4-8 days

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Duration

Golden Eagles &amp; Festival tours

Halal tour

Horse riding

Mongolia

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Tours

ALTAI EAGLE FESTIVAL- 2022 (48°36ˈ50&#8243;, 90°00ˈ25&#8243;, 48°55ˈ25&#8243;, 90°06ˈ00&#8243;)
Altai Eagle Festival of Mongolia is one of the rarest festivals in the world. Over 60 Kazakh Eagle hunters and Kazakh nomads participate to showcase their traditional culture. The most of the nomadic Kazakh traditions survives here. These hardy Turkic speaking people are Sunni Muslim nomads and they hunt foxes and other small mammals with domestic Golden Eagles.  Only the females, as they are heavier than male eagles.
The eagle festival marks the start of the eagle hunting season, which is throughout the winter in the surrounding Altai Mountains. Hunting with eagles seems to be ancient, dating back some 6000 years. The traditions have been revived over the past two decades following the democratization in Mongolia. Now there are such festivals in March, September and October in various communities.
Involving the community in the Festival
<ul>
<li>Blue Wolf also supports the work of the Altai Kazakh Nomadic People, whose handicrafts will be available to guests during the festival</li>
<li>We hire local English teachers to assist with translation during the Festival</li>
<li>All supplies for the festival were purchased through local retailers</li>
<li>Over 40 Eagle Hunters will participate in the festival – your interest and participation help ensure this practice will remain a part of Altai Kazakh Culture</li>
</ul>
Notes on safety
Following are few tips to keep in mind to ensure safety of your own and travel companions, while participating in this extraordinary festival. Eagles are not pets and we ask you take extra precaution when getting in close contact with the eagles.
<ol>
<li>When you are in the competition field, please make sure to stand only in the designated public viewing areas,</li>
<li>It&#8217; better not to wear any clothing that has an animal fur such as hat or sleeves and any loose or bright colored clothing as they might attract eagles,</li>
<li>During the competition when eagles are released from the mountain, avoid running in the same field as it might distract the birds,</li>
<li>If you have children, please do not let them wander on their own,</li>
<li>While the competition is on, leaving designated areas to get a closer photo shoot of the eagles is not recommended</li>
</ol>
Mongolians in Altai (Kazakhs) Eagle Hunting History (over 2000 years old)
Before put here many legends about Altai Kazakh Eagle hunting history, let me to give some information about Golden Eagle and Altai Kazakh Hunting Skills.
Golden Eagle is a bird of eagles family, predatory class, In Kazakhstan lives everywhere, except &#8211; wood less deserts and steppes; in the south of Kazakhstan – settled, in the North &#8211; partially migratory. Size &#8211; up to 95 sm, wing-span &#8211; up to 220 sm, weight 4 &#8211; 6 kg. Plumage is of the same kind, dark – brown, nape and neck &#8211; goldish-red, young individuals have white, with a wide black strip on the end, tail, lower part of a wing &#8211; with large white spots. A down nestling &#8211; only white. Gplden Eagle settles in couples, making huge (up to 2 мin a diameter) nests in niches and on ledges of rocky breakages, on trees. In March- April hen lays 1 &#8211; 3 eggs (hen sits on eggs about 45 days) . The nestlings leaves nests in 2,5 months of old, but parents are guardians along time. Golden Eagle lives about 100 years in natural conditions. Eats: in mountains – marmots, kekliks, ulars, reven and gophers; in deserts – sandpiper, rabbits, partridges, hazel grouses, turtles, snakes and etc. Occasionally attacks the foxes and badgers.
Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle are during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong dzhigit. To train golden eagle – it is the high art. The caught bird gradually accustom to the owner. For it berkutchi some nights doesn&#8217;t close eyes and interdicts to sleep golden eagle. The bird can take feed (bits of uncooked meat) only from hands of the owner. After bird will get used to the hunter- berkutchi, his horse and dog, berkutchi begins to train to hunt for stuffed fox and only then the real hunting begins. Specially trained golden eagle hunts for small animals: rabbits, foxes, partridge, black hazel grouses.
Equipment for a hunting with hunting birds. For a hunting with hunting birds specially prepare equipment: a coverlet, cap, couch and leash. Bardak &#8211; special wooden prop for a hand &#8211; try without it to bring on the stretched out hand a bird of weight 6-7 kg! Shyrga – skin of hare or fox is filled with straw. This is manual for a bird. The hunter drags along shyrga with long rope along steppe and teaches golden eagle to attack prey. Kusbegi must have inexhaustible patience and persistence.
There are many legends about Kazakh Hunting with Golden Eagle. As far, we keep in touch with Altai Kazakh Eagle hunters every day and live together, decided to publish a legends, articles and Eagle hunter&#8217;s talking.

