Khustai National Park in Mongolia has been selected for the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories 2026, an international initiative that showcases good practices in sustainable tourism and nature conservation from destinations around the world.

Located in Tuv Province, approximately 100 kilometers west of Ulaanbaatar City, Khustai National Park is one of Mongolia’s important protected areas, renowned for its successful efforts to reintroduce and conserve the Takhi or Przewalski’s horse, the world’s last surviving wild horse species. The park’s mountain steppes, valleys and grasslands provide habitats for diverse wildlife, including red deer, Mongolian gazelles and other wild animals.

Established as a national park in 1993, Khustai plays a significant role in protecting Mongolia’s steppe ecosystem and restoring populations of the endangered takhi. Its conservation work also demonstrates the importance of managing natural resources while supporting sustainable livelihoods in surrounding communities.

The Green Destinations Top 100 Stories is an international initiative that recognizes and shares inspiring approaches to sustainable tourism. It highlights destinations that have developed practical solutions to environmental and social challenges, helping spread good practices that can be adapted elsewhere.

Khustai National Park’s selected story focuses on an innovative approach that combines artificial intelligence (AI), satellite data and the traditional knowledge of herders to reduce pastureland degradation, protect wildlife and ensure that tourism revenue directly benefits local communities.

By bringing together modern technology and traditional knowledge, the initiative seeks to improve land management, strengthen wildlife conservation and encourage local participation in tourism development. The achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of the Khustai National Park Trust, local residents and researchers, with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The recognition offers an opportunity to showcase Mongolia’s experience in combining wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism and community participation on an international platform.