About this tour

Of the estimated 5,000 left snow leopards left in the world today, scientists have recorded the largest numbers in China and Mongolia, of which the latter has the easiest access both politically and logistically. These big cats have been protected in Mongolia since 1972. There are now over 30 different mountainous locations where these beautiful yet elusive cats, with an estimated population ranging from 1,000-1,500 individuals. Many different species of mammals will be encountered during the trip such as the Argali sheep and wild goat, the Ibex. Estimated travel time is little over 2 weeks. During the trip, you will visit the high peaks of Altai Mountains and the low ranges of the great Gobi basins, both of which will offer unparalleled exploration of the most astonishing ecosystems of Mongolia. Participants can set up camera traps or simply follow the local park rangers and follow the footsteps of these elusive but magnificent cats.

snow leopardibexwildlife experiencewildlife in Mongolia

Camping

Culture

History

Dancing

Horseback Riding

Trekking

City Tour

Cuisine

Homestay

Offroad

Wildlife

Yurt Stay

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), Sergelen, Mongolia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Built as a ger capital over 350 years ago, the modern day Ulaanbaatar is surrounded by white ger districts around it. After resting in your hotel room, we will enjoy a brief city tour including of Zaisan Hill where you can get a magnificent bird’s eye view of the city. In the evening, we will enjoy a traditional Mongolian performance featuring the “throat” or khoomii singing which also features dancer girls with colorful traditional Mongolian clothes. We will then enjoy a welcome dinner at a fine local restaurant. Overnight at hotel. (Hotel Bayangol or similar; B, L, D)

Day 2: WESTERN MONGOLIA, Ölgii, Mongolia

Today, we will fly to the western most part of Mongolia. We will meet our local crew and after a quick stop at a local market, begin driving to the Altai mountains where our camp site is located. Enjoy dinner and overnight in tents or gers. (Field camp; B, L, D)

Day 3: WESTERN MONGOLIA, Ölgii, Mongolia

In the morning, we will hear a brief introduction on the region’s conservation projects for snow leopard and other rare species. We will set out each day to one of the frequently sited valleys in search of the elusive cat. Packed lunch will be provided and we will enjoy dinner at the base camp by a warm fire site. Overnight in tents or gers. (Tent camp; B, L, D)

Day 4: WESTERN MONGOLIA, Ölgii, Mongolia

In the morning, we will hear a brief introduction on the region’s conservation projects for snow leopard and other rare species. We will set out each day to one of the frequently sited valleys in search of the elusive cat. Packed lunch will be provided and we will enjoy dinner at the base camp by a warm fire site. Overnight in tents or gers. (Tent camp; B, L, D)

Day 5: WESTERN MONGOLIA, Ölgii, Mongolia

In the morning, we will hear a brief introduction on the region’s conservation projects for snow leopard and other rare species. We will set out each day to one of the frequently sited valleys in search of the elusive cat. Packed lunch will be provided and we will enjoy dinner at the base camp by a warm fire site. Overnight in tents or gers. (Tent camp; B, L, D)

Day 6: WESTERN MONGOLIA, Ölgii, Mongolia

In the morning, we will hear a brief introduction on the region’s conservation projects for snow leopard and other rare species. We will set out each day to one of the frequently sited valleys in search of the elusive cat. Packed lunch will be provided and we will enjoy dinner at the base camp by a warm fire site. Overnight in tents or gers. (Tent camp; B, L, D)

Day 7: WESTERN MONGOLIA, Ölgii, Mongolia

In the morning, we will hear a brief introduction on the region’s conservation projects for snow leopard and other rare species. We will set out each day to one of the frequently sited valleys in search of the elusive cat. Packed lunch will be provided and we will enjoy dinner at the base camp by a warm fire site. Overnight in tents or gers. (Tent camp; B, L, D)

Day 8: WESTERN MONGOLIA, Ölgii, Mongolia to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

In the morning, transfer back to the local town for our return flight back to Ulaanbaatar and transfer to your hotel located in the downtown Ulaanbaatar. The rest of the afternoon is free for resting at your hotel. Dinner is independent. (Hotel Bayangol or similar; B, L, D)

Day 9: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Hustai National Park, Mongolia

In the morning, drive to the Hustai National Park, to spot the takhi wild horses in their natural habitat with a chance to photograph them. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the park’s various sites before returning back to Ulaanbaatar. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (Hotel Bayangol or similar; B, L, D)

Day 10: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to Ömnögovi, Mongolia

Our next leg of the journey will take us south to the Gobi Desert, which also features some of the most diverse mammals and bird species, depending on which season. Upon arrival, drive to Yol Valley and hike in the valley with rich variety of wildlife. Reach your field camp in the evening and overnight in tents. (Tent camp or family stay; B, L, D)