Mongolia Bulgan

redspokes Mongolia Bulgan cycling tour begins in capital city Ulaanbaatar (which translates as red hero). Nomadic, Bhuddhist, Soviet and contemporary influences converge in this vibrant capital where ancient culture and 21st Century traditions forge a unique path. You will be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to your joining hotel. You are free for the rest of the day to explore the city. This evening we will have a welcome dinner and group introductions. Your guide will give you a trip briefing.

Accommodation: Hotel (D)

This morning we will learn more about Ulaanbaatar on a city tour. We begin with a visit to Gandantegchinlen Monastery; this in Mongolia’s principal Buddhist temple. A gigantic gold-plated Buddha statue is the main object of devotion. We will see many local worshippers, dressed in traditional brightly coloured garments. Next we will visit the central Sükhbaatar Square named after Mongolia’s revolutionary hero Damdin Sükhbaatar shortly after his death in 1923. In 2013 the square’s name was changed to Chinggis Square in honor of Genghis Khan. Adjacent to the square, is the parliament building with a facade adorned by marble statues of Genghis Khan and his successors. The area throngs with newlyweds, reunification parties and the public in general, all eager for photo opportunities here for their celebrations.

We go on to visit the National Museum and hear an overview of Mongolia’s history from stone age times to the modern era. The Paleontology Museum of Mongolia is a twenty minute walk away from the national museum. It containing artefacts such as dinosaur fossils, intact nests containing eggs, carnivores fighting herbivores and embryos still in their shells. Following this, a visit to the Zaisan memorial in the south of Ulaanbaatar offers panoramic views of the city. There is a 300 step climb to reach the memorial which features a circular painting depicting scenes of friendship between the people of the USSR and Mongolia. Our tour concludes with a traditional music show including a performance of traditional throat singing.

This evening we board a Soviet Era steam train which will take us overnight to Erdenet in the north of Mongolia. We travel alongside local passengers and enjoy pastoral agricultural scenes as we journey through the central wheat producing areas of the country.

Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

We arrive in Erdenet in time for breakfast and will meet our cycling support team. Erdenet is a mineral rich area with Asia’s largest copper mine which is open for public visits with a blasting that can be watched every Friday. Erdenet is also famous for its traditional archery team. Your guide will give you a history of the area.

Our cycling begins as we set off riding through the suburbs and more rural areas on the outskirts of the city. We ride on through forested areas and valley cycling along a few ridges. We camp under the stars tonight and dinner will be prepared by your Mongolian chef.

Cycling distance: 52km (32.2 miles)
Total Climb: 473m (784ft)
Total Descent: 485m (1552ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)

We set off cycling this morning, enjoying the fresh cool morning air. Today’s ride begins with a 400m gradual climb to reach the peak of a rocky pass and continues on through lush meadows and forests of larch and birch. Over the peak we ride through forested areas and open grassy valleys. After a few more gentle climbs we cycle down through the Dundat valley passing nomadic settlements and huge herds of livestock. Sheep outnumber humans in Mongolia by 35 to 1 and horses by 13 to 1. You will receive a friendly welcome from local horses who may decide to gallop alongside us for a stretch. The nomads will welcome us offering war – a milky, salty tea and other dairy products. Tonight, we camp on a grassy site at the base of a wooded mountain.

Cycling distance: 37km (23 miles)
Total Climb: 529m (1736 ft)
Total Descent: 587m (1926 ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)

Our ride continues today through a beautiful rural scenery of ever wider grasslands where traditional herding life continues. The regional specialty here is Airag a fermented horse milk which is considered to be of exceptional quality and flavor. Mares and foals are tethered apart from one another outside the nomad tents. Production of Airag is a continuous and arduous process. The mares are milked every two hours and intensive churning of their milk is required over many hours to boost the fermentation process in large barrels or in sacks made of Ox hide.

From our campsite we will enjoy scenic views of the mountains in the distance.

Cycling distance: 66km (41 miles)
Total Climb: 491m (1,610 ft)
Total Descent: 800m (2,624 ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)

We set off today cycling a couple of passes, riding on grassy track that leads us to a typical rural town, that could be the set of a wild west movie. We can stop for an ice cream or a cold drink and people-watch as a typical day ensues. Mongolian horsemen are believed to have invented ice cream over 700 years ago. They were transporting cream in containers on horseback in the winter across the Gobi Desert and it shook until it became ice cream.

Later today we ride along the Khanui river valley enjoying a beautiful mountain scenery of rock formations and pine trees. Small lakes where reeds grow along the shoreline are important habitats for migrating birds, including rare and protected species, who come here to breed and nest.

