Ethnic expedition with an ethnologist to the center of Asia to nomadic yak breeders, camel herders and Todzha reindeer herders
TYVA
21 - 29 June, 2025
Tour Republic of Tyva, Russia
Tour to Tyva to camel breeders yak breeders reindeer herders horse breeders expedition to Tuva Tyva center of Asia nomads of Central Asia Mongolia cattle breeders Tuvans Todzha people
Tyva is a mysterious land amid mountains, deserts and taiga, located in the very center of Asia. Tuvans are the only people in the world that breed all major types of cattle. It is only here where you can see some of the southernmost reindeer herders in the world and some of the northernmost camel herders.
Our ethnographic expedition will go to the traditional nomadic herders' camps in the mountains of the west of Tyva, to camel breeders in the desert at Mongolian border, to the shepherds of the Thousanders and to the Tozhu reindeer herders.
The full immersion expedition is led by ethnologist, big expert in the field of the peoples of Central Asia.
Our ethnographic expedition will go to the traditional nomadic herders' camps in the mountains of the west of Tyva, to camel breeders in the desert at Mongolian border, to the shepherds of the Thousanders and to the Tozhu reindeer herders.
The full immersion expedition is led by ethnologist, big expert in the field of the peoples of Central Asia.
Tyva is a mysterious land amid mountains, deserts and taiga, located in the very center of Asia. Tuvans are the only people in the world that breed all major types of cattle. It is only here where you can see some of the southernmost reindeer herders in the world and some of the northernmost camel herders.
Our ethnographic expedition will go to the traditional nomadic herders' camps in the mountains of the west of Tyva, to camel breeders in the desert at Mongolian border and to the high-mountain forest-tundra to the Todzha reindeer herders.
The full immersion expedition is accompanied by ethnologist, big expert in the field of the peoples of Central Asia.
Our ethnographic expedition will go to the traditional nomadic herders' camps in the mountains of the west of Tyva, to camel breeders in the desert at Mongolian border and to the high-mountain forest-tundra to the Todzha reindeer herders.
The full immersion expedition is accompanied by ethnologist, big expert in the field of the peoples of Central Asia.
SCHEDULE & COST:
Dates: June 21 - 29, 2025
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Number of participants: 6 – 12
Cost of participation per person:
- 155 000 rubles subject to 11 - 12 participants, or
- 165 000 rubles subject to 9 -10 participants, or
- 175 000 rubles subject to 6 - 8 participants.
10% early booking discount (in case you book before January 21, 2025)
Everything is included except for:
- Flight to Kyzyl roundtrip
- Medical insurance
- Russian visa (if needed)
Estimated cost of flight Moscow - Kyzyl - Moscow: 30 000 rubles. Usually bought on your own.
Estimated cost of flight Novosibirsk - Kyzyl - Novosibirs: 15 000 rubles. Usually bought on your own.
Single supplement: 18 000 rubles (single accommodation is provided in the hotel on days 7 and 8, as well as in single tents on the days 2 and 3).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR TO TYVA
Day 1. June 21, 2025 (Saturday). KYZYL - ALDYN-BULAG ETHNO-COMPLEX (20 km, half an hour)
Arrival at Kyzyl International Airport.
Meeting participants at the airport.
Breakfast. Introduction to guides and ethnographer. Route discussion and safety briefing.
Visit to the Tourist Information Center and the "Center of Asia" Monument.
Tour of the Regional Museum, including the Scythian gold collection from the Arzhaan-2 burial mound.
Visit to a stone-cutting workshop with a stone-carving master class (1-1.5 hrs).
Lunch – traditional Tuvan cuisine.
Transfer to the Aldyn-Bulag ethnic complex, located in the Ulug-Khem River Valley. The yurt camp is historically significant; according to legends, this valley once housed the camp of the Dzungarian Khan and later a Buddhist monastery (khuree). Excavated fragments of the khan's seal and Tibetan mantra stones confirm this. The site was consecrated for a planned temple, making it sacred for Tuvans today.
