Tour Dates:
9th Sept- 23rd Sep 2025 - 14 days 13 nights.
NOMAD LIFE AND EAGLE FESTIVAL TOUR 2025 MONGOLIA /Special/
Explore Mongolia at the crossroads of Russia, China, and Kazakhstan, to experience the timeless beauty of the Mongolian Kazakh people and their way of life. We journey into magnificent and dramatic landscapes where for thousands of years these valleys have been home to a nomadic people whose livelihoods rely on hunting and herding. The trip is carefully designed to provide cultural immersion into all aspects of Kazakh nomadic experience, especially its 2,000-year-old tradition of hunting with Golden Eagles. In one of the planet’s remotest corners, the warmhearted Kazakhs will embrace you with authentic life-changing experiences. Join our Nomad life and Eagle festival tour 2025 Mongolia /Special/ !!!
Guests must arrive BEFORE 14:00 in Ulaanbaatar on 9th Sept 2025. Upon arrival at the Chinggis Khaan International Airport, our staff will meet you for the transfer to BEST WESTERN TUUSHIN HOTEL. Note that our staff will be holding a Kazakh Tour signboard. Driving time from airport to Hotel is approx. 90 mins.
NOTE: *(A)Recommended to arrive on 8th Sept just to deal with jetlag. *(B) Please note that accommodation on 9th Sept is not covered by tour, but we can book your stay for the 9th Sept for you. *(C) The check-in time at the Best Western hotel is 14:00. If you arrive early in the morning, please be aware that you may need to wait at the front desk until your room is prepared.
DETAILED ITINERARY
9 SEP – ARRIVE TO ULAANBAATAR
We recommend that guests arrive on September 8th to acclimate to the time difference. However, you are welcome to check in prior to 14:00 on September 9th. Our Kazakh tour staff will greet you at Chinggis Khan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar and facilitate your transfer to the hotel
We will gather in the hotel lobby at 4:30 PM for an orientation session regarding the tour, which will last approximately one hour. Following the briefing, we’ll stroll to a welcome dinner.
*Please note that accommodation for the 9th of September is not included in our tour package; however, we would be happy to assist you with reservations and book a hotel for you.
10 SEP - DAY 1: ULAANBAATAR
Start your day with a delicious breakfast, then meet in the lobby at 8:30 AM for our drive to Gandantegchilen Khiid, also known as "the Great Place of Complete Joy." This is Mongolia's largest Buddhist monastery, established in 1838. Although it faced significant challenges during the purges of 1937, the monastery survived and functioned as a “show monastery” until the revival of full religious ceremonies in 1990.
After exploring Gandantegchilen Khiid, we will head to the National Museum of Mongolia for a guided tour. Following the museum visit, you’ll have some free time to shop and explore. At 5:30 PM, we will reconvene in the hotel lobby and proceed to a captivating national folk performance, after which we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (BLD)
11 SEP - DAY 2: WESTERN MONGOLIA
Today, our adventure takes us to the sacred Shiveet Khairkhan Mountain, home to Tuvan nomads and majestic mountain ibex. We’ll begin our journey with a pickup from the hotel and drive to Chinggis Khan Airport for our flight to Ulgii, the provincial capital of Bayan Ulgii province in western Mongolia.
After enjoying breakfast in town, we’ll hop into 4WD Land Cruisers and set off toward the remote Shiveet Khairkhan Mountain, nestled within Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. Much of our drive will follow the scenic Tsagaan Gol, also known as the Yak Milk River Valley. While the journey may be long, it will be filled with breathtaking views, and we’ll stop along the way to soak in the dramatic landscapes and capture memorable photographs. Our campsite is situated in a stunningly beautiful location, ensuring a remarkable experience in nature (BLD)
12 SEP - DAY 3: SACRED MOUNTAIN
After breakfast we have a short trek to the largest Petroglyphs site in Central Asia. The Petroglyphs date back starting from the Neolithic period (11,000 BC) to the Bronze Age (6,000 BC). Located in a mountain valley carved out by Pleistocene (Ice Age) glaciers, the site is protected by the relative inaccessibility due to both terrain and weather. Exploring the rock carving provides exceptional documentation of the prehistoric and early historic communities, and reflects the development of human culture over the period of thousands of years in the Altai Mountains. If we are lucky, we will have ibex sightings up close. Shiveet Khairkhan is home to a little over 300 mountain ibex.