Tonight, we will be camping near to local herding nomads and their animals.

Cycling distance: 62.2km (39 miles)
Total Climb: 561m (1,840ft)
Total Descent: 459m (1,505ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)

Today we continue cycling at a gentle pace and enjoy our picturesque, wooded surroundings as we ride through mountainside and rocky ridge. We will stop to visit a Bronze Age cultural site. There are deer stone statutes and a number of khirgisuurs and slab burials. This site is one of the largest situated in a river valley. The stones were part of the Bronze age nomadic funeral ritual, the term Deer Stone derives from the animal illustrations on the stones. The stones are created from long blocks of granite with four flat sides, on which deer and other images are engraved. The stones have three ornamented anthropomorphic sections: a ‘face’, ‘torso’, and ‘lower body’ section. The face part contains human faces, symbol of sun and moon and earrings while deer, elk and occasionally horses and ibexes are engraved in the torso. In the lower body parts, there are images of weapons, belt and horse riders. The main decoration, deer images are classically depicted in a superimposed abstract style.

Researchers believe that these elaborate statues were dedicated to leaders and great tribal warriors. We ride on to visit a summer nomad camp and experience their traditional lifestyle which has not changed in centuries. After lunch we cycle up a pass to the highpoint of today’s ride and enjoy a fast downhill of 25km to reach our campsite.

Cycling distance: 96.3km (60 miles)
Total Climb: 563m (1,847ft)
Total Descent: 434m (1,423ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)

Today will be the most demanding of the trip so far. All our riding over the previous days has been preparation for the ultimate challenge of the trip. This morning we will ride to the foothills of the Khangai Mountain range We cross over Tamir river and follow a twisting road through narrow grassy valleys and dense woodland. We stop for lunch at the highpoint of today’s ride just shy of 2000m. This afternoon we enjoy a speedy downhill ride and cycle onward with a brief climb that leads us to Tsetserleg town; a pretty provincial centre that sits in the shelter of an imposing granite ridge. As we climb we will have views of the town’s brightly coloured traditional roof tops laid out in a neat geometric pattern. There is time to visit the busy market where pine nuts, wild berries and other local products are on sale.

We ride on for another 30 minutes to reach our camp site for our first evening sleeping in a traditional Ger camp complete with dining tent and shower tents. A welcome change after 5 nights of camping.

Cycling distance: 70.8km (44 miles)
Total Climb: 690m (2,263ft)
Total Descent: 595m (1952ft)
Accommodation: Ger Camp (B,L,D)

This morning we will tackle three short but steep passes to visit the Tsenkher hot springs. Located in a lush wooded valley, the area is renowned for its hot springs and a popular destination for both locals and tourists during the summer months. A soak in the mineral rich waters will be the perfect tonic for tired cyclists’ legs. We also have the opportunity this afternoon to use a laundry service.

Cycling distance: 25.4km (15 miles)
Total Climb: 436m (1,430ft)
Total Descent: 325m (1,066ft)
Accommodation: Ger Camp (B,L,D)

A fast day’s riding on well surfaced road as we ride towards the Orkhon river valley. We tackle a few steep mountain climbs and will enjoy spectacular views of the immense wilderness beneath us as we reach the peak of each pass. From the top of the last pass of the day you will be able to see extinct volcano craters. There area is a UNESCO world heritage site and scattered with volcanic rock and ancient burial mounds. From here we will enjoy riding a 20km breathtaking downhill to reach the Orkhon valley floor. The Orkhon valley is rich in historic and archeological treasures such as burial mounds, deer stones and prehistoric settlements. We camp tonight at the riverside and can take a refreshing dip in the water before dinner.

Cycling distance: 76km (47 miles)
Total Climb: 1056m (3464ft)
Total Descent: 1135m (3723ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)

Today’s ride is a gradual descent with a few undulations, as we cycle downhill following the river downstream to reach Karakorum the ancient 13th century Mongol Empire Capital; a city built by nomads constructed under the direction of the second son of Genghis Khan. We cycle on to our ger camp to leave the bikes, take a quick shower and set off to explore the sights of Karakorum. The ancient city was destroyed in the late 14th C by invading Chinese armies. There is a monastery museum Erdene Zuu established in 16th century by a Mongol khan as part of introduction of Buddhism as the main religion. The monastery was almost entirely destroyed during the anti-religion campaign in the 1930s. Just a dozen temples survive. We visit the monastery and museum to see the few surviving artifacts of the old capital This evening we will mark the end of our cycling adventure with a celebratory meal.

