8 days 7 nights
Daily Tour
12 people
English
Imagine walking among nomadic tribes, surrounded by the raw beauty of Mongolia’s rugged landscapes. The crisp mountain air carries the piercing cries of majestic golden eagles, as they soar majestically overhead. This is the Eagle Festival, a rare and breathtaking spectacle that celebrates the ancient bond between human and raptor.
Silk Road Treks invites you to embark on an extraordinary adventure, witnessing this time-honored tradition in three distinct locations across Western Mongolia. From September 5th to 8th, 2024, you’ll have an exclusive front-row seat to a celebration steeped in culture and awe.
In the remote town of Altai, experience the intimate Local Golden Eagle Festival, where only 35-40 Kazakh Eagle Masters and their regal feathered companions gather. This is no mere tourist attraction, but a revered ritual passed down through generations, cherished by the locals who have made this unforgiving land their home.
Marvel at the incredible trust and rapport between human and eagle, forged through years of training and devotion. Watch in awe as these magnificent birds of prey answer the calls of their masters, swooping down from dizzying heights to snatch their quarry with razor-sharp talons.
But the Eagle Festival is more than just a display of falconry prowess. It’s a window into a world untouched by modernity, where ancient traditions endure and the nomadic spirit thrives. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, savor the hospitality of your hosts, and create memories that will forever etch themselves into your soul.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness a spectacle like no other. Join Silk Road Treks on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Mongolia’s Eagle Festival – an experience that will leave you forever changed.
Our first day marks your international arrival. Depending on your arrival schedule, we may tour the National History Museum, showcasing invaluable relics from Mongolian history. Exploring Sukhbaatar Square, the heart of Ulaanbaatar city, is also on the agenda, conveniently close to our hotel. Accommodation includes hotel stay with lunch and dinner.
Post-breakfast, we proceed to the local airport for a flight to Ulgii town (note that flight timings are approximate). Enjoy lunch at a local Turkish eatery, followed by visits to Ulgii's open market and museum. Our night will be spent at a ger camp after dinner. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Starting with breakfast, we embark on a mountainous drive to Altay town, where we engage with Golden Eagle Hunters and capture memorable moments through photography. Horseback riding is optional, with alternative transport available upon request. The day ends with dinner among the Eagle masters. Meals provided are breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
After breakfast, a short drive takes us to the "Golden Eagle Hunters Festival of Altai." Witness the grandeur of Eagle hunters in traditional attire, showcasing their Eagles in a parade. Spectacular competitions follow, evaluating Eagles for their prowess. Lunch is arranged at the festival site, with dinner in Ulgii town. Ger accommodation includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day two of the festival features more equine activities like horse archery and women's horse competitions, alongside Eagle events. The day concludes with award ceremonies, marking the end of the Golden Eagle Festival. Meals provided are breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Begin the day with a photo session with Eagle hunters, then journey back to Ulgii town, capturing nature's beauty en route. Explore the local market post-lunch and enjoy dinner at the ger camp. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A flight returns us to Ulaanbaatar, allowing a free evening for souvenir shopping post-hotel transfer. Meals provided are breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
We facilitate your transfer to the international departure terminal on this day.
For domestic flights within Mongolia, the luggage allowance is limited to 15 kilograms in total, with 10 kilograms allocated for check-in baggage and 5 kilograms for hand luggage. Additional luggage will incur a fee of 3000-5000 Tugriks per extra kilogram.
At ger camps equipped with generators, electricity is available for a limited duration, typically turned off at night. Some ger camps may have continuous electricity if connected to the local town's power supply, often utilizing Type C and Type E electrical plug types with 2 round holes.
Ger camps do not supply toiletries, so remember to pack your travel essentials. Bringing towels, especially compact, absorbent, and quick-drying travel towels, is advisable.
For comfort during your stay, consider bringing your sleeping bag. However, due to luggage restrictions, you can opt to rent one from us; please inquire beforehand.
While water is provided, we recommend using personal insulated water bottles. Hot water can be arranged at ger camps upon request through your tour guide. During the trip, meals are primarily at ger camps, occasionally enjoying picnic lunches during travel stops.
On day 3, ample opportunities are provided for photographing and interacting with Eagle Masters near the festival site. Some Eagle hunters may join us for dinner and photo sessions.
During our trips, we ensure the best experience for our clients. Our guides and Eagle Masters offer guidance on handling eagles correctly, providing exceptional photo opportunities.
Additional photo sessions with Eagle Hunters can be arranged after or before the festival, with costs ranging from 15 USD per hour to 40 USD per day per Eagle Hunter.
Western Mongolia boasts diverse handicrafts and souvenirs crafted by locals, available at Ulgii town's souvenir shops. Altai festival venues may offer limited souvenir options, making Ulgii town a preferable shopping destination.
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