Climbing Mt. Khuiten, 4374 m (Mongolia)

Itinerary:  

Day 1. By flight to Ulgii and enter the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Ulgii/Olgii is the highest-altitude aimag (province) in Mongolia, lying mostly within the rugged Mongolian Altai mountain region. It is renowned for the centuries-old tradition of hunting with trained golden eagles — with an estimated 80% of the world’s eagle hunters living here. Upon arrival at the local airport, you will be greeted by our local team, including your driver, English-speaking tour guide, and cook. From there, we will set off on a scenic 180 km journey from Olgii to the entrance of Altai Tavan Bogd NP. Be prepared the road can be very bumpy, but the striking landscapes along the way make it an unforgettable ride. Overnight in tent at entrance of the national park. (-/L/D) 

Day 2. Hike to the base camp (3095 m)
We leave the vehicle in Tsagaan Gol valley and start hiking from the entrance of the National park to the base camp. The team camels and horses with guides will join today. Baggage and all stuffs needed will be loaded on the camel. After 16km trekking you will reach one of the longest Potanine glacier which is surrounded with snow-capped peaks of Altai Tavan Bogd mountains. Overnight in a tent. (B/L/D).

Day 3. Hike to the high camp Khonog Tolgol (3775 m)
Today we start out early for the hike up to the high camp Khonog Tolgoi below the Mount Khuiten (6-7hrs), carrying all our own gear. The route follows the right hand side of the Potanine Glacier, before dropping onto the glacier itself where we rope up and continue up the centre of the glacier for about 8kms. Looking back you will see that classic view of a spectacular glacier flowing away into the distance. We should arrive at the high camp early in the afternoon leaving plenty of time to explore or relax. Overnight in tents. (B/L/D).

Dag 4 & Dag 5 Climb to the summit of Mt. Khuiten peak (4374 m)
Wake up early morning at 5:00 AM. It is important to make sure that weather is going to be alright. After an alpine start, we cross the glacier to begin our ascent, climbing snow-slopes of varying angle. The group will climb roped-together, since there are crevasses on our route. The middle part of the route follows straightforward mixed terrain on a rocky ridge and, if conditions dictate, we may fix ropes on a couple of short, steep sections. On the top you have opportunity to see three countries at the same time, with China to the south and Russia on the north. These are spectacular climbs in a wild and remote part of the world with amazing views. We return to the camp via the same route. Overnight in tents. (B/L/D).

Day 6. Descending to the base camp
From the peak we walk down to the base camp still enjoying the vies of the glacier. (B/L/D).

Day 7. Trekking to the vally of  the White river
After breakfast you will hike to the Tsagaan gol (white river) valley. It is called the white-colored river because it gathers white dust, earth and sediments from the glaciers of Altai Tavan Bogd. The trek is approximately five-six hours. Have a rest, relax and enjoy the remote area. There will be time in evening to hike to the beautiful twin mountain lakes. Overnight in a tent. (B/L/D).

Day 8. Sagsai village and visit to an eagle hunter's family
Today you will drive by car to the small village of Sagsai, picturesquely situated on the bank of the Khovd River. Here you will visit a nomadic eagle hunter’s family—one of the most important experiences in this area. Each day you will have plenty of opportunities to talk with the eagle hunter, photograph the golden eagle, and get acquainted with the nomadic lifestyle and their rich culture. You are welcome to ask any questions, and the hunter will gladly answer them, demonstrate his eagle, and share fascinating information about the training of these wild birds. You will also enjoy tasting traditional milk products and experiencing the warm hospitality of the local Kazakh nomads. Overnight  in a yurt. (B/L/D).

Day 9. Back to Ulaanbaatar by flight
After breakfast you will be driven to the local airport with your guide for your return flight to Ulaanbaatar. Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, free activities for personal exploration. Farewell dinner. Overnight in a hotel. (B/L/D).

Day 10. Time to say good bye
Transfer to Chingis khan international airport and farewell to Mongolia. (-/-/-)

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PRACTICAL INFORMATION:

• Wheather: Summer in Mongolia runs from early June to mid-September. Days are often warm and dry with occasional rain, but temperatures can vary by up to 20 °C between day and night. In Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, weather conditions are especially changeable, so visitors should be prepared for all types of weather. As mountain weather is unpredictable, we recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag rated to at least –15 °C.
• Domestic flight Ulanbaatar-Olgii (Ulgii): The allowance for the domestic flight is 15 kg of checked luggage and 5 kg of hand luggage.
• During the climb: The trek accommodation is usually in 2-person tents. A single tent can also be arranged upon request at an extra fee. There are no permanent toilet facilities, but a simple and hygienic outdoor setup is provided at each camp.

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