BLUE PEARL ICE FESTIVAL &
TSAATAN SHOW FESTIVAL TOUR 2025

Accommodations

Tour grade: Easy & moderate

9 Nights / 10 Days

1 night in a Teepee

3 nights in hotels

Full board

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 (15 FEB)

This morning, our driver and guide will pick you up and we will be leaving Ulaanbaatar by car at approximately 8:00 a.m., you'll embark on a scenic journey towards Erdenet City. After several hours of travel, you’ll arrive in Erdenet City and check into a local hotel. Take some time to relax and unwind after the drive before enjoying the rest of your day.

Overnight in Erdenet city hotel.

Sustainable travel

DAY 2.

DRIVE TO KHUVSGUL LAKE, NORTHERN MONGOLIA

After breakfast, depart for Khatgal Sum, a charming settlement located near the stunning Khuvsgul Lake, often referred to as the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia." The journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, offering a glimpse into Mongolia's untouched natural beauty. Upon arrival, check into a traditional Ger Camp, where you’ll experience the warmth of Mongolian hospitality and culture. Stay in comfortable gers (traditional Mongolian yurts) equipped with cozy bedding and essential amenities, providing an authentic yet comfortable experience.

Enjoy the serene surroundings, and participate in activities like horseback riding, fishing, or simply soaking in the mesmerizing winter landscape of Khuvsgul Lake. Overnight stay at tourist camp.

sustainable travel

DAY 3-4.

ATTEND BLUE PEARL KHUVSGUL LAKE ICE FESTIVAL

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 tourist camp.

sustainable travel

DAY 5.

VISIT REINDEER PEOPLE

Khuvsgul Lake Exploration and Reindeer People Venture onto the frozen expanse of Khuvsgul Lake and cross it in our 4-wheel drive vehicle heading to the small northern town of Tsagaan Nuur - close to the winter home of the Tsaatan people. Experience the fascinating culture of the Reindeer people and stay in their traditional teepees.

DAY 6-7.

ATTEND SNOW-TSAATAN FESTIVAL

Delight in the vibrant festivities of the Snow Festival, where you’ll experience a unique blend of traditional Mongolian sports, games, music, and dancing, set against the breathtaking winter landscape. This celebration of Mongolian culture offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness performances of folk songs, dances, and traditional activities that have been passed down through generations.

Important Note: While the exact dates for the Snow Festival have yet to be confirmed, should the festival not align with our tour schedule, we will still visit the traditional grounds of the Tsaatan people, the last truly nomadic reindeer herders in Mongolia. This visit will offer a rare glimpse into their unique way of life.

During your visit, you’ll have the rare chance to ride a reindeer, offering a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects you with one of Mongolia’s most fascinating and ancient cultures. Overnight stay at a local hotel.

sustainable travel

DAY 8.
RETURN MURUN TOWN

After a memorable adventure, depart for Murun Town, the capital of Khuvsgul Province. The journey offers scenic views of Mongolia’s rugged landscapes as you head back towards the city. Upon arrival, check into a comfortable hotel, where you can unwind and relax after an exciting and immersive tour. Enjoy the amenities and take some time to refresh before your final evening in Mongolia.

The hotel provides a peaceful setting, perfect for a restful night before continuing your journey. Overnight at a local hotel.

DAY 9.
RETURN ERDENET TOWN

This morning, after enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will drive back to Erdenet City and spend the night at a hotel there.

DAY 10.
BACK TO ULAANBAATAR CITY

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!!