What kind of car can we expect to use?

We use Russian 4WD jeeps and 4WD minibuses staffed by experienced drivers and well-educated and skilled guides/cooks/interpreters. All drivers are qualified mechanics and carry spare parts. Our vehicles are the Mongolian vehicles of choice, providing comfort across the most rugged terrain. All expenses – including petrol, any tolls, food, etc. – are included in your tour price, although we do recommend that if you want to stock up with extras you let us know in advance so we can assist.

Are those Russian Jeeps any good?

With our standard tours you will travel in a Russian jeep (up to 3 travelers plus guide and driver) or a Russian minivan (up to 6 travelers plus guide and driver). These are reliable and strong 4WD vehicles and are the most popular vehicle in use today, proving reliable across the varied Mongolian terrain – from rugged steppe, to mountain passes, they are even capable of fording rivers with ease. However, these are designed for practicality and do not come equipped with sound system, sunroofs, or heavy duty electronically controlled suspension.

Can I "upgrade" the car we will use for my tour?

Yes of course, if you want to ride in a luxury Western, Korean or Japanese Landcruiser type vehicle we can also arrange this. These cars are more comfortable, have better suspension and bigger windows – but of course are more expensive to both rent but also they use up more fuel. On the plus side, we can go faster with those cars in the countryside, this will allow you to see more of the country in the short time you have with us. Please contact us if you are interested in upgrading your tour vehicle to something more comfortable and faster.

What are the camels or horses like for the expeditions?

We only use animals in excellent health who have been trained to do long and arduous treks. For trekking expeditions you will be taken care of by local guides who provide horses, or camels as pack animals. These are all well cared for, fit and healthy. Our guides will assist with riding lessons if you are new to horse or camel trekking. All our guides have been specially trained to look after the animals and care for them, they, like all Mongolians, have a huge respect and understanding for the animals of the Steppes.

What sort of food can I expect on tour?

Varied outdoor camping meals are included and in fact are mostly ‘western’, with some Mongolian and Asian flavors included. Of course, you can taste some traditional Mongolian food when you visit nomadic families if you wish – stews, lamb, cheese and dairy produce being hearty staples of the nomadic diet. If you are vegetarian or have other dietary requirements please let us know in advance and we will arrange a suitable stock of food to cater for these. When we go through town or settlements we try to go and have a nice meal in a local restaurant but they are not always available (or nice).

Can we stay in tourist ger camps on the tours?

Ger camps that cater specifically for foreign tourists have begun to spring up in Mongolia, most of them close to the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. Some of these can be quite luxurious, boasting hot water shower blocks and communal restaurants serving European and American cuisine. These camps are a half-way-house between camping in the wild and the pleasures of a hotel. Well suited to travelers who wish to experience life in rural Mongolia but do not want to leave behind all familiar amenities.

Can't we just camp everywhere?

If you decide to camp we provide the modern two-person tents. In Mongolia there are no designated camping sites, you can camp anywhere that takes your fancy. Through experience we have come to know many scenic and beautiful spots. We also take care of the camping equipment; all cooking and eating gear, travel tables and chairs. You have to bring your own sleeping bag and mattress, but if these are too bulky to carry on your way over you can also hire these from us – including a fresh inner sheet.

What about staying with Nomadic famillies?

For a more authentic experience we will arrange for you to stay with nomadic families, who will offer you Mongolian traditional food and are happy to join in evening discussions about their way of life around the hearth of the ger. Our tour guides can help translate – although why not pick up a phrase book and try out your own Mongolian language skills yourself!