Gun Galuut Nature Reserve - Only 3 Hours Drive From Ulaanbaatar
Destination Location & Geography
Hey there, nature lovers! Are you ready for an adventure that’ll take your breath away? Pack your bags and join Silk Road Treks on an unforgettable journey to Gün Galuut Nature Reserve, a hidden gem just 130 kilometers (81 miles) east of Ulaanbaatar.
Picture this: a kaleidoscope of landscapes, from towering mountains and rolling steppes to glistening rivers and serene lakes, all nestled within a mere 20,000 hectares. It’s like Mother Nature decided to show off her best work in one spectacular showcase!
History and Interesting Facts
But Gün Galuut isn’t just a pretty face – it’s a sanctuary for some of the world’s most endangered species. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic argali (wild sheep), the graceful Siberian white crane, and the elusive cinereous vulture. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a swan goose or two!
Things To See in Gun Galuut Reserve
As you explore the reserve, you’ll discover three distinct zones, each with its own unique charm. The tourist zone is your playground, where you can hike, birdwatch, and soak up the stunning scenery to your heart’s content. The restricted access zone adds an air of mystery to your adventure, while the central forbidden zone remains a tantalizing enigma.
Mount Baits (1,641 meters/5,384 feet) – a majestic peak with a lone larch tree and a diverse array of wildlife
Mount Berkh (1,631 meters/5,351 feet) – another stunning mountain in the southern part of the reserve
Vast, rolling steppes – perfect for channeling your inner nomad and enjoying the wide-open spaces
Lake Ikh Gun (8.8 square kilometers/3.4 square miles) – a serene lake divided by a strip of land, ideal for picnics and birdwatching
Lake Ayaga (1.2 square kilometers/0.5 square miles) – a smaller but equally charming lake, home to many endangered bird species
Kherlen River – one of Mongolia’s longest rivers, teeming with fish (remember, it’s catch and release!)
Ayaga River – a tributary of the Kherlen River, starting from Lake Ayaga
Humid zone of Ayaga – a lush, fertile area where birds come to breed and fish thrive
Diverse flora and fauna – including argali (wild sheep), Siberian white cranes, cinereous vultures, swan geese, black storks, and so much more!
Temperature, Climate & Founa
Gün Galuut experiences a classic continental climate. You can expect hot summers and cold winters, with temperatures ranging from a scorching 30°C (86°F) in July to a bone-chilling -20°C (-4°F) in January. So, pack your sunscreen and your thermal underwear!
But don’t let the extreme temperatures fool you – Gün Galuut is a veritable oasis in the heart of Mongolia. The reserve is blessed with around 250-300 mm (9.8-11.8 inches) of precipitation annually, which might not sound like much, but it’s enough to support a surprisingly diverse array of flora and fauna.
Speaking of fauna, Gün Galuut is a wildlife lover’s paradise. The reserve is home to over 200 species of birds, including the iconic demoiselle crane, the swan goose, and the white-naped crane. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a golden eagle soaring overhead or a saker falcon perched on a rocky outcrop.
Gün Galuut is one of the few places in the world where you can see the endangered Mongolian gazelle, a sleek and graceful creature that can run at speeds of up to 80 km/h (50 mph). And if you’re really lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard.
Of course, no discussion of Gün Galuut’s fauna would be complete without mentioning the humble marmot. These chubby, furry creatures are a common sight in the reserve, and their comical antics are sure to put a smile on your face.
Things To Bring on Your Trip
Comfortable hiking shoes – you’ll be doing plenty of exploring, so make sure your feet are happy!
Breathable, layered clothing – the weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything
Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must to keep you safe from those intense rays
Insect repellent – because no one wants to be a walking buffet for bugs
Binoculars – to get up close and personal with all the incredible wildlife (without actually getting too close)
Camera – trust us, you’ll want to capture every moment of this stunning reserve
Reusable water bottle – stay hydrated while reducing your plastic footprint
Snacks and packed lunches – fuel up for your adventures with some tasty treats