🏔️ Altai Tavan Bogd & Malchin Peak (4,050 m) Trekking Expedition 10 Days tour
📍 Western Mongolia | Altai Tavan Bogd mountain | Altai Tavan Bogd National park | Baga Turgen waterfall | Eagle hunter family
🏔️ Altai Tavan Bogd Trekking& Malchin Peak Expedition (4,050 m)
This 10-day Altai Tavan Bogd Grand Expedition is a true wilderness trekking and summit journey, designed for adventurous travelers seeking long distances, high mountains, and cultural authenticity. The expedition combines:
- 🧊 Glacier trekking & high-altitude camping
- ⛰️ Summit ascent of Malchin Peak (4,050 m)
- 🪨 Ancient Turkic petroglyph corridors
- 🌊 Remote valleys, waterfalls & glacial rivers
- 🐎 Kazakh nomadic summer pastures
- 🏞️ Khoton Lake, one of the Altai’s most scenic alpine lakes
The journey takes place inside Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia’s highest and most remote mountain region.
All heavy logistics are fully camel-supported, allowing trekkers to walk with only a daypack, while a professional expedition cook prepares fresh meals daily—even at glacier camps.
⭐ Tour Highlights – Altai Trekking Tour
- 🏔️ Summit Malchin Peak (4,050 m) Reach one of the most accessible high peaks in the Altai with breathtaking panoramic views across Mongolia, Russia, and China.
- 🧊 Potanin Glacier Base Camp Experience Trek and camp beside Potanin Glacier, Mongolia’s largest glacier, surrounded by dramatic ice fields and high ridges.
- ⛰️ Views of Mongolia’s Highest Mountain Enjoy spectacular views of Khüiten Peak (4,374 m) throughout the expedition.
- 🐫 Fully Camel-Supported Expedition All luggage, food, and camping equipment are carried by camels, allowing you to trek with only a light daypack.
- 🥾 7 Days of True Long-Distance Trekking Challenging and rewarding trekking days of 16–25 km, ideal for adventurous hikers seeking a real expedition.
- 🪨 Ancient Turkic Petroglyph Valleys Walk through Khar Salaa Valley, discovering rock art and archaeological sites dating back thousands of years.
- 🌊 Bear Valley’s Waterfalls & Glacial Rivers Trek through one of the most scenic valleys in the Altai, filled with cascading waterfalls and milky-white rivers.
- 🐎 Kazakh Nomadic Summer Pastures Visit Akhsu Valley and experience authentic Kazakh nomadic life in high mountain pastures.
- 🏞️ Khoton Lake – Alpine Jewel of the Altai Finish the trek at the turquoise waters of Khoton Lake, one of western Mongolia’s most beautiful lakes.
- 🦅 Eagle Hunter Family Visit Learn about the ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles during a visit to a Kazakh eagle hunter family.
- 🍽️ Professional Cook & Full Board Enjoy freshly prepared hot meals every day, even at remote high-altitude camps.
- 🌌 Remote Wilderness & Starry Nights Camp far from roads and towns, under some of the darkest night skies in Central Asia.
Detailed Itinerary:
- 🚙 Distance: ~200 km
- ⏱️ Driving Time: ~5 hours
- 🏕️ Accommodation: Nomadic ger camp / yurt / tent
- 🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Arrive in Ölgii, the cultural heart of western Mongolia’s Kazakh region. Meet your expedition team: trekking guide, driver, professional cook, camel handlers, and local support crew. After equipment checks and loading supplies, begin the drive west toward the Altai Mountains.
The route gradually leaves civilization behind, crossing open steppe, river valleys, and rugged foothills. Herds of yaks, camels, and horses roam freely, offering a first glimpse of the nomadic landscapes ahead.
Arrive near the Altai Tavan Bogd park gate in the late afternoon. Settle into camp, enjoy a hot meal, and attend a detailed expedition briefing covering trekking distances, altitude awareness, weather patterns, and safety procedures.
- 🥾 Trekking Distance: ~16 km
- ⏱️ Trekking Time: ~5 hours
- 🏔️ Camp Altitude: ~3,000 m
- 🏕️ Accommodation: Tent camping beside glacier
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Begin trekking toward the high mountains, following a broad glacial valley. Camels carry all food, camping equipment, and luggage, allowing you to walk at a steady and comfortable pace.
As the valley narrows, the scale of the landscape becomes dramatic. Towering ice fields appear ahead, and the skyline is dominated by:
- Potanin Glacier
- Khüiten Peak (4,374 m)
Camp is set beside the glacier at approximately 3,000 meters, surrounded by ice, rock, and silence—an unforgettable high-altitude wilderness setting.
- 🥾 Elevation Gain: ~1,050 m
- ⏱️ Hiking Time: 6–7 hours (round trip)
- 🏕️ Accommodation: Base Camp
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
Today is the expedition’s physical and emotional highlight. After an early breakfast, begin the ascent to Malchin Peak (4,050 m).
