Snow Leopard Expedition: 12-Day The Best Altai Adventure in Mongolia

12 Days | #1547-IN
Ulaanbaatar |
Khovd |
Mongolian Altai Mountains |

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Ramada Hotel

When you arrive at the local airport, your service team will meet you.
Upon arrival in Ulaanbaatar, the vibrant capital of Mongolia, someone will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. A delicious welcome dinner awaits you in the evening, showcasing the flavors and warmth of Mongolian hospitality.

Day 2: Ulaanbaatar to Khovd to Holy Mountain

Meals: Breakfast in Ulaanbaatar, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Local Hotel

A 2.5-hour flight to Khovd Province requires airport transportation. Upon your arrival, your service team will meet you at the local airport. Your adventure begins with a 120km scenic journey to the Holy Mountain. Upon arrival at the temporary campsite, check-in for the next few days.

Overnight stay in Ger.

Day 03 to 07: Snow Leopard Quest

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camp

Spend the next few days exploring the breathtaking mountain wilderness in search of the endangered snow leopard.

Each day, you'll explore different sides of the mountain by car, guided by skilled local trackers who are experts at identifying the trails and signs of these magnificent wild cats. Snow leopards live at altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 3,500 meters, making them difficult but not impossible to track. Improving your chances of a sighting will require hours spent at cold observation points, navigating rugged terrain with your camera equipment.

Relax and recharge at the cozy campsite each evening, preparing for the next day's adventures.

Overnight stay in a traditional Ger.

Day 8: Holy Mountain to Khovd

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Local Hotel

Once you've finished breakfast, check out and head back to Khovd. If you have time after you arrive, check out a local museum to learn about the area's rich history and culture.

Overnight stay.

Day 9: Khovd to Ulaanbaatar

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch, (Dinner on own)
Accommodation: Ramada Hotel

If you have time in the morning, explore the local museum and its regional cultural exhibits. Check out of your Khovd hotel and head to the airport for your flight to Ulaanbaatar. Once you arrive, you’ll be taken to your hotel to relax and freshen up after your trip.

Overnight stay.

Day 10: Ulaanbaatar

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Ramada Hotel

Discover Gandantegchinlen Monastery, the center of Mongolian Buddhism, and experience its rich traditions and unique architecture firsthand. Next, explore the Chinggis Khaan Museum for a captivating look at the life and impact of Mongolia's famed founder.

Overnight stay

Day 11: Ulaanbaatar

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Ramada Hotel

A 55km trip to Tsonjin Boldog awaits us today, where we will visit the impressive Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex—a monumental tribute to Mongolia's iconic founder. Enjoy lunch at a resort restaurant close by before returning to Ulaanbaatar. End your trip with a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the experiences and friendships you made.

Overnight stay

Day 12: Departure 

Meals: Breakfast

Following breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport for your flight home, concluding your unforgettable Mongolian adventure. The tour has come to an end.

Highlights

  • Explore the breathtaking Altai Mountains and vast steppe regions, filled with stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
  • Engage with local nomadic communities to learn about their traditions, lifestyles, and how they coexist with the snow leopards.
  • Join guided expeditions to track snow leopards in the wild.
  • Take photographs of snow leopards, ibex, argali sheep, and other animals in their beautiful, rugged environment.
  • Learn about conservation initiatives aimed at protecting snow leopards and their habitats, including community-led efforts and scientific research.
  • Enjoy local dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings) and various dairy products, experiencing the flavors of Mongolian cuisine.
  • Take part in treks through diverse terrains, from rugged mountains to serene valleys, enhancing your connection to the land.

Service Included

  • Accommodation for 04 Nights in Ulaanbaatar on twin/double sharing basis
  • Accommodation for 01 Night in Khovd Town (Local Hotel) on twin/double sharing basis
  • Accommodation for 06 nights in Ger at a temporary camp on a twin/double sharing basis
  • All activities described in the itinerary
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Local mountain guides/trail finders
  • Field cook
  • All camping equipment
  • Mineral (bottled) water
  • Entrance fee to the Protected Area
  • Round-trip domestic flight
  • All transfers by minibus in the city
  • 4WD Japanese Jeep for countryside travel
  • Breakfast, lunch (picnic during the quest), and dinner as outlined in the daily itinerary
  • All applicable taxes

Service Not Included

  • Optional tours/excursions, personal & incidental expenses, tips & gratuities, laundry, telephone bills, alcohol, phone calls, bottled water, camera fee, alcoholic drinks, sleeping bag, and items of a personal nature, etc.
  • International airfare, visa, and insurance.
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

Tours Map