<ul>
<li>Meet ethnic Kazakh people</li>
<li>Take great photos</li>
<li>Over 50 Eagle Hunters will participate in the festival</li>
</ul>

5th NAURYZ EAGLE FESTIVAL, 2020 (47°42ˈ42&#8243;, 90°44ˈ14&#8243;)
On 2016, Blue Wolf Travel signed a contract with local community in Deluun soum to be sponsor for &#8221; Nauryz Eagle Festival&#8221; project, which will be organized by Blue Wolf together with local community. 
We are happy to be &#8220;small&#8221;, which means to be authentic. Blue Wolf supports this festivals, so Kazakh nomads can keep their unique Eagle hunting and Nomadic Culture longer. We try to keep these festivals away from big cities and big advertisements.
Involving the community in the Festival
<ul>
<li>Blue Wolf also supports the work of the Altai Kazakh Nomadic People, whose handicrafts will be available to guests during the festival</li>
<li>We hire local English teachers to assist with translation during the Festival</li>
<li>All supplies for the festival were purchased through local retailers</li>
<li>Over 40 Eagle Hunters will participate in the festival – your interest and participation help ensure this practice will remain a part of Altai Kazakh Culture</li>
</ul>
Notes on safety
Following are few tips to keep in mind to ensure safety of your own and travel companions,while participating in this extraordinary festival.Eagles are not pets and we ask you take extra precaution when getting in close contact with the eagles.
<ol>
<li>When you are in the competition field, please make sure to stand only in the designated public viewing areas,</li>
<li>It&#8217; better not to wear any clothing that has an animal fur such as hat or sleeves and any loose or bright colored clothing as they might attract eagles,</li>
<li>During the competition when eagles are released from the mountain, avoid running in the same field as it might distract the birds,</li>
<li>If you have children, please do not let them wander on their own,</li>
<li>While the competition is on,leaving designated areas to get a closer photo shoot of the eagles is not recommended</li>
</ol>
Mongolians in Altai (Kazakhs) Eagle Hunting History (over 2000 years old)
Before put here many legends about Altai Kazakh Eagle hunting history, let me to give some information about Golden Eagle and Altai Kazakh Hunting Skills.
Golden Eagle is a bird of eagles family, predatory class, In Kazakhstan lives everywhere, except &#8211; wood less deserts and steppes; in the south of Kazakhstan – settled, in the North &#8211; partially migratory. Size &#8211; up to 95 sm, wing-span &#8211; up to 220 sm, weight 4 &#8211; 6 kg. Plumage is of the same kind, dark – brown, nape and neck &#8211; goldish-red, young individuals have white, with a wide black strip on the end, tail, lower part of a wing &#8211; with large white spots. A down nestling &#8211; only white. Gplden Eagle settles in couples, making huge (up to 2 мin a diameter) nests in niches and on ledges of rocky breakages, on trees. In March- April hen lays 1 &#8211; 3 eggs (hen sits on eggs about 45 days) . The nestlings leaves nests in 2,5 months of old, but parents are guardians along time. Golden Eagle lives about 100 years in natural conditions. Eats: in mountains – marmots, kekliks, ulars, reven and gophers; in deserts – sandpiper, rabbits, partridges, hazel grouses, turtles, snakes and etc. Occasionally attacks the foxes and badgers.
Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle are during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong dzhigit. To train golden eagle – it is the high art. The caught bird gradually accustom to the owner. For it berkutchi some nights doesn&#8217;t close eyes and interdicts to sleep golden eagle. The bird can take feed (bits of uncooked meat) only from hands of the owner. After bird will get used to the hunter- berkutchi, his horse and dog, berkutchi begins to train to hunt for stuffed fox and only then the real hunting begins. Specially trained golden eagle hunts for small animals: rabbits, foxes, partridge, black hazel grouses.
Equipment for a hunting with hunting birds. For a hunting with hunting birds specially prepare equipment: a coverlet, cap, couch and leash. Bardak &#8211; special wooden prop for a hand &#8211; try without it to bring on the stretched out hand a bird of weight 6-7 kg! Shyrga – skin of hare or fox is filled with straw. This is manual for a bird. The hunter drags along shyrga with long rope along steppe and teachs golden eagle to attack prey. Kusbegi must have inexhaustible patience and persistence.
There are many legends about Altai Kazakh Eagle hunting.As far,we keep in touch with Altai Kazakh Eagle hunters every day and live together, decided to publish a legends,articles and Eagle hunter&#8217;s talking.Altai 
The Mongolian Altai mountains of western Mongolian offer a beautiful landscape coupled with three unique cultures &#8211; Mongolians, Kazakhs, and Tuvans. The area is rich in wildlife and provides one of the last refuges for the Altai Argali, the world&#8217;s largest sheep, as well as the endangered Snow Leopard. In addition, western Mongolia is rich in archaeological sites that vary from ancient petro-glyphs to stone carvings from early Turkish nomads. To travel in western Mongolia and visit this area&#8217;s nomadic people between the snow covered peaks of the Altai Mountains means to experience something that cannot be repeated anywhere else in the world. On a trip though this region, one discovers new horizons, will feel the beauty of unexplored wilderness and experience the freedom of nomadic life.
Take a fascinating adventure to Western Mongolia-an untouched heaven of big lakes, high mountains, gorgeous landscapes and the largest diversity of both wild life and ethnicities in Mongolia. The Altai mountain range, with snow-capped peaks of over 3000 meters, waterfalls, ancient burial sites, mountaintop lakes and its nomadic based communities is a great place to explore Mongolia.

