Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.Western Mongolia is a stunning and rugged region known for its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique nomadic traditions. Here are some of the top highlights:
1. Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Home to the Altai Mountains, including Khüiten Peak (4,374m), the highest point in Mongolia.
Stunning glaciers, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife (e.g., snow leopards and ibex).
Petroglyphs and ancient burial mounds—part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Kazakh Eagle Hunters
Experience the ancient tradition of eagle hunting, where Kazakh nomads train golden eagles to hunt.
Eagle Festival (held annually in September or October) in Bayan-Ölgii Province, showcasing eagle hunting competitions, horse games, and cultural performances.
3. Uvs Lake Basin
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest intact ecosystems in Central Asia.
Diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to salt lakes and snow-capped peaks.
Important habitat for migratory birds and rare wildlife.
4. Khoton and Khurgan Lakes
Crystal-clear glacial lakes located in the Altai Mountains.
Ideal for trekking, camping, and fishing.
Surrounded by Kazakh herders’ summer camps, offering insights into nomadic life.
Today arrive to Ulaanbaatar. You will see a beautiful city.
Today arrive to Bayan Ulgii small city. Meet our driver and guide. Bayan Ulgii town is center of Western Mongolia. Today drive to Sagsai village. 28km. Dusting road. In Sagsai village visiting amazing eagle hunter's family. And stay with eagle hunter.
Today is horse riding day to the mountain Khuriin with eagle hunters. You will also meet female eagle hunter. The youngest eagle huntress in the world. Aymoldir. Share uniquie experience of eagle hunters. Have a nice conversation with eagle hunters. Share true story of eagle huntress. Visiting a Kazakh eagle hunter family in Western Mongolia offers a rare glimpse into an ancient tradition that has been passed down for generations. The Kazakh nomads train golden eagles to hunt foxes, hares, and other small animals during the winter months. When you visit, you’ll be welcomed into a ger (yurt), where you can share salty milk tea and traditional Kazakh dishes. The hunters often demonstrate the bond between themselves and their eagle, explaining how they capture, train, and eventually release the bird back into the wild after years of partnership. This visit provides a unique opportunity to experience nomadic hospitality, learn about eagle hunting techniques, and witness a lifestyle that blends ancient customs with modern life. Staying with eagle hunter.
Today direction to Dayan Lake. Dayan Lake is a freshwater lake located in the Altai Mountains in western Mongolia, near the border with China. It lies within the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park and is known for its clear waters and stunning alpine scenery. The lake is a habitat for various bird species and fish, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists. It is also significant to the Kazakh nomads living in the region, who practice traditional herding nearby. Today drive to Dayan Lake. Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. 200km. Dust road. Around Dayan lake visiting mountain nomads. Stay with nomad family.
Today is visiting nomads. Share nomadic experience. Around Dayan Lake, the Kazakh nomads maintain a rich, traditional lifestyle centered on animal husbandry, including herding yaks, sheep, goats, and horses. Visitors staying with a nomadic family can experience ger (yurt) living, taste homemade dairy products like airag (fermented mare’s milk), and witness eagle hunting, a centuries-old tradition practiced in the region. The nomads warmly share their customs, offering insight into their seasonal migrations, handicrafts, and hospitality rituals, providing an authentic and immersive cultural experience.
Today is driving back to Ulgii area. Drive to 200km. Enjoy landscape. Today is driving to Ulaankhus village. In Ulaankhus village hiking to the most beautiful river Khovd. There is a beautiful bridge. Meet local people. Learning how to make handcraft. Beautiful woman. Staying with a nice family.
Today is driving to the highest mountain Khara Jal. Today is searching wild animals such as ibex, wild largest sheep Argal in the world. Wild Argali Sheep and Ibex The Argali sheep (Ovis ammon) is the largest wild sheep species, native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia, including Mongolia. Known for their massive, spiraling horns, they graze on grasses and shrubs in high-altitude habitats. The Siberian Ibex (Capra sibirica) is a wild goat species found in rocky mountain ranges across Central Asia. They are skilled climbers, using their strong legs and curved horns to navigate steep terrains while feeding on grasses, mosses, and shrubs. Both species are adapted to harsh, cold environments and play a vital role in their ecosystems. Staying in Ulaankhus with Erka's family.
Today is driving to Tolbo lake. On the way to Tolbo, you will have a Bayan Ulgii town tour. You will go to local bazaar. Art shop. Then drive to Tolbo lake. Tolbo Lake is a beautiful, high-altitude freshwater lake located in western Mongolia, in Bayan-Ölgii Province, about 50 km (31 miles) south of the provincial capital, Ölgii. It sits at an elevation of approximately 2,080 meters (6,824 feet) above sea level and covers an area of about 185 km². Key Features of Tolbo Lake: Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by rugged mountains and vast steppes, Tolbo Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning, remote landscapes. Historical Significance: It was the site of the Battle of Tolbo Lake in 1921, where Mongolian and Soviet forces fought against the White Russian army during the Mongolian Revolution. Wildlife & Nature: The lake and its surroundings host diverse wildlife, including migratory birds such as swans, ducks, and geese. It is also a popular spot for fishing. Tourism: Visitors come for activities like camping, fishing, and photography, especially during the summer. The area is also a gateway to the Altai Mountains and the Kazakh nomadic culture. Today is staying with nomad family around Tolbo lake.
Today is driving for 340km. It has a nice pave road. Drive to the most beautiful Chandmani village. The biggest sand dunez is next to Chandmani village. Staying in Chandmani village with family. Chandmani Mongol Els is a sand dune located in western Mongolia. It is part of the Great Lakes Depression and stretches across Khovd and Uvs provinces. The dunes are known for their golden sands, rolling landscapes, and unique desert ecosystem. Visitors can explore the vast dunes, experience camel trekking, and enjoy the stunning sunsets over the sand. The area is also home to nomadic herders, offering a glimpse into traditional Mongolian life.
Today is driving to Durgun lake and Chandmani Mongol Els Sand Dunez. Hiking day on sand dunez. Amazing view of nature. No touristic spot. Untouched, raw, more authentic experience. Chandmani Mongol Els is a sand dune located in western Mongolia. It is part of the Great Lakes Depression and stretches across Khovd and Uvs provinces. The dunes are known for their golden sands, rolling landscapes, and unique desert ecosystem. Visitors can explore the vast dunes, experience camel trekking, and enjoy the stunning sunsets over the sand. The area is also home to nomadic herders, offering a glimpse into traditional Mongolian life. In the evening drive back to Khovd small town. 80km. Pave road. Staying in hotel.
Today is your flight to Ulaanbaatar. Thank you very much.
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia