Today's ride follows a desolate mountain road along the Russian border, gradually ascending to 2,575 meters. The landscape is populated with yaks and goats belonging to local Kazakh herders, whose felt-walled yurts dot the terrain. Encounters with shepherds and children provide excellent photography opportunities. After reaching the high point, we descend for the final 20 km to our grassy campsite by a small stream (2,200 m).

Today’s terrain is more mountainous, requiring significant climbs. The trails vary between packed soil, rocky tracks, and loose gravel. We reach the UNESCO-listed Baga Oigor Valley, home to a vast petroglyph gallery stretching 15 km. The ancient rock carvings depict wild and domestic animals, human figures, and scenes of hunting and herding. We set up camp here and explore the remarkable rock art.

We continue along the rugged Baga Oigor Valley before stopping at a border patrol station for formalities. A gradual climb leads us into a vast mountain valley, with glacial streams running down from towering peaks. We cycle past alpine lakes and Kazakh herders' summer camps, offering a chance to experience their traditional lifestyle. Our camp is at the entrance of Tavan Bogd National Park, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.

Today’s challenging ride takes us through high-altitude terrain with glacial streams and occasional snow patches. At the halfway point, we enjoy panoramic views of Mongolia’s highest peaks and largest glaciers. After lunch, we descend steeply into the White River Valley, a lush pastureland home to nomadic herders. We set up camp near the glacial river.

We ride through the White River Valley and visit a Tuvan family, an ethnic Turkic people practicing a blend of shamanism and Tibetan Buddhism. After learning about their way of life, we continue cycling along the base of Holy Mt. Shiveet, known for its ancient petroglyphs. We then climb to highland tundra via seasonal migration roads, reaching our campsite at 2,600 m.

Continuing south, we pass through stunning scenery of alpine lakes, grassy highlands, and rugged hills. Along the way, we may encounter Kazakh eagle hunters and even take photos with their magnificent birds. Our day ends at the spectacular Khoton Lake, which borders China’s Xinjiang province.

Today is a well-earned rest day at Khoton Lake, an idyllic setting with snow-capped mountains reflecting in the water. You can swim in the lake or explore nearby Bronze Age petroglyphs.

 We cycle along Khurgan Lake, Khoton Lake’s twin, enjoying breathtaking views of the snow-covered ridge marking the border with China. Tonight’s camp is set near Black Lake, with Mt. Tsengel providing a stunning backdrop.

We ride northeast toward Mt. Tsengel (3,943 m), passing vast grazing lands. The morning ride is mostly downhill, but the afternoon involves a challenging ascent to a dry ridge at 2,660 m, followed by an exhilarating 15 km descent to a semi-desert landscape where we camp.

The final 35 km stretch takes us back to Ölgii. The last challenge is an 8 km climb gaining 400 meters, followed by a descent into the town. We celebrate the end of the adventure with a comfortable hotel stay, a well-deserved shower, and a farewell dinner featuring traditional Kazakh music and delicacies.

After breakfast, we transfer to Ölgii Airport for the flight back to Ulaanbaatar.