The vastness of Mongolia has always held a special allure—a land of endless skies, enduring nomadic traditions, and a profound sense of wildness. At Avantour Travels, we have the privilege of sharing this magic. Our Tsaatan Reindeer Tour offers a unique chance to connect with one of the world's most distinct cultures.

This is the story of our recent journey in September 2024, an unforgettable week spent respectfully immersed in the world of the Tsaatan reindeer people.

The Journey North: Beyond Ulaanbaatar

Our adventure began the moment we headed north from Ulaanbaatar. While flights can take you closer, the real exploration starts with the overland journey from Murun. Our group travelled in our trustworthy Russian minivan, a sturdy UAZ, affectionately known as a "Bukhanka," which was perfectly suited for the rugged, muddy tracks.

An Unexpected Connection: Adventure often brings spontaneous moments. Along the way, we had the opportunity to help another group of travelers whose van had gotten stuck. It was a great moment of teamwork and a reminder that connection is a key part of any true journey.

Leaving the city far behind, the scenery shifts dramatically to rolling hills and dense forests. Before reaching the Taiga, we had the wonderful opportunity to stay overnight with a welcoming nomadic family. This wasn't just a stopover; it was a genuine glimpse into their traditional way of life on the steppe. Sharing stories and experiencing their incredible hospitality was a perfect cultural introduction before continuing our journey further north.

A Night with Nomadic Hospitality

Reaching the remote Tsaatan communities often involves travelling by horseback, embracing the traditional and most sustainable way to navigate this terrain. Ascending into high pastures, sometimes lightly dusted with snow even in September, the scenery becomes truly majestic. We believe these authentic travel methods enhance the connection to the land. Simple moments, like our local partners preparing a delicious riverside lunch, become cherished memories, deeply tied to the environment we explore.

By Horseback to the Taiga: Reaching the Tsaatan

Reaching the remote Tsaatan communities often involves traveling by horseback, the most traditional and sustainable way to navigate this terrain. Ascending into high pastures, sometimes lightly dusted with snow even in September, the scenery becomes truly majestic.

We believe these authentic travel methods enhance the connection to the land. Simple moments, like our local partners preparing a delicious riverside lunch, become cherished memories, deeply tied to the environment we explore.

Life with the Reindeer People: A Respectful Immersion

Arriving in the heart of the Tsaatan community feels like stepping back in time. The reindeer, central to their existence, roam freely, setting the rhythm of daily life. It's a place of profound serenity.

At Avantour Travels, our commitment is to responsible tourism. We work closely with the community to ensure our visits are non-intrusive and respectful. The real magic lies in the immersion into daily life:

• Observing (and sometimes participating in!) activities like milking.

• Learning about the intricate relationship between the Tsaatan and their reindeer.

• Understanding how these animals provide sustenance, transport, and cultural identity.

In the evening, gathering inside a traditional Ortz (teepee) to share stories over warm, salty reindeer milk tea fosters a genuine connection that is as memorable as the breathtakingly clear, star-studded night sky.

The Journey Home: Reflection from the heart

The journey back towards Murun and Ulaanbaatar brought a sense of deep reflection. After a final peaceful night in a traditional ger camp in the beautiful Terelj National Park, our travelers left with a feeling of gratitude and a changed perspective.

A week with the Tsaatan, experienced the Avantour Travels way, is more than a trip; it's a deep cultural immersion handled with care and respect. It’s a powerful reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the strength of human connection.

Planning Your Trip to Visit the Tsaatan People: FAQ

What is the best time to visit the Tsaatan? Summer and early autumn (June to September) offer the best weather. Our September trip experienced pleasant days and cool nights, with even a light dusting of snow at higher altitudes.

What is the accommodation like? Accommodation is authentic and rustic. It includes stays in traditional gers (yurts) with nomadic families and nights in a traditional Tsaatan Ortz (teepee) with the reindeer herders.

How physically demanding is the trip? A moderate level of fitness is required. The journey involves long drives on bumpy tracks and, most importantly, several hours of horseback riding to reach the Tsaatan camp.

Your Transformative Journey Awaits

If you're seeking an authentic, responsible, and truly transformative travel experience, we invite you to consider joining us. It’s a journey that will stay with you.

• Explore our full Mongolia Reindeer Tour Itinerary.

• Contact us today to start planning your adventure.