16-Day Snow Leopard & Pallas's Cat Observation Expedition

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 Preparations

02

Flight to Hovd

Flight: Ulaanbaatar → Hovd (2 hrs)

Hovd is one of Mongolia's oldest settlements and the cultural center of western Mongolia. Nestled between the Altai Mountains and the Khovd River, the city is home to diverse ethnic groups and serves as a gateway to the region's spectacular landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lakes, deserts, and rich wildlife habitats. It offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Highlights Scenic flight to Western Mongolia Meet wildlife trackers and local team Final expedition preparations

03

Hovd → Altai Mountain

Drive: 280 km (6–7 hrs)

Altai Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the Mongolian Altai, renowned for its snow-capped summits, glaciers, and spectacular alpine scenery. The mountain and its surrounding valleys support diverse wildlife, including ibex, argali sheep, and birds of prey. Its remote wilderness and breathtaking landscapes make it a highlight for trekkers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts exploring western Mongolia. Highlights Spectacular mountain scenery Wildlife scouting en route Expedition camp setup

04-08

Snow Leopard Observation Program

Drive: Local wildlife tracking

Spend seven full days searching for Snow Leopards in the remote valleys and ridgelines of Altai Mountain. Activities Dawn and dusk observation sessions Snow Leopard tracking with local experts Camera trap monitoring Wildlife photography High-altitude hiking Identification of tracks and signs

09

Altai mountain → Hovd

Drive: 280 km (6–7 hrs)

Highlights Final wildlife observations Return to Hovd Rest and photo backup

10

Hovd → Khar Us Lake National Park

Drive: 60 km (1–2 hrs)

One of Mongolia's most important wetlands and Ramsar sites. That is located about 40 km from Khovd, Khar Us Lake National Park is one of western Mongolia’s most important wetland ecosystems and a major birdwatching destination. The park contains vast reed beds, shallow freshwater lakes, marshes, river deltas, and surrounding desert-steppe habitats that support more than 200 recorded bird species. It is also recognized as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance....

11-13

Pallas's Cat Observation Expedition

Drive: Local wildlife drives and hikes

Four full days dedicated to searching for Pallas's Cat in rocky hills and steppe habitats. Activities Dawn and dusk observation sessions Camera trapping Tracking with local wildlife specialists Photography from observation hides

14

Return to Hovd

Drive: 60 km (1–2 hrs)

Highlights Final wildlife observations Return to Hovd Farewell dinner with local team

15

Flight to Ulaanbaatar

Flight: Hovd → Ulaanbaatar

Highlights Return to the capital Free afternoon for sightseeing or shopping

16

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