Ascent Expeditions | Journeys
Ghost of the Mountains: Mongolian Snow Leopard Expedition
Embark on a thrilling journey into the remote, snow-covered wilderness of Western Mongolia, home to the elusive snow leopard—often referred to as the "Ghost of the Mountains."
This high-altitude region is a rugged, pristine expanse where the cold winds carve through vast valleys, and the skies are dominated by the flight of golden eagles. As you traverse this starkly beautiful terrain, you'll work closely with local trackers, experts in reading the subtle signs of the wild, and learn the art of patience and perseverance in tracking these elusive big cats.
The expedition involves navigating challenging landscapes—rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and snowfields—while keeping a sharp eye for fresh tracks, their haunting calls, and fleeting glimpses of the snow leopard’s elusive form.
This rare opportunity is not just about spotting a majestic predator but immersing yourself in a world few will ever witness, offering a transformative experience steeped in the spirit of adventure, conservation, and a deep connection to one of nature's most remarkable creatures.
Join this exclusive expedition limited to just 4 participants.
December 1 - 10, 2025
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EXPEDITION OVERVIEW
A rare opportunity to track and photograph the elusive snow leopard in its natural habitat. This transformative journey takes you into the remote mountains of Mongolia, where you'll experience not just extraordinary wildlife photography opportunities, but a profound connection with one of the world's most untouched landscapes.
10 -DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
Upon arrival at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, you'll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your luxury hotel in Ulaanbaatar. This well-appointed property provides a comfortable place to rest after your international journey and prepare for the adventure ahead. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and expedition briefing where you'll be introduced to Mongolian culture and the snow leopard conservation efforts that make this journey possible.
Day 2: Journey to the Altai Mountains
You'll be transferred to the domestic airport for your scheduled flight to the western wilderness region. The scenic flight offers breathtaking aerial views of Mongolia's vast steppes and mountains. Upon landing, you'll experience local culture in a rural town before an afternoon drive to our mountain base. After settling in at our expedition camp, you'll have a comprehensive preparation session for the tracking days ahead.
Days 3-7: Snow Leopard Tracking Expedition
Five full days dedicated to tracking and photographing the elusive snow leopard in its natural habitat. Each day we'll venture out on guided hikes (ranging from 2-8 hours) to optimal viewing locations, searching for these remarkable predators as well as other highland wildlife including ibex, argali sheep, and various birds of prey. Our expert local guides and trackers will share invaluable knowledge about animal behavior and tracking techniques while positioning us for the best wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Daily activities may include:
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Early morning hikes to ridgelines and observation points when snow leopards are most active
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Photography instruction tailored to the challenging light and wildlife scenarios of high-altitude environments
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Wildlife tracking workshops and storytelling development sessions
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Evening observation sessions at strategic locations
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Comfortable nights at our traditional Mongolian ger camp, featuring proper bedding, heating, and authentic meals
Throughout our stay, you'll experience the perfect balance of adventure and comfort, with hearty meals, warm(ish*) accommodations, and attentive service enhancing your expedition experience in this remote wilderness.
Day 8: Final Mountain Experience
After a final morning wildlife photography opportunity, we'll begin our journey back to civilization. The afternoon will be spent returning to the regional hub where you'll have time for reflection and story compilation. Night at comfortable local accommodations will provide a welcome return to modern amenities after our mountain adventure.
Day 9: Return to Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, you'll have the afternoon at leisure to explore the capital or rest before our final image review and storytelling session. The day concludes with a celebratory farewell dinner featuring traditional Mongolian cuisine and cultural performances.
