Highlight of the Birds of Mongolia Expedition

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 desert, Altai mountains and Siberian boreal forest Eastern Mongolian vast grassland, 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, some rare siberian star birds Black Woodpecker, Siberian Rubythroat etc.

Then we will exploring Tuul River valley of Terelj National Park. Taking part in this trip you will visit the legendary birthplace of Chinggis Khan, the one of the greatest conquer of all time. You will admire the beauty of Eastern Mongolia, its wilderbess including the nature reserve of Gun Galuut and Khurkh Khuiten Bird ringing station, a truly unique destination showcasing the rich avifauna of the wetlands. Here, you’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to witness a spectacular gathering most species of cranes in one breathtaking location. Our time in the Mongolia will be focus on observation spring bird migration and high activity of displaying grouse famiy.

Next, we’ll journey into the expansive Gobi Desert, renowned for its ancient dinosaur fossils like the Flaming Cliffs and rare bird species.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Mongolia’s landscapes with opportunities for trekking, horseback riding, and camel rides in the biggest Sand dune of Mongolia. Our accommodations will vary from expedition-style tents to traditional gers, providing a true taste of Mongolian hospitality.

Our journey continue towards Altai region, a diverse ecosystem of Mongolia where high mountains is opportuniety to amazing upland birds such as Altai Snowcock and Hodgson’s buschat, valley of the lakes all co-exist together. Famous for its wild nature, nomadic culture, hospitable people and rich history, we would like to say you will have a most enjoyable visiting our country.

HIGHLIGHTS

The incredibly scenic Gobi desert, Altai Mountain range, Siberian boreal forest, Wetland in Eastern Mongolia
This trip will give you a chance to exploring avifauna of Mongolia.
Exotic mammals including flock of endangered Mongolian gazelle, extinct Przewalski’s horse , Corsac Fox, Ibex and Argali Sheep.
Visiting in the Mongolian eagle hunters nomadic family.
Traveling to Chinggis Khan’s birthplace and relevant tourist attractions.
Make a life-long friend and expand your horizons!

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. Terelj NP

Embark on our adventure starting at Terelj National Park, nestled in the Khenti Mountains, delineating the southern edge of the Siberian taiga. The Khenti mountain range showcases breathtaking natural landscapes, including dense coniferous and mixed forests, reticulate and willow swamps, with an average elevation of 1200 meters above sea level. Venturing along the coniferous forest’s edge, our main targets include the displaying Black-billed Capercaillie, Siberian Jay, 3.Daurian Jackdaw, Siberian Tit, Long-tailed, Rosefinch, Pallas’s Rosefinch, Pine Grosbeak.

We’ll dedicate two days to birding in the Siberian forest. On the southern edge of the Khentii mountain range, we’ll encounter the elusive Japanese Quail, known for leading an extremely secretive life.

Day 3. Khar Yamaat Nature Reserve

After breakfast we will drive to Khar Yamaat nature reserve which lies in northeastern Mongolia. The formation of Khar Yamaat’s ecosystem and its biological diversity are unique in eastern Mongolia. On the way, we will make plenty of stops for birds and visit several bird rich sites. Target species; Upland Buzzard, Mongolian Lark, White’s Thrush, Siberian Thrush and Naumann’s Thrush, Pallas’s Reed Bunting migrate though the nature reserve.

Day 4. Choibalsan town via Bulgan planted trees

On the way, we will make plenty of stops for birds and visit several bird rich sites. Target species; White’s Thrush, Siberian Thrush, Naumann’s Thrush, Chestnut-eared Bunting, Yellow-throated, Yellow-throated Bunting, Yellow-browed Bunting migrate though the nature reserve.

Day 5-6. Buir lake

Early morning head to Buir lake which is regestered in Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar site) amd 5th largest lake in Mongolia covering 620squire kelometr of surface area. In the following days we will focus on observing the migratory birds passing through Buir lake and shores. Target species; Oriental Plover, Asian Dowitcher, Little Curlew, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Relict Gull, Oriental Pratincole.

Day 7. Khalkh river valley

Series of shallow lakes of Tashgai and adjacent wetlands have extremele reed beds that host some iconic East Asian species such as Japanese or Ochre-rumped Bunting, Northern Parrotbill (Paradoxornis polivanovi)

Day 8. 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. Tashgai Lake

Day 10. Choibalsan town

Returen back to the Choibalsan town. Upon reaching Bayankhongor Town, we’ll settle into a welcoming local hotel, offering clean and comfortable accommodations for a well-deserved refreshment break.

For other days, please see the itinerary for details.