The Mongolia Project: Restoring Water, Sustaining Nomadic Traditions
Photo Credits: Kylie Zarmati
Mongolia’s rolling steppes, vast open skies, and centuries-old nomadic traditions are awe-inspiring, but climate change, desertification, and overgrazing are threatening this way of life. Water scarcity is at the heart of these challenges, making sustainable water access a critical issue for Mongolia’s herding communities.
This August, Trek Relief is launching a volunteer initiative in Arkhangai, Mongolia, to restore wells, support sustainable water management, and empower local families.
The Challenge
Many of Mongolia’s nomadic families depend on groundwater for their livestock and daily needs. Traditional wells have dried up or fallen into disrepair, forcing herders to travel long distances in search of water. This puts stress on their livestock, their livelihoods, and the future of their communities.
The Solution
Trek Relief is partnering with local leaders and environmental advocates to restore critical water sources and revitalize Mongolia’s fragile ecosystems. Through well restoration, sustainability education, and hands-on volunteer projects, we’re working to ensure that generations of herders can continue their way of life in harmony with the land.
Where? Arkhangai, Mongolia – One of Mongolia’s most breathtaking and ecologically significant regions.
What? Well restoration, sustainable water access, environmental education, and community engagement.
Why? To provide long-term solutions for Mongolia’s rural communities, protecting both people and nature.
For those who want to experience Mongolia beyond the surface, this is your chance. Volunteers will have the unique opportunity to:
Work alongside local communities to restore traditional water sources.
Stay with nomadic families in traditional yurts, learning about their way of life.
Explore Mongolia’s natural wonders, from ancient monasteries to hot springs, all while traveling on horseback, camelback, and all-terrain vehicles.
Upcoming Mongolia Trip Date
August 2-13, 2025
Join us in Mongolia to be part of a movement that protects land, water, and culture.