Responsible travel company Natural Habitat has launched a brand new, and exclusive, wildlife trip with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Intrepid independent travellers can now book an incredible expedition to seek the elusive snow leopard in Mongolia.
‘In Search of the Snow Leopard’ will depart twice this August (2013) for two weeks of trekking and camping in Mongolia. Each trip is led by highly experienced and knowledgeable WWF scientists as travellers track the beautiful, and sadly highly endangered, snow leopard in the remote Yamaat Valley in Mongolia’s Altai Mountains. Natural Habitat Expeditions (part of Natural Habitat Adventures) is the only company offering a wildlife-focused expedition to both the Yamaat Valley and Jargalant Hairhan – two different ecosystems that are both key snow leopard habitats, each of which is exceptionally remote and rarely visited.
What’s involved:
Several days will involve 4-8hrs of tough trekking across mountainous terrain at altitude – therefore, NHE recommend this expedition for those with a good level of fitness (some prior experience of similar trips may also help). Groups will remain small (around 10) to ensure a comfortable experience with minimised impact on the local environment.
The expedition journeys across several of Mongolia’s national parks and protected areas where the group will be able to observe more incredible wildlife including huge flocks of migratory birds and wild Takhi horses. On the trip, trekkers can also meet the traditional nomadic herders who are community partners with the Snow Leopard Trust, WWF’s conservation partner in the region, and learn firsthand about their lifestyle and customs and how they live in harmony with the snow leopard.
Accommodation: Groups stay in relatively luxurious camps with two people in each traditional Mongolian yurt. A privacy tent and hot-water mobile camp showers will also be on camp.
Recommended for… Those with a thirst for real, expedition-style adventure, and a love of wildlife
Be aware that… They really do mean it when they recommend this for those in good physical condition only!
‘Good’ credentials:
- Partnered with and led by WWF to ensure conservation and sensitivity to the local environment, wildlife and community are at the forefront of the trip
- Parent company, Natural Habitat Adventures, is the world’s first 100% carbon-neutral travel company
- Guaranteed small groups ensure minimal impact on the local environment
For more information, including departure dates, intinieries and prices, visit www.nathab.com/expeditions