Planning a trip that truly immerses you in Mongolian culture and nomadic life? This 4-day tour from Xilinhot offers just that—staying in traditional yurts, learning from local herdsmen, and soaking in the expansive beauty of the Xanadu grasslands. It’s a hands-on experience that promises memorable moments—and a peek behind the curtain of a nomadic lifestyle.
We’re particularly fond of how this tour combines authentic cultural interactions with fun activities like horseback riding and archery, all wrapped in the rustic charm of a Mongolian herdsman’s summer pasture. Plus, the inclusion of building your own yurt as a souvenir adds a genuine, memorable touch. That said, the tour is quite rustic—so if luxury comforts are your priority, this might not be your best fit. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers eager to live like locals and savor the landscape’s simplicity and raw beauty.
Key Points
- Authentic experience staying with local herdsmen in traditional yurts
- Engaging cultural activities such as dairy DIY, archery, and yurt-building
- Beautiful landscapes on Jinlianchuan Grassland and sandy lands
- Active fun with horse riding, sand sliding, and cultural performances
- Expert guides and private transportation ensure smooth logistics
- Suitable for travelers seeking rustic, immersive experiences (not ideal for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users)
This tour is a genuine invitation to step into the world of Mongolia’s herders, located in the stunning Xanadu grasslands of northern China. We liked the way it balances cultural education with hands-on activities—making it more than just a sightseeing trip. You stay in a traditional Mongolian yurt, which offers an authentic window into the nomadic way of life, rather than a hotel in a touristy spot.
Price point and value are worth discussing upfront. At $1,099 per person, this isn’t a cheap getaway, but it includes most essentials: guided tours, private transfers, meals, activities like archery and dairy DIY, and the unforgettable experience of building your own yurt. The value comes from the depth of experience and the chance to connect with local people in a meaningful way—not just observing but participating.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Itinerary in Detail
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Inner Mongolia.
Day 1: From Xilinhot or Beijing
Whether you arrive from Beijing (via high-speed train to Zhangjiakou) or from Shanghai (by plane to Xilinhot), the transfer to your private summer pasture is part of the adventure. The drive—roughly 3.5 hours from Zhangjiakou or 2 hours from Xilinhot—sets the tone for the rustic experience ahead. Once you arrive, a warm, home-cooked dinner awaits inside your yurt, giving you a real taste of Mongolian hospitality.
The initial night is about settling into a traditional yurt, a circular tent that’s surprisingly cozy. It’s a good idea to bring some warm clothing, especially if you’re sensitive to cooler nights, as nights can get chilly.
Day 2: Living the Nomadic Life
The morning kicks off with cow milking and sampling fresh milk and dairy products—a simple pleasure that feels surprisingly authentic. We loved the honesty of this activity, offering a taste of everyday life that many travelers miss. A peaceful walk through Jinlianchuan Grassland reveals the vastness of the landscape, perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the scenery.
Later, you’ll visit sandy land nearby for sand sliding, which is unexpectedly fun and adds a playful contrast to the pastoral surroundings. The day ends with a BBQ dinner and Mongolian music—with traditional overtone singing and long songs—an atmospheric way to connect with local culture.
Reviewers appreciate the guides’ knowledge, noting that their stories and explanations make the experience richer. One reviewer said, “The guides really brought Mongolian traditions to life with their stories and performances.”
Day 3: Horseback Riding and Cultural Crafts
This day emphasizes active participation. You’ll again try cow milking, then hop on a horse to seek out the best views of the grassland—an activity that offers incredible photo opportunities and a real sense of connection to the landscape.
Archery practice follows, giving you a chance to try an ancient skill that’s central to Mongolian culture. After lunch, you’ll make dairy products yourself, tasting the results of your effort—an engaging DIY experience that many find rewarding.
In the evening, your final night is spent sharing a home-cooked dinner with your hosts, reflecting on what you’ve learned and experienced. The highlight is the yurt-building activity, which provides a tangible takeaway—an actual Mongolian yurt you can bring home, symbolizing your journey.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 4: Building a Yurt and Departure
The final morning focuses on culture—constructing a real yurt with the herdsman’s family. It’s a hands-on activity that teaches you about the architecture and craftsmanship involved in nomadic living, with the added bonus of leaving with a unique souvenir.
