BLUE PEARL ICE FESTIVAL &
TSAATAN SHOW FESTIVAL TOUR 2026

Accommodations

Tour grade: Easy & Moderate

8 Nights / 9 Days

Full board

3 nights in hotels

TOUR OVERVIEW

Have you ever wondered how nomads survive with their herds of pastoral animals in temperatures as low as -30°C? Or have you dreamed of an extraordinary experience like riding Mongolian horses or enjoying a thrilling sleigh ride across the snow-covered, vast steppe? Perhaps you’ve always wanted to skate on natural black ice, up to 1.5 meters thick?

All your winter dreams can come true in Mongolia! This unique tour offers the incredible opportunity to attend two unforgettable festivals: the Blue Pearl Ice Festival and the Snow-Reindeer Festival.

At the Blue Pearl Ice Festival on Lake Khuvsgul, you’ll create memories to last a lifetime. The festival will feature an exciting mix of activities, including:

Shamanic live performances
Sumo wrestling on ice
Horse sleigh competitions
Ice driving and much more!

But that's not all – you can also enjoy optional adventures such as dog sledding, horseback riding, and visits to reindeer herders and nomadic families.

The Snow-Reindeer Festival is another highlight, where you’ll witness how the Darkhad and Tsaatan people survive in the remote Taiga, adapting to the harsh winter environment. Experience traditional winter sports, including reindeer races and Khaag ski racing, and immerse yourself in the unique lifestyle of these incredible people. Learn how they’ve lived off reindeer herding and hunting for centuries, and discover their fascinating food and drink culture.

This is more than just a tour – it’s an adventure into the heart of Mongolia’s winter beauty and nomadic traditions. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1.

DEPARTURE DAY (28 Feb)

On this day, our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and start the city tour.

During the tour, you’ll get the chance to explore several key attractions, including:

Chinggis Khan Square
National History Museum
Gandan Tegchilen Monastery
Then lunch

After lunch, we’ll head to the Ulaanbaatar Railway Station for your overnight train to Erdenet. Settle into your comfortable sleeper cabin and enjoy the views of Mongolia’s beautiful countryside as the train moves north. The calm ride is a perfect time to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and get ready for the adventures ahead.

Rest well as the gentle motion of the train rocks you to sleep.

Sustainable travel

DAY 2.

DRIVE TO KHUVSGUL LAKE, NORTHERN MONGOLIA (1 Mar)

Meet your driver in Erdenet as you step off the train. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your drive through stunning winter scenery toward Murun, the provincial capital.

From Murun, continue to Khuvsgul Lake, often called “The Blue Pearl of Mongolia.” The full journey takes about 6–7 hours.

Upon arrival, you’ll get your first look at the lake’s breathtaking blue-white frozen surface before checking into your ger (yurt) camp, which will serve as your home base for the next two days. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace.

a train is driving through the winter forest.

DAY 3-4.

ATTEND BLUE PEARL KHUVSGUL LAKE ICE FESTIVAL (2-3 Mar)

Get ready to immerse yourself in the thrilling and magical atmosphere of the Ice Festival at Khuvsgul Lake. This unique event offers a wide array of exciting activities set against the breathtaking winter landscape.

Highlights include:

Tug of War on the Ice – a fun, traditional competition
Ice Skating on the crystal-clear, natural black ice of Khuvsgul Lake
Horse Racing across the ice – watch the incredible speed and agility of Mongolian horses on the frozen lake
Horseback Riding – an opportunity to ride across the stunning snow-covered steppe
Shamanic Visit – experience a traditional Mongolian shaman ceremony and learn about local spiritual practices
Singing and Dancing – enjoy vibrant performances of Mongolian folk songs and dances
Ice Games and Sports – including games similar to curling, offering a fun way to engage with local traditions

The Ice Festival is an unforgettable opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of Mongolia while enjoying the thrill of winter sports and activities. Overnight stay at our cosy tourist camp.

sustainable travel

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DAY 5.

DRIVE TO JARGANT RIVER, RENCHINLUMBE VILLAGE (4 Mar)

This morning, after enjoying a hearty breakfast at the tourist camp, we will begin our drive toward Renchinlumbe village. The route takes us deeper into the remote and peaceful landscapes of northern Mongolia.

Our main highlight today is the Jargant River, a beautiful mountain river known for its crystal-clear water and untouched natural surroundings. The river flows through wide valleys and forested hills, creating stunning scenery in every season. In winter, parts of the river freeze into intricate ice patterns, while unfrozen sections remain bright and clear, reflecting the surrounding mountains. The area is also home to wildlife such as elk and smaller mountain animals, and it’s an important source of water for local herders.

Upon arrival, you’ll have time to walk along the riverbanks, take photos, and enjoy the quiet, pristine nature that makes the Jargant River one of the hidden gems of the region.

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our cozy tourist camp

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DAY 6

VISIT TSAATAN FAMILY, ZUUN TAIGA (5 Mar)

Early this morning, after enjoying breakfast at our cozy tourist camp, we will set out for Tsagaan Nuur village, a remote community surrounded by forests, rivers, and rugged mountain landscapes. The journey gives you a chance to experience the wild beauty of northern Mongolia as we drive deeper into the taiga.

Our destination is the Zuun Taiga region, one of the two main taiga areas where the reindeer-herding Dukha (Tsaatan) people traditionally live. Zuun Taiga is known for its dense larch and pine forests, fresh mountain air, and strong cultural heritage. It is a place where nomadic families continue their centuries-old lifestyle, relying on reindeer for transport, companionship, and traditional practices.

As we reach the area, you’ll experience the peaceful atmosphere of the taiga, learn about the unique environment, and get an introduction to the culture and daily life of the people who call this remote region home. Overnight in a guest house in Tsagaan Nuur village.

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DAY 7.
RETURN MURUN TOWN (6 Mar)

This morning, we will begin our journey back to Murun town, the administrative and cultural center of Khuvsgul Province. As we approach the town, you’ll notice how it blends traditional Mongolian life with modern conveniences, offering a warm contrast to the remote taiga regions.

Once we arrive, we’ll check into a comfortable hotel where you can relax and unwind after the long drive. Mörön has small cafés, local shops, and an easygoing atmosphere, making it a pleasant place to rest. Depending on your energy and interest, you can explore the town a bit, visit local markets, or simply enjoy a quiet, restful afternoon at the hotel.

DAY 8.
RETURN ERDENET TOWN (7 Mar)

This morning, after a hearty breakfast, we will drive to Erdenet City, one of Mongolia’s largest urban centers and home to the country’s major copper mine. The drive offers scenic views of valleys and rolling hills as we make our way south.

Upon arrival, we’ll check into a comfortable hotel where you can relax for the night and enjoy the conveniences of the city after traveling through remote regions.

DAY 9.
BACK TO ULAANBAATAR CITY (8 Mar)

This morning, after having a hearty breakfast, we’ll drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Once we arrive, we’ll drop you off at your hotel, marking the end of this unforgettable journey. We hope you had an amazing experience with us!!