Essence of Mongolia

A week in Central Mongolia, moving through the country's nomadic heartland with a mix of history, landscape, and homestays with local families. You cover a lot of ground for seven days, but the pace is built around staying with people rather than ticking off sights.

You'll travel from the Khogno Khan mountains and the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai to the old Mongol capital of Karakorum and the Orkhon Valley, then finish at Hustai National Park to look for wild Takhi horses. Nights are spent in traditional guest gers with nomadic hosts, not hotels.

It's a solid introduction to Mongolia's landscapes and culture rather than a deep dive into any one region, with time built in to actually sit with your hosts, not just pass through.

What you'll do

• Explore the dunes at Elsen Tasarkhai and Khogno Khan Mountain
• Visit Karakorum, the ancient Mongol capital
• Walk, ride, and drive through the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Look for wild Takhi horses and other wildlife in Hustai National Park
• Stay in guest gers with nomadic families
• Join in with local traditions such as cooking, ankle-bone games, and milking