Golden Eagle festival 5 days Photography tour
GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL 5 DAYS PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
Experience Mongolia’s Golden Eagle Festival, a dazzling 5-day photography and cultural journey into the world of Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains.
📌 QUICK FACTS FOR VISITORS
📍 LOCATION: Western Mongolia – Ulgii City & Altai Mountains region
📅 DURATION: 6 days / 5 nights
🧑🤝🧑 GROUP SIZE: Private & small group tours available (1–16+ pax)
🎉 TOUR TYPE: Event & Festival Tour – Cultural & Photography Focus
📸 IDEAL FOR: Photographers, filmmakers, adventurers, cultural travelers
📆 BEST TIME TO VISIT: October – when the Golden Eagle Festival takes place
🏞️ ELEVATION: Ulgii sits at approx. 1,710 meters (5,610 ft)
🧳 PACKING NEEDS: Warm clothes, camera gear, sturdy shoes, sun protection
🏨 ACCOMMODATION: Hotels in Ulaanbaatar and Ulgii
✈️ ARRIVAL CITY: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), Ulaanbaatar and Nest day flight to Ulgii
✨ ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
Explore Ulaanbaatar’s Gandan Monastery and National Museum
Fly to Ulgii, heart of Kazakh culture in Mongolia
Attend the world-famous Golden Eagle Festival in the Altai Mountains
Photograph eagle hunting competitions and traditional Kazakh games
Capture rare cultural portraits and nomadic lifestyle scenes
Experience folk music, costume parades, and archery events
Return to Ulaanbaatar with cultural insight and stunning images
🦅 ABOUT THE GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL
The Golden Eagle Festival is a breathtaking display of Kazakh tradition where over 100 eagle hunters gather to compete in falconry skills, horse games, and cultural contests. Held in October near Ulgii, the event is a photographer’s dream, capturing the unique bond between hunter and eagle, majestic mountain backdrops, and vivid traditional attire. Competitions include eagle hunting trials, horse races, archery, and goat-skin tug-of-war. This festival is more than a spectacle—it’s a cultural preservation event that shares the soul of Kazakh nomadic life with the world.
Golden Eagle Festival will be held on 4th, 5th of October, 2025 “Sary Kul” site of Bugat village of Bayan-Ulgii province.
👳♂️ MONGOLIA’S EAGLE HUNTERS
🏔 Reside in the Altai Mountains of Bayan-Ulgii Province
🦅 Train female golden eagles to hunt red and corsac foxes
🧬 Pass down eagle hunting skills from generation to generation
🐾 Form deep bonds with eagles before releasing them into the wild
This tour gives you rare access to photograph these incredible people and their majestic birds.
🐎 TOUR PACE: MODERATE & CULTURAL
This tour is ideal for photographers and cultural explorers. Daily activities include moderate walking, attending outdoor events, and occasional horseback-based games (as a spectator). Altitude and weather in the Altai can be variable, so flexibility is key. No intense physical demands, but prepare for full, immersive days with lots of visual stimulation and interaction.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
When is the Golden Eagle Festival held?
The main festival in Ulgii usually takes place in early October each year.
Golden Eagle Festival will be held on 4th, 5th of October, 2025 “Sary Kul” site of Bugat village of Bayan-Ulgii province.
What is the focus of this tour?
This tour is designed for photographers, cultural enthusiasts, and festival-goers wanting to witness and capture authentic eagle hunting traditions.
Do I need horseback riding experience?
No. You’ll be observing—not riding—during the competitions.
Are vegetarian or special meals available?
Yes, dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
What is the weather like in October in Western Mongolia?
Days are crisp and sunny (5°C to 15°C), nights can drop below freezing. Warm layers are essential.
🎒 WHAT TO BRING FOR THE TOUR
DSLR or mirrorless camera, zoom & wide lenses
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
Warm clothing (thermal base layers, fleece, down jacket)
Hat, gloves, and scarf
Sunglasses & sunscreen (for high elevation)
Portable power bank or extra batteries
Reusable water bottle
Personal medications and toiletries
Notebook or journal
GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL 5 DAYS PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR PACKAGE PRICE
Group size | 1 pax | 2-3 pax | 4-6 pax | 7-9 pax | 10-12 pax | 13-15 pax | More than 16 pax |
Price/Per person | 3230$ | 2720$ | 2650$ | 2580$ | 2490$ | 2400$ | 2300$ |
No | Include service | Exclude service | Include service of Meals |
1 | Vehicle with a driver. | Items of personal nature | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
2 | English speaking guide | Beverages, alcoholic drinks, bar bills, laundry | Per day 3 bottle water for per person /1,5 liter/ |
3 | Accommodation/Ger camps and Hotel/ | Travel and insurance | One time Mongolian traditional food /lamb with vegetables/ |
4 | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | International transportation | |
5 | All cooking and camping gears. | Taxi | |
6 | Airport shuttle | Optional activities | |
7 | National park and border office permits (area you will go is close to China and Russia border) | Single supplement /For hotel or Ger camp/ | |
8 | Domestic flight tickets | Gratuity for the tour team |
GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL 5 DAYS PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1 - Ulaanbaatar capital city of Mongolia

