Altai Travel Guide (Gobi/Mongolia/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Altai

Located in the Gobi region of Mongolia, Altai is a remote wilderness area that offers breathtaking natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures for everyone. Altai is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers who want to experience the unspoiled beauty of Mongolia. This travel guide will help you plan your trip to Altai and explore its many attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Altai

Altai offers a range of cultural and natural attractions that are worth visiting. Here is a list of the must-see places in Altai:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Altai Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Altai through a collection of artifacts and exhibits.
Tavan Bogd National Park: Explore the ancient petroglyphs and burial places of the Altai people in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Olgii City: Visit the local bazaar and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Altai.

Natural Attractions of Altai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mt. Khuiten: Hike to the summit of Mongolia’s highest peak and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Hoton and Hurgan Lakes: These crystal-clear lakes offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming in the summer.
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: Experience the beauty of the Altai Mountains and the Eagle Valley, where you can spot golden eagles and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Altai

Altai is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with a range of trails that offer stunning views and challenging terrain. Some of the best routes include:

Mt. Khuiten: This multi-day trek takes you to the summit of Mongolia’s highest peak, passing through scenic valleys and glaciers.
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: Explore the beautiful landscape of the Altai Mountains on this multi-day trek.
Hoton Lake Trek: This one-day hike takes you to the beautiful Hoton Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Altai: Activities and Tours

Altai offers a range of activities and tours that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do in Altai:

Horseback Riding: Explore the wilderness of Altai on horseback and experience the traditional Mongolian way of life.
Eagle Hunting: Watch the traditional practice of hunting with eagles, which has been passed down through generations in Altai.
Nomadic Lifestyle Experience: Immerse yourself in the traditional Mongolian way of life by staying with a nomadic family and participating in daily activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Altai

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Altai:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Arrive in Olgii City and visit the local bazaar
Day 2-3	Trek to the top of Mt. Khuiten
Day 4	Rest day in Hoton Lake
Day 5-6	Explore Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Day 7	Departure from Olgii City

Food and Drink Scene of Altai

Altai’s food and drink scene is heavily influenced by the nomadic culture and lifestyle of the Altai people. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Khuushuur: A popular Mongolian pastry filled with minced meat and onions.
Buuz: A steamed dumpling filled with minced meat and spices.
Airag: A fermented mare’s milk beverage that is a staple in the Mongolian diet.

Local Beverages

Kvass: A fermented drink made from rye bread that is popular in Altai.
Tea: Mongolian tea is made with milk and is often served with salt.

Where to Stay in Altai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Altai offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

Olgii City: There are several hotels and guesthouses in Olgii City, which is the main hub for travelers in Altai.
Ger Camps: These traditional nomadic dwellings offer a unique experience and are scattered throughout the Altai wilderness.
Homestays: Stay with a local family and experience the traditional Mongolian way of life.

What to Buy in Altai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Altai offers several unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts or mementos. Here are some options:

Traditional Clothing: Altai is known for its traditional clothing, such as the deel and the tuul.
Handicrafts: Local artisans create beautiful carpets, wall hangings, and other handicrafts using traditional techniques.
Pashmina: Altai produces high-quality cashmere products, such as scarves and sweaters.

Local Culture and Customs of Altai

Altai’s culture and customs are heavily influenced by the nomadic lifestyle of the Altai people. Here are some cultural practices to keep in mind while visiting Altai:

Hospitality: Mongolians are known for their hospitality and will often invite guests into their homes.
Tengriism: Tengriism is the traditional religion of the Altai people and is still practiced by many today.
Eagle Hunting: Eagle hunting is a traditional Mongolian practice that has been passed down through generations in Altai.

Best Time to Visit Altai

The best time to visit Altai is during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and green. However, some activities, such as eagle hunting, are only available during the winter months from December to February.

Do’s and Don’ts of Altai

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Altai:

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions.
Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.

Don’t:

Do not disturb wildlife or damage the natural environment.
Do not disrespect local customs or traditions.
Do not bring drugs or other illegal substances into Altai.

Safety and Health

Altai is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is important to take basic precautions to ensure your safety and health.

Safety in Altai

Altai is a remote wilderness area, so it is important to exercise caution when hiking or camping.
Be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife, extreme weather, and hazardous terrain.

Health in Altai

Altitude sickness is a potential health concern for travelers visiting Altai, especially when hiking to high elevations.
Bring insect repellent as mosquitoes and ticks are common in Altai.

Getting to Altai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Altai is a remote destination, so getting there requires some planning and preparation.

Airports Near Altai

Olgii Airport is the main airport in the Altai region, with flights to and from Ulaanbaatar.

Bus Stations Near Altai

There are several bus stations in Ulaanbaatar that offer transportation to Olgii City.

Other Options

Private cars and taxis are also available for transportation to Altai.

How to Get Around in Altai

Altai is a remote wilderness area, so getting around requires some planning and preparation.

Private guides and drivers are available for hire to explore the wilderness of Altai.
Horseback riding and trekking are popular modes of transportation in Altai.

Where to Go Next from Altai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Altai is surrounded by several nearby destinations and excursions that are worth exploring. Here are some options:

Bayan-Ulgii: Explore the nearby province of Bayan-Ulgii and experience the unique Kazakh culture and traditions.
Gobi Desert: Head south to the Gobi Desert and experience the stunning desert landscape and unique wildlife.
Ulaanbaatar: Visit Mongolia’s capital city and experience the vibrant culture and history of the country.

Conclusion

Altai is a remote wilderness area that offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions for travelers. From hiking and biking to exploring the local culture and cuisine, there is something for everyone in Altai. Use this ultimate travel guide to plan your trip and experience the beauty and adventure of Mongolia’s wilderness.