Great Gobi B

Great Gobi B Strictly Protected Area encompasses 8.9 million hectares of extreme desert wilderness in southwestern Mongolia, making it one of the largest protected areas on Earth. Established in 1975 alongside Great Gobi A, this vast landscape protects classic Gobi desert ecosystems characterized by gravel plains, sparse vegetation, isolated mountain ranges, and ephemeral lakes. The protected area serves as critical habitat for rare desert-adapted wildlife including the khulan (Mongolian wild ass), goitered gazelle, and one of the world's last populations of wild Bactrian camels. Golden eagles, saker falcons, and other raptors hunt across the open plains, while saxaul forests—unique desert trees—provide crucial habitat in otherwise barren terrain. The extreme aridity, temperature fluctuations between scorching summers and frigid winters, and vast empty spaces create one of Earth's most challenging yet captivating wilderness environments.

Great Gobi B Strictly Protected Area was designated in 1975 as part of Mongolia's system of strictly protected areas, Mongolia's highest conservation category prohibiting all extractive uses and development. The protected area was established to safeguard rare desert species and ecosystems threatened by hunting, livestock grazing, and potential mining operations. Scientific surveys in the early 1970s documented the global significance of the region's wildlife populations, particularly the khulans that undertake spectacular long-distance migrations across the Gobi. The area's designation as a strictly protected area reflected recognition that these unique desert ecosystems and rare species required the highest level of protection. Throughout subsequent decades, the protected area has maintained strict conservation standards despite challenges including illegal hunting, border security operations along the Chinese frontier, and pressure from mining interests. UNESCO recognition as a Biosphere Reserve acknowledged the area's international importance for desert conservation and scientific research.

Access to Great Gobi B is extremely challenging and restricted primarily to scientific research and limited specialized expeditions. The protected area is located in one of Earth's most remote regions, requiring multi-day overland journeys across trackless desert from the nearest settlements. No roads penetrate the protected area, and navigation requires GPS, experienced drivers, and vehicles equipped for extreme desert conditions. There are no tourist facilities, visitor centers, or marked trails; all visitors must be entirely self-sufficient with food, water, fuel, and camping equipment for extended periods. Permits are strictly controlled and typically granted only for scientific research or specialized conservation tourism organized by operators with appropriate expertise and equipment. Visits require meticulous planning, specialized desert vehicles capable of extreme conditions, satellite communications for emergencies, and thorough preparation for temperature extremes, water scarcity, and complete isolation from assistance.

Conservation at Great Gobi B focuses on protecting critically important populations of desert-adapted species through anti-poaching patrols, water source management, and long-term monitoring. Rangers conduct extended patrols across the vast protected area to prevent illegal hunting of khulans and other wildlife. Water point management is essential for wildlife survival in this extremely arid environment, with the park monitoring and protecting rare springs and wells. Wildlife research programs use GPS collaring and camera traps to study khulan migrations and population dynamics, providing critical data for conservation planning. Climate change research examines how increasing temperatures and changing precipitation patterns affect desert ecosystems and wildlife populations. The protected area coordinates with Chinese authorities on transboundary conservation issues, as wildlife populations move across the international border. Saxaul forest protection prevents illegal harvest of this slow-growing desert tree valued for fuel. Long-term ecological monitoring in this vast, minimally disturbed landscape provides invaluable insights into desert ecosystem function under natural conditions.