Mongolia’s expansive beauty unfolds between Russia and China, boasting a functional democracy in its midst. With just 2.5 people per square mile, it stands as Earth’s most sparsely inhabited nation, with over half residing in or around the capital, Ulaanbaatar. Beyond lies “the countryside,” where a third of Mongolians shepherd livestock for a living. The Darhad Valley, nestled within this vast expanse, offers a rich tapestry of habitats, from lush mountain forests and pristine river valleys to high-elevation taiga, providing a haven for diverse flora and fauna.
It is within the Darhad Valley complex that Round River’s conservation efforts take root. Join us in supporting the Ulaan Taiga Protected Areas Administration and the buffer zone communities to establish a center for ecological monitoring and research, contributing to the conservation and preservation of this remote Mongolian region.
Here, you’ll gain hands-on experience with habitat monitoring techniques, from camera trap surveys to cormorant diet studies, working closely with the locally revered pika and endangered Vansemberuu plant.
Beyond conservation, immerse yourself in Mongolian culture through interactions with local rangers and communities, study in traditional Mongolian gers, and savor local delicacies like yak milk yogurt and meat.
In their field work and academics, Round River stands out for their respect and conscientiousness for how to ethically do science as outsiders. They focus on how to help indigenous communities manage their land and constantly self-examine the sociopolitical implications of their presence. In turn, the science we do is hugely important and meaningful to the locals. My research felt so meaningful and appreciated, and I could see a clear cause my work would contribute to.
Financial Support
All lectures and field activities will be conducted in English, though not widely spoken in Darhad. Locals may understand some English but might be hesitant to speak. Some may seek conversational practice, and staff in protected areas may appreciate informal English lessons. Mongolian’s grammar, related to Turkish, Japanese, and Finnish, may be confusing for English speakers, but we encourage learning basic greetings and the Cyrillic alphabet for reading signs. You can start learning beginner Mongolian via the Ling App.
You are responsible for your personal gear while on the program. Here is a short list of necessary, big-ticket items required for a semester in Mongolia. A comprehensive packing list tailored to your specific program will be provided post-enrollment. Group gear and equipment is provided on the program.
If you’re traveling with a United States passport, you don’t need to apply for a visa before departure.
Student projects have always been a key part of the Round River Mongolia program, evolving over time to match partner needs. Each student group contributes to the advancement of our conservation efforts, whether by continuing long-term projects or piloting new initiatives.
Get an in-depth view of our Mongolia Student Program from current student and alumni experiences.
