
Bird watching tours
7-Day Ugii Lake, Elsen Tasarkhai & Bushland Birdwatching Tour
Central Mongolia wetlands, lakes, bushland and semi-desert habitats for birders and photographers.
Overview
Discover the rich birdlife of Central Mongolia on this 7-day birdwatching adventure through wetlands, lakes, river valleys, bushlands, grasslands, and semi-desert habitats. This tour focuses on three of the region's most productive birding areas: Ugii Lake, Elsen Tasarkhai Semi-Desert, and the bushland habitats surrounding Khogno Khan Nature Reserve. The tour offers excellent opportunities to observe migratory waterbirds, raptors, larks, wheatears, shrikes, warblers, and many other species while enjoying Mongolia's spectacular landscapes and nomadic culture.
Photo gallery
Field images
8 photos
Itinerary
Day by day
Exact roads can change with weather and local conditions. Drive times shown here come from the itinerary notes.
01
Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Drive: 52 km (1.5–2 hrs)
Ulaanbaatar is the capital and largest city of Mongolia, serving as the country's cultural, political, and economic center. Surrounded by mountains and vast steppe landscapes, the city blends modern development with traditional nomadic heritage. Visitors can explore museums, monasteries, local markets, and vibrant cultural attractions while experiencing the unique character of Mongolia's capital. Highlights Arrival and hotel check-in Optional evening birding at Tuul River or artificial Swan Lake
02
Ulaanbaatar → Ugii Lake
Drive: 320 km (5–6 hrs)
Ugii Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake renowned for its rich birdlife and peaceful natural surroundings. A popular destination for birdwatching and nature lovers, the lake attracts numerous migratory waterbirds and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, and enjoying the scenic landscapes of central Mongolia. Highlights Afternoon birdwatching at the lake Wetland exploration Explore steppe habitats
03
Full Day Birdwatching at Ugii Lake
Drive: Local birding excursions
Highlights Sunrise birdwatching Explore wetland habitats Waterfowl observation Bird photography session
04
Ugii Lake → Elsen Tasarkhai Semi-Desert
Drive: 120 km (3–4 hrs)
Elsen Tasarkhai is a picturesque stretch of sand dunes often called the “Mini Gobi.” Surrounded by grasslands, mountains, and traditional nomadic settlements, it offers visitors the chance to experience camel riding, scenic desert landscapes, and the unique contrast of Mongolia's diverse natural environments in one location. Highlights Birdwatching around dunes and wetlands Search for larks and wheatears Sunset photography
05
Full Day Bushland Birdwatching at Khogno Khan Nature Reserve
Drive: Local exploration
Highlights Early morning birdwatching Explore dune and steppe habitats Optional birdwatching hiking
06
Elsen Tasarkhai → via Khustai National Park → Ulaanbaatar
Drive: 320 km (4–6 hrs)
Khustai National Park is one of Mongolia's most important conservation areas, famous for the successful reintroduction of the Przewalski's Horse (Takhi), the world's last truly wild horse. The park's rolling steppes and forested hills provide habitat for deer, marmots, raptors, and other wildlife, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Highlights Search for Takhi horses Birdwatching and wildlife observation Evening wildlife drive
07
Departure
Drive: Hotel – Airport (52 km, 60–90 min)
Transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your departure flight. Highlights Airport transfer End of services
What’s included
Hotel/airport pickup and airport transfer in Ulaanbaatar
All ground transportation during the tour (4WD vehicle with driver)
English-speaking tour guide
Hotel in Ulaanbaatar
Ger camps in the countryside
All meals during the countryside tour (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Entrance fees to national parks and sightseeing areas
Bottled drinking water during the trip
Fuel and road fees
Not included
International and domestic airfare
Travel insurance
Mongolian visa fee (if required)
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, minibar, etc.)
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Tips for the guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Additional hotel nights in Ulaanbaatar outside the program
Packing notes
Warm layered clothing (temperature swings are big)
Windproof jacket (very important)
Waterproof boots
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Personal medications
Power bank / spare batteries
Field notes
Roads are rough → expect long, bumpy drives
No paved roads in many areas
Remote regions → limited shops & facilities
Nights can be cold even in summer
Can change quickly: sun, wind, cold in one day
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