You can experience this life firsthand by staying with a nomadic family right in the middle of gorgeous Mongolian steppes. But what can you expect if you opt for such an unforgettable adventure? That’s what we’ll explain in this article.
Staying in a Ger
The main thing that you need to know about life with a nomadic family in Mongolia is that you’ll be living like they are. That means that you’ll have to stay with them in a Ger – the traditional Mongolian circular teepee, which you probably might know as a yurt. However, a yurt is a Turkic term, not a Mongolian one.
Each Ger is a small place that always houses several people. These tents usually have two to three single beds. It always depends. However, some families don’t have beds, they sleep on mattresses they place on the ground. And when it comes to floors, Gers usually have oilskin or felt on the ground.
Kazakh Mongolian family - Tea time
Living off the Land
Nomads are always self-sufficient, and the same goes with Mongolian nomads. These people live off the land for their sustainability. In the case of most Mongolian nomadic families, they usually have small herds of animals, which they keep for meat, milk, and trading. These animals are most commonly cows, goats, horses, sheep, and camels. You will be expected to help them herding some of these animals, milking cows, etc.
All of that could prove to be a great experience as you’ll get the chance to play a lot of traditional games a lot of the time.
If you’re looking to get away from the modern way of living for a while, you will enjoy the chance to share such a life with the nomads.
Mongolian herders milking a yak
Simple is Exciting
Naturally, it’s not all work and survival – these people know how to have fun and truly live. You can expect to drink lots of vodkas, as that’s their preferred drink. You will also be expected to try their traditional barbeque which is fried by hot stone and has an amazing taste.
You’ll get to experience some traditional Mongolian games like wrestling, or opt for playing with the children. You can help your hosts with the livestock, and you can help them with the cooking or collecting fuel for the fires.
In essence, you’ll always have something to do, and you’ll live a simple yet exciting life that lacks modern comforts, but it also doesn’t have the stress which we all experience today. You’ll get to experience life as it was in the times before.
Cute herder's boy with young borns
The Bottom Line
You shouldn’t expect comfort when staying with a Nomadic family in Mongolia, that’s for sure. You can only hope to share the burdens they have, which means you’ll have to work with them and live off the land when necessary.
In return, you’ll get an unforgettable experience that’s worth a hundred regular vacations. Plus, you will experience a connection with these people like you never have before with anyone else. That’s only possible in Mongolia.
In the end, if you’re interested in visiting other places for more adventures, take a look at our suggestions.
