14-day Altai Nomadic & Eagle Hunter Experience (June–august)
About this tour
Tour Highlights
Golden Eagle Release CeremonyWitness a rare and meaningful cultural event led by the first female organizer, celebrating the deep bond between eagle hunters and their birds in a respectful, conservation-focused way.
Altai Mountain Wilderness AdventureExplore the breathtaking landscapes of the Altai Mountains—glaciers, snow-capped peaks, alpine valleys, and untouched wilderness.
Camel Caravan & Nomadic MigrationExperience the traditional movement of nomadic families and travel alongside a camel caravan across vast степpe landscapes.
Authentic Nomadic Life ImmersionStay with Kazakh nomadic families, share daily life, taste traditional food, and experience genuine Mongolian hospitality.
Eagle Hunter Heritage ExperienceMeet skilled eagle hunters, learn about their centuries-old traditions, and see hunting techniques up close.
Off-the-Beaten-Path JourneyTravel far from tourist crowds into remote regions of Western Mongolia rarely seen by outsiders.
Cultural Evenings & StorytellingEnjoy traditional music, stories, and local customs shared by nomadic hosts under the vast степpe sky.
Responsible & Sustainable TravelParticipate in a journey that respects local culture, supports communities, and protects wildlife and nature.
Remote Adventure TravelCross rivers, valleys, and rugged terrain in true expedition style—perfect for adventurous travelers.
Best Summer Season Experience (June–August)Travel during the most beautiful time of year with green landscapes, active nomadic life, and accessible mountain regions.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Bayan-Ölgii, Mongolia
Day-1 Arrival in Ölgii & First Step into Nomadic Life Your adventure begins with a breathtaking flight over Mongolia’s endless степpe, gradually giving way to the rugged Altai Mountains. Upon landing in Ölgii, you are warmly welcomed by your local Kazakh team. As you drive toward Ulaankhus village, the scenery unfolds into wide valleys dotted with white gers and grazing herds. Time seems to slow down. By afternoon, you arrive at your first eagle hunter family. The moment you see a golden eagle up close — powerful, calm, and deeply respected — you understand this is no ordinary journey. Your host introduces you to the ancient bond between hunter and eagle, a tradition passed down for generations. As night falls, you share your first homemade Kazakh meal and settle into a cozy ger under a sky full of stars.
Day 2: Biluu, Mongolia
Holding a Golden Eagle & Riding the Open Steppe Wake up to the quiet sounds of animals and fresh mountain air. Today brings a truly rare moment: holding a golden eagle on your arm. Feeling its strength and balance is unforgettable. Later, you ride horseback into the Altai foothills, where young eagles are trained during the summer months. You’ll witness how hunters build trust with their birds not through force, but patience. The day ends with a warm gathering inside the ger, where you taste beshbarmak, the heart of Kazakh cuisine, and hear stories of life on the land.
Day 3: Biluu, Mongolia
Living as a Nomad This is your chance to step fully into nomadic life. Start your morning helping the family: Milking goats and cows Herding livestock across open pastures Preparing simple, traditional meals You’ll also learn how eagles are cared for — from feeding routines to the meaning behind each piece of equipment. In the evening, laughter fills the air as children gather, games begin, and songs echo under the open sky. It’s a simple life — but deeply rich.
Day 4: Biluu, Mongolia
Meeting the Next Generation of Eagle Hunters Today you travel to another family, where younger eagle hunters are keeping the tradition alive. Here, the experience becomes more hands-on. You’ll explore: How eagle hunting gear is made and used The connection between horse, hunter, and eagle Live eagle flight training in the open valley As the sun sets, you are treated to the sound of the dombra, a traditional instrument that carries the spirit of Kazakh culture.
Day 5: Biluu, Mongolia
Create, Connect, and Celebrate Culture Today is about creativity and connection. Join a traditional handicraft workshop, where you make your own small item — something meaningful you’ll carry home. Spend the afternoon with the family, helping bring in animals and sharing daily life. Nothing is rushed, nothing is staged. Dinner is hearty, conversations are genuine, and you begin to feel less like a visitor — and more like part of the family.
