Field guide
Mongolia: Naadam, the steppe and the night sky
Naadam, with its wrestling, horse racing and archery, is held every year from 11 to 13 July. UNESCO inscribed it on its list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010.
Why July
July brings the festival and green pasture, and it is also the busiest month. Early autumn is quieter, with clear skies and golden grass. Each suits a different kind of traveller, and the choice shapes the whole journey.
Camps and horses
Private ger camps offer felt tents with heating, local food and guides who are often from herding families. Riding is unhurried and matched to experience, and a day on horseback is the best way to understand the scale of the land.
The night sky
Far from towns, the steppe sky is one of the darkest you will see. A clear, moonless night is the point of the journey, and it depends on the weather, so KURA plans several nights in the camp rather than one.
How long to stay
Plan at least a week, since distances are great and the best of the steppe lies away from the capital. Many guests spend three or four nights in a single camp, which allows riding, walking and clear nights under the stars.
Who it suits
Mongolia suits guests who love open land and simple, well-made comforts. It is a place for those who enjoy the quiet of a horse's pace and are happy to let the weather set the day.
Beginning the conversation
Tell us whether Naadam or the quiet of early autumn calls to you. Camps are small and festival weeks fill early, so the sooner we speak, the more choice we can offer.