Get up close with the native wildlife of Mongolia on this quick and colorful tour. You'll divide your time between Terelj National Park and Khustain Nuruu National Park, looking for wild horses and birds of prey as you hike and drive through remote landscapes. Each night, camp in a traditional ger (yurt) and enjoy falling asleep to the sounds of nature.

Highlights

  • Hike and camp in two of Mongolia's national parks
  • Look for takhi (wild horses) in their natural habitat
  • Sleep under the stars in a traditional Mongolian ger (yurt) camp
  • Spot a wide variety of birds in the wild

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Explore Terelj National Park Ger camp
Day 2 Birdwatch in the National Park Ger camp
Day 3 Hike in Khustain Nuruu National Park Ger camp
Day 4 Look for Wild Horses & Birds of Prey Ger camp
Day 5 Depart Mongolia   

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Terelj National Park

Visit the world's largest equestrian statue at the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex
The world's largest equestrian statue at the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex

Welcome to Mongolia! This morning, set off into the countryside on the way to Terelj National Park. As you make your way east out of the city, stop to visit the world-famous Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex. Here you will learn about the history of the Mongolian Empire and visit the famous giant statue of Chinggis Khaan on horseback. You can even ride the elevator up to the horse's head to see breathtaking views over the plains. 

Then head further into Terelj National Park. Drop by your ger (yurt) camp — a traditional Mongolian accommodation — where you'll have lunch and drop off your bags. In the afternoon, visit Turtle Rock and climb up the mountain path to the beautiful Aryapala Meditation Temple.

Day 2: Birdwatch in the National Park

The Eurasian Sparrohawk

You'll spend another day in the national park today. Wildlife you might see include the Eurasian Red Squirrel, Siberian Chipmunk, Long-tailed Ground Squirrel, Steppe Zokor, Northern Red-backed Vole, Siberian Roe, and Asian Wapiti. Birds in the area range from the Oriental Cuckoo, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Northern Goshawk, and Eastern Buzzard to the Ural Owl, Red-throated Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher, and Siberian Rubythroat. Return back to camp for dinner and to relax after a long day exploring.

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Day 3: Hike in Khustain Nuruu National Park

Drive through the Altai Mountain passes on our way to the Vulture's Mouth
Driving through the Altai Mountains

Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise before you begin the drive along well-traveled country roads towards the mountains and plains of Khustain Nuruu National Park. Once you arrive, settle into a mountain camp before heading out into the twilight to try and spot takhi, the last wild horses in Asia. When the sun has gone down, you'll head back to the camp for dinner. Warm up beside the fire before getting some sleep.

Day 4: Look for Wild Horses & Birds of Prey

Mongolian horses in the wild

You'll have more chances to spot wild horses today while driving and hiking around the park. The region is known for birds of prey, as well. Standout birds you might see are the Golden Eagle, Upland Buzzard, Little Owl, Amur Falcon, Pere David's Snow Finch, Blyth's Pipit, and Meadow Bunting. Enjoy one last night of camping before heading back to civilization the next day.

Day 5: Depart Mongolia 

It's time to say goodbye to Mongolia and Ulaanbaatar
A morning scene in Ulaanbaatar

After breakfast, head to the airport. The trip has come to an end! Safe travels!

More Mongolia Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Mongolia? Check out these other Mongolia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights. 

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