🐾 In Search of the Elusive Pallas’s Cat – Mongolia

The focus of this expedition is to observe and photograph the remarkable Pallas’s cat (manul), one of the most elusive and captivating wild felines on Earth, within the vast Mongolian steppes where it thrives. Along the way, we also hope to encounter other fascinating wildlife, including the corsac fox, steppe polecat, and a rich diversity of birds that inhabit this unique ecosystem.

• A rare opportunity to see and photograph the elusive Pallas’s cat in its natural habitat.
   
• Easily accessible from the capital city, with solid infrastructure.
   
• All profits go directly to wildlife conservation.
   
• No light pollution—perfect for enjoying the night sky and stargazing.
   
• Authentic cultural experience with Mongolian nomads.
   
• Stay in a traditional and comfortable ger (yurt).
   

Pallas’s cats are perfectly adapted to the cold, dry conditions of Mongolia’s steppe ecosystem.

We will be based at a Steppe Camp in Sukhbaatar Province, approximately 570 km east of Ulaanbaatar, in one of the best regions in Mongolia to search for the elusive Pallas’s cat. Our primary focus will be wildlife observation and photography, with special attention dedicated to finding and photographing this extraordinary feline.

During the breeding season, we may have the unique opportunity to observe and photograph Pallas’s cat kittens near their den, playfully exploring their surroundings and developing essential hunting skills while awaiting their mother’s return.

In addition to the manul, the area offers excellent opportunities to encounter other iconic steppe species, including corsac foxes, Mongolian gazelles, steppe polecats, and a wide variety of birds adapted to this vast and beautiful landscape.

Our base will be in Sukhbaatar Province, approximately 570 km east of Ulaanbaatar, in the heart of Mongolia’s vast eastern steppes. This remote and wildlife-rich region provides exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph the elusive Pallas’s cat in its natural habitat.

The average elevation at Manul Camp ranges between 900 and 1,100 meters (2,950–3,600 feet) above sea level, offering comfortable conditions for wildlife photography while immersing participants in one of Mongolia’s most spectacular steppe ecosystems.

We will stay at Manul Camp, an eco-friendly field camp composed of traditional Mongolian gers, designed to provide a comfortable and authentic experience in the heart of the steppe.

Each ger includes:

• Three beds with linens, blankets, and pillows

• Single occupancy available upon request (subject to availability and supplement)

• Handwashing sink inside the ger

• Shared toilet and shower facilities located nearby

• Electricity provided by generator, with power outlets available in each ger

• Separate dining and kitchen gers for meals and social gatherings

The camp is located just 4 km from Halzan village, providing reliable 4G mobile coverage and Wi-Fi access throughout your stay.

An experienced English-speaking biologist guide will accompany the group throughout the tour, sharing insights into the region’s wildlife, ecology, and conservation efforts.

Drinking water is provided in bottled form, while water used for cooking comes from a deep underground well. The camp offers a comfortable base from which to explore one of Mongolia’s most fascinating wildlife destinations.

Meals are homemade and hearty.

• Breakfast: oatmeal, fried eggs, cheese, sausage, bread, and homemade cookies.
   
• Lunch: Russian and Mongolian-style meals—mostly meat-based (eco-friendly mutton, chicken, bacon), with rice, noodles, vegetables, and salads.
   
• Dinner: soup, hot dishes, and dessert.
   
• Beverages: Coca-Cola, bottled fruit juice, and coffee.
   

Vegetarian and vegan options are available (tofu, soy, vegetables)—please let us know in advance if you have dietary needs.

Arrival in Ulaanbaatar. Overnight at hotel in the city.


Hotel: Kempinski

Drive to Manul Camp (600 km paved + 70 km dirt road), we will drive 7 hours, aprox. Overnight in traditional ger.
 

Morning: search for steppe polecat and corsac fox—both diurnal and crepuscular.
Afternoon: Pallas’s cat observation from previously identified locations.
 

Drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Overnight at hotel.
 

International flight home.