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Mongolia Bike Tour: 10-Day MTB in the Orkhon Valley

10 days | Moderate to Challenging | 5.00
From $4,900 ()
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I usually tell riders to forget everything they know about trail maps before coming to Mongolia. Out here in the Orkhon Valley, the whole landscape is the trail system. We ride across rolling steppe, volcanic ridges, and quiet nomadic paths that seem to run straight to the horizon. Some days it’s smooth, flowing grassland singletrack; other days we pack the bikes and disappear into the wild for a three-day bikepacking loop, camping beneath Mongolia’s famously massive skies. No crowds, no bike parks—just big terrain, good miles, and the kind of riding that reminds you why you bought a mountain bike in the first place. This unique expedition runs only once a year in the summer, making it a rare chance to ride one of the wildest landscapes on Earth.

Tangi
Tangi

Adventure Highlights

  • Endless steppe riding: Pedal across Mongolia’s vast grasslands, volcanic hills, and river valleys in the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley
  • Yurt sweet yurt: Stay in traditional gers (yurts) at the Genghis Khan Retreat, a comfortable base in the heart of the Orkhon Valley
  • Nomad trails & monasteries: Discover ancient herding routes and visit the remote mountaintop Tövkhön Monastery
Duration
10 days
Season
August through September
Group size
Up to 20 people
Accommodation
Standard, Comfort: Traditional Mongolian gers (yurts), wilderness camping, and a luxury steppe retreat
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging: Great fitness and MTB skills required, riding up to 70 km (43 mi) & 3–7 hours per day, with up to 500 m (1,640 ft) of elevation gain
What's included
Guide, all meals and drinks, airport transfers, support vehicle, national park permits and more

The adventure, day by day

This 10-day Mongolia bike tour takes riders deep into the wild landscapes of the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vast steppe, volcanic terrain, and nomadic culture. Using a comfortable retreat as our base, we explore flowing grassland trails and ridgelines before heading out on a three-day bikepacking loop through Mongolia’s remote wilderness. Along the way we ride ancient herding paths, visit the mountaintop Tövkhön Monastery, and camp beneath Mongolia’s famously massive skies. With experienced guides, full support, and all logistics handled, this trip blends real adventure riding with cultural immersion in one of the most unique mountain biking destinations on Earth.

Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Arrival in Mongolia

Arrive in Mongolia’s capital, Ulaanbaatar. Depending on your arrival time, we either transfer toward the Orkhon Valley or spend the night in the hotel in the city before continuing deeper into Mongolia the following morning. It’s a relaxed start designed to help everyone settle in and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Disclaimer: If you arrive late at night, you can stay in a hotel in the city at your own expense (with a guide’s discount).

Accommodation: Genghis Khan Retreat
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to the Orkhon Valley & warm-up ride
Orkhon valley view in Mongolia

We drive about 5–6 hours into the Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for sweeping steppe landscapes and deep nomadic history. After settling into our gers at the retreat, we assemble bikes and head out for a relaxed warm-up ride through the surrounding hills—perfect for stretching the legs and catching a Mongolian sunset.

Accommodation: Genghis Khan Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Riding: 3–5 hours
Elevation gain: 300 m (984 ft)

Day 3: Riding the Orkhon Valley trails
Two bikers in Mongolia

Today we explore the surrounding ridgelines and steppe trails of the valley. Expect rolling terrain, flowing grassland tracks, and big open views in every direction. Shuttle support allows us to focus on the best descents if desired, and the afternoon leaves time to relax or try activities at the retreat.

Accommodation: Genghis Khan Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Riding: 3–5 hours
Elevation gain: 400 m (1,312 ft)

Day 4: More steppe riding
Yak in Mongolia

Another full day exploring the valley’s terrain. Nomadic tracks wind through grassy hills and volcanic features, occasionally passing herder camps and grazing livestock. In the evening we prepare gear for the upcoming bikepacking loop.

Accommodation: Genghis Khan Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Riding: 3–5 hours
Elevation gain: 400 m (1,312 ft)

Day 5: Bikepacking begins — along the Orkhon River
Biker near river in Mongolia

Our bikepacking journey begins as we follow the Orkhon River deeper into Mongolia’s wilderness. The trail winds through dramatic canyon landscapes, volcanic terrain, and wide open steppe as we ride toward our first remote campsite.

Accommodation: Wilderness camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Riding: 60 km (37 mi), 5–6 hours
Elevation gain: 300 m (984 ft)

Day 6: Across the steppe to the waterfall
Happy campers in Mongolia

Today’s ride crosses vast grasslands in Övörkhangai Province. The horizon stretches endlessly, occasionally broken by volcanic rock formations and small streams. Along the way we visit a beautiful waterfall before setting up camp near a peaceful river.

Accommodation: Wilderness camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Riding: 60 km (37 mi), 5–6 hours
Elevation gain: 200 m (656 ft)

Day 7: Climb to Tövkhön Monastery
Monastery in Mongolia

We climb steadily toward the sacred Tövkhön Monastery, perched high above forests and steppe landscapes. The effort is rewarded with sweeping views and a visit to one of Mongolia’s most spiritual sites before we camp nearby.

Accommodation: Wilderness camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Riding: 65 km (40 mi), 6–7 hours
Elevation gain: 500 m (1,640 ft)

Day 8: Ride back to the retreat
Rocks biking in Mongolia

Our final day of the bikepacking loop leads through rolling hills and wide open steppe back to our retreat in the valley. After several nights camping in the wilderness, returning to a hot meal and comfortable bed feels especially rewarding.

