Mongolia · 9 DAY PROGRAMME · 2027
Mongolia Snow Leopard Quest
THE JOURNEY
A closer look.
Search for snow leopards in the rugged Jargalant Mountains of western Mongolia. This nine-day expedition combines the skill of local trackers with unhurried observation in remote valleys, where wildlife and traditional pastoral life share a remarkable landscape.
Travel through Khovd to a ger base near the mountains and devote several days to searching the Tsagaan Sair, Ust and Khar Chuluut valleys. Patience, flexibility and comfort in remote conditions are central to the experience. Snow leopards are wild and elusive, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Journey highlights
- Five days devoted to tracking and observation in mountain valleys
- Local guides, drivers and field support
- Ger accommodation near local pastoral families
- Opportunities to look for ibex, argali and other mountain wildlife
- A journey through western Mongolia’s remote landscapes
YOUR TIME IN THE FIELD
The itinerary.
Day 1Arrive in Ulaanbaatar
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and prepare for the expedition. As in the original programme, city accommodation and airport taxis are arranged separately unless included in your individual quotation.
Day 2Fly to Khovd and travel to the Jargalant Mountains
Take the domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar to Khovd and meet the local guides, drivers and field team. After lunch and supplies, travel towards Khar-Us Nuur and the Jargalant Mountains. Settle into ger accommodation near a local family. The countryside drive is approximately 120 km and takes around four to five hours.
Day 3Snow leopard tracking in the mountain valleys
Explore the Tsagaan Sair, Ust and Khar Chuluut valley areas with local guides. Travel by vehicle to access points and continue on foot where appropriate, scanning rocky slopes and checking for signs of snow leopards and other wildlife. Daily plans respond to tracking information, weather and safe access. Walking may take four to six hours. Return to the ger base each evening.
Day 4Snow leopard tracking in the mountain valleys
Explore the Tsagaan Sair, Ust and Khar Chuluut valley areas with local guides. Travel by vehicle to access points and continue on foot where appropriate, scanning rocky slopes and checking for signs of snow leopards and other wildlife. Daily plans respond to tracking information, weather and safe access. Walking may take four to six hours. Return to the ger base each evening.
Day 5Snow leopard tracking in the mountain valleys
Explore the Tsagaan Sair, Ust and Khar Chuluut valley areas with local guides. Travel by vehicle to access points and continue on foot where appropriate, scanning rocky slopes and checking for signs of snow leopards and other wildlife. Daily plans respond to tracking information, weather and safe access. Walking may take four to six hours. Return to the ger base each evening.
Day 6Snow leopard tracking in the mountain valleys
Explore the Tsagaan Sair, Ust and Khar Chuluut valley areas with local guides. Travel by vehicle to access points and continue on foot where appropriate, scanning rocky slopes and checking for signs of snow leopards and other wildlife. Daily plans respond to tracking information, weather and safe access. Walking may take four to six hours. Return to the ger base each evening.
Day 7Snow leopard tracking in the mountain valleys
Explore the Tsagaan Sair, Ust and Khar Chuluut valley areas with local guides. Travel by vehicle to access points and continue on foot where appropriate, scanning rocky slopes and checking for signs of snow leopards and other wildlife. Daily plans respond to tracking information, weather and safe access. Walking may take four to six hours. Return to the ger base each evening.
Day 8Return to Khovd
Travel back to Khovd after the field expedition, allowing approximately four to five hours for the 120 km journey. Enjoy a hotel stay, time to refresh and a farewell dinner. Local sightseeing or a cultural performance may be included in the confirmed arrangements.
Day 9Fly back to Ulaanbaatar
Return by domestic flight to Ulaanbaatar. City transfers, accommodation and onward international travel are arranged separately unless specified in your quotation. Allow flexibility for domestic flight changes.
FROM OUR PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION
A glimpse of the wild.
Practical details.
Your written 2027 proposal will confirm the final inclusions and arrangements.
Programme inclusions
All activities described in the itinerary,
Accommodation local Ger stay (5 nights),
Local hotel (1 nights) visit local families,
English speaking guide and local guide service, and field cook,
All camping equipment,
Entrance fee to Protected Area,border
All transfers by 4WD Jeep and Russian minivan in the countryside.
Meals of breakfast, lunch /picnic in countryside/ and dinner as mentioned per day itinerary.
Programme exclusions
International transportation to and from Mongolia,
Domestic flights, travel insurance,
Ulaanbaatar services, alcoholic drinks, sleeping bag, tips and gratuities, laundry and items of a personal nature.
Wildlife sightings depend on season, weather and animal movements. The final route, accommodation, inclusions and 2027 price will be confirmed in your written proposal.