When I first arrived in Ulaanbaatar, I had no idea how easy it would be to immerse myself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle of Mongolia. Staying in the city for a few days, I chatted with a friendly hostel owner who suggested I visit her family living out in the countryside. The warmth and hospitality I felt from her and everyone I met in Mongolia made me feel at home right away. It was clear that these connections were genuine, and I eagerly accepted her offer. What followed was an unforgettable five-day journey that took me deep into the heart of Mongolia, where I stayed with a nomadic family and experienced their way of life firsthand.
The journey itself was an adventure. We traveled in an old Soviet van from the ’70s, bouncing along what could barely be called roads. The two-day drive to reach the ger camp was grueling but beautiful, offering endless views of Mongolia’s vast, untouched landscapes. Along the way, we passed rolling hills covered in wildflowers, dense forests of Siberian larch, and patches of vibrant Edelweiss. The beauty of the countryside was breathtaking, with open plains stretching as far as the eye could see, dotted with yaks, camels, and the occasional herd of wild horses. Riding horses through this rugged terrain was a highlight of the trip, as it allowed me to connect with the land in a way that felt deeply personal.
Arriving at the ger camp, I was greeted by the family with open arms. Their way of life was simple yet rich in tradition. The grandfather, a wise and gentle man, shared stories of their nomadic heritage through his granddaughter, who spoke English. I felt a deep respect for their resilience and connection to the land. They shared their meals with me, which consisted mostly of hearty soups made from mutton, fresh dairy products, and a type of dumpling called buuz. While the food was far from gourmet, it was nourishing and made with love. I also tried their local alcoholic drinks, like fermented mare’s milk and a strong spirit made from distilled yogurt—both of which were an acquired taste!
During my stay, I spent hours wandering the surrounding landscape, exploring the rocky outcrops and following the winding creeks. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of wild thyme and juniper. At night, the sky was a dazzling display of stars, unpolluted by city lights. I would sit outside the ger, wrapped in a warm blanket, sipping tea and marveling at the Milky Way stretching across the sky. The tranquility of the Mongolian countryside was unlike anything I had ever experienced, offering a peaceful solitude that allowed me to reflect and recharge.
The entire experience cost me about $120, which covered the transportation, some meals, and the stay with the family. It was incredibly affordable, especially considering the rich cultural exchange and the memories I brought home with me. This trip was not just a vacation; it was a deep dive into a way of life that is rapidly disappearing. I would highly recommend visiting Mongolia to anyone seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure, as long as they’re not too picky about the food! The kindness of the people, the beauty of the landscape, and the experience of living with a nomadic family made it a journey I’ll never forget.