Things to Do in Hustai National Park

Hustai National Park, located about 100 kilometers southwest of Ulaanbaatar, is Mongolia's premier wildlife sanctuary and one of the world's most successful conservation stories. Established in 1993, this 50,620-hectare protected area is famous for being the reintroduction site of the Przewalski's horse (takhi), the world's last truly wild horse species that was once extinct in the wild. The park's diverse ecosystem encompasses rolling steppes, birch forests, and rocky outcrops that provide habitat for over 450 plant species and numerous wildlife including red deer, wild boar, lynx, and over 217 bird species. Beyond its conservation significance, Hustai National Park offers visitors an authentic Mongolian wilderness experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing, horseback riding, hiking, and cultural encounters with local herder families. The park's visitor center provides excellent educational exhibits about the takhi reintroduction program and Mongolia's natural heritage. With its pristine landscapes, successful wildlife conservation efforts, and accessibility from the capital, Hustai represents the perfect introduction to Mongolia's vast wilderness and nomadic culture.

Dining in Hustai National Park centers around traditional Mongolian cuisine served at ger camps and tourist facilities. Meals typically feature hearty dishes like mutton, beef, dairy products, and traditional items such as buuz (steamed dumplings) and khuushuur (fried meat pastries). Most ger camps provide full board with authentic nomadic-style meals cooked using traditional methods. The park's visitor center has a small café serving basic meals and snacks. For more diverse dining options, visitors often combine their park visit with meals in Ulaanbaatar before or after their wilderness experience.

The optimal time to visit Hustai National Park is from May through September when temperatures are mild and wildlife is most active. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather, longest daylight hours, and peak wildlife viewing opportunities, though this is also the busiest tourist season. Spring (May) and early autumn (September) provide excellent wildlife viewing with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures. Winter visits are possible but challenging due to harsh weather conditions, though the snow-covered landscape offers a different kind of beauty and the chance to see how wildlife adapts to extreme conditions.