❋

Deep Winter Snow Riding Expedition in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia

Register Here

Overview

Winter in Hulunbuir is not the off-season. It is the purest season. The Chen Barag Grassland lies beneath a thick blanket of snow. The Erguna River Wetland freezes into a silver labyrinth. Frost rime coats the trees like crystal curtains. The private camp sits under a clear winter galaxy.

Over five days, ride a Mongolian horse across this white world, experience the winter life of Mongolian nomads, and enjoy a journey where warmth is never an afterthought. A heated support vehicle follows the whole way, hot drinks are supplied every 30 minutes, and professional cold-weather gear is provided. You only need to focus on the vastness of the snow — we take care of the cold.

  • Authentic Mongolian snow ride: Ride a Mongolian horse across the Chen Barag snowfield, Erguna River frozen wetland, and a frozen river, experiencing the nomadic winter tradition.

  • All-around warmth: Heated support vehicle, hot drinks every 30 minutes, free professional cold-weather gear — stay warm even at -30°C.

  • Selected Mongolian horses: Only strong, calm horses that can withstand -40°C, ensuring safety and animal welfare.

  • Starry campfire and Mongolian food: Private camp away from light pollution, bonfire-roasted lamb ribs, hand-held mutton, hot milk tea, and the winter galaxy overhead.

  • Certificate of achievement: Pass the traditional riding test and receive the Mongolian Riding Beginner Certificate.

Trip Highlights

 

  • Ride Guide

    Duration: 6 Days 5 Nights / 5 Riding Days

    Season: November – February (2026–2027)

    Price: CNY 16,800 / pax

    Language: English on-site translation

    Max. riders: 8 riders

    Min. riders: 4 rider

    Age: 16–55

    Arrival / Departure: Hulunbuir Hailar Airport (HLD)

    Riding Level: Beginner to Intermediate

    Weight Limit: Maximum 80 kg

    Time in the saddle: Total 16 hours; 1.5–4.5 hours per day

  • About the Team

    At the heart of Mongolian riding is speed, balance, and an intuitive partnership with the horse. The flat, open terrain lets you experience the thrill of high-speed galloping — the sensation of flying just above the ground. But this is more than riding. It is about understanding a culture that weaves horses into the fabric of daily life. For a true herder, a horse is not merely transport; it is a companion, a partner, a cherished part of their identity.

    A Different Way of Teaching
    Forget what you know about traditional riding lessons. Our teaching is immersive, practical, and conducted entirely on the grassland. You will learn to read your horse’s body language, adapt quickly to its rhythm, and develop a natural connection close to Mongolian-style riding. It is not about rigid technique — it is about feeling the horse and merging with its pace.

    While traditional herders use Mongolian saddles, we understand these can be challenging for those not used to them. Therefore, we provide Western saddles for our riders, allowing you to focus on the experience itself without discomfort, while still being immersed in the authenticity of the journey.

    The Horses
    Our horses are authentic Mongolian horses — compact in gait, sturdy in build, and born for the extreme grassland environment. They are shorter than many Western breeds, but strong and powerful, with sturdy legs and wide hooves perfectly adapted to the terrain and way of life here. These horses are survival experts, able to live in temperatures from -40°C to +40°C. They can eat ice to quench their thirst and have an astonishing ability to find their way home from thousands of miles away. Resilient and unyielding, they embody the spirit of the Mongolian herder. Yet they are also extremely gentle — the best possible partners for long rides.

    Riding Equipment
    We equip students with helmets, body protectors, and leg guards in various sizes, all meeting European standards for equestrian safety. Our saddles are the most comfortable Western saddles with safety stirrups: deep seats, soft cushions, and strong wrapping support. This increases rider comfort while enhancing safety, allowing even beginners to ride with ease.

  • Warmth without Worry

    • Heated support vehicle at all times: Each vehicle is equipped with a high-power diesel heater, keeping the cabin above 22°C. You can get on anytime to rest, change clothes, or use the toilet. A first-aid kit and oxygen cylinder are on board.

