Mongolia Altai Golden Eagle Festival
Mongolia Altai Golden Eagle Festival
13 Days Starting and ending in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Visiting: Ulaanbaatar, Ölgii, Altai Mountains, Khuiten Valley, Turgen Valley, Altantsogts
Tour operator:
Tour code:
EAG1
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Mongolia with the Altai Golden Eagle Festival tour. This cultural adventure offers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking agility of eagle hunters at the renowned festival. Explore the stunning Lakes Region, nestled in the shadow of the Altai Mountains, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of local Kazakh families with stays in ger camps. Discover ancient petroglyphs at Biluut Tolgoi and enjoy traditional Mongolian folk music and dance in Ulaanbaatar. Savor authentic Mongolian delicacies like milk tea and homemade curds. With a maximum group size of 12, this tour ensures an intimate and enriching experience, guided by experts and local guides. Enjoy the comfort of domestic flights and sturdy 4WD minibuses as you traverse this captivating landscape, all while contributing to climate and community projects.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tour Starts In Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Starting this morning, we’ll have an introductory meeting at the hotel before paying a visit to the Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important in Mongolia. You can wander around this fascinating site as we explore the different temples, including that of the Mijig Janraisig with its huge golden Buddha statue. In the old temple complex we can listen to the chanting ceremonies which happen mid-morning. This afternoon we then take a walk across the expansive Sukhbaatar Square to the National History Museum which is a great introduction to the country's past. In the early evening, we enjoy a music and dance performance by the Tumen Ekh Ensemble. The hour-long performance shows us traditional Mongolian dance, singing and music with various instruments including the horse fiddle and singers along with traditional throat singers.
Day 2: Ulaanbaatar - Ölgii
Location: Ölgii
Accommodation: Hotel Makhsum or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Makhsum or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a morning flight to Ölgii, we will check-in to our hotel and have breakfast. We will then take a stroll around the low-rise town of Ölgii - a mix of soviet-style buildings and traditional clay brick dwellings. We will visit the Olgii museum and find out more about the region. We will explore Ölgii's bazaar where you may wish to purchase some handmade Kazakh textiles at a variety of small local outlets. Rugs, wall hangings, fur hats, hunting accessories, wooden carvings, bags, cushion covers and much more. There will be an opportunity to visit the local bazaar and supermarket to buy any last minute items before heading south. In the evening enjoy a small traditional concert by traditional dombra players before dinner.
*Please note that should the domestic flight schedules change the sightseeing on this day may need to be revised.
Day 3: Olgii - Lake Dayan
Location: Lake Dayan
Accommodation: Eagle Hunter Ger Homestay
Accommodation Name: Eagle Hunter Ger Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we head south through the open countryside and wild Altai landscape to Lake Dayan where we will be staying for the next 3 nights in a ger next to a local eagle hunter, Shokan, and his family. Enroute we will see the Turkic 'man-stone' locally known as a a 'balbal', some ancient petroglyphs and Khar Nuu, the Black Lake. On arrival to our ger camp we will enjoy the Kazakh hospitality. Inside the family's colourfully adorned ger we learn more about the tradition of this small ethnic group. Arrival day is often spent with guests being introduced to the family and their way of life, which will include sampling some milk tea, homemade curds, yoghurt and other delicacies. Time also for an afternoon walk in the surrounding countryside before a welcome dinner.
*Approx 5hrs driving time.
Day 4: Lake Dayan
Location: Lake Dayan
Accommodation: Eagle Hunter Ger Homestay
Accommodation Name: Eagle Hunter Ger Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will learn about our host's fascinating tradition of hunting with his golden eagle as we head off either on horseback alongside Shokan or by vehicle close by. There are an estimated 250 eagle hunters living in the region that still hunt with eagles to this day. The females tend to be the birds of choice as they are bigger and more aggressive than the males. Eagles can live up to 50 years, but hunters tend to keep them for around ten years before releasing them back into the wild. This is a great opportunity to delve deeper into these traditions and also get involved with other daily activities, herding and corralling animals, milking goats and sheep, and other daily nomadic tasks that need doing.
