Trip Summary
The Kazakhs of Bayan-Ulgii aimag maintain a pastoral-nomadic lifestyle similar to that of the Mongolians. They are renowned for their hospitality, intricate handcrafts, and tapestry work. One of their most unique traditions is hunting with Golden Eagles, a skill passed down through generations. Eagles are caught from the wild, trained for hunting, and used for over a decade before being released back into the wilderness. This ancient practice offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Kazakh community in Mongolia.
Experience the unique culture of the Kazakh community and the tradition of eagle hunting in Mongolia’s Bayan-Ulgii aimag. This trip offers a rare opportunity to stay with a Kazakh family, ride with eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural traditions of the region.
Trip Highlights
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT…
- Witness the thrilling competitions where hunters showcase their eagles’ agility and hunting skills.
- Experience the rich traditions and customs of the Kazakh community.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Altai Mountains and the surrounding landscapes.
- Taste traditional Kazakh and Mongolian dishes.
- Capture stunning photos of the festival, eagles in action, and the picturesque scenery.
THIS TRIP IS PERFECT FOR…
- Those interested in experiencing and learning about the unique traditions of the Kazakh community.
- Travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in a remote and beautiful part of Mongolia.
- Anyone fascinated by birds of prey and eager to see Golden Eagles up close.
- Both amateur and professional photographers will find numerous opportunities to capture remarkable images.
- Sustainable Tourism Advocates who want to participate in a tour that positively impacts local communities and helps preserve cultural heritage.
Trip Map & Itinerary
Today, we will fly to Ulgii, the capital of Bayan-Ulgii aimag, home to Kazakhs and other minority groups. The Kazakhs’ pastoral-nomadic lifestyle is similar to that of the Mongolians, and they also hunt with Golden Eagles to supplement their living.
Upon arrival, we will meet our driver and begin driving through mountain valleys to the Altai soum. We will arrive at our host Kazakh family in the evening and overnight in a ger.
Visiting a Kazakh family is one of the highlights of our trip. Each ger is decorated with tapestries woven by Kazakh women, featuring unique patterns designed by the family. Kazakh women are renowned for their handcrafts and tapestries, while Kazakh men train Golden Eagles for hunting. This age-old tradition was preserved among the Mongolian Kazakh population during the 20th century. Eagles are caught from the wild and used for hunting for over 10 years before being released back into the wilderness. Kazakhs are happy to show you how eagles are trained and offer food and shelter, like any other nomadic families in the country. Enjoy a hearty Kazakh welcome dinner, renowned for its taste and variety.
(Home stay, B, L, D)
Enjoy your breakfast early in the morning. In the morning, enjoy riding along the eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains. Riding with hunters will allow to observe how eagle hunters ride in the mountains and hunt from a first hand experience.
Spend two days exploring the sights and sound of the Altai mountains. After lunch at the family, bid a farewell and we will drive back to Ulgii. Arrive in the evening and transfer to a local hotel. Overnight at hotel. (Home stay& Local Hotel; B, L, D)
After breakfast, the morning is at leisure. Visit a local natural history museum. After lunch, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Ulaanbaatar departing at 13:40 in the afternoon, arriving in UB at 14:00. (B, L)
Pricing
- UB – Ulgii round-trip domestic flight;
- Accommodations in a local hotel and home stay based on ger at a tourist class ger camp;
- 3 daily meals as indicated as B, L or D;
- All transfers by private Land Cruiser including drinking water;
- English speaking guide with local knowledge, expertise, suggestions, and support throughout trip;
- All taxes and service charges.
- International airfare;
- Personal laundry;
- Drinks not mentioned in the itinerary;
- Travel insurance and Medical evacuation costs;
- Excess baggage charges, Visa fees;
- Gratuities;
- Photography and video fees and any other item not mentioned as included.
PHOTOS & REVIEWS
Just returned from a trip of a life time in Mongolia. Visited the Gobi Desert and the Eagle Festival. Am amazing adventure that was only enhanced by our guide Ara. Ara made sure that I truly captured an understanding of the Mongolian culture. We visited many herding families, a school, temples, camel rides, horse rides, petroglyphs, etc., etc. Mongolian Quest operated an amazing Ger camp during the eagle festival – complete with great attention to detail for our comfort, great food, entertainment and also arranged for us to visit with Eagle Hunters and the start of the movie – the Eagle Huntress.
Also of note is that activities, places, experiences vastly exceeded the description of the tour when we signed up. Great job Ara, Badral and Gerel – thank you!!
