Ulaanbaatar Parks: Terelj & Hustai 3-Day Trip Review
Thinking about getting out of Ulaanbaatar for a couple of days and seeing some proper Mongolian countryside? A three-day trip to Terelj and Hustai National Parks might just be what the doctor ordered. We went, we saw, and very, we are sharing our thoughts on whether it lives up to the hype, with hopefully all the insights you need to decide if it’s the right escape for you, too it’s almost.
What to Expect From the Get-Go
Okay, first impressions? Be prepared for a bit of a ride. The roads can be, like, well, let’s just say they add to the “adventure.” The tour operators, though, seem to know their stuff, so you can likely count on someone who can get you there and back safely. We found that they usually provide a driver plus a guide, which can make a big difference in how much you get out of the experience is that. They typically handle the bookings for accommodations, as well as food, too, so you don’t really have to sweat those details is that. That alone makes it a tempting prospect.
Terelj National Park: Rocky Mountains Meet Open Steppe
Terelj is very close to Ulaanbaatar, which makes it a very popular destination, as you can guess. It’s known for some really striking granite formations, as well as rolling hills, so it’s a rather cool blend. The most famous spot? That’s likely the Turtle Rock, a rather interesting rock formation that, well, does kind of look like a turtle. Be sure to bring your camera, you. Hiking here is generally pretty moderate, even though some of the trails can be a bit rocky, that.
Highlights of Terelj
Alright, so, what were the stand-out bits of Terelj? The Aryabal Meditation Temple is, actually, perched up on a hillside, and getting there involves a bit of a climb, so prepare yourself. But the views? Arguably, they’re worth it, very. We also spent a bit of time just wandering around, taking in the scenery and the vast open spaces, and very, you need it, too. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, though mainly it’s just various birds and the like.
Hustai National Park: Przewalski’s Horses!
Hustai, so it’s a different vibe altogether from Terelj, yet it’s only a few hours away. The main draw here? Arguably, the Przewalski’s horses, that. These are the only truly wild horses left on Earth, and Hustai is where they’ve been successfully reintroduced, too it’s almost. Seeing them roaming free across the steppe is very, well, it’s actually pretty special.
What to Do in Hustai
Okay, so aside from horse-spotting, what else is there? You’ll probably want to visit the small information center there, too, which has some displays about the horses and the park’s ecology. There are a couple of short hiking trails as well, so if you have time, be sure to take them, you. We really enjoyed just sitting on a hillside in the late afternoon and watching the horses graze, which is actually pretty cool, you.
Accommodation and Food: Ger Life
A big part of the experience, likely, is staying in a ger (or yurt) camp. These are very traditional Mongolian dwellings, and most tour operators will include accommodation in one as part of the package, that. Genuinely, expect something on the simpler side – think beds, a stove for heating, that sort of thing. Bathrooms are usually in a separate block, so bring your flip-flops! The food tends to be fairly standard Mongolian fare: lots of meat (mutton is common), noodles, and dumplings. Vegetarians, very, well, it might be more challenging for you.
What to Pack
Good walking shoes? Yes. Layers? Absolutely, very. The weather can change pretty quickly, after all. A hat and sunglasses are also a good idea, too it’s almost, even if it doesn’t look that sunny. Don’t forget insect repellent, especially if you are going during the warmer months, that. A headlamp or flashlight can also be useful for getting around the ger camp at night. Also, very, a universal adapter, just to make sure you are not caught short, that.
Is it Worth It? Our Verdict
So, is the three-day Terelj and Hustai trip worth it? Generally, we’d say yes, very. It’s a decent way to get a quick taste of the Mongolian countryside and see some wildlife is that. But be aware that it can be a bit touristy, especially in Terelj, very. And don’t expect luxury – it’s more of an authentic, rustic kind of experience. If you are short on time and want a break from the Ulaanbaatar, it’s well worth considering, actually.
Tips for Booking Your Tour
Shop around and compare tour operators, after all. Read reviews and see what other people are saying about their experiences. Ask about what’s included in the price (accommodation, meals, entrance fees, etc.), so it’s almost. Check the group size, very. Sometimes smaller groups mean a more personalized experience, too it’s almost. Also, very, be sure to ask about the itinerary and what activities are planned.