10-Daagse Begeleide Enduro Motortrip op de Eindeloze Mongoolse Steppe

This is the landscape that GoBeyond and its guests motorbike through each year. This Mongolian adventure is the only tour where the itinerary isn’t set in stone. While the route is carefully planned, the itinerary can change at a moment’s notice based on the weather and road conditions encountered, combined with the inconceivable size of the steppe. It’s easy to get lost, but luckily GoBeyond always travels with local guides. Based on their vast experience, the perfect route is planned and recalibrated accordingly. Of course, the trip’s highlights are maintained, no matter what. As the locals might say (and it’s the right kind of attitude for this trip): expect the unexpected.

The itinerary includes some amazing stops. For example, in the hot springs of the Övörkhangai province, guests can relax their tired bodies. The group visits the former capital of Mongolia, Karakorum, where colorful temples are surrounded by ancient city walls—a sight like no other. The Tövkhön Monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Mongolia, is also on the itinerary; it’s perched atop a mountain with an awesome view that can only be reached on horseback or by trekking.

In total, the group rides 1,100 kilometers during the 8-day round trip before returning to Ulaanbaatar. The tour requires confidence on the motorcycle, as more than half the route is off-road. Riders will traverse mud, grass, sand, and rivers. For those who don’t want to ride, it is possible to book a space on the tour bus, which is an UAZ, by the way, and just looking at this relic from socialist times is an adventure in itself.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival

After arriving in Ulaanbaatar, guests check into the hotel and have some time to relax. In the afternoon, the group visits Zaisan Hill to see a World War II memorial and the eclectic skyline of the city. In the evening, everyone explores the local cuisine at an authentic Mongolian restaurant.

Day 2 - Pick up the bikes and start the tour

After breakfast, the group collects the bikes and heads west to Hustai National Park, home to the world's only remaining wild horses, the takhi. A short warm-up ride gets everyone used to the bikes, followed by an evening in a private yurt camp near the national park.

Day 3 - Danshig Naadam and the sand dunes of the Little Gobi

The journey continues to the Little Gobi Desert, where participants can experience riding motorbikes on real desert sand dunes. The group visits the largest Mongolian Buddhist religious festival, Danshig Naadam, enjoying the classic Mongolian national sports of archery, wrestling, and horse riding, as well as the ritual religious Tsam dance, performed in traditional costume. The night is spent in a yurt camp next to the desert.

Day 4 - Kharkhorin

The group arrives in Kharkhorin, the former capital of the ancient Mongol Empire, and visits the Buddhist monastery built on the ruins of the ancient capital.

Day 5 - Orkhon waterfall

After crossing creeks and visiting the magnificent Orkhon waterfall, the group stays overnight in a family’s yurt camp on the bank of the Orkhon River. Here, participants can try milking a yak, riding horses, tasting kumis, or even helping with building the yurts.

Day 6 - Tsenkher hot springs

Today's journey takes the group through rolling countryside, with only a few yurts and wandering herds of yaks and camels in the distance. The camp is next to the Tsenkher spring, and everyone relaxes in the thermal water after arriving.

Day 7 - Lake Ugii

The group drives along winding, tire-marked roads to one of Mongolia's largest lakes, inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1998 for its diverse bird and fish populations.

Day 8 - Back to Hustai National Park

The group returns to Hustai National Park on a mostly tarmac road, though some off-roading is still part of the day. On the western, sandy side of the park, everyone enjoys another night of local hospitality in a yurt camp.

Day 9 - Ulaanbaatar

The group rides back to Ulaanbaatar, spending the last night in a comfortable hotel. A farewell dinner is a must, and for those with energy left, a visit to the local nightlife may follow before heading home.

Day 10 - Flying home

Transfer to the airport for the flight home, leaving with everlasting memories and new friendships.

The program is subject to change at any time. The final itinerary depends on current weather conditions and the endurance of the group.

Motorcycle package

Eight-day enduro motorcycle rental of Suzuki DRZ 400 or GasGas – KTM 350. Professional local motorcycle guide with mechanic and backup van. Petrol and daily motorcycle maintenance are included in the price. GoBeyond motorcycle tour guide with years of experience. GoBeyond’s official motorbike gear partner is FUEL, gear up for Mongolia on their site with a special discount code for our guests.

Riding gear

Every rider must bring their own motorcycle protective gear and helmet. GoBeyond does not recommend wearing leather motorbike suits as the group will not be riding fast, and the weather will mostly be warm. It’s a good idea to wear either durable high-top hiking boots, real biking boots, or even dirt bike boots. GoBeyond strongly recommends bringing good protective gear, as small falls can occur while riding off-road. It’s advisable to have a mesh layer of gear (for use in hotter locations) with the option to add a windbreaker or waterproof layer. Bringing two pairs of gloves is useful as well, in case a change is necessary. Additionally, packing thermal underwear is a good idea, just in case, though it's probably not needed at this time of year. GoBeyond’s official motorbike gear partner is FUEL, where riders can gear up for Mongolia with a special discount code available for GoBeyond guests.

Local transportation

Classic and reliable 4×4 UAZ SUVs are used for airport transfers and as a support vehicle for the tour. The uncompromising Suzuki DRZ 400 Enduro, with its lightweight frame and 400cc engine, handles the varied terrain of the steppe with ease, whether it’s rutted dirt, single track, river crossings, or mud. For those who prefer, the GasGas – KTM 350 engine elevates the experience with a robust chassis and advanced suspension for even better handling on rough terrain.

Activities and sights

Besides the best off-road motorcycle ride on the vast steppe, GoBeyond offers a firsthand experience of the unique nomadic Mongolian lifestyle, culture, and cuisine. Participants visit the largest religious festival, Danshig Naadam, where they can admire the Tsam dance, an incredible ritual performed by Tibetan Buddhists in colorful masks. The festival also features classic Mongolian national games such as horse racing, wrestling, and archery. Riders venture to off-the-beaten-track destinations, witnessing untouched natural beauty and distinct wildlife, including yaks, camels, and eagles. Visits to ancient monasteries and sacred spots provide a glimpse into Mongolia's fascinating Buddhist culture.

Skill level required for this tour: Advanced

• can ride for 5 - 6 hours
• extensive riding experience
• assistance on demand (if required)
• experienced with riding a variety of motorcycles
• comfortable with any terrain and weather conditions