Snow Leopard Tour: Wild Camp and Work With a Local Research Biologist
Wild camp in the snow leopard’s natural habitat and learn from a local protected area research biologist about Mongolia’s ghost cats. A photographer and wildlife lover’s dream trip! Join this 9-day expedition March 20 – 28, 2026 (3 Spots Left!).
- Tour Type: Photographer's Dream Trip
- Book Now (3 Spots Available)
- One Review
Dates: March 20 – 28, 2026 (9 Days, 8 Nights)
Group Size: 6 Travelers Maximum
Stay: Wild Camping, Spring Herder House, Hotels
Tour Type: Photographer’s Dream, Adventure, Conservationist
Included: English-Speaking Guide, Private Drivers, Meals, Accommodation, Domestic Flights, Airport Transfers
Price to Book: $4,500 USD
It’s a little known fact that Mongolia has the second largest population of snow leopards in the world, after China. Snow leopard populations thrive in mountainous areas, and that’s exactly where you’ll head during this unique expedition in western Mongolia.
During this tour, you’ll follow the careful guidance of a local protected area research biologist, learning about these rare and beautiful creatures by living and working sustainably and ethically in their natural environment.
This tour includes wild camping in hideout tents camouflaged with the surrounding landscape to give you the best chance to spot these elusive animals late at night and early in the morning when they’re most active. You will have long hours of blending into the environment in hopes of a close encounter, so be sure to come with a patient and adventurous attitude, and plenty of books and ways to quietly pass the time.
If you’re a photographer, this is an incredible chance to photograph these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Be sure to bring your 600 mm lens for this trip along with binoculars.
Join us for this exclusive expedition March 20 – 28, 2026.
Highlights of this once-in-a-lifetime Snow Leopard Tour include:
- Wild camp in a hide in the snow leopard’s natural habitat, being sensitive and careful not disturbing their instincts and natural behaviors, but instead observing them by living alongside them.
- By living like this in their natural habitat, quietly blending in with the nature around you, you have the best chance of spotting and photographing these elusive nocturnal creatures. Especially in the early hours of the morning when they are returning from a night of hunting prey!
- Be a part of a small, exclusive group who have been granted access to this protected area to work with and learn from the local protected area research biologist.
- Go out daily with the research biologist to check cameras, look for scat and other signs of the snow leopard’s whereabouts (including remains from their hunts!), and learn about their behaviors by closely tracking their movements.
Table of Contents
9-day Itinerary: Snow Leopard Tour
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, wildlife lover, or avid photographer, this trip is for you.
Observe snow leopards in their natural habitat while doing so ethically and with respect to their environment and the protection of their 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 Snow Leopard Tour includes tent camping in camouflaged hideout tents and respecting the outdoors is a must during this adventure. Outhouse-style toilets will be available at the tent camping site and Spring House, with a stress on the importance on proper waste and trash disposal.
Please 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 wet and cold. We choose this time of year because it is mating season, and this is when the snow leopards become very active.
If you plan to join this trip you need to arrive in Ulaanbaatar on or before March 20, 2026. On March 20 there will be a Welcome Dinner in the evening at 7 pm.
Many travelers choose to arrive in Ulaanbaatar at least 1 – 2 days early to adjust to Mongolian time and shop for warm clothes. 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 Tour 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 flight to western Mongolia.
Day 1 / March 20, 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.
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- 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 (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 / March 21: Fly to Ulgii, Western Mongolia
Your guide Aagie will meet you at the hotel early in the morning to depart for the airport to catch your domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii, the heart of western Mongolia.
Arrive in Ulgii and meet the local team. Check into a hotel and explore the capital of Bayan-Ulgii Province by visiting the local museum, strolling through the local outdoor market, and settling into life in the west.
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- Domestic Flight to Ulgii, western Mongolia
- Visit the Bayan-Ulgii Province Museum
- Wander the Stalls of the Local Outdoor Market, Where the Locals Shop!
- Stay at a Comfortable Hotel in Town
- Stay: Hotel in Ulgii (Double Occupancy)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- About the Hotel: During this trip all hotel accommodations are shared. Private bathrooms with hot showers will be available.
Day 3 / March 22: Celebrate Nauryz Festival in Ulgii
Start the trip off right by joining in on Nauryz celebrations! Nauryz is one of the most important holidays celebrated in western Mongolia, marking the beginning of spring and renewal of nature. Mingle with locals who will be happy to share their culture and traditions with you during this special occasion. In the central square there will be dancing, singing, and celebrating. Enjoy the vibrant clothing and traditions of this important holiday and receive blessings and well-wishes for the journey ahead.
As celebrations slow down in the afternoon, load into vehicles and start driving out to the snow leopard camp, where you’ll settle in for the evening.
Important Things to Know about the Drive to Snow Leopard Camp: Begin your off-road adventure to the remote snow leopard camp, an area near the Russian-Mongolian border nestled next to the Altai Mountain range.
The 180 km journey will take you through rugged terrain, offering stunning mountain views along the way. You’ll stop for a break to enjoy tea and snacks in a scenic spot to break up the drive.
Arrive at snow leopard camp and meet your snow leopard expert, a protected area research biologist who will accompany you throughout the trip. Settle into the Spring House, your cozy, pre-arranged accommodation near to the snow leopard habitats. Relax, have dinner, and rest after your long day of celebrating and traveling and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
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- Celebrate Nauryz, an Important Local Holiday Marking the Beginning of Spring!
- See a Parade in the Central Square and be a Part of the Local Festivities
- Drive to Snow Leopard Camp
- Settle into Life in this Quiet Mountain Area
- Stay: Spring House
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Spring House Notes: This is a basic herder accommodation. That means no running water, electricity, and an outhouse 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 4 / March 23: First Full Day with the Local Research Biologist
After breakfast, embark on your first wildlife adventure. Head out early to rugged terrains known for snow leopard sightings, accompanied by the protected area biologist.
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 be sleeping for the remaining nights, for your chance to observe the snow leopard’s movements at night. You’ll spend 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!
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- Start Learning from the Local Protected Area Research Biologist by Following Him into the Field
- Use the Full Day to Look for Signs of Tracks, Scat, and Other Important Indicators
- Spend the Night in a Camouflaged Hideout Tent for the Best Chances of Spotting Snow Leopards in the Wild
- Stay: Tent Camping
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Tent Camping Notes: Shared sleeping space inside a large tent.
Day 5 – 6 / March 24 – 25: Continue Snow Leopard Tracking and Wildlife Spotting
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 a packed lunch in the field as you continue observing the wildlife around you. Each moment offers new opportunities to connect with nature.
Late in the day 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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- Pack Your Best Camera Lens and Binoculars, the Anticipation of a Sighting Will Have You Relying on Both!
- Observe Other Species Such as Ibex, Argali, Wolves, Pallas Cats, and Foxes
- Stay: Tent Camping
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Field Notes: Starting this morning, breakfast and lunch will be brought to the tent to avoid leaving any scent. Inside the tent you will have a gas stove to keep you warm and to make hot tea during the day.
Day 7 / March 26: Leave Snow Leopard Camp and Drive to Khovd
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 Khovd, where you’ll catch your domestic flight the following day.
Arrive in Khovd 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 Your Biologist Mentor
- Drive to Khovd (Half-Day of Travel)
- Group Farewell Dinner
- Stay: Fairfield Hotel or Similar
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Hotel Notes: Comfortable and new basic hotel in the central part of Khovd. Small rooms with private bathrooms and hot showers.
Day 8 / March 27: Fly from Khovd to Ulaanbaatar
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, take some time to reflect on the adventures you’ve experienced. Then, head to the airport to check in for your domestic flight back to Ulaanbaatar, carrying with you the unforgettable memories of your snow leopard tracking expedition and Mongolian cultural exploration.
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
- Evening at Leisure
- Stay: Best Western Premier Tuushin (Double Occupancy)
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 / March 28, 2026: 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 9-Day Snow Leopard Tour is $4,500 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 March 20 – 28, 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.
About Aagie, Your Local Mongolian Guide & Trip Leader
My name is Aagie (short for Agarmaa) and I am a professional certified tour guide and the head of tours at Meanwhile in Mongolia.
Born into a second-generation city life, I rediscovered my roots through travel and guiding. After three years and 30+ tours across the country, I’ve connected deeply with my heritage, from the Gobi to Mongolia’s diverse ethnic groups like the Kazakhs.
Along the way, I’ve encountered snow leopards, hunted with eagles, and explored Mongolia’s vast landscapes. I’m proud to share the beauty and traditions of my country while continuing to learn from it every day.
I will do everything I can to guide you on your adventures with what I’ve learned so far, but there’s also a good chance we’ll discover new things together along the way.
Is this trip right for me?
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 Tour
March 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.
By Booking You’re Supporting the Local Biologist & the Environmental Protection Department
By booking this tour you are supporting the local biologist and his partners, who are herders living in the area. This covers their work as guides, as well as essential expenses such as car rental, house rent, trip equipment rental, food, and gas.
A portion of the payment is allocated as tax to the environmental protection department. This setup ensures that the funds directly support the herders and others facilitating the trip while also contributing to conservation efforts.
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I did the snow leopard tour in October 2025 and it was transformative. I’ve travelled all my life in both luxury and adventure and found this trip unparalleled. Aagie lead the group thoughtfully and decisively, Khoz helped to keep it together and provided a Kazakh interface. The rest of the group included an expert biologist tracker, driver and herdsman and family. The insights that they collectively provided helped change my life view, hopefully for a long time to come.