Day 5: Lake Dayan - Khuites Valley
Location: Lake Dayan
Accommodation: Eagle Hunter Ger Homestay
Accommodation Name: Wilderness Ger Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we head north-west up to a secluded forested valley where nomadic families have their autumn encampments and take their animals to shelter from the oncoming winter. We will be staying in a private wilderness camp complete with sleeping gers and dining and kitchen gers. From here we will explore this stunning area over the next 2 days. On arrival we can take an afternoon hike up to the top of a nearby viewpoint where there are stunning views south over the Altai Mountains in the distance, with Khoton and Khurgan Lakes in the foreground.*Driving time: Approx. 3-4 hrs
Day 6: Khuites Valley
Location: Altai Mountains
Accommodation: Wilderness Ger Camp
Accommodation Name: Wilderness Ger Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we have a full day exploring the area, we will head off on a mountain hike to a location overlooking the Khoton and Khurgan Lake. We will enjoy nomadic hospitality in local's gers and enjoy feast of traditional Kazakh beshparmak in the evening.
Day 7: Khuites Valley - Aral Tolgoi - Baga Turgen Waterfall - Khuites Valley
Location: Khuiten Valley
Accommodation: Wilderness Ger Camp
Accommodation Name: Wilderness Ger Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lying at the northern end of the Altai Mountain Range, the Lakes Region presents us with some of the most spectacular scenery of the journey. We begin the morning with a drive out to Aral Tolgoi, whose Bronze Age petroglyphs lie along the eastern shores of the lakes. We then can enjoy a 2-3 hour hike to Baga Turgen Waterfall, a 36-metre high cascade that lies at the end of a lovely walk. Please note that the waterfall walk is weather dependent.
Day 8: Khuites Valley - Turgen Valley
Location: Altai Mountains
Accommodation: Wilderness Ger Camp
Accommodation Name: Festival Ger Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will have the opportunity to relax or if you prefer participate in more activities. In the afternoon we drive towards Sagsai, where the eagle festival will be held. We will continue into the nearby Turgen Valley, where the group will be staying in a specially erected ger camp not far from the Hovd River. This evening we'll arrange another eagle hunter photo session.*Driving time: Approx. 5.5 hrs
Day 9: Sagsai Eagle Festival
Location: Turgen Valley
Accommodation: Festival Ger Camp
Accommodation Name: Festival Ger Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning provides us with the first opportunity to experience the remarkable colour and pageantry of the Golden Eagle Hunters Festival of Sagsai. Sagsai's more intimate celebrations provide a chance to enjoy the splendour and spectacle of the festival without the crowds. Today's events include the opening ceremony with a parade of the eagle hunters, competitions to test the agility and mastery of bird and hunter. We will be only a few kilometres from the festival site so those of you who would like to ride there can do so.
Day 10: Sagsai Eagle Festival
Location: Altantsogts
Accommodation: Festival Ger Camp
Accommodation Name: Festival Ger Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A second day of festivities provides more games and ceremonies on the high desert steppes. Returning to the festival this morning we will enjoy more spectacular photo opportunities as we take in another day of competition and colour. Today’s offerings provide more chances to watch the eagles put through their paces, as they are called by the hunters to land on their arms or attack dragged bait.
Day 11: Turgen Valley - Ölgii
Location: Altantsogts
Accommodation: Festival Ger Camp
Accommodation Name: Hotel Makhsum or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we leave the Turgen Valley and drive to Ölgii. We will explore Ölgii's bazaar and the town's museum. You may wish to purchase some handmade Kazakh textiles that you may like to purchase at a variety of small local outlets. Rugs, wall hangings, fur hats, hunting accessories, wooden carvings, bags, cushion covers and much more. In the evening enjoy a small traditional concert by traditional dombra players before dinner.*Please note that should the domestic flight schedules change the sightseeing on this day may need to be revised.