The climb is non-technical, but demanding due to altitude and terrain. As you gain height, the views expand dramatically—revealing glaciers, border peaks of Mongolia, Russia, and China, and the vast Altai mountain system.
After reaching the summit and celebrating the achievement, descend carefully back to base camp for rest and recovery.
- 🥾 Trekking Distance: ~16 km
- ⏱️ Trekking Time: ~5 hours
- 🏕️ Accommodation: Ger camp / yurt / tent
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Pack camp and begin the return trek, following the camels back down the valley. The descent offers new perspectives of the glacier and surrounding peaks as light and weather shift throughout the day.
Arrive back near the park gate in the afternoon. Relax at camp and prepare for the next extended trekking section into the southern valleys.
- 🥾 Trekking Distance: ~20–23 km
- ⏱️ Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
- 🏕️ Accommodation: Tent camping
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Today marks a transition from high-glacier terrain into deep cultural landscapes. Trek south into Khar Salaa Valley, one of the most historically significant corridors in the Altai.
Along the route, encounter:
- Ancient Turkic petroglyphs
- Stone burial markers and ritual sites
Camp in a remote valley where history and wilderness merge.
- 🥾 Trekking Distance: ~20–25 km
- ⏱️ Trekking Time: 6–8 hours
- 🏕️ Accommodation: Riverside tent camping
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
The trek today leads into the spectacular Bear Valley, known for its dramatic natural features:
- Cascading waterfalls
- Milky-white rivers fed directly by glaciers
- Narrow mountain corridors opening into wide alpine basins
Camp beside a flowing river and enjoy one of the most atmospheric nights of the expedition.
- 🥾 Trekking Distance: ~20–22 km
- ⏱️ Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
- 🏕️ Accommodation: Tent camping
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Enter Akhsu Valley, a fertile high-altitude valley where Kazakh nomads establish their summer camps.
🐎 Visit nomadic families, observe daily herding activities, and learn how traditional knowledge sustains life in harsh mountain environments. This day provides one of the expedition’s most meaningful cultural experiences.
- 🥾 Trekking Distance: ~22–25 km
- ⏱️ Trekking Time: 6–8 hours
- 🏕️ Accommodation: Tent camping
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
On the final trekking day, hike toward the turquoise waters of Khoton Lake. Forests begin to appear, wildlife becomes more abundant, and the pace gradually eases.
Meet your drivers near the lake and enjoy a peaceful final night of wilderness camping beside calm waters.
- 🚙 Distance: ~180 km
- ⏱️ Driving Time: ~5 hours
- 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive back to Ölgii, stopping to explore the Khairakh Tolgoi petroglyphs, an important archaeological site. Continue to visit a Kazakh Eagle Hunter family, learning about the ancient art of hunting with golden eagles.
Arrive in Ölgii and check into your hotel.
- ✈️ Flight: Ölgii → Ulaanbaatar
- 🚐 Transfer: Morning airport transfer
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast
End of expedition. Depart western Mongolia carrying unforgettable memories of glaciers, valleys, nomads, and one of the most remote trekking routes in Central Asia.
📝 Tour Notes
- 🥾 Trekking Level: Moderate to Challenging Designed for fit travelers. Expect 7 trekking days with distances of 16–25 km per day, including one high-altitude summit day (Malchin Peak, 4,050 m).
- 🐫 Camel-Supported Expedition All luggage, food, and camping equipment are transported by camels with experienced local handlers. Guests trek with only a daypack.
- 🏔️ Altitude & Acclimatization High camps reach around 3,000 m near Potanin Glacier. The itinerary is paced to support acclimatization, but good fitness is essential.
- 🍽️ Meals & Cooking A professional expedition cook travels with the group and prepares all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), including packed lunches on trekking days.
- 🏕️ Accommodation Expedition tent camping throughout the trek, with one hotel night in Ölgii. No permanent facilities inside the park.
- 🚿 Comfort in Remote Areas Portable shower and portable sitting toilet are available on request, as there are no hotels or restaurants inside Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.
- 🌦️ Weather & Flexibility Mountain weather can change quickly (wind, cold nights, occasional rain). The guide may adjust the route or timing for safety.
- 📡 Connectivity Very limited or no mobile signal during trekking days. This is a remote wilderness expedition.
- 🛡️ Safety & Responsibility Led by an experienced guide with local support crew. Comprehensive travel insurance (including evacuation) is strongly recommended.
- 🗓️ Best Season: July – September Outside this window, snow and weather make routes inaccessible.
🎒 What to Bring – Wild Altai Trek & Eagle Hunter Expedition
This is a remote, high-altitude, camel-supported expedition. You will trek with a daypack only, while all main luggage is carried by camels.
