Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Yolyn Am Wildlife Reserve is located within the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains of the Gobi Desert in southern Mongolia. The reserve features a deep and narrow gorge, known as Yolyn Am or "Valley of the Vultures," which is notable for its striking geological formations and the presence of ice that persists year-round in certain shaded parts, despite the desert's typically harsh climate. This rare microclimate supports plant and animal species that are uncommon in the surrounding arid terrain. The reserve is primarily known for its population of the Lammergeier, or bearded vulture, which nests on the cliffs and can often be observed soaring overhead. Other wildlife includes the Argali sheep, ibex, and a variety of bird species. Visitors are drawn to Yolyn Am for its scenic hiking trails that follow the gorge floor and provide access to impressive rock formations, wildlife viewing, and photogenic natural ice sculptures in winter and spring. The area holds cultural significance for local Mongolian communities and has been a protected region since the 1960s. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the combination of desert landscape and alpine conditions, allowing for unique exploration compared to classic desert reserves. The reserve is accessible from the town of Dalanzadgad and serves as a gateway to broader Gobi Desert adventures, including camel treks and desert camping. Visitors should be prepared for remote conditions and variable weather, ranging from hot desert days to cold mountain nights.