<ul>
<li>Meet ethnic Kazakh people</li>
<li>Take great photos</li>
<li>Over 40 Eagle Hunters will participate in the festival</li>
</ul>

SONY DSC

Family suitable

More than 8 days

Photo/filming

Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle is during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong dzhigit.
Potential journeys included photographing snow leopards, living and learning from Eagle Hunters and joining a traditional migration with a nomadic family and their herds of animals.
Soaring over the Altai’s cliffs and slopes are the legendary Golden Eagles – known as the Berkut, which are renowned for their hunting prowess and revered by the Altai Kazakh people.
This itinerary will take us into the heart of the Altai Mountains where Golden Eagles, Eagle hunter and the mysterious Snow Leopard coexist in a truly mythic landscape and culture.

<ul>
<li>Wild Life</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh ethnic group</li>
<li>Amazing nature &amp; hospitality of Mongolians</li>
<li>Fixed dates</li>
</ul>

Altai Mountains is the highest of three major mountain ranges in Mongolia, straddling the Russian and Chinese frontiers in the Far West. Mountains of eternal snowcapped mountains and glaciers. In these remote regions live many nomads of ethnic minorities. The Kazakhs are Muslims, and speak an ancient Kazakh language, as well as Tuvans, who are Buddhist and shamanistic. This dramatic journey will bring us to Mongolia’s highest mountain region. We will trek to the Potanin glacier supported by pack camels and locals. We will then continue across the high Altai and trek into the lakes region, next to the Chinese frontier. Local Kazakh herdsmen will keep their priced Golden Eagles next to their yurts.
Brief Outline Itinerary
On this dramatic journey we use low impact traditional modes of transport. Our equipment will be carried on pack-camels, possibly also in addition, pack-horses. We will fly to west Mongolia on an almost 3 hour domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar. We will transfer out to the mountain regions from Ölgii, the Kazakh provincial capital, by 4wd Russian vehicles. Our crew will be Kazakhs and/or Tuvan. The local guide is trilingual at least: English, Mongol and Kazakh. Possibly also Tuvan and Russian.

<ul>
<li>The heart of the Altai mountains</li>
<li>Enjoy sky full of stars</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh ethnic group</li>
<li>Unique hospitality</li>
</ul>

Southern

Where

Gobi (Southern Mongolia) 

The clay from the former shores, hills, and soil of the Cretaceous period look like they are on fire during the sunrise and sunset. You may feel like you are on a different planet. But it’s actually the southern region of Mongolia or Gobi Desert. Dinosaur fossils from millions of years ago still can be found here. Most are small and often hidden by Saxaul forests, which are ubiquitous with the Gobi, so you may pass them by without noticing. Desert plants look dry and withered but capable to store the rainwater for a long period of time due to their tenacity to survive in arid lands.  Even though the footprint you made in a sand dunes can be erased by a wind, but the footprint of the Gobi desert will stay in your heart forever.

<ul>
<li>Explore the Gobi desert</li>
<li>Visit Sand dunes</li>
<li>Flaming cliffs &amp; dinosaur fossils</li>
<li>Join Groups</li>
</ul>

Western

Altai 
The Mongolian Altai mountains of western Mongolian offer a beautiful landscape coupled with three unique cultures &#8211; Mongolians, Kazakhs, and Tuvans. The area is rich in wildlife and provides one of the last refuges for the Altai Argali, the world&#8217;s largest sheep, as well as the endangered Snow Leopard. In addition, western Mongolia is rich in archaeological sites that vary from ancient petro-glyphs to stone carvings from early Turkish nomads. To travel in western Mongolia and visit this area&#8217;s nomadic people between the snow covered peaks of the Altai Mountains means to experience something that cannot be repeated anywhere else in the world. On a trip though this region, one discovers new horizons, will feel the beauty of unexplored wilderness and experience the freedom of nomadic life.
Take a fascinating adventure to Western Mongolia-an untouched heaven of big lakes, high mountains, gorgeous landscapes and the largest diversity of both wild life and ethnicities in Mongolia. The Altai mountain range, with snow-capped peaks of over 3000 meters, waterfalls, ancient burial sites, mountaintop lakes and its nomadic based communities is a great place to explore Mongolia.

<ul>
<li>Trek to crystal clear lakes</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh ethnic group</li>
<li>Amazing nature &amp; hospitality of Mongolians</li>
</ul>

4×4 Adventures &amp; Self Drive

Russian Altai

(RUSSIA-MONGOLIA)
Altai Mountains is the snowcapped high mountain, straddling the Russian and Mongolian frontiers in the Far West. Mountains of eternal snowcapped mountains and glaciers. In these remote regions live many nomads of ethnic minorities. The Kazakhs are Muslims, and speak an ancient Kazakh language, as well as Tuvans, who are Buddhist and shamanistic. This dramatic journey will bring us to Russian and Mongolia’s Altai mountain region. Local Kazakh herdsmen will keep their priced Golden Eagles next to their yurts.
Brief Outline Itinerary
On this dramatic journey you will drive comfortable and safety 4wd Japanese vehicles and reach most spectacular and picturesque diverse places. Our crew is trilingual at least: English, Mongol and Russian. Possibly also Kazakh and Russian.

