Snow Leopard Expedition Mongolia

13 days from $4830

A real field expedition in the Altai Mountains —
built on experience, not chance.

 

Snow Leopard Mongolia

 

We don’t search randomly.  
We position with intent.

Every movement is based on terrain, wind, and signs — not hope.

This expedition is built around real field experience in the Altai Mountains, where snow leopards live in one of the most remote and challenging environments in Mongolia. Over the years, we have spent extensive time working in this region — understanding terrain, wildlife movement, and the conditions required to position ourselves for meaningful encounters.

Our approach is not based on chance. We work with experienced local trackers, observe patterns, and carefully choose vantage points where snow leopards are most likely to appear. While sightings can never be guaranteed, this method allows us to consistently create real opportunities in the field.

 

Snow leopard Expedition with ayan travel mongolia

 

At the same time, the journey is designed to offer more than a single objective. In the later part of the expedition, we move into a different habitat where there is a strong opportunity to encounter the Pallas’s cat — a species highly valued by wildlife photographers. This is a demanding expedition, but for those who understand the nature of wildlife photography, it offers a rare and meaningful experience. 

 

Pallas's cat Mongolia Photography Tour

 

We don’t rely on luck. We rely on experience.

 

How We Find Snow Leopards

Finding a snow leopard is not a matter of luck — it is a structured field process built on experience, local knowledge, and patience.

Each day begins by scanning ridgelines and slopes using binoculars and spotting scopes, while working closely with experienced local trackers who understand the terrain, prey movement, and seasonal patterns of the region.

When signs are found — such as tracks, movement, or prey activity — we reposition carefully, often moving to higher vantage points and waiting for extended periods in silence.

There is no fixed schedule in the mountains. Some days involve long hours of observation, while others require movement and quick decisions based on changing conditions.

This is not a safari.

In this environment, experience is everything.

 

Mongolia Snow leopard tour

Mongolia_winter_snow_leopard_tours

 

 

Highlights

• Snow Leopard tracking in the Altai Mountains
• Experienced local tracker network
• Strong Pallas’s cat encounter opportunity
• Kazakh eagle hunter cultural experience
• Real winter expedition conditions
• Small, focused expedition team
• Photographer-focused expedition design

Key Info

Physical level: Tough Physical level: Tough

Tour Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar. Meet your guide, transfer to the hotel, and prepare for the expedition ahead into one of Mongolia’s most remote regions.

Day 2

Flight to Western Mongolia

Domestic flight to western Mongolia. Meet the local team and begin final preparations before entering the field. Stay in local hotel.

Day 3

Entering the Altai Mountains

Drive into remote snow leopard habitat, entering true expedition conditions.  
Establish base and begin familiarization with the terrain.

Day 4-9

Snow Leopard Expedition

Full days dedicated to tracking and observing snow leopards in their natural environment.

Work closely with experienced local trackers, scanning ridgelines and repositioning between vantage points based on signs, terrain, and conditions.

Days are shaped by movement, weather, and patience — not by schedule.

Day 10

Final Field Day

Final opportunity for observation and photography before leaving the mountains.

Day 11

Transition to New Habitat & Eagle Hunter Experience

Drive across Western Mongolia into a different habitat zone, gradually transitioning into a new landscape with wildlife opportunities.  

Visit a Kazakh eagle hunter family and experience traditional hunting culture.

Day 12

Pallas’s Cat Habitat & Return to Town

Search for Pallas’s cat in known habitat areas — a rare opportunity highly valued by wildlife photographers.

Return to a local town for overnight stay.

Day 13

Return to Ulaanbaatar

Flight back to Ulaanbaatar. End of the expedition — a rare experience in one of the most remote landscapes on Earth.

Prices & Inclusions

Prices & Inclusions

 

Limited departures each winter season.
Small groups only.

Group size Price/Per person
3-4 pax $6630
5-6 PAX $5730
7-8 PAX $4830

Includes

• Accommodation (hotel in Ulaanbaatar, local hotel, and ger camps in the field)  
• All meals throughout the expedition  
• Professional guide and translator  
• Experienced local trackers and rangers  
• Domestic flights within Mongolia  
• 4×4 transportation in remote regions  

Not Includes

• International airfare  
• Personal equipment  
• Single room supplement  
• Early check-in (before 14:00)  
• Excess baggage charges (15kg allowance)  
• Alcoholic drinks  
• Travel and health insurance  

*Please note: due to the remote nature of this expedition, travel insurance is strongly recommended.

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6 Reasons to choose Ayan Travel

Initial tour operator
Initial tour operator
Experience in Adventure and Discovery Tours
Advisors and specialist
Advisors and specialist
In Photography and Workshops
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Our Tours
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Responsible for
Responsible for
Clients- Locals- Nature
During your trip
During your trip
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Service quality
Service quality
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