Nomadic Mongolia Bike Tour

I joined the Cycle Mongolia Tour without any previous mountain bike experience but with only one recent 5 day tour on hybrid bike on mostly paved roads. Though the first day to acclimatize with the terrain and cycling 45km was manageable, I found the next few days cycling increasing distances hard going especially with the ascents through steep mountain passes. The terrain and itinerary would better suit cyclists with intermediate and above with regular off road cycling and some camping experience. Fortunately, the support van for our group of 6 riders was readily available to pick those who wished to avoid certain segments of the daily trail. The 4 support staff were superb especially our guide, Zolo and the chef, Suugii. After initial hiccups when a bike broke, they managed the challenging circumstances of setting up camp even on windy or rainy days incredibly well. The chef conjured up meals comprable, if not better than some restaurants in Ulaanbaater, sometimes from the back of the other support van at short notice. Our guide and the support van drivers had the unenviable task of ensuring our safety throughout our tour, constantly monitoring stragglers and the frontrunners to ensure we didn't get lost or injured in the vast grassy plains and the steep mountain passes. The camps were often sited in remote sites with spectacular views, on grassy plains, hilltops, by river banks or lakes. As a novice, after 5 days of continuous camping, I found that the Gers were a welcome change after camping in the wilderness. The staff provided sleeping mats, plenty of potable water and other essentials. I found that it was critical to follow the advisory of what to bring before the tour especially a warm and good quality sleeping bag, and thermals and water proof clothing. The difference in temperature between day and night is significant even in middle of August. Wearing layers is advisable. I found the outdoor pit toilet to be much more user friendly than expected, and the views from the toilet seat facing away from the camp site can be truly amazing. My only gripe as a novice camper is the difficulty in having a proper shower in a shower tent, with a dribbly flow of water and having to constantly manually foot pump the warm water from the plastic tank placed on the ground. This can be challenging on a wet or windy late afternoon. Having a dip in the river and using the shower facilities in Ger camps were a refreshing change. On the whole, the tour was very enjoyable with incredible views and experience of the Mongolian wilderness. 

...I can honestly say it is the best tour I have ever done and I would highly recommend it.
Our guide Zolo was amazing. He was very passionate and knowledgeable about Mongolia and Mongolian culture. He attended to everyone’s needs in our group and was a caring, happy, safety conscious and helpful person.
The biking experience was challenging at times but overall extremely enjoyable.
The back up vehicles were always readily available if any members wanted a rest.
The landscape was beautiful and the kindness of the local people we met on the way was humbling.
[The operator] is a well organized company with very helpful drivers and perfect vehicles for the terrain.
I was the only vegetarian in our group however the meals that were made were tasty, nutritious, filling and never repetitive. Top marks to the wonderful chef!
One day I’d like to return to Mongolia and I would certainly use [the operator]  again.

We enjoyed the wonderful ... bicycle tour in August, 2024. Our bicycle guide Samba was excellent; considerate, informative and flexible, adjusting the programme to suit the needs of our family group. Our group was also well supported by two drivers, Sanaa and Baagir, and chef Aziaka, who all patiently and tirelessly looked after our transport and catering requirements throughout the whole 13 day trip through Mongolia. A memorable experience.