BIRDING TOUR 15 Days in Mongolia

Summary

Widely regarded as one of the ‘ultimate’ birding adventures in the world, this remarkable trip takes you from the Siberian boreal forest through the Central Asian Grassland and Gobi Desert, all the way to the extreme snow-capped Altai Mountains. The “Planet Mongolia” has been specially designed to maximise on the birding opportunities this exciting tour in wilderness of Mongolia. Our wildlife tour offers a diverse array of birding adventures in a compact timeframe. Our journey commences in the taiga forest of the Khenti Mountains, situated at the southernmost edge of the Siberian taiga. There, we will observe the Black-billed Capercailie and its captivating displays and other forest iconic species including Azure Tit; Amur Falcon, Siberian Rubythroat, Pine bunting. Continuing our expedition, we descend to the lowland Central Mongolian grassland and Gobi Desert, habitats that host a rich diversity of endemic bird species in Mongolia.

Among these are the majestic Cinereous Vulture, magnificent Saker Falcon, and Upland Buzzard, along with iconic species like the Mongolian Lark, Bearded Vulture (Lammergeier), Henderson’s Ground Jay, Saxaul Sparrow, and Kozlov’s Accentors. Buuntsagaan Lake, situated in the Great Lake Depression, serves as the habitat for rare bird species, including the Relict Gull, Pallas’s Gull, Pallas’s Fish Eagle, White-tailed Fish Eagle, Caspian Tern, and Little Tern. The majestic Altai Mountain range is a highlight of our journey. Here, we’ll encounter star birds such as the Altai Snowcock, Hodgson’s Bushchat, Asian Rosy Finch, Altai Accentor, and Güldenstädt’s Redstart, adding to the awe-inspiring beauty of this trip. Early enquiries are recommended as this exciting trip sometimes books up several years in advance.

HIGHLIGHTS

Visit the SIberian boreal forest
Wandering Magnificient Khongor Sand dune & Yol valley
Exploring Snowcapped Altai mountain
Visit Nomadic family and Mongolian nomadic culture

Tour Itinerary

Day 1. Arrive in Ulaanbaatar

We will pick up you at the Chingis International Airport after your arrivel in Ulaanbaatar check in hotel. We will birding around city (but depending on your arrivel time) such as Azure Tit, Long-tailed Rosefinch, Azure-winged Magpie, White-crowned Penduline Tit and Ruddy Shelduck, Amur Falcon, Hoopoe.

Day 2. Tsagaan Suvraga; Middle Gobi

After breakfast we will drive to Tsagaan Suvraga in Middle Gobi region and we will see Upland Buzzard, Steppe Eagle, Northern and Isabelline Wheatears, Cinereous Vultre, Lesser kestrel. Also we will visit famous tourist attravtion Tsagaan suvrage (white stuppa). Upon arrival in Dalanzadgad town, we drive to the Altai Mountain and check in a tourist ger camp nearby sanctuary.

Day 3. Lammergeier valley in Gobi Gurvan Saikhan Mountain NP

After breakfast we will drive to further south Gurvan Saikhan which is part of Gobi Altai Mountain range. The Yol Valley serves as an oasis of life amidst the arid Gobi Desert region, with its rocky cliffs nestled among towering mountains providing a sanctuary for rare and unusual animals. We will see Crag Martin, White-winged Snowfinch, Kozlov’s Accentor, Mongolian Finch, Black Redstart, nesting Saker Falcon, Lammergeier, Beautiful Rosefinch and Godlewski’s and Grey-necked Bunting, Wallcreeper in Yol valley.

Day 4. Tohom Lake & Khongor Sand Dune

Following breakfast, we set off towards the west of Tohom Lake, traversing the desert steppe. Here, amidst the vast expanse, we’re treated to the mesmerizing sight of flocks of Pallas’s Sandgrouse, Mongolian Finch, and Pallas’s and Common Reed Buntings in the morning light. At lunchtime, we pause at the edge of Tohom Lake, a sprawling saline body, before continuing our journey towards Khongor Sand Dune. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Henderson Ground Jay amidst the bushes, adding an exciting wildlife encounter to our adventure.

Day 5. Taatsiin tsagaan lake

After enjoying breakfast, we venture towards the picturesque Taatsiin-tsagaan Lake, a magnificent freshwater sanctuary nestled within the desert expanse. Our journey unfolds along rugged terrain, where we proceed at a relaxed pace, offering ample opportunities to spot the diverse wildlife en route. Keep a keen eye out for flocks of Pallas Sandgrouse and Desert Wheatear gracing the desert landscape. Upon reaching Taatsiin-tsagaan Lake, we eagerly embark on our quest to find the elusive Relict Gull, a highlight of our expedition amid the tranquil waters of this pristine oasis.

Day 6. Buuntsagaan Lake

After breakfast, we set off towards the southern reaches of the town to visit one of the Gobi’s largest lakes. Here, amidst the serene waters, we’ll encounter a bustling breeding colony of Common Black-headed Gulls, alongside sightings of Pallas’s Gulls, Mongolian Gulls, and Pallas’s Sandgrouse. Keep your binoculars at the ready for other avian delights such as the majestic Pallas’s Fish Eagle, vibrant Red-crested Pochards, and graceful Caspian and Little Terns, as well as charming Kentish and other small plovers. Our main objective for the day is to locate the elusive Relict Gulls, promising an exciting highlight to our exploration of this captivating Gobi lake.

Day 7. Bayankhongor town

After breakfast, we’ll set out on a scenic drive towards Bayankhongor Town. Along the way, our eyes will be peeled for magnificent raptors soaring overhead, including the awe-inspiring Cinereous Vulture, elegant Steppe Eagle, and powerful Saker Falcon. Upon reaching Bayankhongor Town, we’ll settle into a welcoming local hotel, offering clean and comfortable accommodations for a well-deserved refreshment break.

Day 8-9. Khukh Lake Gurvan Bulag village

After breakfast, we’ll drive to Khukh Lake, nestled in the Khangai Mountain range. Overnight in a tented camp. Along the way, we’ll traverse rocky terrain and springs, seeking high-altitude species like Hodgson’s Bushchat, Asian Rosy Finch, Himalayan Accentor, White-winged or Gueldenstaedt’s Redstart, and Water Pipit. This leg of our journey promises unforgettable encounters with the unique wildlife of the high mountains.

Day 10. Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake Arkhangai province

Early morning, we’ll journey to Arkhangai province, where we may chance upon a gathering of various vulture species feasting on carrion. Among the intriguing common species, we’ll keep an eye out for the Small Snowfinch (Per David’s), Snowfinch, Mongolian Finch, Steppe Eagle, Cinereous Vulture, and Golden Eagle. Our next destination is the quaint village of Tariat, nestled amidst stunning forested mountains and the expansive freshwater Lake Terkh.

Day 11-12. Jargalant Forest Mountain in Jargalant village

Jargalant National Park is a central part of Khangai Mountain Range (or taiga) where you find the picturesque mountain with mixed forest trenched by beautiful valleys. Following arrival in the national park, we will visited local naturalist and photographer Saina”s house. The afternoon we will do light walking near the campsite and see some interesting birds including Olive-backed Pipit, Siberian Rubythroat, Willow Tit, Taiga Flycatcher, Common Rosefinch, Pine Bunting. Early morning we will go to west of the mountain where we will see our main target Black-billed Capercailiie. Afternoon we have lunch and then go drive down to riparian forest we will see many interesting forest species Three-toed Woodpecker, Great Spotted and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Next morning will try again at Black-billed Capercaillie. After lunch we will have birding along riparian forest we will see Eversman”s Redstart, Pine Bunting, Orange-flanked Bluetail.

Day 13. Ogii lake

We visit Tsagaan Lake which is a shallow salty lake with the big amount of reedbed. The shoreline of the Ugii Lake and surrounding pools are a paradise of wetland birds during both migration and breeding periods. Considering its importance for wetland birds, the lake has been designated as Ramsar Site of International Importance. The lake is a home to many waterfowls including Pintail, Garganey, Common and Red-crested Pochards, Ruddy and Common Shelducks etc. Highest opportunity for White-tailed and Pallas’s Fish Eagles and Relict & Pallas’s Gulls. The passerines include Citrine, White and Yellow Wagtails, Rock Sparrow, Small Snowfinch and Pallas’s Bunting, e.g…

Day 14. Bayan lake & Khustai NP

Drive west to Khustai national park, the land of the reintroduced Takhi or Przewalski’s Wild Horse (Equus przewalskii). Thanks to the good conservation management, the species which was on the brink of extinction has now exceeded well over 300 individuals. Along with other interesting mammals, watch the fascinating birdlife including Daurian Partridge, Cinereous & Himalayan Vultures, Golden Eagles, Upland Buzzard, Saker & Amur Falcons, Mongolian and Asian Short-toed Larks, Northern, Isabelline & Pied Wheatears, Brown Shrike and Meadow Bunting.

Day 15. Ulaanbaatar

Today, we return to Ulaanbaatar, offering you a chance to stroll around the city center. Recommended stops include Chinggis Square and the National History Museum. Conclude the day witha farewell dinner at a fine restaurant.