
Eastern Steppe Wildlife — 6 Days
Overview
A six-day journey into Dornod's boundless grasslands to track Mongol gazelle herds, explore the Mongol Daguur wetlands, and watch the steppe's rich birdlife.
Far in the east of Mongolia, the Dornod steppe rolls out as one of the largest intact grasslands left on Earth — an ocean of grass under an enormous sky, where the horizon seems to curve away on every side. This six-day journey takes you into a region few travellers ever reach, far from the well-trodden Gobi and Khövsgöl routes.
The highlight is the Mongol gazelle, whose herds still move across these plains in numbers that recall the great migrations of the past. We also explore the Mongol Daguur wetlands, a network of lakes and marshes that draws cranes, storks and countless migratory birds. Between wildlife outings you will share the rhythm of life with local herding families and feel the deep quiet of the open country.
This is an information-only itinerary designed around inquiry rather than online booking. Distances are wide and roads are mostly open tracks, so we travel at a calm pace, allowing time to stop, watch and absorb a landscape that rewards patience.
Good to know
- Best season
- June–September
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Group size
- 2–10 people
Fitness: A reasonable level of fitness for long days of overland driving and short walks on uneven grassland is recommended.
Highlights
- Track herds of Mongol gazelle across the open Dornod steppe
- Explore the lakes and marshes of the Mongol Daguur wetland complex
- Watch cranes, storks and migratory birds at seasonal water bodies
- Stand in the heart of one of the world's largest temperate grasslands
- Stay with a nomadic herding family and share daily steppe life
- Enjoy vast, unbroken horizons and exceptional night skies
Itinerary
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for the domestic flight east to Choibalsan, capital of Dornod province (around 2 hours by air, subject to schedule). On arrival we meet our driver and take a short orientation drive through the town and out to the edge of the steppe. The evening is free to rest and prepare for the journey ahead. Overnight in a local hotel. Meals: L/D.
What's included
- All ground transport in a 4x4 vehicle with experienced driver
- English-speaking guide throughout the tour
- Domestic return flight Ulaanbaatar–Choibalsan (subject to schedule)
- Accommodation in ger camps, a local hotel and one nomad homestay
- Meals as listed in the itinerary (B/L/D)
- Drinking water during drives and excursions
- Park and protected-area entrance fees in Dornod
Not included
- International flights to and from Mongolia
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic and bottled soft drinks
- Personal expenses, tips and souvenirs
- Optional activities not named in the itinerary
Gallery
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