Upon your arrival at Chinggis Khan International Airport, our dedicated driver and guide will warmly welcome you. We'll start your exploration by driving to your selected hotel, ensuring a comfortable and convenient transfer. The adventure kicks off with a visit to the vibrant local outdoor market, where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, exploring the diverse array of goods and experiencing the local culture. Next on the itinerary is a visit to the magnificent Gandan Monastery, a spiritual and cultural center adorned with traditional architecture and Buddhist significance. You'll have the opportunity to witness the serene ambiance and perhaps engage in a moment of contemplation. Following the spiritual journey, we'll delve into Mongolia's rich history at the National Museum, providing insights into the country's past, traditions, and cultural heritage. It's a captivating experience to better understand the unique tapestry of Mongolia's story. As the day winds down, you'll have leisure time in Ulaanbaatar city to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to stroll through the city streets, indulge in local cuisine, or simply relax, the evening is yours to enjoy. Rest assured, your overnight stay at the hotel will provide a comfortable and restful conclusion to your first day in Mongolia. Get ready for more adventures that await you in this enchanting land.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Hotel | Dinner |
Day 2 - Ulgii city, Bayan-Ulgii province

Prepare for an exciting journey as you meet our driver in the hotel lobby, embarking on a transfer to the airport for your flight to Ulgii town. Ulgii, with a population predominantly composed of Kazakhs (93%), bears the cultural heritage of Kok-Turk nomads from Central Asia. Despite our differences, both Mongols and Kazakhs stand united under the Mongolian flag. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the town's marketplace, where you can explore and experience the unique blend of cultures that defines Ulgii.
Distance | Route | fly time | Accommodation | Food |
1280km | Air way | 2 hours | hotel | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 3 - Golden Eagle festival

Prepare for an awe-inspiring encounter as you meet the Kazakh Eagle hunters, showcasing the incredible athleticism of these magnificent birds. Witness a unique rodeo of eagle hunters, providing an exceptional opportunity for photographers and adventurers alike to observe these birds of prey up close. In Bayan-Ulgii province, home to approximately 200 eagle hunters, a gathering of these skilled individuals will take place.
Engage in the festivities of the Eagle Festival, which includes:
- Registration and credentialing of Eagle Hunters
- Opening ceremony of the Annual Golden Eagle Festival
- Competition for the best Kazakh costume, eagle, and horse harness
- Horse race
- Competition demonstrating how eagles adapt to hunters
- "Tenge Ily" competition (Traditional coin grabbing game while riding a horse)
- Urainkhai archery competition
- Competition for the best Kazakh costume for couples
- Folk concert in the local theatre at Ulgii city
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Eagle Festival, a celebration of tradition, skill, and the enduring bond between hunters and their eagles.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Eagle hunter family | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 4 - Golden Eagle festival

Experience the thrill of traditional Kazakh Horse Games during the festival, including:
- Bush Kushi: A gripping contest where riders engage in a fight for the goat skin on horseback.
- Kiss Woman on Horseback: A playful game where riders attempt to "kiss" a woman on horseback while she defends herself by beating the man with a horse whip.
- Pick Up Flowers from the Land on Horseback: A skillful game requiring riders to pick up flowers from the ground while on horseback.
Participate in the Eagle Festival, featuring:
- Shyrga Tartu (Eagle Adaptation Competition): Eagles will be evaluated based on how fast and smoothly they catch a lure made of rabbit or fox skin.
- Camel Race: Witness the speed and agility of camels in a thrilling race.
- Khyz Khuar Game Show: A traditional horseback riding fan game for youth, with boys being whipped by girls if they are caught.
- Continuation Game "Kukhbar" Competition: A traditional horseback riding game involving a fight over a goat skin.
- Award Ceremony for Festival Winners
- Closing Ceremony: Mark the conclusion of the festival with a memorable ceremony.
Immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of the Eagle Festival, where age-old traditions come to life through thrilling games and competitions.
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
n/a | n/a | n/a | Eagle hunter family | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 5 - Ulaanbaatar city capital city of Mongolia

Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Ulgii as you prepare to fly back to Ulaanbaatar. In the morning, our dedicated driver will ensure a timely drop-off at Ulgii city's airport, facilitating a seamless transition for your departure. As you board your flight, carry with you the memories of the Altai Mountains and the cultural richness of your journey. The skies above Mongolia hold the echoes of your adventures, and Ulaanbaatar awaits to welcome you back. Safe travels, and thank you for being part of this extraordinary exploration!
Distance | Route | fly time | Accommodation | Food |
1280km | Air way | 2 hours | hotel | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Day 6 - Home sweet home

As your time in Ulaanbaatar concludes, our dedicated driver will ensure a timely drop-off at Chinggis Khan International Airport. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for choosing to explore the wonders of Mongolia with us.
Thank you for being part of our journey, and we hope the memories created during your visit will linger as souvenirs of a truly enriching experience. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Mongolia in the future. Until then, farewell and bon voyage!
Distance | Route | Drive time | Accommodation | Food |
70km | highway | 1 hours | n/a | Breakfast |
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