10-day Snow Leopard Expedition (Fall 2026): Observe Snow Leopards in the Wild
Calling all nature lovers and photographers, join us fall 2026 to track and observe snow leopards in their natural habitat. During this trip you’ll learn about Mongolia’s ghost cats from a local protected area research biologist, who will be one of your guides for this tour. Learn how to set cameras to track snow leopard behaviors, look for scat and other signs of snow leopards in the area, and observe these elusive creatures in the wild.
- Tour Type: Adventure
- Book Now (5/6 Spots Available)
- No Reviews
Trip Dates: September 28 – October 7, 2026 (10 Days, 9 Nights)
Book By: June 28, 2026
Maximum Number of Participants: 6 Travelers
Minimum Number of Participants to Run*: 3 Travelers
Stay: Wild Camping, Spring House, Hotels
Tour Type: Adventure, Photography, Conservationist
Included: English-Speaking Guide, Private Drivers, Meals, Accommodation, Domestic Flights, Airport Transfers
Price to Book: $4,600 USD
*This trip requires 3 or more participants to run. The deadline to book is June 28, 2026. If less than 3 travelers book by June 28, 2026, this group itinerary will not run and a full refund will be provided.
This exclusive tour is a must-experience for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Join us on this 10-day experience as we track, observe, and record data that will help Mongolia’s local population of snow leopards continue to live harmoniously in this protected area.
During this expedition you’ll travel to western Mongolia to work closely with a local protected area research biologist. During your time together you will live and work sustainably and ethically in the mountainous area where a large population of snow leopards live. (Did you know: Mongolia has the second largest population of snow leopards in the world.)
Early each morning, around 4 am, hike through the valleys where snow leopards often go out hunting in hopes of catching a glimpse of them returning from a hunt. Stay in camouflaged hideout tents blending into the surrounding landscape to give you the best chance to spot these elusive animals when they’re most active.
There will be a lot of quiet time during this experience, waiting and listening for signs of snow leopards around you, so it’s important to come into this experience with an adventurous attitude. Sightings are not guaranteed, but your work with the local protected area biologist will certainly show you proof that they are around! Claw marks in trees, bite marks on carcasses, pawprints, and scat will be all around!
If you’re a photographer, this is an incredible chance to photograph these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Be sure to bring your longest lens for this trip, along with binoculars.
Join us for this exclusive expedition September 28 – October 7, 2026.
Please note that snow leopard sightings are not guaranteed.
Highlights of this bucketlist-worthy 10-day Snow Leopard Expedition include:
- Learn how to blend into the snow leopard’s natural habitat for the best chance of sighting them returning from a hunt. Pick up on their daily behaviors in hopes of observing them in the wild.
- Spend late evening and early morning hours listening and watching for these elusive ghost cats to make their presence known. They may even get so comfortable with you they’ll come check out the camouflaged hideout tent!
- With a local protected area biologist as your local expert guide, ask questions and learn everything you can about snow leopards and their behaviors.
- Join a small, exclusive group who have been granted access to this protected area.
- Search for other wildlife in the area, including argali, ibex, wolves, and bear.
- Get into a daily routine of checking wildlife camera footage, searching for tracks and walking patterns, and more.
Table of Contents
Want to extend your trip? Add-on these Experiences
🐴 Eagle Hunter & Festival Tour (Start with this unique 10-day experience in western Mongolia before continuing onto observe snow leopards during this tour)
10-day Itinerary: Snow Leopard Expedition Fall 2026
During this once-in-a-lifetime experience observe snow leopards in their natural habitat.
Our company places the highest standards on operating ethically and with respect to the environment and the protection of the snow leopard population. There will be no capturing, trapping, or any other behaviors that will disturb the peace of these animals in any way, shape, or form during this expedition!
This tour requires a medium level of physical fitness. Much of your day will be spent on your feet, walking and hiking through this protected habitat. We try to use cars and horses as little as possible during this trip so we don’t scare away the animals in the area, snow leopard or otherwise.
Plus, western Mongolia is at an elevation many people are not used to, and it’s important to pack electrolytes and stay hydrated during this trip.
Your sleeping accommodation will be a mix of overnighting in a local herder house, called the Spring House, and wild camping. You will share these sleeping quarters with the rest of the group and you will need to bring a warm sleeping bag and sleeping pad for this expedition.
Toilets are basic at best, outhouse, longdrop-style. There will be no running water available but electricity is available inside the Spring House. You will spend time at the Spring House everyday and evening, where you are welcome to charge your camera and phone.
We ask that you come into this small-group expedition with an open-mind and adventurous spirit. While the team will do everything they can to help you spot a snow leopard, please keep in mind these majestic animals are nicknamed ghost cats for a reason. Sightings are not guaranteed.
Temperatures this time of year will be cold and snow is likely, which is actually a good thing. If there is snowfall it will make it easier to spot tracks in the valley.
If you plan to join this tour you need to arrive in Ulaanbaatar on or before September 28, 2026.
If you’d like to arrive a few days early, we are happy to help you make arrangements at the same hotel under our corporate rate. Additionally, we offer several tours around Ulaanbaatar that might be of interest. Check out all of our Ulaanbaatar tours here.
Below you’ll find a day-by-day breakdown of this Snow Leopard Expedition packaged itinerary, and everything it includes, from meals to drivers, expert guides and translators. Once the trip begins, pretty much everything is covered, including a domestic roundtrip flight to western Mongolia.
We are able to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and halal dietary restrictions on this expedition.
Day 1 / September 28, 2026: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar
You will need to arrive in Ulaanbaatar on or before today to join this itinerary.
When you land at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, meet your private airport transfer driver. They’ll be waiting for you in the arrival terminal with your name on a sign.
The driver will take you directly to the hotel, where you’ll be able to check in (check in is at 2 pm). An early check in can be requested on your behalf, but isn’t guaranteed.
In the evening, meet the group and your guide Aagie for a Welcome Dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants.
- Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport and Meet Your Airport Transfer Driver
- Meet the Group and Welcome Dinner in the Evening
- Stay: Best Western Premier Tuushin or Similar (Double Occupancy)
- Meals: Dinner
- About the Hotel: The Best Western Premier Tuushin is a 4-star hotel located near the city’s most central point, Sukhbaatar Square. Bookmark this Sukhbaatar Square area quick guide for important things to know about staying in this bustling area.
Day 2 / September 29: Fly to Olgii, Western Mongolia
You will depart early in the morning for western Mongolia.
Once you arrive in Olgii, the local team will be on the ground happily waiting to meet you and welcome you to their part of the country.
You’ll hit the ground from here and head straight to snow leopard camp.
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- Domestic Flight to Olgii, western Mongolia
- Arrive at Snow Leopard Camp and Overnight at the Spring House
- Warm Welcome and Kazakh-style Dinner Feast
- Stay: Spring House
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Spring House Notes: This is a basic herder accommodation. That means no running water, available but not always reliable electricity, and a pit toilet. Camping cots are available but you will need to bring your own sleeping pad and winter-rated sleeping bag for this adventure. This is a shared sleeping space.
Day 3 – 7 / September 30 – October 4: Observe Snow Leopards in the Wild (5-days of Tracking)
Your snow leopard expedition begins! After breakfast at the Spring House, you’ll follow the local protected area research biologist out into the field. He knows this area, and the local population of snow leopards, like the back of his hand, so he’ll know exactly where to take you first.
Hike and walk through the uneven and rugged terrains this mountain area is known for. The pace of the day will be slow, but it’s important you wear the right shoes and gear to stand whatever temperatures the day brings. Including snow.
Throughout the day search for signs of the elusive snow leopard, including tracks, scat, and other indicators. While sightings are not guaranteed, your guide will share fascinating insights into the snow leopard’s behavior and the importance of its habitat.
In the evening, return to the Spring House for a well-deserved dinner prepared by a local chef.
Afterward, head back to the campsite and the camouflaged hideout, where you’ll spend these prime viewing hours hoping to spot a snow leopard.