    • Premium cold-weather gear provided free of charge: Includes anti-fog ski goggles, high-strength safety helmet, professional ski jacket and pants.

    • Uninterrupted hot drinks: Thermos flasks filled with freshly brewed milk tea, brown sugar ginger tea, hot cocoa, and ginseng tea, replenished by the support vehicle every 30 minutes.

    • Regular warming stops: Every 40 minutes of riding, we stop for a break. The support vehicle deploys a warm-air tent, with heat patches and hand warmers provided.

    • Ultimate villa comfort: Each private villa is equipped with underfloor heating, a fireplace, a constant-temperature hot water system, and a heated toilet. Bedrooms have electric blankets and down quilts. After returning each day, enjoy a steam bath or infrared sauna to fully relax your muscles.

About the Route

Chen Barag Grassland: The Legendary Pasture of Genghis Khan's Brother

Step onto the land where Mongolian royalty once galloped.

As the best-preserved grassland in China, Chen Barag reveals a vast snowfield in winter that stretches endlessly toward the horizon. Wind carves the snow surface into streamlined ripples — like frozen sea waves, like the breathing of the earth. Occasionally, a Mongolian horse lowers its head, digging through the snow with its hooves to forage. Its mane is caked with frost, its breath lingering in the air as white mist — a silent silhouette of nomadic life standing against the harsh winter. This is ideal terrain for long-distance snow riding: no steep slopes, no interference from modern civilization, only pure, untouched snowfield.

Erguna River Wetland Route: Asia's No. 1 Wetland

Prepare for scenery beyond imagination. In winter, the Erguna Wetland freezes into a winding silver serpent, its meandering channels threading through dense shrubs and mirror-like ice. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, it is called "Asia's No. 1 Wetland." This route offers a one-of-a-kind experience — we ride to a panoramic viewpoint, letting the entire ice wonderland unfold beneath your feet. Frost rime, ice cracks, snow waves, withered reeds — these unforgettable scenes blend ecological wonder with the raw charm of snow riding adventure.

Genhe River Ice: The Mother River of the Grassland

Few experiences in life are this exhilarating. As you ride across the icy shallows of the Genhe River, hooves splashing glittering snow crystals against the famously winding "Nine Bends and Eighteen Curves," you will deeply feel the essence of Mongolian riding — that pure, unrestrained joy. Here, speed, nature, and nomadic spirit intertwine perfectly. Sunlight dances on the ice, cold wind brushes your face, and in those precious moments, you are not merely crossing a river — you are flying.

Private Camp: Where the Snowfield Night Awakens

As daylight fades, the journey continues in another form around the bonfire. Our private camp sits in a pristine dark-sky zone — no artificial light for miles around, only the boundless sky overhead. Here, you will experience the heart of Mongolian hospitality: a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, lamb legs slow-roasting over the fire, freshly baked bread turning golden, aromas filling the air. Sit around the crackling bonfire with your riding companions, share laughter, exchange stories of the day's adventures. And all around you, in the faint darkness, horses graze quietly — then lie down to rest beside the camp. Their quiet presence is a gentle reminder: on this snowfield, you are never alone.

Itinerary

Modern hotel room with a large bed, wall art, a small round table with a cream chair, a window with sheer curtains, and a flat-screen TV on the wall. 
Day One

Snowfield Prologue | Hailar Cultural Immersion

Our team recommend you arrive in Hailar one day early, giving your body time to prepare for the five-day snow ride ahead. You are free to explore Hailar city, soak in the Inner Mongolian atmosphere, and rest well. Winter Hailar has snow-dusted streets, warm Mongolian restaurants serving milk tea and hand-held mutton, and a quiet beauty that sets the tone for the journey.

Meal included: Dinner

People riding horses across a snowy field with a large barren tree and mountains in the background under a clear blue sky. 
Day Two

Horseback Initiation | Rhythm Lesson at the Private Ranch

After lunch, a short theory class prepares you for your first snow ride. Under the coach’s guidance, you will quickly adapt to the horse’s rhythm and begin building trust and connection with your horse.