Dinner. Introduction to throat singing khöömei and traditional instruments:
"Khöömei is a phenomenon close to the spirit of Tuvan nomads, a way of expressing their worldview, a symbol of their spirituality, and a key to the soul of the people. It provided solace during difficult times, helping them preserve dignity and humanity."
Rest.
Recommended Flights:
- Direct flight from Moscow to Kyzyl by IrAero on June 20 at 21:55, arriving June 21 at 06:55 am.
- Or any other flight arriving in Kyzyl no later than 10:00 am on June 21.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Yurt (4-person shared).
Day 2. June 22, 2025 (Sunday). ALDYN-BULAG – MONGUN-TAIGA, NOMADIC CAMP – YAK BREEDERS (380 km)
Journey westward to the mountainous region. Stops at scenic spots with panoramic views of the Tsagan-Shibetu and Shapshal ranges.
Visit to the ethnocultural complex in Beldir-Kezhii:
- Suburgan (Buddhist stupa) with the goddess "Nogaan Dariygi" (Green Tara), protector from unforeseen calamities.
- Subedei Stone – legend says Subedei planned his great campaigns here. Touching the stone with your forehead and making a wish ensures its fulfillment.
- Statue of Buddha Shakyamuni and the San-Salyr ritual site (worship rite).
Arrival at a traditional yak herders’ camp in the mountainous region, the village of Toolailig.
Immersion into nomadic yak-breeding culture: a master class on preparing süt araga (milk vodka) from kefir and tasting dishes made from yak meat and milk.
Dinner – yak meat cooked over a campfire.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: tent (2-person shared).
Day 3. June 23, 2025 (Monday). YAK HERDERS’ CAMP
Continuing our nomadic life immersion: master classes on saddling a yak and preparing traditional dishes.
Lunch – local cuisine.
Highland nomads migrate between seasonal pastures. During the short summer, livestock quickly gains weight. Residents of the area always have fresh meat, milk and dairy products and stock up on supplies for the winter. In this remote mountain area there are no roads; migrations (kösh) rely on yaks to carry yurts and furniture.
Yak breeders also raise horses and maintain herds. Experience horse breeding culture and, if possible, horse riding.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: tent (2-person shared).
Day 4. June 24, 2025 (Tuesday). MOVING TO THE SHEPHERDS-THOUSERS OF TANDY-UULA (450 km)
After breakfast, transfer to the Tandy-Uula herders' camp, located in the stunning Seven Lakes region at the base of the Tandy-Uula Ridge along the Elegest River.
Friendly hosts will introduce the culture and daily life of Tuvan nomads. Enjoy master classes on dairy and meat cuisine.
Relax in a riverside sauna at the foot of Tandy-Uula Ridge.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: сomfortable yurts with beds and bed linen (4-5 person shared).
Day 5. June 25, 2025 (Wednesday). TANDY-UULA SHEEP HERDERS
After breakfast, hike to the summit of the sacred mountain (2650m) with breathtaking valley views. For adventure enthusiasts, horseback rides are available.
Lunch.
Master class on traditional Tuvan games.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: сomfortable yurts with beds and bed linen (4-5 person shared).
Day 6. June 26, 2025 (Thursday). TANDY-UULA – DURGEN CANYON – DUS-KHOL – KYZYL
Morning transfer (2.5 hours, 110 KM) to the picturesque Durgun Canyon. Explore the natural beauty, photograph scenic landscapes, and swim in the mountain river.
Stop at the sacred Buddhist "Buddha’s Footprint" site.
Transfer to Dus-Khol Lake (Svatikova), known for its desert-like landscapes and therapeutic waters. Enjoy the hot sand and mud baths.
Return to Kyzyl.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: guesthouse (4-person shared).
Day 7. June 27, 2025 (Friday). KYZYL – TODZHA, REINDEER HERDERS’ CAMP – MARAL FARM (210 KM, 5 HOURS)
Early breakfast and transfer to Todzha.
The Tozhu Tuvans are an indigenous Siberian people residing in the north-east of Tuva in the eastern Sayan Mountains and in the south-east of the region. Their main livelihoods include reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting.