🥾 Clothing & Footwear
- Well broken-in hiking boots (ankle support recommended)
- Lightweight trekking shoes or sandals (camp use)
- Quick-dry trekking pants
- Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Warm fleece or insulated jacket
- Windproof & waterproof jacket
- Warm hat, sun hat & gloves
- Extra socks (wool or thermal)
🎒 Daypack Essentials (20–30 L)
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Snacks / energy bars
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Light rain cover
- Camera / phone
🏕️ Camping & Personal Items
- Headlamp or flashlight (with spare batteries)
- Personal toiletries & wet wipes
- Quick-dry towel
- Power bank (no electricity in the park)
- Earplugs (optional, windy nights)
🧴 Health & Safety
- Personal medications
- Basic first-aid items (blister care, pain relief)
- Hand sanitizer
- Motion sickness tablets (optional)
📄 Documents & Money
- Passport (copy recommended)
- Travel insurance documents
- Cash (no ATMs in remote areas)
❌ Not Needed
- Heavy backpack
- Cooking equipment
- Food supplies
- Camping tents or mats (All provided and transported by camels)
📌 Tip: Pack in a soft duffel bag, not a hard suitcase, for easier camel transport.
⭐ Why Choose This Tour – Altai Tavan Bogd & Malchin Peak Expedition
- 🏔️ Summit a 4,000 m Peak in Mongolia’s Highest Mountains This expedition includes a summit ascent of Malchin Peak (4,050 m), offering a true high-altitude achievement with incredible panoramic views.
- 🧊 Glacier Camp at Potanin Glacier Camp beside Potanin Glacier, Mongolia’s largest glacier, with views of Khüiten Peak—an experience few travelers ever have.
- 🥾 7 Days of Real Expedition Trekking Designed for adventurers, not casual hikers. Expect long, rewarding trekking days (16–25 km) across untouched terrain.
- 🐫 Fully Camel-Supported Comfort All luggage, food, and camping equipment are carried by camels, allowing you to focus on the trek without heavy packs.
- 🪨 Walk Through Ancient Nomadic History Trek through valleys filled with ancient Turkic petroglyphs, burial sites, and historic migration routes.
- 🐎 Authentic Kazakh Nomadic Encounters Visit summer pastures and meet Kazakh families living traditional nomadic lives in the Altai Mountains.
- 🏞️ Finish at the Iconic Khoton Lake Conclude the trek at Khoton Lake, one of western Mongolia’s most beautiful alpine lakes.
- 🦅 Eagle Hunter Family Experience Learn about the ancient art of hunting with golden eagles during a personal visit to a local eagle hunter family.
- 🍽️ Professional Cook & Strong Logistics Enjoy freshly prepared meals every day, even at high-altitude camps, with experienced guides and support staff.
- 🌌 True Wilderness, Far From Crowds Trek through one of the least-visited mountain regions in Central Asia, with pristine landscapes and star-filled night skies.
- This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a serious mountain expedition, deep cultural insight, and one of Mongolia’s most rewarding trekking experiences.
❓ FAQs – Wild Altai Trek, Waterfalls & Eagle Hunter Expedition
- Q: How difficult is this tour?
- A: The trek is Moderate to Challenging. It includes 7 trekking days with distances of 16–25 km, plus a summit ascent of Malchin Peak(4,050 m). Good fitness and stamina are essential.
- Q: Do I need mountaineering or technical climbing experience?
- A: No technical climbing skills are required. The Malchin Peak ascent is non-technical, but altitude and long distances make it physically demanding.
- Q: Will I carry my luggage?
- A: No. This is a fully camel-supported expedition. All luggage, food, and camping equipment are carried by camels. You hike with a daypack only.
- Q: What altitude do we sleep at?
- A: The highest overnight camp is around 3,000 m near Potanin Glacier. The itinerary allows for gradual acclimatization.
- Q: Where do we stay during the tour?
- A: Expedition tent camping during trekking days, and one hotel night in Ölgii at the end.
- Q: Are meals included?
- A: Yes. A professional cook prepares all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), including picnic lunches on trekking days.
- Q: Are showers and toilets available?
- A: There are no permanent facilities inside Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.
- Portable shower and portable sitting toilet are available on request.
- Q: What is the best time to join this expedition?
- A: July to September. Outside this period, snow and weather make routes unsafe or inaccessible.
- Q: What kind of weather should I expect?
- A: Mountain weather can change quickly. Expect warm days, cold nights, wind, and occasional rain—even in summer.
- Q: Is there mobile signal or Wi-Fi?
- A: Very limited or no signal during trekking days. This is a remote wilderness expedition.
- Q: Is travel insurance required?
- A: Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation, is strongly recommended.
- Q: How do we get to and from the tour?
- A: The tour starts in Ölgii and ends with a domestic flight to Ulaanbaatar (flight usually excluded unless requested).
- Q: Is this tour suitable for beginners?
- A: No. This expedition is best for experienced hikers or very fit travelers seeking a serious adventure.