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
Itinéraire
La Mongolie est l'une des dernières frontières de l'Asie et l'une des dernières destinations intactes du monde. Voyagez à cheval vers la tribu nomade des Tsaachin, qui entretient un lien spirituel avec les troupeaux de rennes avec lesquels elle vit. Autrefois une communauté prospère, la tribu Tsaachin a diminué ces dernières années et il ne reste plus que 200 à 400 membres dans le nord de la Mongolie. Ce voyage photographique spécialisé avec le photographe Chris Van Ryn est le moyen idéal d'explorer et de se mêler à cette tribu en déclin dans les paysages spectaculaires de Mongolie, tout en améliorant vos compétences en matière de photographie. Devenez plus confiant avec votre équipement et revenez de votre voyage avec des images spectaculaires, des souvenirs et de nouvelles connaissances. Mêlez-vous aux sympathiques nomades et apprenez leur mode de vie. Traversez des prairies luxuriantes, des collines boisées et des ruines de l'ancien empire mongol avant d'atteindre le magnifique lac turquoise Khuvsgul, connu en Mongolie sous le nom de "perle bleue".
L'existence des Tsaachin ou Tsaatan repose entièrement sur leurs troupeaux de rennes, qui leur fournissent du lait pour la production de fromage, des bois pour la sculpture et à des fins médicinales, des moyens de transport et, à l'occasion, de la viande. Appartenant au groupe ethnique des Tuvans, cette petite tribu est véritablement nomade, se déplaçant régulièrement à la recherche d'un type rare de lichen et d'herbe pour leurs rennes. Les Tsaachin ne séjournent pas dans les gers mongols traditionnels que l'on reconnaît généralement comme un symbole du pays, mais vivent dans des urts, semblables aux tipis des Amérindiens, traditionnellement fabriqués à partir d'écorces de bouleau.
Dans une culture riche en chamanisme, ces guérisseurs spirituels jouent un rôle important dans la communauté en proposant des remèdes traditionnels pour soigner les blessures et les maladies. Auparavant autosuffisants grâce à leurs rennes, les Tsaachin doivent désormais chercher des baies, des pommes de terre sauvages et des pignons de pin en automne, et parfois pêcher ou chasser pour survivre. Les rennes auraient été domestiqués il y a plusieurs milliers d'années et jouent un rôle clé dans les traditions spirituelles, socio-économiques et linguistiques de la communauté locale.
Votre visite aux éleveurs de rennes joue un rôle important dans leur survie et celle de leur culture. Bien que très peu de voyageurs s'aventurent dans ce domaine, notre initiative touristique leur apporte un revenu supplémentaire et un échange culturel, tant pour nos voyageurs que pour les Tsaachin locaux. Passer du temps avec ces tribus est vraiment remarquable et regorge de pratiques culturelles qui donnent un aperçu profond de ce mode de vie fascinant.
Voyager à cheval est le meilleur moyen d'atteindre le campement isolé, avec une équipe complète de guides, de cuisiniers et de gardiens de chevaux pour vous aider. Dormez dans des tipis comme les locaux et après avoir visité cette terre isolée, continuez à travers les paysages spectaculaires de montagnes ondulantes, de forêts luxuriantes avant de vous aventurer dans les eaux turquoises du lac Khuvsgul.
Programme du circuit
Day 1
Jour 1 : Arrivée à Oulan-Bator
Day 2
Jour 2 : Oulan-Bator - Vol pour Murun - Vallée de la rivière Ujig
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
Jour 3 : Vallée de la rivière Ujig - 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
Jour 4 : Ville d'Ulaan Uul - Ville de Tsagaan Nuur - Taïga orientale
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
Jour 5 : Randonnée à cheval vers la communauté de Tsaachin
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
Jour 6 : Communauté de Tsaachin
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
Jour 7 : De la taïga au lac Hooloi
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
Jour 8 : Dépression de Darkhad
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
Jour 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
Jour 10 : Rivière Beltes Gol
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
Jour 11 : Lac Khuvsgul
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
Jour 12 : Vol vers Oulan-Bator
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
Jour 13 : Départ
La matinée est libre jusqu'à l'heure du transfert à l'aéroport pour votre départ. (B)
Politique d'annulation
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.
Détails du circuit
Hébergement
12 nuits d'hébergement
Tentes pour le camping
Transport
Transferts aller-retour à l'aéroport
Vols intérieurs Ulaanbaatar/Murun/Ulaanbaatar en classe économique avec une franchise de 15 kg pour les bagages enregistrés
Transport privé
Services supplémentaires
Droits d'entrée, droits d'accès aux parcs nationaux et permis d'accès aux zones protégées
Eau en bouteille
Chevaux
Services supplémentaires
Vols internationaux et intérieurs non mentionnés ci-dessus
les visas
l'assurance voyage
Articles de nature personnelle, par exemple boissons, blanchisserie, appels téléphoniques, pourboires, etc.
Arrivée anticipée / Départ tardif
Repas
12 petits déjeuners, 11 déjeuners, 11 dîners
Guide
Guide parlant anglais
Guide de montagne local et chevaux de bât
Bon à savoir
Devise
MNT
Tugrik
Mongolie
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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