After lunch at our camp, we drive a little further to a stunning spot to view the magnificent Altai Tavan Bogd Mountain peaks followed by a visit to animist Tuvan nomad families, the smallest ethnic minority within Mongolia. Over tea, we’ll discuss about their culture and way of life. Shiveet Khairkhan Mountain is considered sacred by Tuvans. (BLD)
13 SEP - DAY 4: SNAKE VALLEY
We depart and drive following the Tsagaan Gol (White River), through sandy terrain and on to rocky high passes. You would notice that terrain changes by hours. We will see more trees on our drive. On the way through the Mogoit Valley (Snake valley) we will stop by an old cemetery that marks the first Kazakh migration from northern Xinjiang in Western China. We continue our drive and take a short walk to the Turkic Balbal (human) rock and then onwards to our campsite nearby the Mogoit river, close to some local families, either nomad or sedentary. (BLD)
14-15 SEP - DAY 5-6: - TWO-DAY HORSE TREK EXPEDITION TO KARA TAS
Embark on an unforgettable two-day horse riding expedition alongside skilled Kazakh horsemen. Polish your riding skills, saddle up, and traverse pristine valleys and mountain passes. For your comfort and safety, we will provide custom-made English saddles.
On the first day, we’ll navigate the expansive steppe terrain, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. The second day offers a unique opportunity to visit nomadic families along our route, as we follow the scenic Khovd River to reach our next campsite. This journey promises to be a remarkable blend of adventure, culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Horse Riding: We will ride horses at a Walk, for most parts of the trail. It will be very gentle and relaxed riding. The approximate distance of each day will be a 10 mile ride; approximately six to seven hours ride including lunch break and stops in-between. (BLD)
16 SEP - DAY 7: ADVENTUROUS MOUNTAIN PASS
After a hearty breakfast, we will set off toward the remote Altai village in Bayan Ulgii province, where adventure awaits. Along the way, we’ll stop at a quaint local store to immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture and discover the unique offerings of this region. Our journey will then lead us to the home of a local nomadic family, where we’ll have the privilege of sharing an early lunch, a traditional Kazakh meal, “BESPARMAK.” Here, you’ll gain insight into their daily lives, capture stunning photographs, and experience the warmth of their hospitality.
As we continue our expedition, we’ll navigate through rugged terrain toward Uzuun Asha Pass, traversing the breathtaking landscape that lies before us. This pass is known for its sudden weather changes; be prepared for anything from snow to fierce storms along this long, saddle-shaped route. Most often, the pass is muddy, presenting an exhilarating off-roading experience that allows you to connect with the wild beauty surrounding you.
By afternoon, we’ll arrive at our next campsite, perfectly situated in a stunningly beautiful location, ready to rest and reflect on the day’s remarkable adventures. This journey is not just about the destination, but the stories and memories we create along the way. (BLD)
17 SEP - DAY 8: MUGALIM'S AUTUMN CAMP
Today, we embark on a short drive through a breathtaking valley, leading us to our campsite near an eagle hunter family in Altay village. As we journey, we'll stop in the heart of Altai, where we might have the unique opportunity to visit a local hospital and witness firsthand how the medical care system operates in these remote areas. This glimpse into daily life will deepen your appreciation for the resilience of these communities.
After enjoying a hearty lunch at our camp, we’ll immerse ourselves in the captivating world of eagle hunting. We’ll visit local eagle hunter families, where we can warm ourselves with piping hot Kazakh tea and delve into the rich history of this ancient tradition that has been practiced for thousands of years. You’ll gain invaluable insights into their daily lives, stories of perseverance, and the bond between the hunters and their majestic eagles.
As the afternoon unfolds, we’ll have the rare chance to witness a hands-on demonstration by an eagle hunter, showcasing the intricate techniques used to train these incredible birds. If time allows, we’ll continue our exploration by visiting a few more eagle hunters, each with their own tales to tell.
