Rafting & Canoeing in Mongolia
Best Time for Rafting & Canoeing in Mongolia
The best time to enjoy rafting and canoeing in Mongolia is from early June to late August, when the weather is warm and the rivers are at their best for navigating. The Tuul River, located just 55 km from Ulaanbaatar in Terelj National Park, is one of the most popular rivers for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Best Places for Rafting & Canoeing
Mongolia’s rivers are categorized into 5 classes based on the difficulty of the water and terrain. Here's a breakdown of some of the best places to experience rafting and canoeing:
Class I and II Rivers (Gentle and Steady):
1. Kherlen River
2. Selenge River
3. Orkhon River
4. Tuul River
5. Zavkhan River (Lower reaches)
These rivers are perfect for beginners, offering gentle currents that are ideal for a relaxing experience. You can easily explore these rivers with the help of a professional guide.
Class III and VI Rivers (Moderate to Challenging):
- Ider River
- Eg River
- Kharaa River
- Yeruu River
- Delger River
These rivers are better suited for more experienced paddlers, with strong mountain streams and rugged terrain.
Class Y (Advanced/Professional):
- Chuluut River
- Khovd River
- Orkhon River (Headwaters)
- Tuul River (Headwaters)
- Zavkhan River (Headwaters)
- Uvs Turgen River
- Uench River
- Bodonch River
These turbulent rivers require advanced boat navigation skills and are great for sports tourists and professional athletes looking for a thrilling challenge.
Tips to rafting & canoeing in Mongolia
1. Wear a life jacket & helmet correctly.
Always ensure your life jacket and helmet worn correctly no matter what level of rafting you are participating in.
2. Listen to your guide during the safety talk and on the water.
Your experienced guide is trained to know exactly how to handle any type of situation encountered while on the river.
3. Hold the paddle properly
Holding the paddle properly can be a huge safety concern. One hand should be at the base of the paddle on the shaft. The other hand should ALWAYS be on the end of the shaft over the “T” grip.
