How long is the distance of the equestrian race the Mongol Derby?

It was the nerve system of the largest empire in human history, and at its height, Genghis Khan’s mighty horse messenger system connected half the planet. For a decade we’ve been rebuilding this ancient network to stage the world’s greatest equine adventure race.

You square up to 1000km of Mongolian steppe on semi-wild horses, changing steeds every 40km. You navigate and survive on your own wits and skill, living among the herders. It’s you and your horse vs. the wild.

This is the longest and toughest horse race on earth. This is the Mongol Derby.

The exact course changes every year and is kept secret until shortly before the race begins. The terrain invariably includes mountain passes, green open valleys, wooded hills, river crossings, wetlands and floodplains, sandy semi-arid dunes, rolling hills, dry riverbeds and, of course, open steppe.

Riders spend thirteen to fourteen hours a day in the saddle, and the race lasts ten days. To complete the course is an accomplishment in itself, because it is common for only half the riders finish in any given year.