As the sun begins to set, we’ll return to our camp to savor a traditional Kazakh dinner, sharing a meal with an eagle hunter family. This experience promises to be a remarkable blend of culture, adventure, and connection, leaving you inspired by the resilience and traditions of the people who call this breathtaking land home. (BLD)
18 SEP - DAY 9: TRUE LIFE EAGLE HUNTING EXPEDITION
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll gather at 10 AM to meet the legendary eagle hunters of the region. Prepare for an exhilarating adventure as we ride alongside these skilled mountain nomads on a hunting expedition that will last approximately five hours. We’ll invite all of the eagle hunters in the area, and we’re expecting at least ten to join us for this unique experience. Today, you’ll have the chance to witness the art of eagle hunting up close, whether it leads us to pursue foxes or, perhaps, we might not encounter any prey at all. Regardless, the experience promises stunning opportunities for photography and a deeper understanding of this remarkable tradition.
We’ll return to camp by mid-afternoon, allowing time to unwind and refresh after the morning’s excitement. As the day winds down, we’ll gather around a warm bonfire in the late afternoon, where local herders will share enchanting folk songs that resonate with the rich cultural heritage of this area. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with stories, music, and the spirit of the wilderness. (BLD)
19 SEP - DAY 10 TOLBO LAKE
We will have the unique opportunity to observe and participate in the traditional art of felt-making. Local women from the area will gather to demonstrate their intricate techniques for crafting felt, rugs, and wall hangings. The process is truly captivating, and you’ll be invited to join in, allowing you to experience firsthand the skills that have been passed down through generations.
Once we’ve soaked in the rich artistry, we will bid farewell to the eagle hunter and his family, leaving Altay village behind as we journey toward Tolbo village.
Our temporary ger camp will be nestled by Kizilbast Mountain, close to the stunning Tolbo Lake, in a picturesque location that promises tranquility and beauty. This will be our home for the next three nights, conveniently situated near the site of the upcoming eagle festival. Here, you can unwind, reflect, and prepare for the exciting adventures that lie ahead (BLD)
20-21 SEP - DAY 11-12 EAGLE FESTIVAL
After breakfast at our camp we would drive to eagle festival site that is 15 minutes away from our camp. Eagle festival starts at around 10:00am in the morning. We would enjoy these 2 full days of eagle festival, and we would have great opportunity to photograph all the interesting activities and competitions.
Opening Ceremonies | Competition | Awards Ceremony
Witness a local eagle festival featuring about 60-80 eagle hunters. The competition begins with a parade by the hunters wearing hunting outfits and accessories. The most elaborate and beautiful adornments receive the highest marks. It is followed by thrilling competitions.
The golden eagles are evaluated for their speed and agility. Interesting Kazak traditional games such as Kokbar (buzkashi) and Kazak archery will also take place at the eagle festival. Winners are selected in each event. The festival provides a great opportunity to photograph. There would be some other competitions that the tourists can participate, such as lifting sheep, or Kiz kuar game (Woman chasing man) You would be impressed by these great games and activities.
There would be a large open air area for the local handicraft makers to sell their hand made beautiful handicraft, rugs, felts, traditional hats and more and more.
A traditional Kazakh ger is set up for us at the eagle festival site, offering us a place to relax, get warmed up if the weather is not warm, and to have lunch, tea and coffee during the day. (BLD)
22 SEP - DAY 13 FLIGHT TO ULAANBAATAR
Today we will drive to Ulgii city that would take us about 1 hour on paved road to catch our flight to Ulaanbaatar. Along the way enjoy scenic beautiful drive and views of snow caped mountains. Once we arrive to Ulaanbaatar we would get transferred to Best Western Tuushin hotel.
We would have farewell dinner in on of the well known restaurants in downtown Ulaanbaatar. (B-D) *Lunch is not included.
23 SEP - DAY 14: DEPARTURE
Depart Ulaanbaatar today after breakfast. You would get transferred to airport (B-Breakfast)
Accompany these fascinating mountain nomads on their hunts, and explore the breathtaking countryside.