Cycling distance: 72km (44 miles)
Total Climb: 529m (1,735ft)
Total Descent: 754m (2,473ft)
Accommodation: Tent (B,L,D)

After breakfast we set off on our journey back to Ulaanbaatar. During the 7 hour drive we stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic spot along the way. Be sure to keep a look out for eagles circling above. The route takes you past roadside shrines called ‘ovoos’. The stone shrines are erected by local families and travellers to show gratitude and respect, and to honour the spirits of the surrounding land. It is customary that ovoos are circled three times in a clockwise direction and a small offering is made in order to ensure the safety of a trip or to ensure good fortune in life.

We aim to reach our hotel by mid-afternoon with time for you to check in and take a rest before we congregate with all our support team for a farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)

redspokes Mongolia Bulgan Tour ends today. You will be transferred to Ulaanbaatar airport for your departure flight.

Accommodation: B

• Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to run
• Tour status updates automatically as bookings are received
• Do not book flights until the tour status is marked Guaranteed

Tour Status Definitions

• Guaranteed – Tour is confirmed and open for booking
• Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed, with limited spaces remaining
• Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Needs two more bookings to confirm
• Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed
• Contact – Please get in touch to discuss availability
• Fully Booked – No places remaining

Booking & Payments

• A £350 deposit confirms your place on the tour
• Deposits are refundable until the tour becomes Guaranteed
• Final balance is due 56 days before the tour start date
• By booking, you agree to our booking conditions (please read in full)

Small Group Note

For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.

Fully supported cycling holiday

• Support vehicle for luggage transport and rider assistance
• Accommodation throughout the tour (twin share unless stated)
• Overnight train – twin share (single upgrade available)
• Camping Equipment – Sleeping mats, dining, shower, and toilet tents
• Expedition Cook & Gear – Full camping and cooking equipment with experienced expedition cook(s)
• Sightseeing & Permit Fees – All visits, national park fees and permits included
• Most meals (see itinerary using the BLD key below)
• Snacks and mineral water on cycling days
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour
• English-speaking local guide(s)
• Mechanical assistance for minor bike repairs

Meal Key (used in the itinerary)

• B = Breakfast
• L = Lunch
• D = Dinner
• Example: B, L means breakfast and lunch are included that day.
• Special dietary requirements can usually be catered for with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of booking.

• International flights
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Visa fees (if applicable)
• Alcoholic drinks
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Tips for guides and support staff
• Bike hire
• Single room/tent supplement
• Sleeping Bags:
  You will need to bring your own 3-4 season sleeping bag

• Start location: Ulaanbaatar – UBN — Chinggis Khaan International Airport
• Airport transfers included on the tour start date, regardless of arrival time
• Early arrivals may need to wait for hotel check-in (subject to availability)

Tour End

• End location: Ulaanbaatar – UBN — Chinggis Khaan International Airport
• Airport transfers included if departing on the final tour day
• Extra nights and transfers can be arranged at additional cost

Flights

• International flights are not included
• We are happy to advise on suitable arrival and departure airports

• Our Mongolia tour includes a variety of accommodation styles for a unique experience
• Hotel (3 nights), tent (6 nights), ger camp (2 nights), train (1 night) on a twin-share basis
• Tents – During remote sections of the tour – we provide 3-person Northface tents for both twins and singles
• Ger Camps – Traditional Mongolian yurts – all on a shared basis – no single occupancy
• Hotels – Comfortable stays on the first and last night of the tour in Ulaanbaatar

Most meals are included in your tour price, please consult the itinerary.

Typical Daily Meals
We provide western-style meals with a touch of traditional Mongolian cuisine.

Breakfast: A variety of hot and cold options including:

• Porridge (oatmeal, rice, semolina)
• Fried or baked breads
• Butter, spreads, eggs, sausages
• Tea and coffee

Lunch: Usually starts with a light soup, followed by a main course such as:

• Stir-fried meat and vegetables
• Rice, pasta, or noodles

Dinner: Evening meals are hearty and satisfying:

• Fresh vegetables and salads
• A main course with meat or vegetarian options

Snacks & Tea Stops: Around 11am each cycling day, we take a break with:

• Dried fruit, nuts, crisps
• Tea, coffee, or soft drinks
• Granola bars are also provided
• During “happy hour” at camp (post-ride), enjoy nibbles while relaxing before dinner.

Drinks
Canned beer, wine, and soft drinks are available on request at extra cost. Please let us know in advance if you would like these arranged.