Winter gear is distributed today: anti-fog goggles, high-strength helmet, body protector, leg guards, professional ski jacket and bib pants, and traditional Mongolian wool boots. All gear is disinfected and dried daily. In the evening, the coach reviews the day’s riding footage, correcting your posture and movements.

PM: 3 hrs riding

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Three people dressed warmly, riding horses across a snow-covered field with leafless trees and a clear blue sky in the background. 
Day Three

Snowfield Refinement | Private Ranch Practice

Today we remain at the private ranch, focusing on snow riding technique. After breakfast, the coach leads systematic practice on the ranch’s snowfield: smooth transitions between walk, trot, and canter; balance and stability on snow and ice. The private ranch is flat and open, with no steep slopes or obstacles — ideal for snow riding practice.

You will learn to read your horse’s body language in low temperatures, feel its changing steps on snow, and deepen silent communication. The coach adjusts each rider’s posture and rhythm one-on-one. In the afternoon, we do a short outdoor practice around the ranch, simulating real snowfield conditions to prepare for tomorrow’s long ride. In the evening, the coach reviews the day’s footage. The true snowfield expedition begins tomorrow.

AM: 1.5 hrs riding; PM 3 hrs riding

Meals included; Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Two people riding snowmobiles on a snowy field under a clear blue sky.

Snowfield Crossing | White Steppe, Private Camp Lunch, Snow Bike

Day Four

After breakfast, we set off to ride across the heart of the Chen Barag Grassland. There is no river crossing today — only a vast white land covered in snow. Wind carves the snow into rolling waves, like frozen sea swells. Hooves break through the snow crust with a crisp crunch, leaving long tracks behind. The heated support vehicle follows the whole way, keeping the cabin above 22°C and supplying hot drinks every 30 minutes.

At noon we arrive at the private land. A bonfire is ready. Lunch includes hot Mongolian milk tea, hand-held mutton, roasted lamb ribs, and fresh bread — a warm feast in the depths of the snowfield. After a short rest, we ride back to the ranch along the same route. In the afternoon, enjoy a Snow Bike (snowmobile) experience, racing across the snow around the ranch. If you prefer a gentler pace, you can walk in the villa garden, take photos, or enjoy hot drinks and snacks.

AM: 1.5 hrs riding; PM 2 hrs riding

Meals included; Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Group of people riding horses across a snowy landscape under a cloudy sky. 
Day Five

Wetland Snow Ride | Erguna River Ice Plains, Snow Tubing

After breakfast, we will ride at the Erguna River Wetland today. In winter, the wetland becomes a silver maze. The river freezes into winding ice belts, with cracks like ancient script. Birch trees along the banks wear sparkling frost rime, glittering like diamonds in the sun. We ride to a panoramic viewpoint, letting the entire ice wonderland unfold beneath us, and practice snow control and rhythm changes under the coach’s guidance. The heated support vehicle follows, keeping the cabin above 22°C and supplying hot drinks every 30 minutes.

In the afternoon, enjoy Snow Tubing — sliding down snow slopes on inflatable tubes, feeling the wind and speed. Those who prefer not to slide can walk in the garden, take photos, or enjoy hot drinks and snacks.

AM: 1.5 hrs riding; PM 2 hrs riding

Meals included; Breakfast, lunch, dinner

A person riding a horse through the snow in a winter landscape, wearing a bright green jacket and a black scarf, with snow kicking up around them. 
Day Six

Glory Mark | Frozen River Graduation Ride, Farewell

After breakfast, we begin the finale: the graduation ride. Today we ride across the frozen Erguna River. Hooves strike the solid ice, frost rime hangs like crystal curtains on both banks, and sunlight refracts through the ice with a blue glow. Under the coach’s guidance, we try a winter-only wonder: splash hot water into the air and watch it instantly turn into ice crystals, glittering and falling like diamonds in the sun. After the ride, you will receive the Mongolian Riding Beginner Certificate, a mark of your courage and perseverance.

At lunch, enjoy a rich Mongolian farewell feast.

