Naadam Festival And Exploring Nomadic Life Tour
About this tour
This 14-day adventure begins with a two-day cultural tour in **Ulaanbaatar**, exploring its historic sites and vibrant culture. Afterward, you fly to **Ulgii**, where you’ll embark on a thrilling journey through the **Altai Mountains**. You'll visit **eagle hunter families**, witness **eagle hunting**, and trek through the stunning wilderness on horseback. The experience culminates in the **Ulgii Naadam Festival**, where you’ll witness traditional **wrestling, archery, and horse racing**. This immersive program offers an authentic glimpse into Mongolia's nomadic culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Day 1: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar Your journey begins as you arrive in Ulaanbaatar, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, embark on a tour of Mongolia’s vibrant capital. Visit the Gandan Monastery, a magnificent Buddhist sanctuary, where you’ll witness monks performing rituals. Continue to the National Museum of Mongolia, exploring the nation’s rich history, from the time of the Mongol Empire to the present. In the evening, savor a welcome dinner, introducing you to authentic Mongolian cuisine.
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar City Tour Today, you’ll discover more of Ulaanbaatar’s cultural treasures. Visit Sukhbaatar Square, the heart of the city, named after the revolutionary leader. Then, head to the Zaisan Memorial, perched on a hilltop, offering sweeping views over the capital. Afterward, visit the Bogd Khan Palace Museum, the opulent winter residence of Mongolia’s last king. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing performance of traditional Mongolian folk music and dance, setting the tone for your adventurous days ahead.
Day 3: Ölgii, Mongolia
Day 3: Fly to Ulgii – Western Mongolia This morning, you’ll catch a flight to Ulgii, the capital of Bayan-Ölgii Province, located in the far western reaches of Mongolia. Here, you’ll be welcomed by your Kazakh guide and transferred to a ger camp. This region is home to Mongolia’s Kazakh minority, known for their centuries-old eagle hunting traditions. Settle into your cozy ger and enjoy a hearty meal while your guide introduces you to the upcoming adventures in this breathtaking landscape.
Day 4: Uujim, Mongolia
Day 4: Visit Eagle Hunter Family Today, set off on horseback through the rugged terrain to the home of a renowned Kazakh eagle hunter. As you ride, the dramatic vistas of the Altai Mountains unfold around you. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the family, offering you an authentic glimpse into their nomadic life. Spend the evening learning about the art of eagle hunting, a tradition passed down through generations, and enjoy the hospitality of your hosts in their ger.
Day 5: Khushuut, Mongolia
Day 5: Eagle Hunting Experience Immerse yourself in the ancient tradition of eagle hunting as you accompany the eagle hunter and their magnificent golden eagle on a live hunt. Marvel at the synergy between the hunter and their bird as they seek out prey in the wilderness. You’ll also have the opportunity to handle the eagle under the hunter’s guidance and learn the intricacies of this unique skill. Afterward, return to the family’s ger for a traditional Kazakh meal and stories around the fire.
Day 6: Khoton Lake, Mongolia
Day 6: Horse Riding and Trekking in the Altai Mountains After a traditional breakfast, begin your trek on horseback through the stunning Altai Mountains. Ride along vast valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and alpine meadows, with the jagged snow-capped peaks in the background. Stop for a picnic lunch amid nature, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. Continue your journey, exploring ancient petroglyph sites and learning about the region’s rich history. As the day ends, set up camp in a scenic spot under the stars.
Day 7: Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia
Day 7-8: Deep Exploration in Altai Mountains These two days will be spent deep in the wild beauty of the Altai, riding through remote wilderness areas rarely seen by outsiders. You’ll ride alongside herds of grazing yaks and nomadic livestock, and possibly encounter rare wildlife like ibex and marmots. At night, enjoy camping by the riverside, where you can sit around the campfire, stargazing and reflecting on the day’s adventure. The untouched beauty of the Altai will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Day 8: Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia
Day 7-8: Deep Exploration in Altai Mountains These two days will be spent deep in the wild beauty of the Altai, riding through remote wilderness areas rarely seen by outsiders. You’ll ride alongside herds of grazing yaks and nomadic livestock, and possibly encounter rare wildlife like ibex and marmots. At night, enjoy camping by the riverside, where you can sit around the campfire, stargazing and reflecting on the day’s adventure. The untouched beauty of the Altai will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Day 9: Ölgii, Mongolia
Day 9: Return to Ulgii Begin your return journey on horseback to Ulgii, passing through more picturesque valleys and plains. After a full day of riding, you’ll arrive back in Ulgii in the late afternoon. You’ll have some time to explore the small town, visit the local market, and relax. In the evening, settle into your guesthouse and prepare for the excitement of the upcoming Naadam Festival.
Day 10: Ölgii, Mongolia
Day 10: Ulgii Naadam Festival – Day 1 (July 11) Today, the Ulgii Naadam Festival begins! This local version of Mongolia’s national festival offers an intimate and authentic experience of Kazakh wrestling, archery, and horse racing. The opening ceremony is a vibrant display of culture, with traditional music, dances, and costumes. Spend the day watching the competitors as they demonstrate their prowess in these ancient sports. You’ll also have the chance to meet locals and learn about their Naadam traditions.
Day 11: Ölgii, Mongolia
Day 11: Ulgii Naadam Festival – Day 2 (July 12) Continue your immersion in the Naadam Festival, traveling out to the steppe to witness the thrilling horse racing events. The races, held on vast open plains, are a spectacle of speed and skill, with jockeys as young as six years old riding bareback. Enjoy a picnic on the steppe, taking in the festival atmosphere and celebrating this deeply cherished tradition. By evening, return to Ulgii for a special dinner with locals, sharing stories of the day.
Day 12: Ölgii, Mongolia
Day 12: Ulgii Naadam Festival – Day 3 (July 13) The final day of the Naadam Festival brings even more excitement. Watch the climactic rounds of wrestling, as the strongest competitors vie for the championship. The closing ceremony is a joyous event, with the winners honored and the community coming together to celebrate. As the festival draws to a close, you’ll enjoy a traditional Kazakh feast, a fitting end to this incredible cultural experience.
Day 13: Ölgii, Mongolia
Day 13: Fly Back to Ulaanbaatar After an unforgettable time in Western Mongolia, fly back to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore the city further, visit local markets for last-minute souvenirs, or simply relax and unwind after your adventure. Enjoy a final evening in the capital with an optional farewell dinner, reflecting on your remarkable journey.
Day 14: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
After breakfast, transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport for your departure flight, bringing an end to your extraordinary adventure in Mongolia, filled with cultural wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences
What's included
• Airport pick up drop off. • Restricted area permits. • Local guides and international group leader( Ann). • Professional off road drivers and comfortable clean cars. • All accommodation (comfortable camping, ger camps, hotels). • All meals and snacks during the trip. • Beverage during the trip, but not included alcohol. • All local entrance fees during sightseeing. • Horses. • All camping equipment. • Photo and video shooting. • Professional camping team( campsite chef and few helpers, who will set up our camp).
International flights. • Insurance. • Local sim card. • Visa fee if needed. • Any extra activities which not mentioned in program. • Tips and gifts
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me. Flights You should arrive to Mongolia integration airport in Ulaanbaatar city. There are flights via Istanbul, Frankfurt, Korea, China. This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me. please let us know if you have any special diet or food allergies. So we can prepare for you special menu.
Route & locations
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia