PHOTOGRAPH SNOW LEOPARDS
MORE INFORMATION
Embark on a thrilling, two week, two part wildlife photography expedition to Mongolia's rugged Altai mountains, where we will search for and hopefully photograph the incredibly elusive Snow Leopard. Known as the "grey ghost" the Snow Leopard is one of the rarest and most enigmatic big cats in the world, and Mongolia is home to some of the last remaining populations. Our tour takes you deep into the Altai Mountains, a breathtaking landscape of snow-capped peaks, vast plateaus, and secluded valleys, offering a perfect habitat for this iconic predator.
Accompanied by expert local trackers and guides, we will journey to remote regions where Snow Leopards are known to roam. Patience and perseverance are key, as the elusive nature of these cats makes every sighting an unforgettable and rewarding experience but incredibly difficult to come by. As we follow the trails of the Snow Leopard, you'll have the opportunity to capture not only the majestic predator but also the stunning Mongolian wilderness and its diverse wildlife. From Ibex and Argali sheep to soaring eagles, the chance for exceptional photography extends beyond the Snow Leopard itself. Whether you're an experienced wildlife photographer or a passionate adventurer, this tour offers a unique opportunity to witness one of nature’s most elusive creatures in one of the world’s most untamed landscapes.
For the second part of this adventure, we head east to the Sukhbaatar Province, where we focus on the remarkable Pallas's cat. Known for its wide, expressive face and dense, fluffy fur, the Pallas's cat is a small, elusive wildcat native to the high-altitude steppes and grasslands of Central Asia. Sukhbaatar, with its sweeping plains and rugged terrain, provides an ideal habitat for these solitary creatures.
Our local guides, have years of experience researching these elusive cats, and know the behaviour and habitats better than anyone. Our tours are designed to maximise your chances of encountering and photographing Pallas's cats in their natural environment. The striking contrast between their compact, stocky bodies and the vast, open landscapes of Mongolia offers photographers a unique opportunity to capture stunning compositions. Along the way, you’ll also encounter other fascinating wildlife species native to this remote region, as well as the cultural richness of Mongolia’s nomadic herders. This adventure is perfect for wildlife photographers seeking to add rare and intimate portraits of one of the world’s most unique wildcats to their portfolio.
HIGHLIGHTS
The Altai Mountains are home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.
Experience traditional nomadic Mongolian camps.
4x4 Transportation across the region and throughout the trip.
We partner with local guides and their trackers that have worked with Snow Leopards all of their lives.
Both the Snow Leopard and Pallas’s Cat are two of the rarest and most elusive cats in the world.
This trip combines traditional living, authenticity, adventure and the chance of bucket list species sightings.
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
Your chosen camera setup.
A main focal length of 600mm is preferable (the flexibility of a zoom is good).
A teleconverter is also preferable.
Secondary wider angle lens for environmental and landscape shots.
Spare memory cards and batteries (the cold will kill batteries more quickly).
Suitable clothing - temperatures at this time of year can reach -15 to -20°C during the day, but evenings can be even cooler, c. -25°C.
We also suggest wearing multiple layers of merino wool type clothing .
Arctic boots or wellies.
Waterproof down Jacket and waterproof fleece lined trousers.
Ski gloves or similar including inner merino wool gloves.
Binoculars.
Laptop.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
Road transfers from and to Ulaanbaatar Airport, Mongolia.
All accommodation on a 14 night basis.
Internal return flight from Ulaanbaatar to Khovd.
Transport from Altai mountains to Ulaanbaatar and to Sukhbaatar Province.
4x4 transport with certified local guides.
2x Photo Hosts and Private Trackers.
3x meals per day - traditional Mongolian menus.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
International flights (suggested flights will be communicated upon booking).
Snacks & sundries.
Travel or equipment insurance.
Tips.
ITINERARY
Day 1 - Travel to Ulaanbaatar - flights will be suggested on booking. We will explore the Mongolian capital and accommodation will be in a 5* hotel.
Days 2 to 9 - We will take an internal flight from Ulaanbaatar to Khovd, where we will be collected and then transported by 4x4 into the Altai Mountains, our home for 7 nights in traditional Mongolian Gers.
We will use expert local guides and trackers to search for the elusive Snow Leopard. Accommodation and meals will be provided by a traditional Mongolian settlement.
Day 10 - We will fly from Khovd back to Ulaanbaatar where we will once again stay in a local hotel overnight.
Days 11 to 14 - We will be transported east to the plains of the Sukhbaatar Province and search for Pallas’s Cat. Accommodation and food will once again be in traditional Mongolian settlements. On the final day we will be transported back to Ulaanbaatar.
Day 15 - After one final night in a 5* hotel in Ulaanbaatar, we will fly home.
NOTES
Mongolia in February is characterized by its harsh, yet strikingly beautiful winter conditions. Temperatures can plunge well below freezing, often ranging between -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F), especially in the higher altitudes and open steppes. The air is crisp and dry, with clear skies and abundant sunlight, making for stunning, snow-covered landscapes.
A good level of fitness is absolutely crucial for this trip, with both lots of trekking on foot, in cold, harsh and treacherous conditions. We suggest taking training prior to this trip extremely seriously.
Height/Altitude will also provide a serious fitness test on this trip, often being at elevations of c.2,400-3,000 metres. For more information, drop us a message.
NO Visa is required.
DATES
1st - 16th February 2026 NEWLY RELEASED BOOK NOW
PRICE
£5,250 in shared rooms/Gers.
Deposit - A non-refundable deposit of £1,000 is required when booking. The balance will be required 75 days before departure. Please also enquire about monthly payment plans.