MONGOLIA'S TWIN PEAKS(Trip #59821)

Tour Overview

A superb trek through snow leopard country in the remote alpine landscape of western Mongolia
In a far-flung corner of Mongolia stand the magnificent twin peaks of snow capped Mt Turgen and Mt Kharkhiraa with its soaring ice cliffs. This adventurous trek takes us into the little-visited region between the two peaks, where we will see glaciers and wonderful fast flowing rivers. On our journey through this wild landscape we will encounter nomadic families with their large herds of horses and cattle, allowing us a glimpse into a region where the people are just as curious of us as we are of them.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive Ulaan Baatar.

Day 2
City tour.

Day 3
Fly to Ulaangom; afternoon visit the museum and National Parks Centre; drive to start of trek.

Day 4
Trek up the Kharkhiraa Valley past herders' encampments; cross Turgen River.

Day 5
Up the remote Kharkhiraa Valley; chance to meet Hoton nomads.

Day 6
First views of cathedral-like ice cliffs of Mt Kharkhiraa; camp at the confluence of the glacial rivers (2974m).

Day 7
Option of gentle valley walk or scrambling on rock ridges; look out for wildlife.

Day 8
Cross the broad alpine plateau, past Blue Lake; enjoy views of Mongolia's highest peak.

Day 9
Cross Yamaatiin Pass (3147m) into the spectacular Yamaatiin Valley.

Day 10
Rest day in the Yamaatiin River Valley; day walk high onto ridgelines searching for ibex and argali.

Day 11-12
Trek to the mouth of the Yamaatiin Valley and transfer to Lake Uureg; camp by the lake.

Day 13
Relax on the shore of Lake Uureg or visit neighbouring herding families.

Day 14
Visit markets and museum in Ulaangom; fly to Ulaan Baatar.

Day 15
At leisure; celebratory dinner. End Ulaan Baatar.