21-Day Hovd, Khustai, Terelj & Gun-Galuut Birdwatching Tour

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

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 Flight to Western Mongolia Explore Hovd town Afternoon birdwatching along Buyant River

03

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....

04

Full Day Khar Us Lake

Drive: 10–20 km

Highlights Early morning birdwatching Wetland exploration Shorebird observation

05

Khar Lake

Drive: 120 km (2–3 hrs)

Khar Lake is a large freshwater lake surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of western Mongolia. Part of a protected wetland system, the lake provides important habitat for migratory birds and wildlife. Its scenic shores, clear waters, and mountain backdrop make it an excellent destination for birdwatching, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Great Lakes Basin. Highlights Birdwatching around Khar Lake Wetland photography Waterfowl observation

06

Jargalant Mountain

Drive: 100 km (2–3 hrs)

Jargalant Mountain is a rugged mountain range rising above the city of Hovd in western Mongolia. Known for its dramatic cliffs, alpine landscapes, and diverse wildlife, the area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and panoramic views. The mountain is home to species such as ibex, argali sheep, and various birds of prey, making it a highlight for nature enthusiasts. Highlights Mountain birdwatching Search for alpine species Raptors and cliff-nesting birds

07

Full Day Jargalant Mountain

Drive: 10–20 km

Highlights High elevation birding Mammal watching Photography

08

Hovd Steppe & River Habitats

Drive: 10–20 km

The Khovd River and surrounding steppe habitats support a rich diversity of wildlife and bird species. These varied ecosystems provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with raptors, waterbirds, and steppe birds commonly observed. The combination of open grasslands, river valleys, and mountain scenery makes the region one of western Mongolia's most rewarding areas for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Highlights Explore grassland habitats Birdwatching around rivers and wetlands

09

Flight to Ulaanbaatar

Flight: Hovd – Ulaanbaatar (2 hrs)

Highlights Return flight Rest and resupply

10

Ulaanbaatar → 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....

11

Full Day Gun-Galuut

Drive: 10–20 km

Highlights Search for Argali Sheep Birdwatching in wetlands and steppe

12

Gun-Galuut → Terelj National Park

Drive: 140 km (3 hrs)

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is one of Mongolia's most scenic protected areas, renowned for its dramatic granite rock formations, lush valleys, and pristine forests. The park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, and wildlife observation. Its stunning natural landscapes make it a favorite destination for visitors exploring the countryside near Ulaanbaatar. Highlights Scenic mountain landscapes Forest birdwatching

13

Full Day Terelj National Park

Drive: 10–20 km

Highlights Aryabal Temple River and forest birdwatching Wildlife observation

14

Terelj → Khustai National Park

Drive: 180 km (3–4 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

15

Full Day Khustai National Park

Drive: 10–20 km

Highlights Takhi horse viewing Steppe birdwatching

16

Khustai → Elsen Tasarkhai

Drive: 280 km (4.5–5 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

17

Full Day Birdwatching in Elsen Tasarkhai

Drive: Local exploration

Highlights Early morning birdwatching Explore dune and steppe habitats Optional birdwatching hiking

18

Elsen Tasarkhai → Ugii Lake

Drive: 125 km (2–4 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

19

Full Day Birdwatching at Ugii Lake

Drive: Local birding excursions

Highlights Sunrise birdwatching Explore wetland habitats Waterfowl observation Bird photography session

20

Ugii Lake → Ulaanbaatar

Drive: 280 km (4.5–5 hrs)

Highlights Final birdwatching stops Return to Ulaanbaatar Farewell dinner

21

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