WILDLIFE SAFARIS
In Search of Two Elusive Cats of Mongolia
Dates: November 12-27, 2025-2026
TRIP SUMMARY
Join our Snow Leopard and Manul Tour, a rare expedition into the Altai Mountains and steppe grasslands, where two of Asia’s most elusive cats roam. This expert-led expedition is crafted for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers seeking rare species in their natural habitats. Traverse Mongolia’s diverse ecosystems, from alpine mountains and steppes to wetlands and forests, while staying in traditional gers and remote field camps alongside local herders.
Each day offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation and photography, guided by field biologists and local rangers with deep regional knowledge. The itinerary balances immersive adventure with comfort, featuring authentic Mongolian cuisine, cultural insights, and responsible travel practices rooted in conservation.
The journey concludes in Ulaanbaatar, where a curated city experience and farewell dinner offer a reflective close to this unique wildlife adventure
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT…
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Search for Mongolia’s elusive Snow leopard in the Altai mountain valleys and look for pallas’s cat(Manul) in Delgerkhaan Nature Reserve.
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Explore Khar Us Lake’s internationally important wetlands with rare waterbirds and raptors
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Experience traditional nomadic life with overnight stays in gers and tent camps
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Expert-led wildlife viewing and birdwatching in remote and diverse ecosystems
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Opportunities for stunning wildlife and landscape photography
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Small group sizes ensuring personalized attention and a low-impact travel experience
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Comfortable accommodations in Ulaanbaatar with cultural tours and fine dining
THIS TRIP IS PERFECT FOR…
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Dedicated wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking rare species
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Experienced birdwatchers interested in Mongolia’s unique migratory and endemic birds
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Adventurous travelers keen on exploring remote wilderness and authentic nomadic culture
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Conservation-minded tourists wanting to support sustainable travel and learn about Mongolia’s ecosystems
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Small groups and solo travelers looking for expert guidance in an intimate setting
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, settle into your hotel, and enjoy a welcome dinner with a pre-trip briefing.
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)
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)
Return to Ulaanbaatar by flight and enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore independently.
(Hotel Bayangol or similar; B, L, D)
Drive to Delgerkhaan Nature Reserve, meet nomadic herders, and settle into your ger camp. Overnight in ger hostel. (Ger hostel; B, L, D, approx. 5 hours driving)
Search for Pallas’s cat and photograph diverse wildlife in the remote Delgerkhaan Reserve. Overnight in a ger hostel. (Ger hostel; B, L, D)
Drive back to Ulaanbaatar for rest and a farewell dinner celebrating your journey. (Bayangol Hotel or Similar; B, D)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for departure. (B)
PRICING
- Land transportation as indicated in the itinerary based on using a 4×4 van or cruiser jeeps;
- Private accommodation based on a twin occupancy in a standard room at hotel and private gers and tents in the countryside, with field toilet and shower facility;
- Airport arrival & departure transfers;
- All meals indicated as B, L or D;
- All entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary;
- Mongolia Quest’s English speaking guide throughout your stay;
- Local rangers, herders or biologist to accompany;
- Supply of bottled and boiled waters throughout the trip;
- International and domestic airfares;
- Personal laundry;
- Drinks not mentioned in the itinerary;
- Travel insurance;
- Medical evacuation costs;
- Excess baggage charges;
- Visa fees;
- Gratuities;
- Photography and video fees;
- Any other item not mentioned as included.
PHOTOS & REVIEWS
We spent almost two amazing weeks traveling from Ulaanbaatar to the Snow Leopard Trust research center in the Tost Mountains of the South Gobi desert to experience what is involved in collaring and tracking snow leopards and their prey and seeing how the herders are helping to protect these endangered cats. We also visited the Hustai National Park, museums and Buddhist monasteries and enjoyed shopping and a terrific music show in the capital. Badral, our Mongolia Quest guide, was fabulous.
