
Cycling tours
7-Day Central Mongolian Cycling Adventure
Cycle through Central Mongolian steppe, semi-desert and heritage landscapes with support crew.
Overview
This exciting cycling tour explores the beautiful landscapes surrounding Ulaanbaatar, including the open steppes of Sergelen Sum and the scenic valleys of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Riders experience a mix of rolling grasslands, granite mountains, river valleys, and traditional nomadic culture while enjoying an active adventure close to Mongolia's capital. The tour is ideal for cyclists seeking nature, culture, and stunning scenery in a short timeframe.
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 → Sergelen Sum → Nalaikh
Drive: 70 km (1.5–2.5 hrs)
Cycling: 50 km After a morning drive from Ulaanbaatar to Sergelen Sum, begin your cycling adventure through the scenic steppes of central Mongolia. The route to Nalaikh passes through rolling grasslands, gentle hills, and traditional nomadic landscapes, offering a great introduction to Mongolia's countryside and cycling terrain. Highlights Scenic drive from Ulaanbaatar to Sergelen Sum First day of cycling through Mongolia's vast open steppe Experience traditional nomadic landscapes and herder camps
03
Nalaikh → Tsonjin Boldog
Cycling: 50 km Cycle from Nalaikh to Tsonjin Boldog, passing through scenic steppe landscapes and river valleys. The route offers beautiful views of Mongolia's countryside, traditional nomadic settlements, and open grasslands. Highlights Scenic cycling through open steppe Excellent opportunities for photography
04
Tsonjin Boldog → Tuul river
Cycling: 40 km Cycle from Tsonjin Boldog toward the scenic Tuul River, following peaceful countryside roads through rolling grasslands and river valley landscapes. The route offers beautiful views, opportunities to observe birdlife and wildlife, and a chance to experience the tranquility of Mongolia's natural environment. Highlights Scenic cycling through steppe and river valley landscapes Mountain viewpoints Photography opportunities Nomadic herder encounters
05
Tuul river → Terelj
Drive: 8-12 km
Cycling: 35 km Cycle from the Tuul River valley toward the scenic Terelj River, gradually entering the beautiful landscapes of the Terelj region. The route passes through rolling hills, forested valleys, and open grasslands, offering stunning views and a chance to experience Mongolia's diverse natural scenery. As you approach the Terelj River, dramatic granite formations and lush riverbanks create one of the most picturesque cycling sections of the tour....
06
Terelj → Ulaanbaatar
Drive: 60 km (1.5–2.5 hrs)
Highlights Drive to Ulaanbaatar Free afternoon for sightseeing or shopping
07
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
Recommended tours
Similar journeys to consider
Cycling tours9-Day Eight Lakes Cycling Adventure
A demanding supported cycling route through volcanic valleys, forest trails and the Eight Lakes region.
From $2,200per person
A day toursKhustai National Park - Private Day Tour
Track the world’s last truly wild horses across open steppe near Ulaanbaatar.
From $170per person
A day toursHiking Tsetsee Gun Peak & Visiting Manzushir Monastery - Private Day Tour
Hike through forest to Bogd Khan Mountain’s high ridges and visit historic Manzushir Monastery.
From $160per person