There are few experiences in life that can transport you to another world as quickly and deeply as horseback riding with Mongolian herders in the vast steppes of Mongolia. As a nomad myself, always in search of authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, this journey was nothing short of transformative. From the moment I stepped onto the back of my horse and set off alongside these remarkable people, I knew I was in for something special.
1. Arriving in the Heart of Mongolia
My adventure began in Ulaanbaatar, the bustling capital of Mongolia. While the city offers a modern contrast to the rest of the country, it’s just a brief stop before immersing yourself in the true nomadic culture. I met my guide, Batbayar, a seasoned horseman who had spent most of his life living off the land. From there, we traveled by jeep for several days into the countryside, where the land is untamed and endless, the horizon stretching as far as the eye can see.
The scenery was unlike anything I’d seen before. Vast plains dotted with grazing livestock, winding rivers, and towering mountains in the distance—this was the Mongolia I had come to experience. Our destination was a remote family ger (yurt) camp, where we’d be staying with a family of traditional herders. There’s something about the rhythm of life here, something almost timeless, that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a world far removed from anything modern.
2. Getting to Know the Herders
One of the most striking aspects of Mongolia is the deep connection the people have with their land and animals. The herders live by the seasons, moving with their livestock—mostly horses, goats, and sheep—to graze in the best areas. The family I stayed with had a few dozen horses, and they treated them with a reverence I’ve never witnessed before.
The day I arrived, I was warmly welcomed with a traditional meal of mutton, dairy products, and fresh bread. Despite the language barrier, there was an instant connection with the family. They invited me into their ger, a cozy circular tent-like structure made from felt, and it felt like I’d stepped into their world completely.
What struck me the most was the ease with which they lived in harmony with nature. The family members worked together in unison to care for their animals, sharing chores like milking goats, herding sheep, and repairing gear. As we sat around the fire that evening, the herders told stories of the harsh winters, the importance of preserving the traditions of their ancestors, and the deep respect they had for the animals that provided them with sustenance and a way of life.
3. Horseback Riding in the Steppes
The next morning, I was handed the reins of a horse—small, sturdy, and sure-footed—and I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement. Riding a horse in Mongolia is unlike any horseback riding experience I’ve had before. The horses here are bred to be tough, accustomed to the rugged terrain and the cold winds that sweep through the steppes.
We set off with the family, riding through open plains, the rhythmic clip-clop of the horses’ hooves the only sound besides the wind. It was incredible to be surrounded by such beauty and vastness. The land seemed infinite, and we were just tiny specks in the vast landscape. As we rode alongside the herders, it felt like we were all part of something much larger than ourselves—something rooted in ancient traditions that have remained unchanged for generations.
The herders moved with such grace, guiding their horses expertly through the terrain, their eyes constantly scanning for any sign of danger or change. It wasn’t just a ride—it was an immersion into a way of life that relies on an intimate knowledge of the land, the animals, and the weather.
I was lucky enough to join in the work of rounding up the livestock that day. As we rode across fields of wildflowers and hills, I felt a deep respect for the herders and the bond they share with their animals. It was a skill passed down through generations, and I could feel the pulse of that tradition in every movement of the horses and the herders themselves.
4. The Peace of the Mongolian Steppes
One of the most profound moments for me was the sheer quiet of the Mongolian steppes. After a long day of riding and helping the herders, I found myself sitting alone on a hill, gazing out over the vast expanse of grasslands. The silence was almost overwhelming. There were no cars, no phones, no noise from the outside world—just the wind in the grass and the distant call of birds. It was a deep, restorative silence, a silence I hadn’t realized I needed so desperately.
The experience of horseback riding with Mongolian herders wasn’t just about the adventure—it was about connecting with a way of life that has existed for centuries, living in harmony with nature and animals. It was about learning the patience and resilience of people who survive in one of the harshest climates on earth, yet find beauty and meaning in the simplest moments.
5. Conclusion: A Journey That Changes You
My time with the Mongolian herders was transformative in ways I hadn’t anticipated. It reminded me that travel isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about understanding different ways of life and reconnecting with the world in a more meaningful way. The experience of horseback riding through the Mongolian steppes, alongside people who live so closely with the land, was an opportunity to step back in time and witness the enduring strength of nomadic life. If you ever get the chance to explore Mongolia, I highly recommend it. It’s a journey that will stay with you forever.