Discover Mongolia's Wild Cats

Mongolia’s spellbinding landscapes, stunning natural beauty and nomadic cultures have mesmerised travellers for centuries. The seemingly neverending, undulating steppe rises to a snow-capped crescendo at the rugged peaks of the Altai Mountains in the west, whilst the arid expanse of the Gobi Desert dominates the south.

Many of these landscapes, on the surface, appear empty and inhospitable. However, on closer inspection, there’s much more here than initially meets the eye. With patience and the guidance of local experts, a fascinating array of species adapted to these harsh environments reveal themselves, including some of the world’s most elusive felines – namely, the snow leopard and Pallas’s cat.

So elusive are snow leopards whilst roaming the ridgelines, they are known colloquially as ‘the ghost of the mountains’. The Pallas’s cat is more numerous, given its larger population size, but this doesn’t make the species any more conspicuous than its larger counterpart. Both species are renowned for their camouflage and adaptations, helping both cats to blend seamlessly into the Mongolian landscape.

There are a few select locations where there are realistic chances of observing these charismatic cats alongside a supporting cast of other fascinating species. In Mongolia, Tarbagan (or Mongolian) marmot, Siberian ibex, Pallas’s fish eagle, bearded vulture, steppe polecat, Amur falcon, and much more can also be encountered.

Our Mongolia’s Wild Cats itinerary visits the Altai Mountains in the west of the country in search of snow leopard. This will be combined with a new destination, the Margaz Mountains, which the most recent reports show to be an excellent option for Pallas’s cat sightings. The itinerary will be complemented further by visits to Uvs Lake and Homyn Tal, adding further habitats and species to our Mongolian adventure.

Staying in traditional ger camps, we’ll spend ample time in the field to maximise our chances of setting our eyes on the fabulous felines. Perseverance will be needed, as well as the finely tuned eyes of our tour leader and local trackers. Sightings could be at a distance, but any encounter with snow leopard and Pallas’s cat will be rewarding and unforgettable. One of Mongolia’s advantages is that it’s possible to observe both cat species at much lower altitudes compared to other destinations in Asia.

This expedition promises a unique opportunity to experience Mongolia's fascinating wildlife and dramatic landscapes, making it a memorable journey for any nature enthusiast.

If you'd like to explore the breathtaking wilderness of Mongolia, discover our Mongolia's Wild Cats itinerary today. For further guidance, contact our expert team.