Bird watching tours
12-Day Northeastern Mongolia Birdwatching Expedition
Forest-edge, steppe, rivers and wetlands for cranes, raptors and eastern Mongolia specialties.
Overview
This journey explores the remote landscapes of northeastern Mongolia, where vast steppe, wetlands, rivers, and taiga-edge forests create a rich diversity of habitats. These ecosystems support an impressive range of birdlife and offer excellent opportunities to observe both resident and migratory species. The route is designed to maximize bird diversity, targeting cranes, waterbirds, the Great Bustard, raptors, and forest specialists. By visiting a variety of habitats, participants can experience Mongolia’s remarkable birdlife while enjoying some of the country’s most scenic and unspoiled natural landscapes.
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
Gun Galuut Nature Reserve
Drive east: ~135 km (3–4 hrs) Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve is one of Mongolia's best birdwatching destinations, featuring wetlands, rivers, and steppe habitats that attract a wide variety of bird species. Visitors may observe cranes, swans, geese, ducks, raptors, and other migratory birds while enjoying the reserve's beautiful natural scenery. The reserve is also home to the Argali Sheep, the world's largest wild sheep, which can often be seen grazing on the surrounding rocky hillsides....
03
Khangal Lake
Drive: ~155 km (4–5 hrs)
Khangal Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by forested mountains in eastern Mongolia. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic landscapes, and rich birdlife, the lake offers excellent opportunities for nature photography, camping, and wildlife observation. Its remote setting makes it a perfect destination for travelers seeking Mongolia's untouched natural beauty. Highlights Transfer to Khangal Lake Birding along shoreline and reedbeds
04
Uglogchiin Kherem
Drive: ~87 km (2-6 hrs)
Uglogchiin Kherem is a remarkable ancient stone fortress perched atop a granite mountain in Khentii Province. Dating back several centuries, the site is surrounded by dramatic rock formations, forests, and panoramic views. A popular destination for hiking and photography, Uglogchiin Kherem offers visitors a fascinating blend of history, legend, and natural beauty. Highlights Visit Uglogchiin Kherem Birding in rocky steppe habitat
05
Khurkh Valley
Drive: ~30 km (1-4 hrs)
grasslands, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The area forms part of an important wetland ecosystem that supports a variety of migratory birds, including cranes and waterfowl. Surrounded by Mongolia's unspoiled steppe landscapes, Khurkh Valley offers visitors a peaceful setting to experience nature and wildlife. Highlights Travel to Khurkh Valley Afternoon birding in river valley
06
Khurkh Valley (Full Day)
Drive: Local birding excursions
Highlights Full exploration of steppe and river habitats
07
Binder Sum – Onon River
Drive: 70–80 km (2–4 hrs)
Binder Sum lies along the beautiful Onon River, one of Mongolia's most important rivers and part of the birthplace region of Chinggis Khan. The area is known for its pristine forests, rolling grasslands, and abundant wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and experiencing the natural beauty of eastern Mongolia. Highlights Birding along Onon River
08
Binder Sum – Onon River (Full Day)
Drive: Local birding excursions
Highlights Deeper exploration of forest and riparian habitats
09
Onon–Balj National Park
Drive: ~124 km (3-5 hrs)
Onon-Balj National Park protects one of Mongolia's most pristine ecosystems, where vast forests, rivers, wetlands, and grasslands support a rich diversity of wildlife. The park is an excellent destination for birdwatching, nature photography, and exploring the unspoiled landscapes of eastern Mongolia. It is also part of the historic homeland associated with Chinggis Khan. Highlights Travel to Dadal Birding along Balj River
10
Undurkhaan town
Drive: ~250 km (4-5 hrs)
Öndörkhaan is the capital of Khentii Province and an important stop on routes through eastern Mongolia. Surrounded by rolling steppes and river valleys, the area offers beautiful landscapes, diverse birdlife, and a glimpse into the region's rich history and nomadic culture, making it a convenient and scenic stop for travelers. Highlights Vast open grassland Riverine & wet meadow birding
11
Return to Ulaanbaatar
Drive: ~326 km (5–8 hrs)
Highlights Scenic return with birding stops
12
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
Airport pick-up and transfer in Ulaanbaatar
All ground transportation during the tour with driver and fuel
English-speaking tour guide
Accommodation listed in the itinerary
Meals during the countryside tour
Entrance fees to national parks and sightseeing areas
Bottled drinking water during the trip
Road fees and local logistics support
Not included
International airfare and visa fees
Travel insurance
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
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 in Binder and Dadal
Can change quickly: sun, wind, cold in one day
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