Trip Summary
Our dear friend Dalaikhan, a native herdsman and skilled eagle hunter from Bayan-Ölgii province in Western Mongolia, has been welcoming guests to Altai Soum for over a decade. A father of five and grandfather of nine, Dalaikhan is the visionary behind this unique, community-driven celebration.
Since 2017, Dalaikhan has organized the local Eagle Festival in Altai Soum, bringing together regional eagle hunters to display their remarkable skills in a truly authentic, community-led event. Unlike the larger Golden Eagle Festival in Ulgii, this festival is run entirely by the eagle hunters themselves, ensuring that it stays true to its cultural roots and avoids external business or NGO involvement. This grassroots approach maintains the festival’s focus on cultural preservation rather than commercialization.
If you’re looking for an authentic, hands-on experience and a deeper connection with the local culture, this trip is perfect for you!
Trip Highlights
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT…
- Explore the towering Altai Mountains, offering breathtaking views and rugged terrain;
- Witness one of the most anticipated cultural events for local Kazakhs, where eagle hunters and their birds compete.
- Experience the tradition of eagle hunting, seeing the strong bond between the hunters and their majestic birds of prey;
- Immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of the Kazakh people, gaining insight into their way of life;
- Feel the excitement and community spirit as locals gather to celebrate and compete in the festival.
THIS TOUR IS PERFECT FOR…
- Travelers who are passionate about experiencing and understanding different cultures and traditions;
- Adventure Seekers looking for a thrilling and unique adventure in the rugged landscapes
- Individuals who are fascinated by raptors and the tradition of eagle hunting.
- Photography enthusiasts who want to capture the stunning landscapes, as well as the dynamic scenes of the Golden Eagle Festival.
- Those interested in the historical and cultural significance of traditional practices and festivals in Mongolia.
- Families seeking a unique and educational travel experience that offers both cultural immersion and outdoor adventure.
Trip Map & Itinerary
Upon arrival at the airport, transfer to the centrally located hotel in downtown Ulaanbaatar. In the evening, we will provide your pre-trip briefing and then host a welcome dinner at a fine local restaurant. (Hotel Shangri La or similar;D)
Explore the vibrant capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, with a private blessing by a Buddhist monk at Gandan Monastery. Marvel at the imposing 90-foot statue of Megjid Janraisag, symbolizing Mongolia’s independence. Visit Zanabazar’s Fine Arts Museum, showcasing the country’s rich artistic heritage. The day concludes with a captivating performance of traditional Mongolian music and dance, featuring Khoomii, and a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. (Hotel Shangri La or similar; B, L)
Today we drive to Murun, provincial center of Hovsgol to fly back to Ulaanbaatar. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a fine local restaurant. Overnight at hotel. (Hotel Bayangol or similar; D)
Fly to Ulgii, the capital of Bayan-Ulgii aimag(province) in western Mongolia, inhabited by Kazakhs and various ethnic groups. Despite the pastoral-nomadic lifestyle shared with Mongolians, the Kazakhs are predominantly Muslim. Explore the city, visit the local market to acquire Kazakh handmade crafts like felt rugs, and possibly visit a museum showcasing cultural and natural exhibits. In the evening, retreat to Hovd River on the city’s eastern side, offering an opportunity for evening trout fishing. Overnight in gers at a Rustic Ger Camp. (B, L, D)
Experience the exhilarating Golden Eagle Festival for two days. Witness a grand parade of eagle hunters showcasing their impressive hunter eagles and testing their skills. Enjoy competitions like the traditional tug of war game “kukbar,” as well as tenge ilu and kyzguar, featuring horseback riding. Be captivated by the archery contest with ethnic Uriankhai people using traditional Mongolian arrows and bows from the 13th century. Established in 2000, the festival draws 70-80 competitors from local villages, making it a highly anticipated event in Bayan Ulgii. Evenings feature a traditional Kazakh meal and performances by Kazakh singers. Overnight in gers at a Rustic Ger Camp. (B, L, D)
Spend a day immersed in the daily life of a Kazakh family. Witness traditional rituals, including milking yaks and preparing authentic dishes. Explore colorful Kazakh gers, adorned with unique tapestries, in a picturesque summer camp—ideal for photography. Engage in short hikes and fishing for Mongolian graylings at a local river. Overnight in tents with communal gers. (B, L, D)
After breakfast, drive back to Ulgii for our return flight to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, spend the rest of the afternoon for shopping and individual sightseeing. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (Hotel Shangri La or similar; B, L, D)
Drive east to the Kherlen River near Gun Galuut, a nature reserve protecting the Argali wild sheep and White-Naped cranes. En-route, stop at the Chinggis Khan Equestrian statue, the world’s largest. Afternoon visit to a nomadic family for a private lunch, offering insights into their traditions. Optionally, try fishing for Mongolia’s grayling. Overnight in a comfortable tent with dinner. (Approx. 2 hours driving; Tent Camp; B, L, D)
Drive back to Ulaanbaatar in time for lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the city for last-minute sightseeing and shopping. Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening at a fine local restaurant. (Hotel Shangri La or similar; B, L, D) After breakfast, transfer to the airport for departure. (B)
Pricing
- Cruiser jeeps seating 3 passengers each;
- Accommodations in a standard room at hotels and gers in the countryside based on double occupancy;
- Airport arrival and departure transfers;
- Sleeping bags, expedition style tents, and mats;
- All meals indicated as B, L or D;
- All entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary including for the Golden Eagle Festival;
- Optional horse riding;
- English speaking national guide throughout your stay;
- A bottle of water per person per day and unlimited supply of boiled water.
- Domestic and international airfare;
- Personal laundry;
- Drinks not mentioned in the itinerary;
- Travel insurance;
- Medical evacuation costs;
- Excess baggage charges;
- Visa fees;
- Gratuities;
- Photography and video fees
- Any other item not mentioned as included.
Photos & Review
I’m a 74 year old grandmother, who along with my 10 year old grandson, just returned from the Gobi to the Golden Eagle Festival tour. Every day was a new adventure. We explored temples, sand dunes in the Gobi desert, rode camels, were welcomed into ger homes and much more. Our ger accommodations could not have been better. Much attention and planning made for a trip of a lifetime. And the food was first rate. Everything about the tour was first rate. Our driver was excellent. He always anticipated when to stop for photos. Herds of camels, horses or sheep and goats made for great photos. I need to especially thank our guide. He was a constant source of information. All of which added to the adventure. He accompanied my grandson up and down everywhere. He pointed out animals, birds, insects, fossils, petrified wood. I wholeheartedly recommend Mongolia Quest. Can’t go wrong with this company.