Day 6: Biluu, Mongolia
Nomadic Migration Begins You are now part of something truly special. Summer is the season of movement, and today the family prepares to migrate to higher pastures. You help dismantle the ger, pack belongings, and organize livestock. Then, the highlight: a camel caravan journey. Camels carry the household across wide valleys, just as they have for centuries. Walking alongside them, you don’t just observe tradition — you live it.
Day 7: Biluu, Mongolia
Journey Across the Steppe & Rebuilding Life The migration continues across untouched landscapes. You arrive at the new summer pasture — greener, cooler, and surrounded by mountains. Together with the family, you rebuild the ger from the ground up. By evening, a new home stands where there was none before. A shared meal celebrates the journey — a quiet but powerful moment of achievement.
Day 8: Biluu, Mongolia
Life in the Summer Pastures Now settled in the highlands, you experience the beauty of summer nomadic life. The air is fresh, the grass is lush, and animals graze freely. You can: Ride horses across open valleys Photograph stunning landscapes Simply sit and absorb the silence This is Mongolia at its most peaceful and authentic.
Day 9: Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Into the Altai Mountains Today you travel deeper into the wild heart of the Altai. The road leads to Tavan Bogd National Park, where snow-capped peaks rise dramatically. The scale of nature here is humbling. Arriving at your remote camp, you are surrounded by nothing but mountains, rivers, and sky.
Day 10: Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Glacier Exploration & Alpine Adventure A day of pure exploration. Visit the Potanin Glacier, a massive river of ice stretching across the mountains. Walk or ride horses through alpine valleys where every turn reveals a new, breathtaking view. This is raw, untouched wilderness — powerful and unforgettable
Day 11: Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Lakes, History, and Hidden Stories Travel to the stunning Khoton and Khurgan Lakes. Here, crystal-clear water reflects the mountains like a mirror. But beyond the beauty lies history: Ancient petroglyphs carved into rock Mysterious deer stones and burial sites You are walking through a landscape where humans have lived for thousands of
Day 12: Altai Mountains, Mongolia
Forests & Baga Turgen Waterfall The landscape changes again. You journey into a greener region, where forests replace open plains. At Baga Turgen Waterfall, water cascades down rocky cliffs surrounded by trees — a rare sight in Mongolia. A short hike rewards you with incredible views and peaceful surroundings
Day 13: Khushuut, Mongolia
Tuvan Culture & Throat Singing Today you discover a completely different culture. In Tsengel village, you meet a Tuvan family, known for their deep spiritual traditions. You’ll experience: Throat singing (khoomei) — a haunting, beautiful sound Stories of shamanic beliefs and nature worship A unique way of life shaped by mountains and spirits It’s a powerful cultural contrast that adds depth to your journey.
Day 14: Bayan-Ölgii, Mongolia
Return & Farewell Return to Ölgii with a heart full of memories. Before departure, you may explore small local shops, buy handmade crafts, or simply reflect on the past two weeks. From eagle hunters to glaciers, from camel caravans to ancient songs — this journey stays with you long after it ends.
What's included
Fully guided private tour with experienced local English-speaking guide All accommodation (nomadic family stays, private gers, and wilderness camping) All meals during the itinerary (traditional Kazakh and Mongolian cuisine) Domestic transport in Western Mongolia (4x4 vehicle support) Horse riding and camel caravan experiences as mentioned in the program Eagle hunting cultural experiences and guided interactions Entrance fees to national parks and protected areas Cultural activities, workshops, and performances included in the itinerary
International flights to and from Mongolia Travel insurance (mandatory for remote travel) Visa fees (if applicable) Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs, etc.) Alcoholic beverages Optional tips for guides, drivers, and hosts Accommodation and services in Ulaanbaatar unless requested
What to know
This is a remote expedition-style journey in Western Mongolia with limited infrastructure Daily travel may involve long drives on rough terrain Weather in the Altai Mountains can change quickly, even in summer Cultural experiences depend on seasonal nomadic movement and family availability Flexibility is essential—this is an authentic, living culture experience, not a fixed resort-style tour Warm layers (even in summer: nights can be cold) Waterproof jacket and windproof outerwear Comfortable hiking shoes or boots Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat Personal medications and basic first aid items Reusable water bottle Camera or phone with extra batteries/power bank Small backpack for daily use Cash in Mongolian Tugrik for personal expenses Respectful attitude toward local culture and traditions
Route & locations
Bayan-Ölgii, Mongolia