9-DAY Snow leopard expedition

Mongolia is a paradise for bird watchers, with its vast lakes, rivers, and diverse landscapes attracting a rich variety of species.

Key info

Dates

Western province

Destination

Overview

Known as the “Spirit of the Mountains,” the snow leopard is one of the world’s most elusive and endangered predators. For centuries, this mysterious icon of the high mountains has captivated wildlife researchers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike.This expedition takes you deep into the extraordinary world of the snow leopard, high in the Altai Mountains where these majestic animals roam freely across remote and rugged landscapes. Here, you will have the rare opportunity to witness this legendary predator in its natural habitat and capture moments few people ever experience.Designed for those who seek more than photographs, this journey offers unforgettable stories and once-in-a-lifetime encounters with one of nature’s most remarkable creatures.This is where humans, wildlife, and wilderness come together. We invite you to be part of this extraordinary expedition into one of the world’s last true natural sanctuaries.


The package includes:

  • Domestic flights
  • Accommodation
  • (ger camps)
  • Private expedition vehicles
  • with fuel
  • Professional driver and
  • logistics support
  • All meals during the
  • expedition
  • Unlimited drinking water
  • Local herder support
  • services
  • Evening entertainment
  • programs
  • Expedition permits and
  • access fees

The package excludes:

  • International flights
  • Personal and technical
  • equipment
  • Drinks
  • Snacks and personal
  • supplies
  • Camera and technical gear
  • Additional food requests
  • Personal medications

 

Itinerary

In the morning, take a domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar to Khovd. Upon arrival, transfer to the base camp in the Jargalant Khairkhan area. Once at camp, settle into the expedition environment and take part in a brief introduction to the local nomadic culture. In the afternoon, attend the expedition orientation and safety briefing. The team will review the expedition protocols and prepare for the wildlife observation routes ahead. The first day is dedicated to acclimatization and becoming familiar with the surroundings before beginning the main snow leopard observation activities.

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Before dawn, we depart early from camp to reach key observation points ahead of wildlife movement. With the support of local trackers, we begin searching for signs of the elusive snow leopard while carefully scanning ridgelines and mountain valleys from selected vantage points. Observation activities are conducted both by vehicle and on foot, covering approximately 8–10 km throughout the day. There will be sufficient time to observe the surrounding landscape, photograph wildlife, and document the expedition experience.

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Today, we continue the expedition with another full day of snow leopard observation and photography. Following the established expedition schedule, we explore alternative observation locations in the Jargalant Khairkhan area in order to seek opportunities to spot the elusive predator. Alongside snow leopard tracking, the dramatic landscapes of the Altai Mountains provide opportunities for nature and landscape photography. The day is spent carefully observing the mountain environment and documenting the wildlife and scenery encountered along the route.

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

The expedition continues with further wildlife observation and tracking in the Jargalant Khairkhan area. We continue to work with local trackers and carefully observe the mountain ridges and valleys where snow leopards may move through their natural habitat. The day provides additional time in the field to follow the expedition protocols and photograph the surrounding wilderness, while continuing the search for this elusive mountain predator.

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

After breakfast, we visit a local Kazakh family and experience their traditional culture and way of life. Guests are welcomed with warm hospitality and have an opportunity to learn more about Kazakh customs and everyday life. Following lunch, the expedition continues with further snow leopard observation and tracking in selected areas. The combination of cultural experience and wildlife observation offers a meaningful insight into both the people and natural environment of western Mongolia.

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

 

After breakfast, we depart camp and travel into a mountain valley to observe and photograph the Mongolian saiga antelope, an endangered species found in this region. We then continue to the Three Senkher Caves, where ancient cave paintings provide a glimpse into the early human history of the area. The day concludes with a visit to a local herder family, offering an opportunity to experience and learn about traditional Mongolian nomadic life.

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Following breakfast, we continue our snow leopard observation activities. To seek new opportunities for sightings, we move beyond the areas visited previously and explore different observation zones within Jargalant Khairkhan. The change of location provides fresh perspectives of the mountain environment and further opportunities for wildlife and nature photography. The day remains focused on careful observation, tracking, and documenting the surrounding wilderness.

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

After breakfast, we take part in a traditional camel caravan migration, following Mongolian nomads as they load their camels and move their camp in the traditional manner. This experience offers a rare insight into the way nomadic families have traditionally travelled and lived with camels for generations, while also providing opportunities for cultural and documentary photography. After lunch, we return to a designated snow leopard observation area and continue wildlife tracking and photography, making the most of the final full day of the expedition in the field.

Accommodation: Ger Camp

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

On the final morning, we depart the camp and travel to Khovd city. From Khovd, we take a domestic flight back to Ulaanbaatar, marking the conclusion of the Snow Leopard Expedition.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Gallery