Riddled with rivers and forests, steeped in the vibrant legacy of Genghis Khan, and home to gentle horseman and welcoming nomadic families, Mongolia is a magical land awaiting truly adventurous travelers. Your journey here will begin in Terlij National Park, a place where looming rock formations jut out of brilliant green pastures. An eerie landscape, it is also one of the most beautiful places in all of Mongolia. Here you will learn the basics of rock climbing before strapping on a harness and testing your courage on these ancient formations – a feat many Mongols conquered to prove their manhood ages ago. After testing your might on the rocks, you’ll hop on a mountain bike to explore the park’s many trails – the best way to truly absorb its natural wonder.

Your next stop is central Mongolia. Here dry, dusty grasslands seem to wander into eternity, and as you gaze across the empty plains you will be amazed that people actually live in this harsh landscape. But as the day comes to an end and the sun fades below the horizon, you will understand that this is truly a magical place. During the next week you willjourney down the winding river of the Orkhon in a canoe. The river cuts right through the Mongolian plains and runs across some of the richest parts of the desert. You can expect to see wild deer and horse crossing the river and great eagles soaring in the sky above. This river is a rare gem that few visitors have the chance to see.

Next you will travel north, where, nestled next to the Siberian border,liesKhosvgol Lake. A summer home for Siberian reindeer herders who bring their herds to graze on the lush grasslands, the lake also holds 70 percent of Mongolia’s natural water supply. While here you will trek across the alpine environment in true Mongolian style – on horseback. You’ll learn to ride the traditional way and experiencethe powerful bond between Mongol and horse – a bond that built an empire.

The final leg of your adventure will take youwest. Here the landscape is carved into mountains and serene valleys. Western Mongolia is also home to one of the most interesting groups of Mongolian people – the Kazak eagle hunters. Here you will learn first hand about the legendary Kazak hospitality and come to understand this ancient culture. Once you have had your fill of milk tea and airag, you will set off on a trek through the mountains of the west. The final leg of the journey will take you back to Ulaanbataar, Mongolia’s capital city and hub of commerce and culture.  This program is an in depth exploration of Mongolia and truly defines the rustic in Rustic Pathways. If you choose to be a part of this epic journey, you should expect to challenge yourself and live in a rustic fashion.You will truly embrace another way of life on what is certain to bea life-changing journey.

If you have any questions about this program or any of our other Gap Year offerings, please e-mail us at gap@rusticpathways.com.

 
 

 
VENTURE into unknown lands as you ascend majestic mountains and explore vast valleys.
PADDLE down the Orkhon River, a natural gem and an amazing stretch of water unknown to most outsiders.
CLIMB to the sky as you challenge yourself on the spectral rock formations of Terelj National Park.
IMMERSE yourself in the mystifying culture of the legendary Kazakh Eagle Hunters.
INTERACT with and live among the fascinating nomads of the steppes and learn first-hand about the reindeer-herding people of Siberia.
SADDLE UP your horse and follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan along the pristine shores of one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in the world.
   
 

$3,475* + Internal Air*
Departs
Returns
1 September
30 September