Dietary Requirements

• We can cater for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets.
• Please inform us at time of booking if you have any special dietary needs.

A Taste of Mongolia

• While meals are tailored to western preferences, you will also sample some local favourites:
• Khuushur: Deep-fried mutton-filled pastry
• Buuz: Mongolia’s national dish: steamed dumplings filled with mutton or goat, onion, garlic, and caraway
• Salty Milk Tea (“War”): A traditional Mongolian beverage
• Fun Fact: Mongolian horsemen are thought to have invented ice cream 700+ years ago by shaking cream in winter while crossing the Gobi Desert!

• Two or three support vehicles (depending on participant numbers) accompanies the group throughout the tour
• Transports main luggage between overnight stops
• Available for rest breaks or if you need a lift
• Typically stops every 20 km / 12 miles

On-Ride Support

• Guides carry tools for minor repairs
• You only need a small daypack while riding

Helmet Policy

• Helmets are mandatory while cycling
• Helmet hire cannot be guaranteed locally
• You must bring your own helmet

Yes, mountain bikes are recommended for this tour due to the mixed terrain.

Pre-trip bike servicing
We strongly recommend having your bike fully serviced before travelling. Please make sure:

• All bearings are properly greased
• Wheel spokes are correctly tensioned
• Gear and brake cables are functioning well
• All nuts and bolts are tightened securely
• Chain, tyres and quick-release clamps are checked
• New inner tubes are installed
• Wheel rims are not excessively worn
• If you are unsure, ask your local bike shop to carry out a pre-tour inspection.

What to bring
We recommend packing the following essential items:

• Multi-tool
• Tyre levers
• Pump
• Spare inner tubes
• Spare spokes
• Chain links or quick links
• Spare brake pads (ensure compatibility with disc or rim brakes)
• Any specialist tools, fluids or parts specific to your bike, such as a bleed kit.

Travelling with your bike

• Your bike will need to be packed within your luggage allowance. A bike packed in a cardboard box typically weighs between 15–20 kg, and some airlines may charge excess baggage fees.
• If you would prefer not to travel with your own bike, bike hire is available — simply request this when booking.

The local currency in Mongolia is the Mongolian Tögrög (also spelled Tugrik or Tugrug), with the currency code MNT.

What to Bring

Travellers from the UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand should bring USD or Euros. These are widely accepted and preferred for exchange in Mongolia.

Where to Exchange

• You’ll get the best exchange rates at licensed money exchange offices and ATMs in Ulaanbaatar.
• Avoid exchanging money at the airport or in hotels, as rates are often less favorable. Your local redspokes guide will help you find the best exchange options and ATMs during the trip.

Spending Money

• Spending needs vary based on personal preferences, but we estimate that £200 / $270 will be more than enough for the 13-day tour.

Staff Tipping

• Tipping is customary in Mongolia and a valued way to thank your guides and support crew.
• Recommended: £60–£80 per person or $80–$100 equivalent
• Tips are usually pooled at the end of the tour and distributed fairly by your guide.
• While tipping is voluntary, it’s always appreciated when service has been exceptional. redspokes ensures all local staff are paid fairly—tips are personal tokens of appreciation.

• Bike hire
• Single room supplement
• Single berth supplement for the overnight train
• Extra nights before or after the tour
• Additional airport transfers
• Optional excursions or rest-day activities

• Solo travellers are very welcome
• Prices are based on twin-share accommodation
• We will pair solo travellers with someone of the same gender where possible
• Single rooms/tents are usually available for an additional charge

• A valid passport is required
• Passport must usually be valid for at least 6 months after return
• Visa requirements vary by nationality and can change
• You are responsible for checking current entry requirements
• Government travel advice websites are the most reliable source

Travel Insurance

Mandatory for all participants and must cover:

• Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
• Cycling and adventure activities
• Loss or damage to luggage and hired equipment
• Trip cancellation or curtailment
• Insurance should be taken out at the time of booking

Health & Vaccinations

• Consult your GP or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure
• Follow advice from official travel health authorities

Best Time to Visit Mongolia:

• Summer (June – August) Daytime: 20°C – 30°C/Evening: Around 10°C. Expect some rain and occasional thunderstorms
• Autumn (September – October): Cooler days as temperatures begin to drop, ideal for those who prefer milder conditions

Staying Hydrated on Hot Rides – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you’re out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.

Please note: We are not medical professionals and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.

1. Prioritize Gut Health

• Why it matters: A healthy gut boosts absorption of water and nutrients.
• How to do it: Feed your microbiome with probiotics (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and prebiotics (garlic, onions, bananas) to keep digestion and hydration strong.

