Golden Eagle festival tour /5 days/
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Experience the age-old tradition of hunting small animals with the aid of majestic birds of prey, such as falcons, hawks, and eagles, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Kazakh people. For centuries, falconry has been a regal pursuit among the Khans and nobles of the Central Asian steppe. This ancient custom lives on among the Kazakhs residing in the Altai Mountains of Mongolia. The Eagle Hunting Festival offers an unforgettable showcase of the supreme skills of the best Kazakh hunters, highlighting the unique artistry of the bond between man and bird. Capture this extraordinary display of Kazakh traditional eagle hunting through your lens, creating a treasure trove of rare photographs documenting this exotic nomadic culture.
- Category: Event and Festival tours
- Available: October
- Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
- Destination: Western Mongolia
ESSENTIALS
GUIDE
A Chinese, English, or Russian-speaking Mongolian guide will accompany the group throughout the trip. The guide, a native Mongolian with extensive local knowledge, will cater to any requests, ensuring your holiday becomes an unforgettable experience.
TRANSPORT
For this trip, you have two options. The first is a high-level, latest model, air-conditioned private 4WD vehicle for maximum comfort during your touring days. The second option is a Russian 4x4 Van, operated by a driver with 20 years of experience.
MEALS
In Mongolia, dining will take place at fine American, European, and Asian cuisine restaurants. The Mongolian diet primarily consists of mutton, beef, rice, and noodles, forming the basis of your meals. Trail rations may include vegetables, eggs, peanut butter, cheese, and occasionally yak! Some days will feature lunchboxes prepared by our cook.
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 |
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 |
RELATED TOURS
Amid the communist era in Kazakhstan, many Kazakhs sought refuge in Mongolia, establishing themselves in Bayan Ulgii, a region designated for the Kazakhs of Mongolia today. The Altaic Kazakhs, or Altai-Kazakhs, residing in Mongolia's Bayan-Ölgii Province, continue the age-old tradition of eagle hunting.
Experience the cultural richness of Mongolia with the Naadam festival, a traditional event featuring the three games of men: Mongolian wrestling, horse racing, and archery. Similar to the Ancient Greek Olympics, Naadam is a celebration held nationwide during midsummer. This tour, the Mongolian Gobi Express
Experience the fascinating nomadic culture of Mongolia, enjoying the summer Naadam festival with horse racing, wrestling and archery competitions. Naadam, literally means “games” and takes place from 11th to 13th July every year. It’s believed to be celebrated since the early Middle Ages, being already held during Chinggis Khaan times, presumably with a different format than it’s now.