eagle hunting festival
The eagle hunting festival in far western Mongolia is one of the most unique experiences you will ever see. Located deep in the Altai mountain range the Kazakhs train their eagles to hunt for rabbits and foxes. Here the ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles is still alive. Once a year hunters from all over Bayan-Olgii province gather to celebrate this traditional skill. They compete against each other to show off the abilities of both birds and their trainers. Prizes are awarded for the fastest eagle, the best traditional dress, and more. Various folklore performances are given throughout the festival. We take you to be a part of this regional festival and also to visit with Kazakh families, join hunters on hunting trips, and see different attractions in Bayan Olgii province.
Itinerary
Day 1(Sept 29): Arrive in Ulaan Baatar and check into hotel or guest house. Lunch. City tour including Gandan monastery, Sukhbataar Square, and Zaison Memorial. Shopping and dinner at Mongolian Nomad’s restaurant. Overnight in hotel.
Day 2(Sept 30): After breakfast fly to Olgii (capitol city of Bayan-Olgii province). Lunch. Drive to festival area to visit with local families. Observe hunters practicing for eagle hunting. Dinner and overnight in ger or tents.
Day 3(Oct 1): After breakfast explore the area and visit with more families. Lunch. Relax or explore. Dinner and overnight in ger or tents.
Day 4,5(Oct2,3) On these two days we will join the fantastic eagle festival competition beginning with each hunter displaying his hunting outfit and accessories. The most elaborate and beautiful adornments receive the highest marks. Later the golden eagles are evaluated for their speed and agility. There will also be traditional Kazakh games such as Kokbar and Kazakh archery. Lunches and dinners will be provided. Overnights will be in ger or tents.
Day 6(Oct 4) After breakfast we will take a flight back to Ulaan Baatar. Check into hotel and then further opportunities for shopping. Lunch. Mongolian traditional concert in the evening. Dinner and overnight in hotel.
Day 7(Oct 5) Transfer for departure
EAGLE FESTIVAL PRICING
1 Person/$1175+airfare*
2 People/$692.50+airfare* per person
3 People/$531+airfare* per person
4 People/$631+airfare* per person
5 People/$547+airfare* per person
6 People/$490+airfare* per person
*airfare within Mongolia should be budgeted at $250; if the cost ends up being less it will be refunded to you.
All prices are USD
Hotel or guesthouse stay while in Ulaan Baatar are not included