Accommodation: Genghis Khan Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Riding: 70 km (43 mi), 6–7 hours
Elevation gain: 200 m (656 ft)

Day 9: Final riding or camp activities
Activities in Mongolia

Today is flexible. Ride more local trails or enjoy activities at the retreat such as horse riding, kayaking, archery, fishing, or massage treatments. It’s the perfect way to wind down after the bikepacking adventure.

Accommodation: Genghis Khan Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Riding: 3–5 hours
Elevation gain: 400 m (1,312 ft)

Day 10: Return to Ulaanbaatar
Goodbye Mongolia

After breakfast we begin the drive back to Ulaanbaatar, reflecting on an unforgettable journey through Mongolia’s vast steppe landscapes.

Meals: Breakfast

Photo gallery

Lodging & food

Adventure, packed to go

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Tangi
5.00
Tangi
Tangi first came to Nepal in 2002 for high-altitude training, but quickly fell in love with the country’s trails, culture, and people. Based in the Solukhumbu region, he spent years developing a network of world-class mountain biking trails, now home to the annual Ratnange Enduro race. With over two decades of pioneering experience, Tangi continues to explore and open new riding destinations across Asia.
Suriya
5.00
Suriya
Suriya discovered his passion for mountain biking at 17 while riding the remote trails around Phaplu in Nepal. Since then, he has explored rugged landscapes across Asia, from Himalayan valleys to the vast steppes of Mongolia. Today, Suriya helps create authentic mountain biking adventures, sharing some of the region’s most remarkable terrain with riders from around the world.
Mike
5.00
Mike
Mike, a veteran rider and professional guide from the UK, has spent years sharing his passion for mountain biking with riders of all levels. Whether guiding experienced pros or helping newer riders build confidence on the trail, he’s known for his calm leadership and technical expertise. A true pioneer of mountain biking in India, Mike brings unmatched knowledge of the region and leads adventures there.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)
C
Catanyra

One of the toughest and most unforgettable bike trips I’ve ever had. Incredible places, breathtaking landscapes, and best of all: the amazing company!

S
Samuel

The most amazing ride I’ve ever been on. I could not believe how long the downhill was. Going through all kinds of different terrains!

A
Ade Gidney

One of the most amazing landscapes I’ve had the pleasure of riding in with Tangi.

5.00(3 reviews)
C
Catanyra

One of the toughest and most unforgettable bike trips I’ve ever had. Incredible places, breathtaking landscapes, and best of all: the amazing company!

S
Samuel

The most amazing ride I’ve ever been on. I could not believe how long the downhill was. Going through all kinds of different terrains!

A
Ade Gidney

One of the most amazing landscapes I’ve had the pleasure of riding in with Tangi.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An experienced, local biking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 10-day Mongolia bike tour
      • Accommodation for 9 nights in retreats with traditional Mongolian gers (yurts), and wilderness camps
      • All meals (9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners) and drinks (including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages)
      • A bike mechanic
      • 4×4 transportation throughout the trip
      • Airport pick-up and drop-off
      • Support vehicle throughout the trip
      • Camping equipment during the bikepacking section
      • National park permits
      • Activities at the Genghis Khan Retreat (massage, archery, kayaking, horse riding, fishing)

    Add-ons (available to add at checkout):

      • Mountain bike rental (Commencal Meta HT)
      • Single occupancy room

    Not included:

      • Flights
      • Gear rentals
      • Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
      • Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
      • Guide gratuities — optional
  • This trip is best suited for riders with intermediate mountain biking skills. You should be comfortable riding singletrack, uneven terrain, and small obstacles.

    Expect daily riding up to 70 km (43 mi), from 3 to 7 hours, with up to 500 m (1,640 ft) in elevation, with longer days during the bikepacking loop. A good level of fitness is recommended, and preparation rides on varied terrain before the trip will help ensure you get the most out of the experience.

  • Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

      • Day bag pack for rides
      • Cycling shoes
      • Cycling clothing
      • Eye protection (riding goggles/sunglasses)
      • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
      • Light jacket for riding
      • Insulation layers for cooler conditions (puffy jacket, long-sleeve base layers)
      • Personal toiletries
      • Sunscreen
      • Sunglasses
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

    Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!

  • High-quality Commencal Meta HT mountain bikes are available to rent for an additional cost if you prefer not to bring your own bike. This modern hardtail is built for aggressive trail riding, with a lightweight aluminum frame, stable geometry, and long-travel front suspension that performs well on everything from flowing steppe trails to rougher terrain. Durable, playful, and efficient on climbs, it’s a reliable option for tackling Mongolia’s vast and varied landscapes.

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For this Mongolia bike tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 3:1. 
      • It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 20 participants.

    A Mongolia bike tour can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Mongolia bike tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • The starting point of your Mongolia bike tour is Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. To get there, most people fly into Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN). 

    Your guides will meet you at the airport on Day 1 and you’ll be transported to the Orkhon Valley. 

    We can transfer you directly to the Genghis Khan Retreat in The Orkhon Valley, or if you arrive late in the night then we suggest spending a night in a hotel before transferring to camp. We have special rates for our guests with our partner hotel in Ulaanbaatar.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

  • Deposits

    Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

    Basic

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Flexible

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Super Flexible

      • If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If cancelled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If cancelled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
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