Day 10: Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, you'll be transferred to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your international departure. Most guests choose to extend their stay in Mongolia or continue to other Asian destinations, which we can happily arrange.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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2 nights luxury accommodation in Ulaanbaatar
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1 night comfortable accommodation in regional hub
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6 nights in traditional Mongolian ger camp with enhanced comfort features
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All ground transportation including airport transfers
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Internal flights (Ulaanbaatar to western region and return)
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Daily guided hikes and wildlife tracking excursions
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Expert local guides and trackers throughout your expedition
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Photography instruction and image review sessions
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Storytelling workshops and development guidance
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Full board package throughout the journey including:
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All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
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Additional meal options (packed lunches for hiking days)
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Non-alcoholic beverages, tea, and coffee
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Laundry services at hotels (not available at camp)
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All permits and conservation fees
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Access to exclusive wildlife viewing areas
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Maximum of 4 guests plus Emily as your expedition leader
NOT INCLUDED
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International airfare to/from Ulaanbaatar
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Mandatory travel insurance
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Visa fees
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Medical evacuation insurance
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Alcoholic beverages
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Gratuities for guides and camp staff
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Items of personal nature
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Equipment rentals (specialized photography gear, winter clothing if needed)
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This expedition requires an active to advanced fitness level. Participants should be comfortable with:
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Daily hiking of 2-8 hours on varied mountain terrain
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Altitudes of 6,000-10,000 feet
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Cold weather conditions (temperatures consistently below freezing)
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Early morning and late evening activities
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Limited access to modern facilities during the tracking portion
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No serious health conditions that could be compromised in a remote setting
TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE
Beyond photography, this expedition offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with the primal experience of tracking one of earth's most elusive predators. In the Altai Mountains, you'll witness extraordinary wildlife behaviors in a landscape few travelers ever visit. The experience invites us to slow down, observe intently, and connect with both the dramatic and subtle rhythms of the high mountain wilderness. The snow leopard's domain challenges us to shed our assumptions and embrace a different way of seeing—both through our lenses and within ourselves. Many guests describe their time tracking snow leopards as profoundly moving—where the combination of remarkable wildlife, stunning landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences creates memories that last a lifetime.
EXPEDITION INVESTMENT & TERMS
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Per Person Rate: Starting at $8,975
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Group Size: Limited to 4 participants
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Single Supplement: $750 (for private accommodations where available)
PAYMENT SCHEDULE
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Initial Deposit: $500 per person to secure your place
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Interim Payment: 40% of total expedition cost due 120 days prior to departure
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Final Payment: Remaining balance due 90 days prior to departure
RESERVATION POLICY
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Your place on the expedition is confirmed only upon receipt of deposit
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Payments accepted via credit card, bank transfer, check, or ACH
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No processing fee for payments made by check or ACH
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A detailed expedition preparation guide will be provided upon registration
CANCELLATION POLICY
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Deposit is non-refundable
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120-90 days prior to departure: 50% of total expedition cost
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89-60 days prior to departure: 75% of total expedition cost
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59 days or less prior to departure: 100% of expedition cost
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We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage
EXPEDITION PROTECTION
Given the remote nature and specialized arrangements for this expedition:
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Comprehensive travel and medical evacuation insurance is required
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Documentation of appropriate coverage must be provided 90 days before departure
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We can provide recommendations for insurance providers experienced with expeditions of this nature
THE ELEMENTAL EXPERIENCE
Emily McCulliss offers transformative expeditions that operate at the intersection of challenge, growth, and story.
The Altai Mountains present a rare convergence of extraordinary challenge and profound beauty. In this demanding environment, Emily's passion for transformative travel combines with the expertise of local specialists to create an unparalleled expedition.
This journey pairs Emily's vision with the invaluable skills of professional Mongolian trackers and mountain guides who have spent their lives in these landscapes. Their deep knowledge of snow leopard behavior, terrain navigation, and survival in extreme conditions ensures both safety and extraordinary wildlife encounters.
"The Altai's stark beauty demands more than technical skill—it requires physical endurance, mental resilience, and spiritual openness. Carrying your gear across these mountain landscapes, feeling the bite of cold air in your lungs, and maintaining focus despite physical fatigue creates a unique alchemy where discomfort transforms into unexpected clarity.
These mountains don't just test your limits—they dissolve artificial boundaries. With each challenging ascent, each predawn trek in search of the elusive snow leopard, each moment spent in silent observation, you discover capabilities that have always existed beneath the surface of everyday life.
In the silence of these ancient mountains, carrying nothing but what's essential, you experience a rare simplicity that cuts through life's complexities. This is where your true story emerges—in footprints across snow, in breath visible against mountain light, in the patient pursuit of the nearly impossible."
Emily's role is to bridge the gap between the technical expedition and your personal journey of transformation. While our local experts handle the tracking and navigation, Emily focuses on helping you process and integrate the experience, developing your photographic narrative, and facilitating the inner journey that unfolds alongside the physical one.
This collaborative approach ensures you benefit from both authentic local expertise and Emily's unique perspective on how extraordinary environments catalyze personal growth.