Journeys Adventure Specialist Kerina Rowley talks about her experience on the Ultimate Mongolia with Naadam Festival trip.

What was one of the most exciting things about this trip?

To be honest, there wasn’t much that didn’t excite me about this trip. But I suppose if I had to choose one thing I’d say the opportunity to meet the nomadic people and be invited into their homes to share homemade vodka, homemade yogurt, and dried cheese snacks. We watched them milk the yaks and horses, and herd the livestock into the pens. We learned how they move to green pastures in the summer to feed the livestock, then pack up and move to warmer grounds during the winter, which sometimes isn’t that far, but the mountains offer protection from the fierce winter winds. The people were extremely friendly; the children even sang to us.

I also really enjoyed staying in a “Mongolian Ger.” A ger is a traditional, nomadic dwelling which usually sleeps between four and six people (but a private ger can be arranged). These structures provide a really unique insight into the culture and lifestyle of the nomadic peoples we’ll meet.

And of course, riding a camel was a highlight as well!

This trip coincided with the Mongolian Naadam Festival. What is the festival all about?

The Naadam Festival is the national event of Mongolia. It consists of a series of competitive events, including wrestling, archery, and horse racing. There are also various dance performers and musicians who play throughout the festivities. They wear elaborate costumes which provide wonderful photo ops.

What kind of person should go to Mongolia?

Mongolia is a very unique destination. Flexible, nature-loving, historically curious, and culturally open-minded people will find a lot of joy in visiting this east Asian country. There are also a lot of opportunities for light hiking, too. What I really loved about this itinerary was how well-rounded it is. We had a great overview of Mongolia by the end of the trip.

Why do you think Mongolia isn’t visited by many Americans?

People don’t know a lot about it, which, to me, is the very reason they should venture there. Due to lack of infrastructure in Mongolia, a lot of people opt to visit more developed Asian nations, but I feel this is part of what makes it so appealing. The natural scenery feels so untouched and abundant. This is a very special destination that will take you off the tourist path.