a single passenger, you can request that we try to match you in a twin share room with another single passenger of the same sex. Should we not be able to match you in a twin share room by the final tour balance payment date, the single room supplement rate will apply. Should you be matched with another person we cannot be held responsible if the choice is not to your satisfaction. Any twin match must understand that the room must be treated as a non-smoking room unless both parties agree otherwise. Single rooms may be smaller than twin rooms. The Single Supplement represents a fee passed on to us by the hotels for sole use of a room.
Refusal of Carriage
Crooked Compass retains the right to remove customers from our tours for reasons that impact on the enjoyment or safety of other passengers, such as, but not limited to, the physical, medical, mental inability of customers to undertake the arrangements of the holiday, unsocial or unruly behaviour, or the carriage of prohibited substances or materials. Onward travel arrangements will be at the omitted travellers expense.
Variations
All possible effort will be made to adhere to the published touring itinerary. Occasionally circumstances beyond our control will force cancellations, changes, amendments or modifications to the itinerary and its inclusions such as particular events and services. Crooked Compass cannot be held responsible for any omissions or modifications to the itinerary or the inclusions made as a consequence of these changes.
Pre-departure contact
You must provide a telephone number, email or address where you can be reached, if necessary. Documentation will not be released until this information is provided.
Not included in the price
Anything not specifically included in the tour is at your own expense.
Air travel
Air travel is subject to the conditions and limitations set out in the airline's conditions of carriage. Airfares are subject to change at any time.
Booking arrangements
The person making a booking will be deemed to have accepted these booking conditions on behalf of everyone named in the booking. Only the person making the booking is authorised to make changes to or cancel the booking. All communications from us will usually be sent to your travel agent. Your travel agent is responsible for forwarding payments made by you to us.
Limitation of liability
To the extent permitted by law, Crooked Compass excludes all liability for any loss or damage whatsoever (including but not limited to physical and psychological injury, and loss or damage to property of whatever nature) that may arise in any way in connection with the offer or supply of goods or services through Crooked Compass or any third parties, or in connection with the supply of such goods or services. If the law implies a condition or warranty that cannot be excluded, Crooked Compass' liability for a breach of the conditions or warranty will be limited as determined by Crooked Compass to the re-supply or payment of the cost of re-supplying the relevant goods or services. Except where otherwise stated within these terms and conditions Crooked Compass excludes liability for any loss or damage that may be caused by cancellation, abandonment, alteration, amendment, modification or termination of the tour.
Events beyond our control
If a tour cannot proceed due to a force majeure event including but not limited to flood, earthquake, war or civil strife, acts of terrorism, hurricane, cyclone, industrial disturbance, strike, fire, lock out, epidemic, failure or delays of scheduled transportation facilities, or other Acts of God, or any law, order, decree, rule or regulation of any government authority, or for any reason whether of a similar or dissimilar nature beyond the control of Crooked Compass, this agreement shall terminate and there shall be no claim for damages by either party against the other.
Destination advice
Crooked Compass makes no representations as to the safety, conditions or other issues that may exist at any destination. You should obtain travel advice for your relevant government bodies.
Complaints procedure
Should you have a complaint while on the tour, you should inform your tour guide immediately. If the matter cannot be resolved after the tour guide’s best endeavours to do so during the tour, your complaint can be made in writing to Crooked Compass.
Crooked Compass cannot be held responsible for issues that were not brought to our attention during the course of a tour.
Agent Responsibility
It is the travel agents’ responsibility to ensure that all invoice and itinerary details and documentation issued by Crooked Compass are correct and that the customer is aware of amendment and cancellation conditions and other clauses in these booking conditions.
ATAS
Crooked Compass is a member of the Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS) which is administered by the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA). ATAS travel agents have met strict standards and criteria in order to become nationally accredited. Their accreditation means they are the best in the industry, financially viable, credible, well trained and professional businesses. This means you can book your travel knowing you're in the safe hands of a trusted and reputable travel agent. See www.atas.com.au for more information.
Australian and New Zealand Bookings
All components purchased through Crooked Compass' Australian office (Crooked Compass Pty Ltd) are protected by a client trust account where monies are held until your departure or the full cost of your services have been paid for by us. This relates mainly to bookings from Australia and New Zealand.
Travel Agents
All clients booking through a travel agent are financially protected by the travel agent's own protection scheme, which you should check carefully before purchasing your travel arrangements. Crooked Compass is not financially liable for bookings due to the insolvency of your travel agent.
Law of contract
This agreement shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of New South Wales, Australia.
Tour Details
Accommodation
12 nights accommodation
Tents when camping
Transport
Return airport transfers
Domestic flights Ulaanbaatar/Murun/Ulaanbaatar in economy class with 15kg checked in luggage allowance
Private transportation
Additional Services
Entrance fees and National Park fees and permits to protected areas
Bottled water
Horses
Additional Services
International and domestic flights not mentioned above
Visas
Travel insurance
Items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc
Early check-in / Late check-out
Meals
12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 11 Dinners
Guide
English speaking Guide
Local Mountain Guide and pack horses
Good to know
Currency
MNT
Tugrik
Mongolia
Customer reviews
Operator
Faq Tour
How can I book a tour?
You can order a tour on our website by selecting the desired dates and clicking the “Confirm dates” button. You can also contact our sales department by phone or email.
Which payment options are available?
We accept credit cards, bank transfers and other popular payment methods.
Can I change or cancel my reservation?
Yes, changes or cancellations are possible, however penalties may apply depending on the time before the tour starts.
What documents are required to participate in the tour?
You will need a passport with a valid visa (if required) to visit countries along the tour route.
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