Day 12: Khuites Valley - Ölgii - Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ölgii
Accommodation: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Departing this morning we will head back to Ölgii to catch our flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Depending on time we can then enjoy some downtime or a bit of shopping before meeting for our farewell dinner together at one of our favourite local restaurants.
Day 13: Tour Ends In Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Meals Included: Breakfast
The tour finishes this morning at the hotel, those on the suggested group flights will be transferred to the airport.
What's Included
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MEALS
12 x Breakfasts12 x Lunches12 x Dinners
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TRANSPORT
On this tour we will use domestic flights and sturdy UAZ 4WD minibuses for the whole of the journey
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GROUP SIZE
Maximum: 12
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CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to climate and community projects for all bookings
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EXPERT TEAM
The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate
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ACCOMMODATION
All accommodation as outlined in the itinerary
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ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary
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FITNESS RATING
Low / Moderate
What's Not Included
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Visas & Travel Insurance
Visas are nationality dependent and travel insurance is mandatory but not included.
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Tips
Tips are optional and not included, but guidance will be provided in the pre-departure information documents.
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International Flights
International flights are not included, but an obligation-free quote for flights originating in the UK can be provided.
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Airport Transfers
Complimentary transfers are included only if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.
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Beverages & Personal Costs
Beverages and any costs of a personal nature, such as laundry and souvenirs, are not included.
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ExcludedItem
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras.
As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Visas
VISAS
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Mongolia if staying for up to 30 days.
Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to Mongolia.
For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.
For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.
If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Key Aspects to Consider
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as all the walks are optional.
The Baga Turgen Waterfall walk is over loose and rocky terrain with some inclines/declines. Those with a good level of fitness should be able to cope with this walk.
Please be advised that on this trip vegetarians can be catered for but the selection and variety may be very limited, therefore we recommend packing a few extra bits to fill the gaps!
There are some long drives to be taken (please refer to day-by-day itinerary) but that is part of the Mongolian experience, and there will always be time for walks, photos and local encounters. Horse riding is available on some days of the tour, as an optional extra but only for those with previous riding experience.
Currently the Sagsai Eagle Festival is scheduled for 17 and 18 September 2025. Please note that festival dates are subject to change short notice and changes to the itinerary maybe necessary.
Travelling Solo and single supplements
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you only for the nights in Ulaanbaatar and Olgii.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
Insurance
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
Travelling Solo
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.
On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you only for the nights in Ulaanbaatar and Olgii.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Mongolia using domestic flights and sturdy UAZ 4WD minibuses, ensuring a comfortable journey across the diverse landscapes. This combination of air and road transport allows for seamless exploration of the country's remote regions.
Accommodation
Experience authentic Mongolian hospitality with stays in ger camps, guest gers, and hotels like the Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel. Enjoy the unique charm of Eagle Hunter Ger Homestays and Wilderness Ger Camps, offering a blend of traditional and modern comforts.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses domestic flights and sturdy UAZ 4WD minibuses for the entire journey.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 12 people.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 12 dinners.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
Accommodation includes stays in hotels, ger homestays with local families, and wilderness and festival ger camps.
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What activities are included during the stay at Lake Dayan?
During the stay at Lake Dayan, you will learn about eagle hunting traditions, participate in daily nomadic tasks, and visit other nomadic families to experience their hospitality.
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What can I expect at the Golden Eagle Hunters Festival?
At the Golden Eagle Hunters Festival, you can expect to see a parade of eagle hunters, competitions testing the agility of the eagles and hunters, and equestrian games including horse archery.
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Are there any fitness requirements for this tour?
The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating, with optional walks and hikes, including a walk to Baga Turgen Waterfall over loose and rocky terrain.
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What is the policy on single supplements for solo travelers?
Single supplements are not compulsory, and solo travelers can be paired with someone of the same sex. If a single supplement is paid, it covers only the nights in Ulaanbaatar and Olgii.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
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Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Tuesday - Sunday
Sep 09, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.