Each spring and summer, Mongolia becomes an important stop along major migratory routes, as rare birds return to its lakes, steppe, and river valleys. This journey offers the chance to spot species such as the White-naped Crane, Demoiselle Crane, Steppe Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, and Golden Eagle, along with swans and other lake birds that arrive with the changing season.
Dates: May 10 – September 1, 2026 (7 Days, 6 Nights)
Book For: 1 –8 People
Languages Available: English
Stay: Ger Camps and Hotels
Tour Type: Birdwatching, Nature, Photography
Included: Local Mongolian Guide with an Expertise in Birdwatching and Nature Photography, Meals, Accommodation (including two nights in Ulaanbaatar), Airport Transfers
Price to Book:
Solo Traveler: $4,000 USD
2 – 3 People: $3,000 USD/person
4 – 5 People: $2,500 USD/person
6 – 8 People: $2,000 USD/person
Each spring, Mongolia becomes an important stop along major migratory routes, as rare birds return to its lakes, steppe, and river valleys.
This journey offers the chance to spot species such as the White-naped Crane, Demoiselle Crane, Steppe Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, and Golden Eagle, along with swans and other lake birds that arrive with the changing season.
This tour is great for ornithologists, oölogists, birdwatchers and anyone interested in wildlife, nature, and landscape photography.
This is not a fast-paced itinerary.
Birdwatching is woven naturally into each day, from quiet mornings by the water to long drives where sightings happen along the way.
Shared time in nature creates space for easy connection with fellow travelers who share a genuine interest in wildlife and the outdoors.
Alongside nature, the journey also offers cultural insight, with visits to a nomadic family, the ancient capital of Kharkhorin, and Mongolia’s oldest surviving Buddhist monastery, bringing together wildlife, landscape, and history in a single experience.
Highlights of this 7-day private Birdwatching tour include:
🐴 Day Trip to Terelj National Park and the Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue (Book for any day, it’s the perfect day trip to get into the spirit of Mongolia)
🤝 Check out the Black Market with a Local (Book for any day except Tuesdays (closed), great for gear shopping, souvenir browsing, and feeling like a local)
Our 7-day Birdwatching Tour is designed for ornithologists, oölogists, birdwatchers and anyone interested in wildlife, nature, and landscape photography.
Book this experience from May to September and visit locations known for the bird species who spend time here during their annual migrations*. Experience the beauty of Mongolia and get lost in the landscapes that attract these amazing birds from around the world.
The price of this itinerary includes airport transfers from Chinggis Khaan International airport, hotels in Ulaanbaatar, a private experience with our bird specialist guide, as well as all meals, transportation, and activities listed on this itinerary. Photography and other specialized equipment are not provided.
Wildlife & Bird Sightings Disclaimer*
While this journey is designed around peak migratory seasons and locations known for bird and wildlife activity, sightings can never be guaranteed. All wildlife encounters depend on natural conditions, seasonal movements, and environmental factors beyond our control. This experience focuses on time spent in nature, observation, and understanding Mongolia’s ecosystems, rather than on guaranteed sightings of specific species.
Arrive in Mongolia’s capital city and settle into your hotel. In the evening, meet your expert guide and share a welcome dinner together.
During dinner, be introduced to Mongolia’s migratory bird routes, the landscapes you’ll be traveling through, and what to expect in the days ahead.
Depart Ulaanbaatar in the morning and drive toward Mini Gobi, where sand dunes meet open steppe and nearby wetlands. After checking in and enjoying lunch at camp, head out to a nearby lake for your first birdwatching session.
In the evening, return for dinner before heading back out for sunset birdwatching. End the day with stargazing under Mongolia’s wide open sky.
Begin the day early with sunrise birdwatching before returning for breakfast. Continue the journey toward Ugii’s Lake, keeping a constant eye on the landscape for birds along the way. This day emphasizes the journey itself, where sightings often happen between destinations.