You’ll spend part of the evening in a camouflaged tent under the stars, fully immersed in the wilderness. The tents are set up in the valley two weeks before your arrival to allow the local wildlife, including the snow leopards, to become accustomed to them.
In past expeditions, because the hideout was so successful, the local snow leopards came to check out camp! You never know when you’ll hear or when you’ll see signs of these elusive creatures, but you’ll always know they’re around!
Return to the Spring House for a few hours of sleep before returning in the early hours of the morning to continue quietly observing the area.
Throughout these days continue your search for snow leopard tracks, using a mix of traditional tracking techniques and modern tools like cameras and binoculars. The terrain will be challenging but rewarding.
While focusing on the snow leopard, be on the lookout for other majestic species such as ibex, argali sheep, wolves, and foxes. These creatures are often spotted in the same rugged terrain.
Enjoy packed lunches in the field as you continue observing the wildlife around you. Each moment offers new opportunities to connect with nature.
Each evening, return to the Spring House for dinner and relaxation. Take this opportunity to warm up while sharing stories from the field and enjoying a warm, home-cooked meal. After dinner, head back to your tent for another night immersed in the wild.
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- Start Learning from the Local Protected Area Research Biologist by Following Him into the Field
- Walk, Hike, and Explore the Area on Foot to Not Disturb the Local Wildlife – There aren’t just snow leopards here!
- Observe Other Species Such as Ibex, Argali, Wolves, Pallas Cats, and Foxes
- Use the Full Day to Look for Signs of Tracks, Scat, and Other Important Indicators
- Spend Long Hours in a Camouflaged Hideout Tent for the Best Chances of Spotting Snow Leopards in the Wild
- Pack Your Best Camera Lens and Binoculars, the Anticipation of a Sighting Will Have You Relying on Both!
- Stay: Tent Camping and Spring House
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 / October 5: Leave Snow Leopard Camp and Drive to Olgii
Begin the day with one final tracking session in a new valley, using the same techniques as before. The search for snow leopard tracks continues, offering fresh perspectives and discoveries.
As always, stay alert for signs of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding ecosystem.
After lunch at the Spring House, pack up and begin the drive to Olgii, where you’ll catch your domestic flight the following day.
Arrive in Olgii and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, and spend the night in a comfortable locally-owned hotel.
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- Conclude Your Research and Say Farewell to the Local Team
- Drive to Olgii
- Group Farewell Dinner
- Stay: Local Hotel (Double Occupancy)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- About the Hotel: Comfortable hotel in the heart of Olgii. All rooms have private bathrooms and hot showers.
Day 9 / October 6: Domestic Flight to Ulaanbaatar
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, it will be time to head to the airport for your domestic flight back to Ulaanbaatar.
Land in Ulaanbaatar and be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of today and this evening at leisure.
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- Domestic Flight Back to Ulaanbaatar
- Group Airport Transfer to the Hotel
- Afternoon and Evening at Leisure
- Stay: Best Western Premier Tuushin or Similar (Double Occupancy)
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 / October 7: Depart Mongolia
We will arrange an airport transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your flight home. Unless you want to extend your stay, of course!
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- We’ll See You Again Soon!
- Meals: Breakfast
What's Included
- All airport transfers (including your international arrival/departure and transfers for your domestic flight).
- Roundtrip domestic flights to western Mongolia.
- All accommodation and transportation during the trip dates.
- Two local guides – a local Mongolian guide will meet and travel with you from Ulaanbaatar and will be your translator with the local protected area research biologist.
- All activities listed on the itinerary.
- Meals* (breakfast, lunch, dinner) as outlined on the trip itinerary.
*Please let us know of any dietary restrictions before booking.
What's Not Included
- International airfare.
- Excess baggage fees on the domestic flight to/from western Mongolia. There is a 15 kg limit on checked bags and 5 kg limit on handbags. Overages are subject to additional fees.
- Visa costs and fees.
- Travel Insurance that covers medical evacuation and cost of participation (required).
- Personal expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, telephone calls, optional activities, and meals which are not included in the trip itinerary.
- Tips and additional gratuities.
Visit our tour cancellation policy page if you have any additional questions.
Book Now
The price to book this 10-day Snow Leopard Expedition (Fall 2026) is $4,600 USD per person.
- Snow Leopard Tracking: Immerse yourself in the elusive world of snow leopards through expert-led tracking and observation under the guidance of a local protected area biologist.
- Wildlife Sightings: Beyond snow leopards, it is possible to encounter ibex, argali sheep, wolves, and foxes, enriching your experience in the Altai Mountains.
- Camping in the Wild: Experience the true wilderness with nights spent in tents under the stars, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
- Expert Guides and Conservationists: Your professional guides are not only skilled in tracking wildlife, but they are also passionate about protecting and preserving the environment.
This once in a lifetime experience happens September 28 – October 7, 2026. Book now – spots are limited!
To book your spot, please complete the Google form linked below. Once received, I will reach out with everything you’ll need to complete your booking.
Important Things to Know About this Snow Leopard Expedition
There are a few important things to know about this trip.
- Patience is a must if you are joining this experience. Snow leopards are rare and elusive, and that requires patience on your part. Enjoy the process of tracking and observing, even if a sighting isn’t guaranteed. The ability to sit still, quiet, and remain hidden is extremely important when you are in the tent. Because of the scent, no smoking is allowed at the campsite.
- We ask that you stay flexible throughout this experience. The weather and terrain may present challenges, but this is part of the adventure. Trust your guides and embrace the experience!
- It is absolutely necessary that you respect the environment during your stay. Follow your guides’ instructions to help preserve this delicate ecosystem and ensure future generations can enjoy it too. This experience is a privilege and honor not granted to many tourists. Anyone who fails to listen to the guides at any time during this trip will be immediately asked to leave the experience at their expense.
- Accommodations will be shared and that means you will be sleeping in one shared space. No single supplements are available for this experience.
- The temperature in March in Western Mongolia will be very wet and cold. Prepare for cold mornings and evenings with warm layers for both tracking and camping. It can also get windy, so pack windproof and waterproof gear. You will be spending a lot of time outside. If you need help deciding what to pack, shop my favorite winter clothing and gear.
- You will be living off-grid. That means running water, regular electricity, showers, and reliable data and cellular service will not be available. This is your chance to disconnect from the outside world! But, that also means you’ll need to be prepared with solar chargers and other ways to charge your camera batteries, phone, etc. while camping this way.
- We will be driving off-road. It’s not easy to get to these remote corners of Mongolia, but the journey is always worth it. I promise! Please let me know in advance if you get car sick. If you do, we recommend purchasing these motion sickness glasses.
- Don’t forget your camera and binoculars! You’ll want high-quality gear for capturing both close-up and long-distance wildlife shots. A camera with a telephoto lens is ideal, and binoculars will help with spotting animals from afar.
What to Pack for this Snow Leopard Expedition
Fall in western Mongolia is cold and wet. Here are a few things we recommend packing for this expedition.
- A warm sleeping bag. Your sleeping bag’s comfort temperature should be at least -15C. An insulated sleeping pad is also recommended since you will be sleeping on the cold, hard ground inside the hide tent. We will send a full packing list before this adventure begins.
- Binoculars!
- Your longest camera lens and a tripod for shooting. We recommend a 600 mm lens for this type of wildlife photography shooting.
- Warm base layers. You will be spending a lot of time outside in all types of different weather conditions. Warm base layers, waterproof boots, and rain layers will be key to staying warm in these conditions. Hand and foot warmers are also recommended.
- Solar chargers and portable battery packs. You’ll be completely off-grid for four days without access to outlets or electricity.
- A Lifestraw, Grayl or Sawyer water bottle that filters your water for viruses, parasites, bacteria, and dirt is highly recommended. We try to keep plastic use to a minimum on our tours and we prefer to use local spring and well water for drinking.
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