Golden Eagle festival tour is great showcase of ancient tradition of hunting with eagles that’s still kept alive in Western Mongolia today. Mongolian Kazakhs train eagles for hunting, and some well trained and skilled eagles are believed to be capable of catching wolves. Nowadays, eagle hunters live in the spectacular Altai Mountain ranges, which rise to 4,374m above sea level. Like other Mongols, they are nomadic and spend the autumn alongside the beautiful mountain lakes across the range.
Zendmen Travel Advantages
Attend the Golden Eagle Festival
Authentic experience with Mongolian Kazakh Eagle hunters
Locally sourced meals
Ethical tour operation to the place and people you visit
Day 1. Arrival in Ulaanbaatar
The contrast between ancient traditions and the dawning of a 20th-century democracy is most visible in Ulaanbaatar, where traditional gers (felt tents) and Buddhist monasteries coexist with modern high-rises. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed by your ZENDMEN TRAVEL’ guide and transferred to a comfortable, centrally located hotel within walking distance of various museums and shops. After a few hours to rest or stretch your legs, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
(Hotel*** or ****; L, D)
Day 2. Fly to Ulgii
Take a domestic flight to Ulgii in the morning. Ulgii is the westernmost town of Mongolia. Enjoy Kazakh cuisine for lunch in a local restaurant in Ulgii. Visiting local markets and museums will be a good way to start exploring the lifestyle. Pay a visit to Nairamdal hilltop where you can have a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
(Local hotel; B, L, D)
Day 3. Golden Eagle Festival
Today, we’ll start our day early as we make our way to the grounds of The Golden Eagle Festival just outside Ulgii. Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating opening ceremony of the festival, highlighted by the impressive Eagle Hunters’ parade. The thrilling competitions commence as each Kazak participant showcases their unique hunting attire and accessories. The intricately detailed and exquisite adornments are rewarded with top scores. Following this, a thrilling display of the Golden Eagles’ speed and agility will take place, adding to the excitement of the day.
(Local Hotel; B, L, D)
Day 4. Golden Eagle Festival, Visit Eagle Hunter’s family
The festivities carry on into the second day, featuring the captivating Shyrga Tartu event. During this competition, the eagles’ skills are assessed based on how swiftly and gracefully they capture a lure crafted from rabbit or fox skin. As the day progresses, the Kukhbar competition adds to the excitement, with participants engaging in a spirited horseback riding game centered around vying for possession of goat skin.
An enriching experience awaits as you pay a visit to a Kazakh Eagle Hunter family, offering you the chance to immerse yourself in their warm and hospitable culture during the evening. Much like their Mongol counterparts, Kazakhs also reside in intricately adorned felt yurts, featuring exquisite Kazakh embroidery. The bond between hunters and their eagles is akin to that of family members, reflecting the deep connection they share.
Delight in the renowned hospitality of Kazakh women, who are celebrated for their mastery of tea preparation and their welcoming demeanor. Embrace the opportunity to spend quality time with this local Kazakh family, gaining insights into their way of life and forming lasting memories.
(Kazakh Family Stay; B, L, D)
Day 5. Cultural Day with Kazakhs
Today, we’ll delve into the rich tapestry of local Kazakh culture and tradition, immersing ourselves in the intricacies of their customs. You’ll also have the chance to engage with the local animal herding practices, gaining firsthand experience of their way of life. As an added highlight, we can arrange a photography session in collaboration with an eagle hunter. This presents an ideal avenue to bring your creative vision to life.
As the day draws to a close, we’ll make our way back to Ulgii, ensuring a fulfilling and enriching day comes to a satisfying conclusion.
(Local Hotel; B, L, D)
Day 6. Return to Ulaanbaatar
You will take a flight to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s bustling capital city, which has much to offer its visitors. You can spend your time at boutique shops, trendy restaurants, fashion shows, and folk and pop concerts. Buddhist culture has got a strong presence in Ulaanbaatar. In the evening, enjoy a folk concert by Tumen Ekh Ensemble, followed by a farewell dinner.
(Hotel*** or ****; B, L, D)
Day 7. Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for departure.