Visit a reindeer herders' camp, enjoy tea, and photograph reindeer.
Transfer to a maral-breeding farm. Accommodation in a guesthouse.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: guesthouse (2-person shared).
Day 8. June 28, 2025 (Saturday). MARAL FARM – CAMEL HERDERS’ CAMP (250 km)
Early breakfast and wildlife observation. Purchase maral farm products.
Transfer to a traditional camel herders’ camp near Bayan-Kol.
The Republic of Tuva is one of the unique regions and a historically developed camel breeding area, which is a traditional branch of agriculture. Camels of the Mongolian Bactrian species are perfectly adapted to the natural and climatic conditions of semi-deserts and dry steppes. Camels supplied nomads with wool, down, meat, and were also used under the saddle and as a pack animal.
Return to Kyzyl.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: hotel (2-person shared).
Day 9. June 29, 2025 (Sunday). KYZYL
Transfer to the airport. Departure home.
Recommended Flights:
- Direct flight to Moscow by IrAero at 08:10 am, arriving at 09:40 am.
- S7 flight departing Kyzyl at 08:45 am (layover in Novosibirsk, 3h 5m), arriving in Moscow at 12:45 pm.
- Any other flight from Kyzyl on June 29.
Meals included: breakfast.
Accommodation: not included.
* Due to the remoteness of the Todzha region, there may be changes/delays in the program. The order of execution of the program can also be changed, provided that all activities are saved.
** Issuing permits for the border zone for Russian citizens - no less than 1 week in advance, for foreign citizens - 2 months in advance.
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Number of participants: 6 – 12
Cost of participation per person:
- 155 000 rubles subject to 11 - 12 participants, or
- 165 000 rubles subject to 9 -10 participants, or
- 175 000 rubles subject to 6 - 8 participants.
10% early booking discount (in case you book before January 21, 2025)
Everything is included except for:
- Flight to Kyzyl roundtrip
- Medical insurance
- Russian visa (if needed)
Estimated cost of flight Moscow - Kyzyl - Moscow: 30 000 rubles. Usually bought on your own.
Estimated cost of flight Novosibirsk - Kyzyl - Novosibirs: 15 000 rubles. Usually bought on your own.
Single supplement: 18 000 rubles (single accommodation is provided in the hotel on days 7 and 8, as well as in single tents on the days 2 and 3).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR TO TYVA
Day 1. June 21, 2025 (Saturday). KYZYL - ALDYN-BULAG ETHNO-COMPLEX (20 km, half an hour)
Arrival at Kyzyl International Airport.
Meeting participants at the airport.
Breakfast. Introduction to guides and ethnographer. Route discussion and safety briefing.
Visit to the Tourist Information Center and the "Center of Asia" Monument.
Tour of the Regional Museum, including the Scythian gold collection from the Arzhaan-2 burial mound.
Visit to a stone-cutting workshop with a stone-carving master class (1-1.5 hrs).
Lunch – traditional Tuvan cuisine.
Transfer to the Aldyn-Bulag ethnic complex, located in the Ulug-Khem River Valley. The yurt camp is historically significant; according to legends, this valley once housed the camp of the Dzungarian Khan and later a Buddhist monastery (khuree). Excavated fragments of the khan's seal and Tibetan mantra stones confirm this. The site was consecrated for a planned temple, making it sacred for Tuvans today.
Dinner. Introduction to throat singing khöömei and traditional instruments:
"Khöömei is a phenomenon close to the spirit of Tuvan nomads, a way of expressing their worldview, a symbol of their spirituality, and a key to the soul of the people. It provided solace during difficult times, helping them preserve dignity and humanity."
Rest.
Recommended Flights:
- Direct flight from Moscow to Kyzyl by IrAero on June 20 at 21:55, arriving June 21 at 06:55 am.
- Or any other flight arriving in Kyzyl no later than 10:00 am on June 21.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Yurt (4-person shared).
Day 2. June 22, 2025 (Sunday). ALDYN-BULAG – MONGUN-TAIGA, NOMADIC CAMP – YAK BREEDERS (380 km)
Journey westward to the mountainous region. Stops at scenic spots with panoramic views of the Tsagan-Shibetu and Shapshal ranges.
Visit to the ethnocultural complex in Beldir-Kezhii:
- Suburgan (Buddhist stupa) with the goddess "Nogaan Dariygi" (Green Tara), protector from unforeseen calamities.
- Subedei Stone – legend says Subedei planned his great campaigns here. Touching the stone with your forehead and making a wish ensures its fulfillment.
- Statue of Buddha Shakyamuni and the San-Salyr ritual site (worship rite).
Arrival at a traditional yak herders’ camp in the mountainous region, the village of Toolailig.
Immersion into nomadic yak-breeding culture: a master class on preparing süt araga (milk vodka) from kefir and tasting dishes made from yak meat and milk.
Dinner – yak meat cooked over a campfire.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: tent (2-person shared).
Day 3. June 23, 2025 (Monday). YAK HERDERS’ CAMP
Continuing our nomadic life immersion: master classes on saddling a yak and preparing traditional dishes.
Lunch – local cuisine.
Highland nomads migrate between seasonal pastures. During the short summer, livestock quickly gains weight. Residents of the area always have fresh meat, milk and dairy products and stock up on supplies for the winter. In this remote mountain area there are no roads; migrations (kösh) rely on yaks to carry yurts and furniture.
Yak breeders also raise horses and maintain herds. Experience horse breeding culture and, if possible, horse riding.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: tent (2-person shared).
Day 4. June 24, 2025 (Tuesday). MOVING TO THE SHEPHERDS-THOUSERS OF TANDY-UULA (450 km)
After breakfast, transfer to the Tandy-Uula herders' camp, located in the stunning Seven Lakes region at the base of the Tandy-Uula Ridge along the Elegest River.
Friendly hosts will introduce the culture and daily life of Tuvan nomads. Enjoy master classes on dairy and meat cuisine.
Relax in a riverside sauna at the foot of Tandy-Uula Ridge.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: сomfortable yurts with beds and bed linen (4-5 person shared).
Day 5. June 25, 2025 (Wednesday). TANDY-UULA SHEEP HERDERS
After breakfast, hike to the summit of the sacred mountain (2650m) with breathtaking valley views. For adventure enthusiasts, horseback rides are available.
Lunch.
Master class on traditional Tuvan games.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: сomfortable yurts with beds and bed linen (4-5 person shared).
Day 6. June 26, 2025 (Thursday). TANDY-UULA – DURGEN CANYON – DUS-KHOL – KYZYL
Morning transfer (2.5 hours, 110 KM) to the picturesque Durgun Canyon. Explore the natural beauty, photograph scenic landscapes, and swim in the mountain river.
Stop at the sacred Buddhist "Buddha’s Footprint" site.
Transfer to Dus-Khol Lake (Svatikova), known for its desert-like landscapes and therapeutic waters. Enjoy the hot sand and mud baths.
Return to Kyzyl.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: guesthouse (4-person shared).
Day 7. June 27, 2025 (Friday). KYZYL – TODZHA, REINDEER HERDERS’ CAMP – MARAL FARM (210 KM, 5 HOURS)
Early breakfast and transfer to Todzha.
The Tozhu Tuvans are an indigenous Siberian people residing in the north-east of Tuva in the eastern Sayan Mountains and in the south-east of the region. Their main livelihoods include reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting.
Visit a reindeer herders' camp, enjoy tea, and photograph reindeer.
Transfer to a maral-breeding farm. Accommodation in a guesthouse.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: guesthouse (2-person shared).
Day 8. June 28, 2025 (Saturday). MARAL FARM – CAMEL HERDERS’ CAMP (250 km)
Early breakfast and wildlife observation. Purchase maral farm products.
Transfer to a traditional camel herders’ camp near Bayan-Kol.
The Republic of Tuva is one of the unique regions and a historically developed camel breeding area, which is a traditional branch of agriculture. Camels of the Mongolian Bactrian species are perfectly adapted to the natural and climatic conditions of semi-deserts and dry steppes. Camels supplied nomads with wool, down, meat, and were also used under the saddle and as a pack animal.
Return to Kyzyl.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: hotel (2-person shared).
Day 9. June 29, 2025 (Sunday). KYZYL
Transfer to the airport. Departure home.
Recommended Flights:
- Direct flight to Moscow by IrAero at 08:10 am, arriving at 09:40 am.
- S7 flight departing Kyzyl at 08:45 am (layover in Novosibirsk, 3h 5m), arriving in Moscow at 12:45 pm.
- Any other flight from Kyzyl on June 29.
Meals included: breakfast.
Accommodation: not included.
* Due to the remoteness of the Todzha region, there may be changes/delays in the program. The order of execution of the program can also be changed, provided that all activities are saved.
** Issuing permits for the border zone for Russian citizens - no less than 1 week in advance, for foreign citizens - 2 months in advance.
Cost includes:
- Transport services according to the program: all transfers and car rentals ((UAZ "loaf")
- Accommodation in yurts, tents, and guesthouses (2-5 person shared)
- Three meals daily
- Drinking water throughout the trip
- All activities per program
- Sauna
- Museum tickets
- Experienced Russian-speaking guide
- Ethnologist services
- Russian- and English-speaking team leader
- Border zone permits (for citizens of the Russian Federation - no less than a week in advance, for foreign citizens - no less than a month in advance)
- National park entry permits
- Local community support and guide payments
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
- Flights to/from Kyzyl
- Medical insurance
- Russian visa (if required)
- Alcohol and souvenirs
- Optional activities
- Single accommodation
- Tips
To take with:
- Weather-appropriate clothing (fleece, cotton t-shirts, light pants, shorts, warm hat, sun hat).
- Warm and windproof layers, thermal underwear
- Headlamp
- Raincoat
- Long-sleeved clothes
- Mosquito net (optional)
- Trekking shoes and light footwear
- Sun and wind protection (cream, sunglasses, hat)
- Repellents
- Sleeping bag rated for 0°C (cool mountain nights)
- Personal hygiene products: soap, towel, toothpaste, wet wipes
- Personal first aid kit (analgesics, antiseptics, antibiotics, medicines necessary for you personally)
- Large backpack/duffel bag and small daypack
- Copy of medical insurance
- COVID vaccination certificate or negative PCR test (requirements may change)
- Photo and video equipment
- Spare batteries and power bank
- Transport services according to the program: all transfers and car rentals ((UAZ "loaf")
- Accommodation in yurts, tents, and guesthouses (2-5 person shared)
- Three meals daily
- Drinking water throughout the trip
- All activities per program
- Sauna
- Museum tickets
- Experienced Russian-speaking guide
- Ethnologist services
- Russian- and English-speaking team leader
- Border zone permits (for citizens of the Russian Federation - no less than a week in advance, for foreign citizens - no less than a month in advance)
- National park entry permits
- Local community support and guide payments
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
- Flights to/from Kyzyl
- Medical insurance
- Russian visa (if required)
- Alcohol and souvenirs
- Optional activities
- Single accommodation
- Tips
To take with:
- Weather-appropriate clothing (fleece, cotton t-shirts, light pants, shorts, warm hat, sun hat).
- Warm and windproof layers, thermal underwear
- Headlamp
- Raincoat
- Long-sleeved clothes
- Mosquito net (optional)
- Trekking shoes and light footwear
- Sun and wind protection (cream, sunglasses, hat)
- Repellents
- Sleeping bag rated for 0°C (cool mountain nights)
- Personal hygiene products: soap, towel, toothpaste, wet wipes
- Personal first aid kit (analgesics, antiseptics, antibiotics, medicines necessary for you personally)
- Large backpack/duffel bag and small daypack
- Copy of medical insurance
- COVID vaccination certificate or negative PCR test (requirements may change)
- Photo and video equipment
- Spare batteries and power bank
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- 1UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - 2ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - 3SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - 4EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - 5LOW PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
WE ARE IN SOCIAL NETWORKS:
