Gun-Galuut

Mongolian nature reserve of open steppe, wetland lakes, and Baits mountain wildlife habitat

Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve, about 130 km east of Ulaanbaatar, packs a surprising range of landscapes into a compact area: open steppe that seems to run to the horizon, the rugged Baits and Berkh mountain ranges, and the wetlands of the Kherlen River — the longest river in Mongolia. Ikh-Gun and Ayaga lakes draw large numbers of migratory waterbirds, and the reserve is home to rare species including Mongolian gazelle and argali sheep.

The reserve is one of the more accessible wild destinations from the capital, and several ger camps operate within or near its boundaries. It offers a taste of the Mongolian landscape without the long drives that reach-of-the-road destinations require.

Guide

Getting There

Gun-Galuut is about 130 km east of Ulaanbaatar along the road to Öndörkhaan. The drive takes roughly two and a half hours by car. Most of the road is paved but the final section into the reserve may require a 4WD vehicle in wet weather or winter.

There is no public transport to the reserve. Options include renting a car with driver in Ulaanbaatar, booking through a tour operator (most offer day trips and overnight packages), or arranging transport directly with one of the ger camps in the area.

The reserve entrance and ranger station are on the main road. Day visitors should register here; ger camp guests are typically met by their hosts and guided in.

Guide

Things to Do

Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve is one of the best places near Ulaanbaatar to experience the true Mongolian landscape: open steppe, mountain ranges, river wetlands, and an extraordinary variety of wildlife. The reserve combines scenery and wildlife-watching in a compact area accessible enough for a day trip or a short overnight stay.