2. Time Your Hydration

• Why it matters: When you drink can matter as much as how much.
• How to do it: Start the day with a big glass of water—add lemon or a pinch of sea salt for an extra boost.

3. Hydrate Beyond Water

• Why it matters: Water isn’t the only way to stay hydrated.
• How to do it: Include coconut water, bone broth, or other nutrient-rich drinks to hydrate and replace electrolytes—especially during long rides or after heavy sweating.

4. Don’t Forget the Minerals

• Why it matters: Minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium help retain water.
• How to do it: Eat mineral-rich foods such as salted nuts, seeds, and dairy—or take a quality mineral supplement if needed.

5. Absorb Water Better

• Why it matters: Drinking water too fast can flush out nutrients and reduce absorption.
• How to do it: Sip steadily throughout the day. Add a pinch of sea salt to your bottle and eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and pineapple.

6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check

• Why it matters: Electrolytes regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
• How to do it: Eat potassium- and magnesium-rich foods like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens. Add electrolyte tablets or sea salt to your water after intense sweat sessions.

Sleeping Gear

• 3–4 season sleeping bag (recommended for cold nights)
• Sleeping mat: For added comfort on our wild camping nights in Mongolia, you may wish to bring a lightweight self-inflating mattress, as the standard non-inflating sleep mats we provide are more basic

Cycling Essentials

• Cycle helmet (mandatory and must be worn at all times while cycling)
• Small bike bag or daypack for essentials
• Water bottles or a CamelBak hydration pack
• Sunglasses

Clothing

• Base layer tops
• Fleece jacket/pullover
• Waterproof cycling jacket (breathable)
• Baggy trekking shorts
• Long cycling trousers / trekking trousers
• T-shirts – lightweight
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Padded cycling shorts
• Trekking shoes or cycle shoes
• Lightweight & heavyweight socks
• Fingerless cycling gloves
• Thermal gloves
• Fleece hat
• Cap (to wear under helmet)
• Buff or neck gaiter
• Flip-flops or sandals for around camp

Thermal Layers

• Long johns
• Thermal tops

Toiletries & Protection

• Towel
• Lip balm
• High-factor sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Hand sanitizer
• Antiseptic wet wipes

First Aid Kit (Recommended Personal Items)

• Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
• Lomotil or Diacalm (for digestive issues)
• Rehydration salts (e.g., Dioralyte)
• Antiseptic cream
• Throat lozenges
• Plasters (band-aids)
• Nasal spray
• Eye drops
• Ear plugs

Extras

• Energy bars, gels, or power snacks
• Energy/recovery drinks
• Camera (optional but great for capturing memories)
• Mobile Phone & SIM Card: Stay connected during your adventure with local SIM or eSIM options.
• SIM Cards
  Where to Buy: Ulaanbaatar airport, the State Department Store or provider shops (passport required).
• A few providers:
• MobiCom – best rural coverage
• Unitel – reliable with eSIM support
• Skytel & G-Mobile – good urban options
• Tourist SIMs: available with data packages from 7 to 90 days.
• eSIM Options
  Use eSIMs like GoMoWorld, Yesim, or BNESIM—ideal for short stays.
• Activate before or on arrival.
• Make sure your phone supports eSIM.
• Download key apps offline before rural travel.
• Consider a portable Wi-Fi device if constant connectivity is essential.

• In Mongolia, the standard electricity supply is Voltage: 220 volts and Frequency: 50 Hz.
• The power sockets in Mongolia are Type C and Type E sockets

• Capital: Ulaanbaatar (Ulan Bator)
• Population: 8 million (2012 estimate)
• Area: 1.56 million sq km (603,909 sq miles)
• Major Language: Mongolian
• Major Religion: Buddhism
• Life Expectancy: Men: 65 years / Women: 73 years
• Currency: Togrog (₮)
• Main Exports: Copper concentrate / Dehaired cashmere / Textiles / Hides
• Internet Domain: .mn
• International Dialling Code: +976
• Mongolia’s independence declared during the 1921 revolution is celebrated every July with the Naadam Festival often referred to as the “Mongolian Olympics”. This includes The Three Games of Men (“Eriin Gurvan Naadam”); Wrestling (men only); Archery; Horse Racing
• The grand opening ceremony in Ulaanbaatar features parades, traditional dancing, and military processions, attracting large crowds from across the country and beyond.
• Attending Naadam is a powerful cultural experience and a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with Mongolia’s rich heritage.