Ikh Nartiin Chuluu Nature Reserve

Ikh Nart is a reserve of broken granite hills, gullies and dry valleys on the northern edge of the Gobi, protected since 1996 and best known for argali, the world's largest wild sheep, which occur here at unusually high density and have been studied continuously for two decades. Ibex, Siberian roe deer, cinereous vultures and Mongolia's small population of wild-living animals of several other species also use the reserve. The landscape is low and rocky rather than dramatic, with pockets of elm in the gullies and springs that draw wildlife in the dry months. Research camps host visitors and volunteers, and guided walking to watch argali from the ridges is the main activity. Herding families live inside the reserve, and the arrangement between grazing and wildlife protection is part of what the site is known for.

What you actually see

• Argali - wild sheep on the ridges, at one of their highest densities anywhere.
• Granite gullies - the broken rock country the animals use.
• Vultures - cinereous vultures nesting on the rocks.
• Herder camps - families grazing inside the reserve alongside the wildlife.

When to go

May to September; late spring brings lambs and green ground, autumn brings clearer air. Summer heat is severe by midday, and wildlife watching is early and late. Winter is bitter and access is difficult.

Honest expectations

Wildlife sightings need patience, a guide and binoculars; argali are wary and the country is open. Accommodation is basic research and ger camps. There are no roads inside beyond tracks. The scenery is subtle rather than spectacular.

Nearby

Sainshand lies south; Khamriin Khiid is southeast.