Mongolia's Eagle Festival: a journey into nomadic culture
During this incredible 10-day trip, you’ll embark on an extraordinary journey through Mongolia, where cultural heritage, wildlife, and the captivating Eagle Festival await.
Highlights of this tailor-made tour include the breathtaking Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, a camel ride through the sand dunes of the awe-inspring Gobi Desert, and the two-day Eagle Festival where you’ll witness the remarkable bond between Kazakh nomads and their majestic golden eagles. You'll do this and more, all whilst experiencing the true hospitality, culture and traditions of the country's nomadic people, whose lifestyle has remained since the days of Genghis Khan.
Services
Included:
- Nine nights accommodation (three, four or five-star hotels in Ulaanbaatar, local hotel in Ölgii, standard gers at camps)
- Eight breakfasts, eight lunches, six dinners
- Domestic flights (luggage included)
- Airport transfers as per the itinerary
- Private transportation during trip
- English-speaking guide throughout trip
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
Excluded:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Any meals & drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Tip & gratuities
Optional:
- Horse riding (from US$10 per hour, per person)
- Camel riding (from US$10 per hour, per person)
Itinerary at a Glance
Ulaanbaatar
Welcome to Mongolia!
Ulaanbaatar - Gorkhi Terelj National Park
Your first day of exploration
Gorkhi Terelj National Park - Olgii
The natural beauty of Mongolia
Olgii
A unique experience: the Mongolian Eagle Festival
Olgii
Traditional Kazakh culture
Olgii
A culinary adventure
Olgii - Ulaanbaatar - Hustai National Park
The beauty of Hustai National Park
Hustai National Park
Sand dunes & camel rides
Hustai National Park - Ulaanbaatar
Soaking in the Mongolian culture
Ulaanbaatar
Goodbye Mongolia!
Detailed Itinerary
Ulaanbaatar
Day 1: Welcome to Mongolia!
You’ll arrive in Ulaanbaatar where a driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Once you’ve checked into the hotel, feel free to freshen up and relax before enjoying the rest of the day at your own pace, leisurely exploring the capital city.
Ulaanbaatar - Gorkhi Terelj National Park
Day 2: Your first day of exploration
Meet your guide early morning for an exciting half-day tour of Mongolia's capital, Ulaanbaatar. Highlights include; the impressive Gandan Monastery, which houses the 26m gilded statue of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, the National Museum of Mongolia, and a leisurely stroll through the bustling central square.
After a morning of cultural exploration, indulge in a delightful lunch at a premier Mongolian restaurant, offering a diverse array of Mongolian cuisines guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. You’ll then head to the magnificent Giant Genghis monument! Towering at an impressive 46m, it’s the largest of its kind in the world.
You’ll drive to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park to visit Turtle Rock and the Temple of Meditation, and enjoy an hour of horseback riding. As the day draws to a close, you’ll head to your unique accommodation for the night, a traditional ger camp.
Gorkhi Terelj National Park - Olgii
Day 3: The natural beauty of Mongolia
After breakfast, enjoy a serene morning exploring Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. You’ll then drive to Chinggis Khaan International Airport where you’ll take a short domestic flight to Ölgii, the capital of the Bayan-Ölgii Aimag province.
Upon arrival, you’ll be collected by your local guide who will take you on a tour of the city exploring the local mosques, the bustling black market, and quaint hand-crafted stores. Following this, prepare to lace up your hiking boots for a brief trek up a nearby trail, where a panoramic view of Ölgii awaits your admiration.
Olgii
Day 4: A unique experience: the Mongolian Eagle Festival
Get ready for a jam-packed two days! Today you’ll head to Tolbo Lake where you can indulge in the captivating and unique atmosphere of the annual Eagle Festival. Spend the next few days immersed in the richness of Kazakh culture and witness the time-honored tradition of hunting with golden eagles.
The festival showcases the best of Kazakh traditions and offers a vibrant program of events, including the much-anticipated colorful parade where adorned Kazakhs proudly present their magnificent golden eagles, adding to the spectacle of this cultural celebration.
Olgii
Day 5: Traditional Kazakh culture
It’s your final day at the Eagle Festival, so soak up the rich atmosphere enjoying today’s activities; golden eagle hunting demonstrations, eagle competitions and local crafts and cuisines all await. Attending the Eagle Festival in Mongolia offers a unique and immersive cultural experience, allowing travelers to connect with the traditions of the Kazakh nomads and witness the incredible bond between the hunters and their golden eagles.
Olgii
Day 6: A culinary adventure
Following days immersed in the rich tapestry of Kazakh culture, a special opportunity awaits as you visit the home of a Kazakh eagle hunter's family. Witness firsthand the extraordinary bond shared between these nomads and their majestic golden eagles. Spending time with the Kazakh family, you'll gain insights into the ancient art of eagle training. You'll also have the unique chance to learn the secrets of crafting traditional Kazakh cuisine and enjoy a delightful lunch in their company.
In the afternoon, transfer back to Ölgii, where you can rest and prepare for tomorrow's flight back to Ulaanbaatar.
Olgii - Ulaanbaatar - Hustai National Park
Day 7: The beauty of Hustai National Park
Take a short flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, transfer to Hustai National Park, offering a remarkable wildlife encounter in its expansive landscape. The park serves as the native habitat for the rare Przewalski's horse, also known as the Takhi, which was once extinct in Mongolia but has been successfully reintroduced. Immerse yourself in the opportunity to witness these magnificent animals thriving in their natural environment.
Keep a keen eye out for other indigenous wildlife, including red deer, wolves, foxes, and playful marmots. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted by the chance to spot various bird species, including the golden eagle.
Hustai National Park
Day 8: Sand dunes & camel rides
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast and a thrilling drive to Bayangobi sand dunes and the picturesque Khogno Khan Mountain.
Following lunch at your ger camp, delve into history with a visit to the ancient ruins of Erdene Khamba Monastery. Brace yourself for an adventurous afternoon, including invigorating hiking and a thrilling one to two-hour camel ride on the mesmerizing sand dunes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Your exploration continues as you visit a nomadic family of horse or camel breeders, immersing yourself in the daily rhythms of nomadic life and savoring the taste of their traditional dairy products. Return to the camp, unwind, and settle in for a restful overnight stay.
Hustai National Park - Ulaanbaatar
Day 9: Soaking in the Mongolian culture
Take in the scenery of the sand dunes one last time before driving back to Ulaanbaatar. On the journey, for those wanting to do some last-minute shopping, there will be an optional visit to a traditional Mongolian cashmere store and souvenir shop.
As the evening approaches, visit the Zaisan Memorial Hill for a breathtaking panoramic view of the budding urban nomads' city. It's the perfect way to say farewell to Mongolia and take in the beauty of the city one last time.
You'll end the day with a breathtaking folklore performance by the Tumen Ekh ensemble followed by a memorable farewell dinner, where you can enjoy some delicious traditional Mongolian cuisine and say goodbye to your guide.
Ulaanbaatar
Day 10: Goodbye Mongolia!
Today marks the end of your Mongolian adventure. Your driver will transfer you to the airport for a safe journey home!