This is not the end — it is your first farewell to the grassland winter. We look forward to riding with you again.

AM 1.5 hrs riding

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch

What’s Included

  • Horse training: Coach-to-student ratio 1:6 + on-site translation

  • Photography: GoPro and drone footage

  • Meals: Day 2–5 breakfast, lunch, dinner; Day 6 breakfast and lunch. Meals prepared by a dedicated chef with a carefully optimized menu. Specialties include: BBQ, roasted lamb ribs, roasted lamb leg, beef soup and ethnic dairy products. Unlimited bottled water and a variety of bottled beverages during the ride.

  • Transport: Airport pickup and drop-off; round-trip group transfers between the meeting point and the activity location; daily transport during the riding journey

  • Equipment: Horse, saddle, riding protective gear (including equestrian helmet, vest, leg guards)

  • Logistics: Support vehicle follows throughout the journey

  • Entertainment: Villa party, karaoke, snow mobile, snow tubing

  • Insurance: Hulunbuir personal outdoor sports insurance; 6-day Hong Kong travel insurance (for Hong Kong residents holding a Hong Kong Identity Card)

What’s Not Included

  • Round-trip transport: Flights to and from Hailar; transport outside the activity location

  • Meals and sightseeing expenses not included in the package


Registration Guideline

  • The riding experience is suitable for anyone with basic fitness. No prior riding experience is required; the pace is comfortable and leisure-oriented.

  • Weight limit: 80 kg. All riding activities have weight limits. This is not discrimination, but a necessary measure based on animal welfare and sports science to ensure the safety of both rider and horse. An overweight horse may move slowly or lose balance, increasing the risk of falls.

  • Riding carries inherent risks. Please ensure your health is suitable for wild riding. Upon payment, participants must sign a waiver and strictly follow coach instructions.

  • Mobile signal is good near the villa, but weak at the camp in the grassland hinterland.

  • This is a deep grassland experience. Coaches, vehicles, and logistics staff follow throughout, providing safe and well-planned routes.

  • Customized proposals are available for corporate team building, photography groups, family activities, and private group.

  • On the last day, the private transfer arrives at the airport around 4:00 PM, so we recommend booking a flight after 5:00 PM.

Essential Packing List

Hulunbuir deep winter temperatures can drop to -30°C to -40°C, and wind chill on the snowfield is significant. Proper clothing is key to enjoying the journey. We have prepared for you: professional ski jacket, pants, anti-fog goggles, helmet, and body protector. However, we still recommend bringing your own personal items for comfort and hygiene.

Recommended Clothing:

  • Upper body: Moisture-wicking base layer + warm mid-layer (fleece jacket, thin down jacket) + warm outer layer (thick down jacket)

  • Lower body: Fleece-lined cotton pants + outer ski pants, or windproof outdoor pants

  • Lip balm, moisturizing skincare products (northern winter air is dry)

Clothing Tips:

  • For riding, wear elastic, tight-fitting bottoms to reduce thigh friction.

  • Do not wear thick-soled shoes; they can get stuck in the stirrups.

  • Grassland temperatures vary greatly between day and night; always add warm clothing at night.

  • Use the “onion layer” method for all clothing to adjust easily with changing temperatures.

A schedule chart detailing a deep winter snow riding expedition in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia, including coaching lessons, riding expedition dates, meal and accommodation information, insurance details, and the structure of the trip over multiple groups from November 14, 2026, through February 6, 2027.

  • Our Snow Ride has seasonal limited travel date, available from November to February.

    We will need at least 4 riders to proceed with the ride. Please enquire us before registration and we will confirm whether the ride can proceed.

  • Sign up and pay 50% non-refundable deposit to reserve your spot and secure the proceeding of the trip.

    Rest of payment to be made 14 days before departure.

    Cancellations can be made 14 days before departure, no refund will be made for your deposit.

  • After booking, we'll send you a Travel Essential with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.

  • We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from Hailar as soon as possible, to ensure you can arrive without any complications or delays.

  • Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.

How it works

Book Your Ride

Register Here