Winter Khustai Day Tour — See Przewalski's Wild Horses from Ulaanbaatar
Drive 110 km southwest of Ulaanbaatar into the frozen steppe to watch Przewalski’s horses in their winter range. This private day tour blends wildlife viewing, a nomadic ger visit, and conservation-focused interpretation.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for sharp temperature swings
Mornings and evenings can be frigid; pack base, insulating, and windproof layers so you can adapt during walks and vehicle time.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens
Takhi often keep distance—binoculars (8x–10x) and a 200mm+ lens make distant sightings rewarding without disturbing animals.
Wear insulated, traction-capable boots
Trails and roadside verges can be icy and uneven; compact crampons or grippy soles improve stability.
Support local conservation
Ask how your tour fee supports the park and consider a small donation at the information center to fund anti-poaching and habitat work.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small observation hides near seasonal watering holes where horses slow and graze
- •Informal tracks along low ridgelines offering wide-angle views of horse bands and the steppe horizon
Wildlife
- •Przewalski’s horse (takhi)
- •Red deer and steppe birds
Conservation Note
Tour fees are routed to park management and local conservation projects; visitors are urged to follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance to wintering herds and fragile forage.
Khustai was established in 1992 as part of an international reintroduction program to recover Przewalski’s horse populations after they were declared extinct in the wild.
Photographer's Notes
- • Near the Khustai information center lookout
- • Low ridgeline overlooks where bands often cross
- • Watering holes accessible by vehicle where horses pause
What to Bring
Insulated down jacketEssential
Keeps core warm during exposed stops and while waiting for wildlife in frigid temperatures.
Waterproof wind shellEssential
Blocks the cold steppe wind and sheds light snow or sleet during the drive and short hikes.
Sturdy insulated boots with tractionEssential
Provides warmth and stability on icy or muddy sidings when approaching viewing points.
Binoculars (8x–10x) and telephoto camera lens
Essential for identifying distant takhi and capturing behavior without closing the distance.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Ulaanbaatar?
The trip is about 110 km each way; expect roughly 2–2.5 hours of driving each direction depending on traffic and winter road conditions.
Will we definitely see the Przewalski horses?
Sightings are common but not guaranteed—guides use local knowledge to increase chances, and earlier departures improve odds since horses are often more active at dawn and dusk.
Is the tour suitable for children and infants?
Yes—infants must sit on an adult’s lap; the operator notes the activity is physically easy, though very young children should be kept warm and supervised near vehicles and livestock.
What language is the tour conducted in?
Most private tours provide English-speaking guides; confirm language availability when booking to ensure interpretation and cultural explanations meet your needs.
Are meals included?
Lunch with a nomad family is included—expect traditional Mongolian dishes suited to winter, and notify the operator in advance about dietary requirements.
Can I be picked up from my hotel or the airport?
Yes—pickup from Ulaanbaatar hotels and the airport is available; specify your pickup preference when booking and be ready 30 minutes before the scheduled departure.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–10 hours
Location
Ulaanbaatar, Töv Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic mobility—expect several short walks on uneven ground and long periods in a vehicle.
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