GROUSE BIRDING TRIP

Overview

We invite you on a journey to the mysterious world of birds of the grouse family, at the pinnacle of avian diversity in Mongolia. Throughout the trip, we will explore the Gobi Altai and Siberian boreal forest, unveiling their geological wonders and experiencing an incredible variety of beautiful wildlife within their unique habitats. Our journey will begin in the taiga forest of the Khenti Mountains, located at the southernmost border of the Siberian taiga. There, we will observe the Black-billed Capercailie and its captivating displays. Next, the tour will take us to discover other fascinating birds, including the Hazel Grouse, Daurian Partridge, Rock and Willow Ptarmigan, as well as the unique avifauna of the Khangai Range.

In addition, we will have the opportunity to observe the rare Altai snowcock, Chukar, and Ring-necked Pheasant in the snow-capped Altai Mountains, which serve as the habitat for exotic and rare birds. Another highlight of the trip is the sighting of the Houbara Bustard. To enter the mysterious Mongolian Gobi, we will travel to Sharga and explore the vast dunes of the Great Mongolian Sand Gobi.

As you journey deep into Mongolia in search of wildlife, your guide will highlight the unique flora, fauna, history, and geography that define this remarkable country.

HIGHLIGHTS

The incredibly scenic Gobi desert, Altai Mountain range, Siberian boreal forest
This short trip will give you a chance to exploring secret of grouse family and their habitat
Extraordinary mammals including large flock of enxtinct Saiga antilopes, Altai Ibex and argali
Visiting in the Mongolian eagle hunters nomadic family

Tour Itinerary

Day 1. Arrive in Ulaanbaatar

We will pick you up at the International airport after your arrival in Ulaanbaatar which is the capital of Mongolia and check in a hotel. Depending on your arrival time, we can take a short birding trip nearby Bogdkhan mountain and Tuul river near Ulaanbaatar. We see Azure Tit , Long-tailed Rosefinch , Azure-winged Magpie , White-crowned Penduline Tit and Ruddy Shelduck. Have a WELCOME DINNER in the Ulaanbaata or we directly go to the forest (depends on arrivel time).

Day 2-3. Siberian forest in Khentii mountain range with Forest grouses

Welcome to Siberia! Also it is called Taiga forest is home to some of the most diverse and exotic grouse species of Mongolia. Our first journey will take us towards the southern border of the Siberian taiga, the Khenti Mountains, where we will observe inredible grouse species such as Black-billed capercaillie, black grouse, hazel grouse. Next day, venturing into the open areas south of the Hentii mountain range, we’ll have the opportunity to spot the elusive Japanese Quail and the Daurian Partridge on the hills and rocky slopes. After a full day of birding, we’ll return to Ulaanbaatar city to rest and prepare for our long journey to the Altai region. Get ready for the next leg of our adventure as we set our sights on the captivating landscapes and diverse wildlife awaiting us in the Altai region.

Day 4-7. Mongol Altai mountain range with Upland Grouse species

Next day we transfer to the airport and fly to Khovd town over 2 hours.Hovd Province is situated at the center of the western region and is located in the central part of the Altai Mountains. Depending on the time of our flight, we will enter the Ring-necked Pheasant breeding grounds. The following morning, we will explore a pristine wild forest as we walk along the willow forest of the Khovd River, which gracefully flows through the towering peaks of the Altai Mountains. After lunch, our birding adventure will persist as we delve into the heart of the snow-capped Altai Mountains. Over the next three days, we anticipate encountering magnificent species such as the Altai Snowcock, Rock and Rock Ptarmigan, and Chukar.

Day 8-9. Hvisyin Gobi desert

The following day, we will visit magnificent Huisyn Gobi, situated in the Altai Mountains. As you towards the south, the topography undergoes a dramatic change, characterized by the prevalence of sand dunes interspersed with khargana bushes, Saxaul trees and bushes. We will spend following two days spend in the vast desert. In the desert, we will see target species such as a flock of Pallas’s sandgrouse, Houbara bustard and other desert species including Desert Wheatear, Henderson’s Ground Jay, Asian Desert Warbler, and Desert Wheatear.

Day 10. Back to 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 with a farewell dinner at a fine restaurant. Overnight in the Hotel.