Afterward, your private driver will transfer you back to the airport or railway station, ending your authentic Mongolian adventure.
The authentic interactions with herdsman families are the core of this experience. Staying in traditional yurts, participating in dairy and craft activities, and learning about Mongolian customs create a memorable, immersive journey.
The landscape itself is breathtaking—vast grasslands, sandy land, and peaceful pastoral scenes that stretch as far as the eye can see. The tour’s activities, like horse riding and sand sliding, are designed to keep your experience lively and engaging.
Guides are a standout feature; their knowledge and ability to share stories make these days richer. One reviewer pointed out the “friendly, informative guides” who helped make the trip feel personal and genuine.
The tour does a good job balancing structured activities with free time to relax and absorb your surroundings. It’s a good choice for travelers who prefer rustic, participatory travel over luxury comfort, as the accommodations are traditional yurts, not hotels.
Considerations and Practical Tips
While the experience is enriching, it’s worth noting that nights can be cold, so packing warm clothes is advisable. The tour is only available from mid-June to early September, aligning with the Mongolian summer season. It’s not suitable for everyone—pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users may find certain activities challenging or inappropriate.
Transportation is private, which ensures flexibility and comfort. The group size is small, enhancing the personal feel of the experience. Meals are home-cooked, hearty, and typically local, giving a genuine taste of Mongolian cuisine.
If you’re looking to step outside typical tourist sites and truly understand Mongolian nomadic traditions, this tour offers a rare, authentic opportunity. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to participate in daily life, learn new skills, and enjoy beautiful, untouched landscapes.
Active travelers who enjoy horseback riding, DIY projects, and outdoor exploration will find plenty to love. However, it’s less suited for those seeking luxury comfort or traveling with very young children or mobility challenges.
This tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about living the experience. If that appeals to you, you’ll find this a rewarding and memorable journey.
This 4-day Xanadu Grassland Tour offers a compelling mix of culture, adventure, and genuine connection with Mongolia’s traditional lifestyle. Staying in yurts, participating in dairy and craft activities, and exploring vast grasslands provide an authentic, hands-on experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.
While it requires openness to rustic living and active participation, the rewards are plentiful: unique insights into Mongolian traditions, stunning landscapes, and memorable interactions with local herdsmen. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to go beyond the usual sightseeing and really get a feel for Mongolia’s nomadic spirit.
The combination of knowledgeable guides, immersive activities, and beautiful scenery makes this tour a worthwhile investment for those seeking something more meaningful than just ticking off sights. Perfect for adventure-minded travelers with a taste for authentic cultural exchanges, it promises a trip full of stories to tell long after you’ve returned home.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is best for adults and older children who can participate in activities like riding, archery, and yurt-building. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with mobility issues.
What should I pack for this trip?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and insect repellent. Nights can be cold, even in summer, so packing layers is wise.
How physically active is the tour?
You’ll participate in activities such as horse riding and archery, so some physical effort is involved. The walks are peaceful, but the overall experience is active.
Are meals included?
Yes, the tour features home-cooked Mongolian meals, including dairy products and traditional dishes. You’ll also have opportunities to DIY dairy products.
What is the accommodation like?
You stay in a traditional Mongolian yurt, which offers an authentic experience but less luxury. Expect rustic comfort with a cozy, circular tent ambiance.
Can I buy a yurt as a souvenir?
Yes, one of the highlights is building a real yurt with the herdsman’s family, which you can take home as a unique memento of your journey.
How do I get to the starting point?
From Beijing, take the high-speed train to Zhangjiakou, then transfer by private driver. From Shanghai, fly to Xilinhot, followed by a private transfer. Transportation is included after arrival but not your flight/train tickets.
This tour offers a rare glimpse into Mongolia’s traditional way of life, perfect for travelers eager to experience culture firsthand, with plenty of opportunities for fun and reflection along the way.
You can check availability for your dates here: