MONGOLIA TRAIL RUN 2023
4th to 13th August 2023
MONGOLIA TRAIL RUN 2023
After the experience of leading the first edition of the Mongolia Stage Race in 2019 and having suffered the obligatory stop due to the COVID-19, we present to you the new event for 2023: MONGOLIA TRAIL RUN. It is an adventure experience, designed for amateur runners of all levels as well as walkers, which takes place entirely in the lonely steppes of MONGOLIA. It is a unique event that allows you to sleep every night under a sky full of stars inside of a traditional ger, meet the tastes of a country and immerse yourself in incredible landscapes.
The six stages race begins in the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes and ends in the emblematic 16th-century Buddhist monastery Erdene Zuu in Karakorum, each day discovering a different landscape. Together with your new fellow racers, you will enjoy the tours, daily meals, activities, transfers, cultural visits, nature in its purest form …
Live a great running experience in Mongolia!
the race – stages
TWO MODALITIES: 178KM (110,60 MILES) KHAN / 100KM (62,14 MILES) NOMAD
What is your challenge?
Mongolia Trail Run has two modalities to participate: KHAN and NOMAD.
KHAN: 178km (110,60 miles) and 3.601m (11.814,30 ft) D+ 6 stages.
Nomad: 100km (62,14 miles) and 2.067m (6.781,50 ft) D+. 4 stages. Rest in stages 3 and 5. On these days the riders join the accompanying persons’ programme.
stage 1
Dunas Elsen Tasarkhai
23,55 km (14,63 miles) / 286 md+ (938,32 ft)
STAGE 1-23,55KM (14,63 MILES)/286Md+ (938,32 FT)
The great adventure will begin in the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes (Bayangobi desert) that stretch about 80 km long and 5 km wide. Touring Elsen Tasarkhai (literally means “a piece of isolated sand”) we will enjoy a small sequence of true desert in the middle of green steppes. Some wooden buildings will catch our attention … they are shepherds’ huts. Elk, wolves, deer and foxes will mark our steps although the different species of camels will control our walk. Little Gobi will not leave us indifferent.
The great adventure will begin in the Elsen Tasarkhai sand dunes (Bayangobi desert) that stretch about 80 km long and 5 km wide. Touring Elsen Tasarkhai (literally means “a piece of isolated sand”) we will enjoy a small sequence of true desert in the middle of green steppes. Some wooden buildings will catch our attention … they are shepherds’ huts. Elk, wolves, deer and foxes will mark our steps although the different species of camels will control our walk. Little Gobi will not leave us indifferent.
stage 2
UGII lake – ORKHON valley
33,55 km (20,85 miles) / 90 md+ (295,28 ft)
STAGE 2 - 33,55KM (20,85 MILES) / 90Md+ (295,28 FT)
The stage begins on the shores of Lake Ugii, famous for being an important waterfowl breeding area; About 150 types of birds gather annually in its waters. We will enjoy the views bordering the great blue lake, we will leave the old Orkhon river on our left, we will cross the bridge of the Orkhon river to enter the valley of the Orkhon river. A lot of free animals will move at our own pace … horses, sheep, camels and goats will make us forget the great cormorants. Finally, the small and colorful town of Ugii will welcome us with open arms.
The stage begins on the shores of Lake Ugii, famous for being an important waterfowl breeding area; About 150 types of birds gather annually in its waters. We will enjoy the views bordering the great blue lake, we will leave the old Orkhon river on our left, we will cross the bridge of the Orkhon river to enter the valley of the Orkhon river. A lot of free animals will move at our own pace … horses, sheep, camels and goats will make us forget the great cormorants. Finally, the small and colorful town of Ugii will welcome us with open arms.
stage 3
Tsetserleg – Tsenkher hot springs
27,15 km (16,87 miles) / 611 md+ (2.004,59 ft)
STAGE 3 - 27,1KM (16,87 MILES) - 611MD+ (2.004,59 FT)
With the memory of the Galdan Zuu temple with its 7-meter Buddha and the Zayiin Khuree Khiid museum we begin the third stage following the Tamir river and leaving the city of Tsetserleg on the right. We cross the river by a long wooden bridge also used by yaks and then enter the first wooded areas where you can see ancient trees of a unique beauty. In the valleys we meet hundreds of animals … jaks, horses, sheep … vultures and eagles stalking their possible prey. After several hills we reach the Tsenkheriin valley where we find the camp with natural hot springs.
With the memory of the Galdan Zuu temple with its 7-meter Buddha and the Zayiin Khuree Khiid museum we begin the third stage following the Tamir river and leaving the city of Tsetserleg on the right. We cross the river by a long wooden bridge also used by yaks and then enter the first wooded areas where you can see ancient trees of a unique beauty. In the valleys we meet hundreds of animals … jaks, horses, sheep … vultures and eagles stalking their possible prey. After several hills we reach the Tsenkheriin valley where we find the camp with natural hot springs.
stage 4
Tsenkher hot springs – tsagaan sumiin rashaan valley
36,68 km (22,79 miles) / 933 md+ (3.061,02 ft)
STAGE 4 - 36,68KM (22,79 MILES) - 933MD+ (3.061,02 FT)
Open forests, gentle valleys and small highlands. We will feel going back in time; a few nomadic families will greet us as we pass … “Сайн байна уу”. Trails and tracks will lead us to cross multiple rivers … some small and others not so much. We will feel the cool on our knees while the yaks wonder what we do out there. Later we will pass by the Mirror Lake … don’t forget to keep an eye on your hairstyle! Look at the zigzagging rivers from a hill. Stop for a minute amidst the wildlife. Finally … nothing better than a large NOMAD BARBACUE to lower the pulsations.
Open forests, gentle valleys and small highlands. We will feel going back in time; a few nomadic families will greet us as we pass … “Сайн байна уу”. Trails and tracks will lead us to cross multiple rivers … some small and others not so much. We will feel the cool on our knees while the yaks wonder what we do out there. Later we will pass by the Mirror Lake … don’t forget to keep an eye on your hairstyle! Look at the zigzagging rivers from a hill. Stop for a minute amidst the wildlife. Finally … nothing better than a large NOMAD BARBACUE to lower the pulsations.
STAGE 5
NOMADY WINTER STATION – KHarkhorin
39,51 km (24,55 miles) / 1.443 md+ (4.701,44 ft)
STAGE 5 - 39,51KM (24,55 MILES) - 1.443MD+ (4.701,44 FT)
In the queen stage it is time to enjoy the mountains and the impressive views that accompany our walk. We will see large eagles throughout the tour. We will pass through a small lost town where a large number of children live. When you have no strength left, stop to observe one of the many Ovoos (they serve as places of worship, to honor the mountains and the sky; they are made of wood or rocks). We will return to the Orkhon River Valley, a new gift for our senses. Finally, from above we will see the colorful city of Kharkhorin on multiple occasions.
In the queen stage it is time to enjoy the mountains and the impressive views that accompany our walk. We will see large eagles throughout the tour. We will pass through a small lost town where a large number of children live. When you have no strength left, stop to observe one of the many Ovoos (they serve as places of worship, to honor the mountains and the sky; they are made of wood or rocks). We will return to the Orkhon River Valley, a new gift for our senses. Finally, from above we will see the colorful city of Kharkhorin on multiple occasions.
STAGE 6
kHarkhorin – karakorum
13,85 km (8,61 miles) / 287 m (941,60 ft)
STAGE 6 - 13,85KM (8,61 MILES) - 287MD+ (941,60 FT)
A huge abandoned ship will surprise us a few meters from the start. From the monument to the Heroes we can observe the roofs of Karakorum, the winding Orkhon River and dozens of street vendors waiting for us… We will border the city through emblematic sites: the Turtle monument, the penis rock, the “great hall” archeological site, among others. The Mongolia Trail Run will finish in the emblematic 16th-century Buddhist monastery Erdene Zuu, considered by many to be the most important monastery in Mongolia, as it couldn’t be otherwise. We will get to know it and visit Kharkhorin (Хархорин), the ancient capital in the 13th century known as Karakorum.
A huge abandoned ship will surprise us a few meters from the start. From the monument to the Heroes we can observe the roofs of Karakorum, the winding Orkhon River and dozens of street vendors waiting for us… We will border the city through emblematic sites: the Turtle monument, the penis rock, the “great hall” archeological site, among others. The Mongolia Trail Run will finish in the emblematic 16th-century Buddhist monastery Erdene Zuu, considered by many to be the most important monastery in Mongolia, as it couldn’t be otherwise. We will get to know it and visit Kharkhorin (Хархорин), the ancient capital in the 13th century known as Karakorum.
TECHNICAL DATA
RACE AREA MAP
STAGES MAP
DISTANCES AND ELEVATION SUMMARY
| STAGES | KHAN | NOMAD | D+ | D- |
| STAGE 1 | 23,36km (14,63ml) | 23,36km (14,63ml) |
286m (938ft) | 353m (1.158ft) |
| STAGE 2 | 33,80km (20,85ml) | – | 91m (295ft) | 86m (282ft) |
| STAGE 3 | 27,15km (16,87ml) | 27,15km (16,87ml) | 611m (2.004ft) | 504m (1.653ft) |
| STAGE 4 | 36,68km (22,79ml) | 36,68km (22,79ml) | 933m (3.061ft) | 928m (3.044ft) |
| STAGE 5 | 39,51km (24,55ml) | – | 1.443m (4.701ft) | 1.647m (5.403ft) |
| STAGE 6 | 13,85km (8,61ml) | 13,85km (8,61ml) | 237m (941ft) | 222m (728ft) |
| 174,35km (108,34ml) | 101 km (62,76ml) | 3.601m (11.814ft) | 3.740m (12.270ft) | |
DIFFICULTY DEGREE ACCORDING TO ITRA
International Trail Running Asociation defines the degree of difficulty of a route with the following formula: distance in km + positive slope in meters divided by 100:
- STAGE 1 – 26.2 POINTS
- STAGE 2 – 34.7 POINTS
- STAGE 3 – 33.2 POINTS
- STAGE 4 – 46 POINTS
- STAGE 5 – 53.9 POINTS
- STAGE 6 – 16.2 POINTS
TECHNICAL DOCUMENTS
PROVISIONAL TRACKS 2023
RACE BOOK 2023 ESP-ENG
mongolia trail run 2023 REGULATIONS ESP-ENG
MANDATORY/RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
TRACKS IN WIKILOC
REGISTRATION 2023
* Edition 2023 limited to 75 trailrunners and 20 companions
**Get a free massage at the end of the third stage. You have to have your registration paid before March 31st.
WHAT IS INCLUDED? THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS
- Entry to Mongolia Trail Run 2023.
- 6 stages race (modality Khan) or 4 stages + 2 days accompanying programme (modality Nomad)
- Marked course of the race with flags / ribbon.
- 24h doctor and race security team.
- 2 Nights in Hotel 4*: the 4th and 12th of August.
- 7 nights in GERS in TOURIST CAMPS: from the 5th to the 11th of August.
- Hot water showers in all tourist camps.
- 9 breakfasts and 9 dinners in the tourist camps, as well as 9 meals at the finish line served by the Mongolian staff.
- Transfers AIRPORT / HOTEL / AIRPORT on August, the 5th and the 14th, only on request by the racer.
- All transfers during the race: those stated in the RACE BOOK as well as from Ulan Bataar to the Start of the race and the return from Kharkhorin to Ulan Bataar.
- Daily luggage transfer service.
- Organized cultural visits: museums, temples, natural parks, nomadic barbecue, visits to nomadic families, 4×4 transfers … and everything stated in the RACE BOOK.
- Spanish and English speaking Mongolian staff guides
- A certain dose of ADVENTURE … as in Mongolia nature rules.
WHAT ELSE IS INCLUDED?
- PRESENTATION and CLOSURE ceremonies of the race.
- 2/3 refreshment post per stage, as stated in the RACE BOOK.
- Tracks for GPS and route information.
- Daily technical briefings.
- Prices, FINISHER gift and equipment raffle.
- Accommodation in twin rooms. In case you wanted a single room, there is a single supplement charge and you have to ask for availability.
- Race photographer
- TV producer
- Welcome pack
- Invitation letter to enter in Mongolia and participate in the event (necessary for people who need a VISA)
- Note: the food provided by the Mongolia Trail Run Staff at the end of each stage is free buffet style, with a choice of pasta, rice, soups, vegetables, fruit and meat.
WHAT is NOT INCLUDEd?
- Entry visa to Mongolia (for those nationalities that need it – check with the Mongolian embassy / consulate in your country)
- Airline / train / bus or other tickets to get to and back from Ulan Bataar
- Accommodation before the 4th of August and after the 13th. In case you wantet to book more days or any other guided trip, contact us.
- Extra drinks other than water (beer, wine, soft drinks, …)
- Solid food during the race, unless otherwise indicated in the RACE BOOK 2023
- Travel insurance or sport/medical insurance.
- TIPS: our local staff will worked strong for that you have all you need.
- All that is not specified in the section WHAT IS INCLUDED? + WHAT ELSE IS INCLUDED?
how to register
registration and payment process
To secure your place we need you to fill in the REGISTRATION FORM according to the chosen rate. Prices:
RUNNERS 100K / 178K
* Rate 1P: 1 single payment. Savings of 200€. Fill in the 1P FORM (SINGLE PAYMENT). Choose the role and the 1P rate of 2.350€.
* Rate 2P: 2 payments. Saving 100€.
· Fill in FORM 2P (PAYMENT 1), choose the role and the 2P-3P fee of 600€ to secure your place.
· Before April 30th 2023 you will have to pay the rest with the option Rate 2P (REST PAYMENT), where you will have to choose the option of 1.850€.
* Rate 3P: 3 payments.
· Fill in FORM 3P (PAYMENT 1), choose the role and the 2P-3P fee of 600€ to secure your place.
· To make the second payment go to the 3P fee option (PAYMENT 2). Choose the 975€ option. It has to be done before April 30th 2023.
· Before May 31st 2023 you will have to pay the rest with the option Rate 3P (REST OF PAYMENT), where you will have to choose the option of 975€.
COMPANIONS
The amount is always 1.800€. And you can pay in 1, 2 or 3 payments.
* Rate 1P: 1 single payment. Fill in the FORM 1P (SINGLE PAYMENT). Choose the role and the 1P rate of 1.800€.
* Rate 2P: 2 payments:
· Fill in FORM 2P (PAYMENT 1), choose the role and the 2P-3P fee of 600€ to secure your place.
· Before May 31st you will have to pay the rest with the option Fee 2P (REST OF PAYMENT), where you will have to choose the option of 1.200€.
* Rate 3P: 3 payments.
· Fill in FORM 3P (PAYMENT 1), choose the role and the 2P-3P fee of 600€ to secure your place.
· To make the second payment go to the 3P fee option (PAYMENT 2). Choose the 700€ option. It has to be done before April 30th 2023.
· Before May 31st 2023 you will have to pay the rest with the option Tariff 3P (REST PAYMENT), where you will have to choose the option of 500€.
IMPORTANT
To finalise your registration you have to:
· Pay 50% of the outstanding amount to be paid before April 30th 2023.
· Pay the remaining amount to be paid, after April 30th, before May 31st 2023.
· Payment can be made by credit/debit card or bank transfer.
· Failure to pay by the deadline may result in forfeiture of the place.
· On June 30th 2023, all administrative data and documents of the runner/companion must be completed.
Limited places: reserved for 75 runners and 20 accompanying persons.
· **If you have paid 100% of the race fee before March 31st 2023, you will receive a free gift corresponding to the massage service at the end of the third stage in the thermal waters of Tserkher.
BANK DATA
For payments by bank transfer:
- Bank: BBVA
- IBAN: ES40 / 0182 / 0254 / 0602 / 0154 / 4612
- BIC / SWIFT CODE: BBVAESMMXXX
- Holder: NATURETIME EVENTS (JCR) 43850 Cambrils (Tarragona) / Spain
- NOTE: on the bank refence write: name + surname + book number + MTR23
DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED BEFORE JUNE, THE 30th 2023
In order to correcly register in the Mongolia Trail Run 2023 it is necessary to send the following documentation to the organization:
- Photocopy or photo of a valid PASSPORT (remember valid for a minium of 6 months)
- SPORTS/MEDICAL INSURANCE including rescue if necessary.
- Arrival to and departure from Ulaan Bataar FLIGHTS numbers, only for racers who want transfers from the airport / hotel / airport on August, the 4th and August, the 13th.
- Brief sports curriculum with the best results of recent years or feats to highlight.
cancellation
Sometimes plans change … So if you have to cancel your entry to the race, keep in mind:
- There is a €600 deposit when registering, not totally refundable.
- Last payment expiration date is May 31st 2023.
- All payments postponed or racers replaced by other racers will be subject to an administrative charge of €60 and it will be necessary to wait for confirmation from the Mongolia Trail Run 2023 organization.
- For cancellations until March 31st 2023, everything paid will be refunded except for part of the deposit (€250).
- For cancellations made during the period from April 1st to June 30th 2023, everything paid will be refunded except part of the deposit (€250) plus an administrative charge of €450.
- For cancellations after June 1st there will be no refund. In case the runner has another person to replace him/her, he/she will have to pay the amount of €60 for the administrative formalities.
- Cancellation procedure: send an e-mail to [email protected] explaining the reason for the cancellation and an account number to make the refund of the amount that corresponds.
RATE 1 PAYMENT (1P)
- Until MARCH 31st 2023
- 1 SINGLE PAYMENT
- SAVINGS 200€
RATE 2 PAYMENTS (2P)
- Until APRIL 30th 2023
- 2 PAYMENTS: DEPOSIT 600€ + 1.850€
- SAVINGS 100€
RATE 3 PAYMENTS (3P)
- Until MAY 31st 2023
- 3 PAYMENTS: DEPOSIT 600€ + 975€ + 975€
ACCOMPANYING
- OCT 25th 2019-MAY 31st 2023
- 3 payments: deposit 600€ + 700€ + 500€
REGISTRATION LIST 2023
PREPARe your adventure 2023
1- RUNNERS PROGRAM 100k – 178k
OFFICIAL DAILY SCHEDULE
For security and organizing reasons, there is a daily time schedule that must be strictly followed. There will be a buffet like meal at the finishing line and when a transfer is necessary from the finishing line to the camp, this is going to be done as soon as there are racers enough to fill a car. The time schedule may change due to weather and terrain conditions, in that case, racers will be informed so by the race staff.
The planned schedule is the following:
time scheduled
*subject to changes*- BREAKFAST: 6.00 am -7.30 am
- LUGGAGE DELIVERY: 7:30 am-7:45 am
- START: 8.00 am
- FINISH LINE/MEAL: 12.00 pm – 4.00 pm
- TRANSFERS/CULTURAL VISIT: 2.00 pm – 06.00 pm
- BRIEFING & DINNER: 7.00 to 8.30 pm
ARRIVAL DAY - AUGUST, THE 4TH
DAY 1. This is the recommended day to arrive to Ulaan Bataar in order to go through the technical checking and attend the Mongolia Trail Run 2023 Presentation. If you want to enjoy a little bit more of the city, we recommend arriving a few days before.
TRANSFERS TO elsen tasarkhai - AUGUST, THE 5TH
DAY 2. We organise the vehicles 4×4 and depart to the Elsen Tasarkhai desert, where the race starts. It is a 5 hours trip with some stops. When arriving to Elsen Tasarkhai we have lunch and in the afternoon we can enjoy visiting a temple or riding on a camel (those who want to do so). We will enjoy the dune’s sunset
STAGE 1 - AUGUST, THE 6TH
DAY 3. Start of the race. After the finishing line, there is a 2 hours transfer with stops to stare at the landscape, the free animals and visiting the Turkish Empire monument-museum of Prince Kultigen V-VII century. We arrive to Lake Ugii camp just in time to contemplate the sunset over the lake.
STAGE 2 - AUGUST, THE 7TH
DAY 4. Ffrom Ugii lake to the Ugii village. The Ugii village is in the Orkhon Valley, World Heritage Site. Water streams, animals, traditional way of life and amazing landscapes all along our 2 hours way to Tsetserleg. In Tsetserleg, we will enjoy visits to the Museum and Market.
STAGE 3 - AUGUST, THE 8TH
DAY 5. From Tsetserleg to Tsenkher hot springs. In this stage there is no vehicle transfer after arriving to the finishing line so that we can have a bath in the hot springs, ask for a massage and also relax and rest to face the more hard stages ahead.
STAGE 4 - AUGUST, THE 9TH
DAY 6. From Tserkher to the Tsagaan Sumiin Rashaan Valley. At the finishing line we will be offered a traditional nomad barbecue with meat and vegetables right amidst this marvelous valley. Afterwards, a 1 hour vehicle transfer to the tourist camp with a visit to the Tsagaan sumiin tuuri monastery.
STAGE 5 - AUGUST, 10TH
Day 7. The Mongolia Trail Run Queen stage. We start a little bit earlier that day with a 30 Km vehicle transfer to the starting line in a nomad winter station. The stage finishes on the outskirts of Kharkhorin, at the tourist camp where we will stay for the night. Visit to the city of Kharkhorin in the afternoon. No vehicle transfer on that day.
STAGE 6 - AUGUST, THE 11TH
DAY 8. Last stage of the Mongolia Trail Run. This is the shortest stage. The finishing line is in the Karakorum, after going through one of its enormous gates. Afterwards, visit to the temples, souvenirs shops and the city of Kharkhorin. Time to relax and we spent the night at Kharkhorin tourist camp.
GOING BACK TO ULAAN BATAAR AND CLOSING CEREMONY - AUGUST, THE 12TH
DAY 9. After breakfast, we go back to Ulaan Bataar. In the evening we will attend the closing and prize giving ceremony.
FAREWELL - AUGUST, THE 13TH
DAY 10. There is a transfer service to the airport early in the morning.
2-COMPANION PROGRAM
A schedule of activities and cultural visits has been designed for each day so that those accompanying the runners can take advantage of the hours that the runners are doing the stage. These timetables and activities are provisional and may be subject to change. In this case, all participants will be informed by the Staff. On the other hand, there is also the possibility for the companions to do the last part of the stage on foot, accompanied by the guide.
- DAY OF ARRIVAL - AUGUST 4th
- TRANSFER TO ELSEN TASARKHAI - AUGUST 5th
- DAY 3 - AUGUST 6th
- DAY 4 - AUGUST 7th
- DAY 5 - AUGUST 8th
- DAY 6 - AUGUST 9th
- DAY 7 - AUGUST 10th
- DAY 8 - AUGUST 11th
- DAY 9 - AUGUST 12th
- DAY 10 - AUGUST 13th
Day 1 – Friday, August 4th
10:00-17:00h – Reception of runners and relatives at the Premium Hotel**** in Ulaanbaatar
The day will be dedicated to visit different corners of the city of Ulaanbaatar. The tour includes the Sukhbaatar square, the Chinggis Khaan monument, the National History museum and the Zaisan hill from which you have a panoramic view of the city.
20:00-21:30h – Welcome dinner at the hotel
Night at Premium Hotel****
Day 2 – Saturday, August 5th
7:00-8:00h – Breakfast and hotel check out
Early in the morning we will visit the Gandan Monasteries complex originally located in the center of Ulaanbaatar and moved in 1838 to another larger and more remote space in Ulaanbaatar. Within the complex, we can observe the Migjed Janraisig temple with its impressive copper Buddha of about 26.5 meters high, the Vajradhara temple inaugurated in 1840, three colleges of Buddhist philosophy, among other constructions. Every day you can hear the monks pray.
Departure in 4×4 cars towards the Gobi Desert also called Bayangobi or “Gobi Rico” (province of Uvurkhangaique), where we find the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes.
13:00-14:00h – Lunch at the camp
16:00h – Visit to Khogno Khan Temple
Magnificent sunset over the dunes towards the end of the afternoon.
20:00-21:30h – Dinner
21:30h – Briefing stage 1
Night in the traditional Gers
Day 3 – Sunday, August 6th (STAGE 1 – 23.55 km +286 m)
7:00-8:30h – Breakfast
9:00h – Start of the first stage (departure from the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes)
Elsen Tasarkhai are beautiful sand dunes that stretch some 80km by 5km in a beautiful valley. We will make an excursion through the dunes on the back of a bactrian camel (a wild camel endemic to the Gobi Desert) and small walks in order to admire the area from above.
12:00-14:30h – Lunch at the finish area with runners
14:30h – Transfer to the next camp located on Lake Ugii (on the way we will stop to see the stone steles of King Bileg and Kultegin from the V-VIII century of the Turkish Empire)
16:30h – Arrival at the camp, free time
Fantastic sunset by the lake
20:00-21:30h – Dinner
21:30h – Briefing stage 2 – stage 1 images
Night in the traditional Gers
Day 4 – Monday, August 7th (STAGE 2 – 33.20 km +91 m)
6:00-7:30h – Breakfast
8:00h – Start of the second stage (departure from Lake Ugii-Valle Orkhon)
We will visit the information center of Lake Ugii. The Ugii Lake, located in the Uvurkhangai province, has an area of 25 km2 and is 1378m above sea level. In autumn and spring, many migratory birds can be observed since the lake is home to a great variety of fish.
We will cross the Orkhon River by an extensive bridge in order to enter the Orkhon Valley. Do not miss the opportunity to mix with the great herds of wild animals: horses, sheep, goats, camels, cows. The animals will be the ones that will guide you to the small village Ugii.
Free time to get lost in the dusty streets of Ugii.
12:00-14:30h – Lunch at the finish area in the village of Ugii with the runners
15:00h – Shuttles to the next camp located in Tsetserleg (Maidarsan camp). During the trip you will be able to see lots of wildlife in freedom.
Arrival at the camp, free time
20:00-21:30h – Dinner
21:30h – Briefing stage 3 – stage 2 images
Night in the traditional Gers
Day 5 – Tuesday, August 8th (STAGE 3 – 27.15 km +611 m)
6:00-7:30h – Breakfast
8:00h – Start of the third stage (departure from the Maidarsan camp)
We will visit Zayiin Khuree Khiid, which in ancient times was a Buddhist monastery and today is the local museum of Arkhangai province. We will climb up to the large Buddha statue located on a nearby hill. We will walk through the local market to learn a little about the daily life of the Mongols.
Transfer to the Thermal Baths of Tsenkher.
12:00-14:30h – Food at the finish area
Free time to rest and enjoy the hot springs
20:00-21:30h – Dinner
21:30h – Briefing stage 4 – stage 3 images
Night in the traditional Gers
Day 6 – Wednesday, August 9th (STAGE 4 – 36.68 km +933 m)
6:00-7:30h – Breakfast
8:00h – Start of the fourth stage (departure from the Thermal Baths of Tsenkher)
Free time to return to enjoy the hot springs in the early hours of the morning.
We will visit the archaeological excavations of Tsagaan Sumiin Tuuri located west of the Khangai Mountains. The ruins were discovered recently.
12:00-14:30h – Nomadic barbecue at the finish area
15:00h – Shuttle to Bor Burgastain Rashaan camp
14:30-17:00h – Arrival at the camp
Free time to relax.
20:00-21:30h – Dinner
21:30h – Briefing stage 5 – Stage 4 images
Night in the traditional Gers
Day 7 – Thursday, August 10th (STAGE 5 – 39.51 km +1443 m)
6:00-7:30h – Breakfast
7:45h – Transfer to the departure in a nomadic winter season area
8:30h – Start of the fifth stage (departure from the nomadic winter season)
Today we will drive to the Kharkhorin village where we can visit the historical site Karakorum, former capital of the Great Mongol Empire in the thirteenth century. Karakorum was founded in 1220 by Chinghis Khan. There is the first Buddhist monastery in the country called Erdene Zuu built in 1586 and destroyed during the purges of 1937. Currently the spectacular wall and three Buddhist temples are kept inside.
On the outskirts, you can visit the statue “Boovon Khad”, a phallic symbol made in the eighteenth century by the monks of the monastery to shame the young monks who did not follow the rules and a rock in the shape of a turtle that was in the old Karakorum capital.
We will visit the museum about the ancient capital Karakorum where we can see the remains of the old capital of the XIII century.
12:30-15:30h – Lunch at the Munkhtenger camp in Kharkhorin.
Free time to visit Kharkhorin
20:00-21:30h – Dinner
21:30h – Briefing stage 6 – stage 5 images
Night in the traditional Gers
Day 8 – Friday, August 11th (STAGE 6 – 13,85 km +237 m)
6:00-7:30h – Breakfast
8:00h – Start of the sixth stage (departure from the Munkhtenger camp)
We will visit the monument to the Great Mongolian Empire where we will find several stalls with local products and the occasional Chinese product.
We will walk through the streets of Kharkhorin where approximately 2000 people live.
We will enjoy the market on the outskirts of the Erdene Zuu Monastery where you will have the opportunity to buy products from the area.
The race ends inside the Monastery of Erdene Zuu. There we will wait for the runners / walkers of the first edition of the Mongolia Trail Run.
We will contemplate the Monastery of Erdene Zuu.
9:15-10:30h – Runners/walkers arrivals to the Monastery of Erdene Zuu
Relax Evening. Night in Kharkhorin
Night at the Premium Hotel****
Day 9 – Saturday, August 12th
7:00-10:00h – Breakfast
After breakfast at the camp we drive to Ulaanbaatar. Lunch on the way. Arrival at Mongolian Nomadic camp to enjoy the nomadic parade. Time for souvenir shopping.
19:30h – Closing ceremony: dinner, prize giving and farewell party.
FAREWELL PARTY with food and alcoholic beverages.
Night at the Premium Hotel****
Day 10 – Saturday, August 13th
7:00-10:00h – Breakfast
Airport shuttles according to flights departure schedules
3-THE TRIP
TRAVELLING TO MONGOLIA
BY PLANE
Several companies fly to Ulan Bataar. From Europe the links are usually used via Moscow (Aeroflot / Miat), via Turkey (Turkish) or via Beijing (Air China). It is normal that on days with a large number of travelers the bags are delayed 24 hours. SUBJECT TO THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE RUSSIAN INVASION OF UKRAINE AND ITS IMPACT ON AIRSPACE.
BY TRAIN
It can be reached by train from Moscow or Beijing.
DOCUMENTATION
It is necessary to consult the Mongolian consulate of your country to know your needs. In general, it will be necessary to have a PASSPORT with 6 months of expiration (minimum) and VISA for some nationalities. Visit Mongolia Consulate web to know if your country is exempt from visa to enter Mongolia:
https://en.consul.mn/visa/c/83
Make sure you have an appropriate k2 VISA for your trip according to your passport and travel itinerary:
- Electronic visa processing
- Mongolia embassy in París, France
- Mongolia embassy in UK
- Mongolia embassy in USA
- Mongolia embassy in others countries
You have any question?? Please, contact to us by email: [email protected]
It is the responsibility of each participant / companion to process their documentation.
MONGOLIA TRAIL RUN: RACE + CULTURAL TRIP
Mongolia Trail Run is not only a trail running sport event in Mongolia, it is also complemented by a cultural program, secondary to the race, allowing you to discover the culture and the people of Mongolia. For that reason, you will also visit temples, museums, ruins, gers and Mongolian nomad families to know a little bit more of their way of life , you will enjoy 4×4 safari-transfers with stops to contemplate landscapes, free wild animals, herds, furthermore, you will also be offered guided tours in Ulaan Baatar, enjoy traditional Mongolian songs and we even made a Mongolian style barbecue so you can live this trip at 200%. And moreove, you will always be accompanied by local Spanish and English speaking guides.
COVID19: MONGOLIA RESTRICTIONS
The Mongolia Trail Run has been affected by the management of the COVID19 pandemic. To follow the evolution of the possibilities to travel to Mongolia from any country, we recommend to follow the evolution of the situation through the following link: COVID RESTRICTIONS MONGOLIA
YOUR EXPERIENCE IN Mongolia
Being able to organize this event in Mongolia has moved me to my sporting origins offering a sporting adventure in a distant and exotic country. The landscapes are spectacular, and being able to match the race with the nomadic culture of Mongolia, expands the experience. If we add international athletes on top of it, it certainly becomes a great human experience.
At the sports level, although the routes are affordable, the hardness of doing the 6 continuous stages in which the resilience will be decisive to meet the challenge with guarantees is not to be underestimated. It is worth highlighting the 5 different landscapes through which the race takes place, the comforts of being able to stay every day in a Tourist Camp, the simplicity of the trail runner of being able to run with a small backpack with little material, the security provided by the local staff and the pleasure of being able to eat every day the delights of our cook. And all this surrounded by a pure nature.
Without a doubt, one of the best personal and sports experiences lived. Discover a new country (unknown to many) first hand, with its people, culture, beliefs. And to enjoy sports, run in a pure state, in an idyllic environment, alone in the imnensitat of the desert and the steppe, surrounded by horses, goats, camels, yurts, nomads … What more can you ask for?
And if we add to all this the people who accompany you on this trip, sharing the same objective, the race, but each with your expectations, experiences, concerns … Adding a Mongolian organization and staff that lives closely the corridor, encouraging, helping, supporting, living for each other, and that on the last day it is difficult to say goodbye to everything, the great Mongolian family.
About my experience in MSR19, it has been a unique and unrepeatable experience, since it is the first one I have done, and it will always be the most special of all. Start from the moment you are at Barcelona Airport, checking in your suitcase, and you are already grouping with the group that leaves Barcelona, so you do not feel alone at any time, when you undertake this adventure, alone. In this the organization of the race knew how to manage it and it is very important.
The arrival in Ulan Buttor and the days before the first stage, you feel that you are part of a group that has the same concerns, desire and passion for this adventure that moves us into the world runner, everything and with our worries, in thinking How are we going to face everything, your body and your mind. But when the first stage begins, you are so immersed and disconnected from the world that you have left in Barcelona, that you are 100% immersed in the adventure, and you feel, happy, and expectant that every day you will meet a challenge.
Obviously the challenges that you meet every day, you could not meet them without the organization, of the routes so well explained in advance, before the race every day, the signs (those banners) that in the end you dream even with them, and the vans that without realize, they are circulating nearby to control you that you do not get lost or lost, and you know that every 10km you will have a refreshment to give you water, and especially to worry about your state and if you need anything. Very important, the food these days, is of quality and abundant.
Days go by, and every day you feel better about yourself, and on the last day, the day you reach the finish line, when you have 3km left to reach the finish line, you think you have already completed 180km without fainting a day , you are surrounding the Karakorum Monastery, and you begin to think that it is over and that you have managed to finish all this adventure, happy, with humor, with companionship, with struggle, moments that are alone, you and pure nature come to mind , in a privileged environment, running next to wild horses, with immense herds of cattle, landscapes, colors, that cut your breath, you can only cry with emotion and happiness.
Beautiful sensations that happen to you in life, thanks to sports and especially when running
STAFF 2023
Joan: Race Director Mongolia Trail Run
Rexel: Runner Attention
Otgoo: Local Staff Coordinator
The STAFF of Mongolia Trail Run 2023 will consist of people who love this job as well as outdoor activities. People, first and foremost, who will help you achieve your sports challenge of becoming FINISHER of the Mongolia Trail Run and live a great personal experience.
TECHNICAL STAFF
- RACE DIRECTOR
- ROUTES:
- Technical assistance
- Route Markers
- Mountain Security team
- RACERS ASSISTANCE
- DOCTOR
- MEDIA
- TV team
- Photografer
- Communicattion
- ADMINISTRATION
- LOCAL STAFF
- Spanish and English speaking guides.
- Coordination assistance
- Security assistance
- Drivers
- Cooks
At the infrastructure level we have:
VEHICLES
- 4×4 Ambulances
- Luggage transfer truck
- 4×4 press vehicles
- 4×4 vehicles (1 every 6 runners)
- Kitchen van
- Vehicles for companions
- 4×4 staff vehicles
LOGISTICS
- Satellite phones
- Camp-buffet tent (50 pax)
- 1.500L of potable drinking water
- First Aid Kit
- Marking flags
ANY DOUBTs?
DO YOU WANT TO RECEIVE MORE INFORMATION?
[email protected] / Leave us your email
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions.
1 Will there be someone waiting for me at the Ulaan Baatar airport?
3 Can I pay with credit card? Where can I exchange money?.
4 It is better to have Dollars or Euros?
5 What is the name of the hotel of the first / last nights in Ulaan Baatar?
6 What is the programme on Friday the 7th of August, after arriving at the hotel?
7 What is the weather like in August?
8 Do I have to inform that I am vegetarian?
11 Are there showers in the tourist camps?
12 Will it be possible to wash my clothes?
14 Is there toilet paper in the tourist camps?
15 Will I have the possibility to charge my electronic devices?
16 Will there be internet or mobilephone connection?
17 I would like to eat a fruit every day. Is it possible?
18 Is a backpack a mandatory item during the race?
19 Where and when to display my race number?
20 Where can I find the GPS tracks for every stage?
21 Can I leave a small bag at the start line with some clothes?
WELCOME TO MONGOLIA TRAIL RUN
Open your mind, open your heart, in a few days you will start a great ADVENTURE. Return to your roots. Start enjoying simple things like fresh air, the sounds of animals, sunsets, starry skies, a chat, a song, …
Frequently Asked Questions
1.-Will there be someone waiting for me at the Ulaan Baatar airport?
All runners who wish will be picked up at Ulaanbaatar International Airport. Pick-up will take place on August 4th 2023. For those arriving on previous days, please contact the organisation by e-mail.
2.-What is the local currency?
The Local currency is the tugrik. It’s composed of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 1.000, 5.000, 10.000 and 20.000-tugriks banknotes. The face of Genghis Khan or Sukhbaatar is represented on each banknote. The exchange rate constantly varies. CONVERSOR
3.-Can I pay with credit card? Where can I exchange money?
Except in Ulan Baator, in Mongolia it is not possible to use the credit card or to withdraw cash from the ATM (Automatic Teler Machine). It is recommended to have tugriks when leaving the city of Ulan Baator. The Visa card is generaly more accepted than Master Card. You can exchange money in the airport or the hotel (high commissions). In Mart Shopping Center, you can exchange also (lower commission).
4.-It is better to have Dollars or Euros?
In general, they prefer USD, it is their second currency.
5.- What is the name of the hotel of the first / last nights in Ulaan Baatar?
Premium Hotel****. Toiruu Street, Chingeltei District-5, Chingeltei, 151500 Ulán Bator, Mongolia.
6.-What is the programme on Friday, the 5th of August2022, after arriving at the hotel?
Premium Hotel Ulaan Baatar:
9:30am – 1:00 pm: check-in and bib numbers delivery at the upper floor.
1:00 pm to 6.00 pm: optional guided visit to Ulaan Baatar: Sukhbaatar Square, Chinggis Khaan Monument, National History Museum, and Zaisan Memorial hill complex for a panoramic view of the city. Gandan Monastery Complex included in the visit.
7:00 – 8:30 pm: Race presentation and following Welcome Dinner on the upper floor of the hotel.
7.-What is the weather like in August?
You can check the weather forecast on the following websites.
Daytime average temperature: 23º / 25º.
Nighttime average temperature: 10º / 12º (cold).
8.-Do I have to inform that I am vegetarian?
Yes. It is not a problem but we need to know it in advance so that the cook takes it into account. Please, let us know ASAP.
Race Questions
9.-Do I need a sleeping-bag?
No. Both in the hotel and in the gers you will sleep in beds with bedclothes.
10.-Do I need gaiters?
Gaiters are highly recommended ONLY for stage 1 in the dunes, no need for gaiters in the other stages.
11.-Are there showers in the Tourist Camps?
Yes, there are hot waters showers.
12.-Will it be possible to wash my clothes?
Yes, there are laundry service in the hotel in Ulaan Baatar as well as in the tourist camp of the third stage. You can always hand-wash your clothes.
13.- Will I need a swimsuit?
Yes. So that you can enjoy the hot spring waters in Tsenkhe (stage 3 / stage 4).
14.-Is there toilet paper in the tourist camps?
There is toilette paper in all tourist camps but it is always advisible to have one of your own, just in case.
15.-Will I have the possibility to charge my electronic devices?
Yes, it is possible to charge electronic devices in common areas. Please, check your plug type.
16.-Will there be internet and mobilephone connection?
In the Premium Hotel in Ulaan Baatar you wont have any problems. In the tourist camps the connection is not a prime one, so you better don’t have great expectations. To avoid any connection problems we advise you to buy a local SIM. You can always contact the racers assistance to help you in case you needed.
17.-Will there be fruits every day?
Yes, we will provide you with some fruits every day such as water melon, apples or mandarines.
18.-Is a backpack a mandatory item during the race?
Yes, It is. A small backpack is necesary to carry the mandatory equipment and a liter of water and some caloric food.
19.-Where and when to display my race number?
The official race bib-number must be visible at all times during the race on the outermost garmen. A second bib-number is to be put on the backpack and to be visible at all times.
20.-Where can I find the GPS tracks for every stage?
Soon, you will receive the GPS tracks by email. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the routes as if you were a bird.
21.-Can I drop a small bag at the start line with some clothes?
Yes, the race entry includes a 40-50 liters race bag with your bib-number. This is the bag you can leave at the start line every day to be found later at the finish line. We recomend to include dry clothes, warnm cothes, comfortable shoes, and other personal stuff. Your luggage will not be at the finish line, these will be in your gerd in the tourist camp upon arrival. We reccomend that your luggage be flexible, waterproof and easy to carry.
SPONSORS
ORGANIZER
PARTNERS
SPONSORS
SPECIAL THANKS
MONGOLIA STAGE RACE 2019
(august, 11th to 16th)
Mongolia Stage Race 2019 VIDEOS
Mongolia Stage Race 2019 PICTURES
POSTCARDS OF MONGOLIA
BEFORE THE START
STAGE 1
STAGE 2
STAGE 3
STAGE 4
STAGE 5
STAGE 6
PRIZE CEREMONY
MONGOLIA EXPERIENCE
Mongolia Stage Race 2019 RESULTS
TONI ORTIZ (spain)
FIRST MAN
21:36:03
CHIARA BARASSI (ITALy)
FIRST WOMAN
24h 09m 09s