Arrive by lunchtime and spend the afternoon birdwatching along the lake. Visit the nearby bird protection center and small museum dedicated to Mongolia’s birdlife. If conditions allow, a local bird expert may join for part of the day.
After sunrise birdwatching and breakfast, drive to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, the oldest surviving Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, and explore the historic capital grounds.
In the afternoon, continue birdwatching along the Orkhon River, one of the country’s most important ecological corridors.
Depart after breakfast for Hustai National Park. Arrive by lunchtime and enjoy a meal before heading out to explore the park’s rolling steppe.
Spend the afternoon spotting wildlife and birds, with excellent chances to see Przewalski’s horses, marmots, and other steppe species. Enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by nature.
Wake early for sunrise wildlife spotting before breakfast.
Afterwards, begin the drive back to Ulaanbaatar, with final opportunities to spot wildlife, including, if conditions allow, argali sheep along the way.
Stop for lunch before returning to the city. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner with your guide, marking the end of the journey.
Book your international departure for anytime today. We will arrange an airport transfer for you from the hotel.
This isn’t goodbye, this is see you again soon!
*Please let us know of any dietary restrictions before booking.
Visit our tour cancellation policy page if you have any additional questions.
The price to book this 7-day Birdwatching Tour is:
Solo Traveler: $4,000 USD
2 – 3 People: $3,000 USD/person
4 – 5 People: $2,500 USD/person
6 – 8 People: $2,000 USD/person
Highlights of this 7-day Birdwatching tour include:
Your journey is led by Molomjamts Naranzul, an experienced guide with over eight years of experience guiding across Mongolia’s landscapes. His expertise includes birdwatching, wildlife, and landscape photography, with a strong focus on Mongolia’s migratory birds and rare species.
Molomoo was recognized as one of the Top 10 photographers in the Mongolian Landscape Photography of the Year Award 2025, reflecting his deep understanding of Mongolia’s natural environments. He also leads horse-riding, luxury, and adventure journeys in remote regions of the country, guiding with a strong emphasis on responsible tourism, environmental care, and authentic experiences in nature.
Learn more about the bird species you may spot on this private tour below.
White-naped Crane
One of the rarest and most important crane species in Mongolia, the White-naped Crane returns each spring to breed in quiet wetlands and lake areas. They are tall, elegant birds with striking black-and-white markings and a calm presence. Mongolia is one of their key breeding grounds, making sightings here especially meaningful.
Golden Eagle
The Golden Eagle is one of Mongolia’s most iconic birds of prey. Large, powerful, and highly intelligent, these eagles are often seen soaring high above mountains and open steppe. While they live in Mongolia year-round, spring offers excellent visibility as they become more active.
Steppe Eagle
The Steppe Eagle is a true bird of the open plains. It migrates long distances and returns to Mongolia in spring to feed and breed. These eagles are often spotted gliding low over grasslands, scanning the ground for prey, and are a key species of the Eurasian steppe ecosystem.
White-tailed Eagle
Usually found near lakes and rivers, the White-tailed Eagle is one of the largest eagles in the region. With its broad wings and pale tail, it is often seen perched near water or flying slowly over lakes in search of fish. Spring is an ideal time to spot them near Mongolia’s wetlands.
Falcons
Several falcon species pass through or live in Mongolia, including the Saker Falcon and Peregrine Falcon. Fast and agile, falcons are often seen darting through the sky or perched on rocky outcrops. Mongolia is internationally important for falcon conservation.
Swans
Large migratory swans arrive in Mongolia’s lakes in spring, especially at places like Ugii Lake. Their bright white bodies stand out against the water and open sky, and they often travel in pairs or small groups, resting and feeding before continuing their journey.
Lake and Wetland Birds
Mongolia’s lakes attract a wide variety of water birds during migration season, including ducks, geese, and other wetland species. These birds rely on Mongolia’s clean, open water systems to rest and refuel, making the country an essential stop along major flyways.
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