Hustai National Park

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Mongolian steppe, Khustai National Park is a world-renowned conservation success story and a sanctuary for the last true wild horses on Earth. Located about 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Ulaanbaatar, this vast protected area is dedicated to the reintroduction of the Przewalski's horse, known locally as the Takhi. More than just a park, it's a living laboratory for biodiversity and a testament to international conservation efforts.

Facts

Location

Tuv Province, approx. 100 km southwest of Ulaanbaatar.

Established

Established as a Specially Protected Area in 1993.

Area

506 km² (195 sq mi) of protected ecosystem.

Main Attraction

The successful reintroduction of the Takhi (Przewalski's horse).

Highlights

About the Park

The core mission of Khustai National Park is the preservation of its unique steppe ecosystem and the successful reintroduction of the Takhi. These horses, which were once extinct in the wild, now thrive here thanks to a dedicated international program. Visitors can join guided tours, especially during dusk or dawn, for the best chance to see the herds as they come to drink from the Tuul River.

A Global Conservation Effort: The park is more than just a home for wild horses; it's a symbol of successful international cooperation in conservation. The project brought together scientists, conservationists, and local communities to restore a species to its native land. The park is managed by a non-governmental organization, which reinvests tourism revenue into conservation and community development projects.

The Last True Wild Horse: The Takhi

In 1878, Central Asian explorer N. M. Przewalski brought the skin and skull of a wild horse from the deserts of Mongolia to the Zoological Museum in Saint Petersburg. He identified it as a new species of wild horse and named it Przewalski’s horse (Equus przewalskii), announcing it to the world.

By the late 1960s, the Takhi was declared extinct in the wild. A remarkable conservation effort was launched using the few remaining individuals in zoos around the world. In 1992, the first herds were successfully reintroduced to their ancestral homeland here in Khustai, marking a historic victory for wildlife conservation.

Why You Should Visit This Place

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Witness a Conservation Success Story: See firsthand the incredible results of one of the world's most successful wildlife reintroduction projects.
Explore Diverse Ecosystems: Journey through classic steppe, rolling hills, and birch forests, experiencing Mongolia's raw, natural beauty.
Incredible Wildlife Photography: Capture stunning images of the Takhi, red deer, marmots, and a variety of birdlife against a dramatic steppe backdrop.
Support Sustainable Ecotourism: Your visit directly contributes to the protection of the park's ecosystem and supports local communities involved in conservation.