Overview
Horseback riding across the Mongolian steppe is the quintessential Mongolian experience. Day-trip operators near Ulaanbaatar offer half-day and full-day rides through grasslands, river valleys, and forests, led by local herder families who have ridden since childhood.
Highlights
- Steppe landscape: Ride across endless grasslands with mountain backdrops and no fences in sight.
- Nomadic hosts: Meet herder families, share airag (fermented mare's milk), and learn about traditional livestock.
- Mongolian horses: Hardy, semi-wild horses that have been bred by nomads for millennia — an experience unlike riding domesticated horses.
History
The Mongolian horse has been central to steppe culture for over 4,000 years. The Mongol Empire was built on horseback, and today Mongolia has 3.9 million horses — outnumbering the human population. Riding remains an essential life skill in rural areas.
Visitor Tips
- Tip 1: Book through a reputable operator — most pick up from UB hotels and provide helmets and basic instruction.
- Tip 2: Wear long trousers and sturdy closed-toe shoes. No riding experience is necessary.
- Duration: Half day (3–4 hours) or full day.