Cycling tours
9-Day Eight Lakes Cycling Adventure
A demanding supported cycling route through volcanic valleys, forest trails and the Eight Lakes region.
Overview
Experience one of Mongolia's finest cycling routes through the spectacular Naiman Nuur (Eight Lakes) region. This adventure takes you through volcanic landscapes, alpine forests, mountain passes, pristine lakes, and the beautiful Orkhon Valley. Designed specifically for cycling enthusiasts, the tour minimizes vehicle use and maximizes time on two wheels in one of Mongolia's most scenic wilderness areas.
Photo gallery
Field images
4 photos
Itinerary
Day by day
Exact roads can change with weather and local conditions. Drive times shown here come from the itinerary notes.
01
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Drive: Airport – Hotel (52 km, 1–1.5 hrs)
Airport pickup Hotel check-in Bicycle fitting and equipment check Tour briefing Welcome dinner
02
Ulaanbaatar → Zuunbayan-ulaan Soum
Drive: 360 km (5–6 hrs)
Zuunbayan-Ulaan Sum is a rural district in central Mongolia characterized by wide-open steppes, rolling hills, and traditional nomadic landscapes. Located south of the Khangai Mountains, it offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Mongolia's pastoral way of life and serves as a gateway to the natural and cultural attractions of the region. Highlights Scenic drive through Central Mongolia Preparation for cycling expedition Visit local nomadic families
03-04
Zuunbayan-ulaan Soum → Eight Lakes Region
Cycling: 35–45 km (6–8 hrs) per day This cycling journey travels from Zuunbayan-Ulaan Sum into the spectacular Naiman Nuur (Eight Lakes) region. The route passes through vast steppes, forested valleys, and mountain landscapes, offering an exciting combination of adventure and scenery. As riders approach the Eight Lakes area, they are rewarded with breathtaking views of volcanic terrain, crystal-clear lakes, and the pristine wilderness of the Khangai Mountains....
05-06
Full Day Cycling Around Eight Lakes
Cycling: 25–35 km (5–7 hrs) per day Enjoy a full day of cycling through the breathtaking Naiman Nuur (Eight Lakes) region, one of Mongolia's most scenic natural areas. The route winds through volcanic landscapes, forested hills, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, offering spectacular views at every turn. This active adventure provides excellent opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, and experiencing the pristine beauty of the Khangai Mountains....
07
Eight Lakes → Ulaantsutgalan Waterfall
Cycling: 35–45 km (4–5 hrs) This scenic cycling route leads from the stunning Naiman Nuur (Eight Lakes) region to Ulaantsutgalan Waterfall. Riding through the beautiful Khangai Mountains and Orkhon Valley, cyclists enjoy a diverse landscape of forests, grasslands, volcanic terrain, and nomadic pastures. The journey culminates at Mongolia's most famous waterfall, offering spectacular scenery and a rewarding end to the ride. Highlights Final cycling stage Visit Ulaantsutgalan Waterfall Explore the Orkhon Valley
08
Ulaantsutgalan Waterfall → Ulaanbaatar
Drive: 500 km (7–9 hrs)
Highlights Drive to Ulaanbaatar
09
Departure
Drive: Hotel → Airport (52 km, 1–1.5 hrs)
Highlights Airport transfer End of expedition
What’s included
Airport pickup and airport transfer in Ulaanbaatar
All ground transportation during the tour (4WD vehicle with driver)
English-speaking tour guide
Hotel in Ulaanbaatar
Ger camps in the countryside
All meals during the countryside tour (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Entrance fees to national parks and sightseeing areas
Bottled drinking water during the trip
Fuel and road fees
Not included
International and domestic airfare
Travel insurance
Mongolian visa fee (if required)
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, minibar, etc.)
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Tips for the guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Additional hotel nights in Ulaanbaatar outside the program
Packing notes
Warm layered clothing (temperature swings are big)
Windproof jacket (very important)
Waterproof boots
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Personal medications
Power bank / spare batteries
Field notes
Roads are rough → expect long, bumpy drives
No paved roads in many areas
Remote regions → limited shops & facilities
Nights can be cold even in summer
Can change quickly: sun, wind, cold in one day
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