<ul>
<li>The heart of the Altai mountains</li>
<li>Two countries</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh &amp; Russian ethnic group</li>
</ul>

Fixed Dates:
Please ask for the dates
Reindeer Herders
There are about 400 reindeer people of 80 families in total. They live in tepees. Their livelihood is completely dependent on the nature and few heads of reindeer. The most famous shamans are among them. Visiting the Reindeer people can be a lifetime experience for you either the challenging riding in awe-inspiring nature with bardens of high mountain passes, steep slopes and boggy valleys as well as an exotic lifestyle of them in the remoteness.
Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle are during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong dzhigit. 
To train golden eagle – it is the high art. The caught bird gradually accustom to the owner. For it berkutchi some nights doesn&#8217;t close eyes and interdicts to sleep golden eagle. The bird can take feed (bits of uncooked meat) only from hands of the owner. After bird will get used to the hunter- berkutchi, and his horse, berkutchi begins to train to hunt for stuffed fox and only then the real hunting begins. Specially trained golden eagler hunts for small animals: hairs, foxes, wild cat and others.

<ul>
<li>Explore the Mystical Taiga</li>
<li>Visit Reindeer &amp; Khuvsgul Lake</li>
<li>Explore the culture of Tsaatan people</li>
<li>Experience Eagle Festival</li>
</ul>

Northern

Hangai  (Northern Mongolia)
Northern Mongolia has attracted the hearts and minds of many travelers throughout the year. Northern Mongolia is home to the densely forested mountains of Khangai and Sayan, Khuvsgul lake that shimmers like a borderless blue pearl, the Darkad Tsenkher depression (a huge valley of rivers flowing from high mountains), and the mystical deer stones. The Taiga’s nomads, reindeer herders by trade, live here. In the deep forests of the mountains, they worship the sky and nature. The Khotgoid ethnic group live around the fast-flowing Tes River. They’re skilled pathfinders. Khalkh people who worship their colossal mountains and the hard working Darkhad people all live in this area.
Gobi (Southern Mongolia) 

The clay from the former shores, hills, and soil of the Cretaceous period look like they are on fire during the sunrise and sunset. You may feel like you are on a different planet. But it’s actually the southern region of Mongolia or Gobi Desert. Dinosaur fossils from millions of years ago still can be found here. Most are small and often hidden by Saxaul forests, which are ubiquitous with the Gobi, so you may pass them by without noticing. Desert plants look dry and withered but capable to store the rainwater for a long period of time due to their tenacity to survive in arid lands.  Even though the footprint you made in a sand dunes can be erased by a wind, but the footprint of the Gobi desert will stay in your heart forever.

<ul>
<li>Explore the Mystical Taiga</li>
<li>Visit Reindeer &amp; Khuvsgul Lake</li>
<li>Explore the Gobi Desert &amp; it&#8217;s mysteries</li>
<li>Join Groups</li>
</ul>

Altai 
The Mongolian Altai mountains of western Mongolian offer a beautiful landscape coupled with three unique cultures &#8211; Mongolians, Kazakhs, and Tuvans. The area is rich in wildlife and provides one of the last refuges for the Altai Argali, the world&#8217;s largest sheep, as well as the endangered Snow Leopard. In addition, western Mongolia is rich in archaeological sites that vary from ancient petro-glyphs to stone carvings from early Turkish nomads. To travel in western Mongolia and visit this area&#8217;s nomadic people between the snow covered peaks of the Altai Mountains means to experience something that cannot be repeated anywhere else in the world. On a trip though this region, one discovers new horizons, will feel the beauty of unexplored wilderness and experience the freedom of nomadic life.
Hangai
Northern Mongolia has attracted the hearts and minds of many travelers throughout the year. Northern Mongolia is home to the densely forested mountains of Khangai and Sayan, Khuvsgul lake that shimmers like a borderless blue pearl, the Darkad Tsenkher depression (a huge valley of rivers flowing from high mountains), and the mystical deer stones. The Taiga’s nomads, reindeer herders by trade, live here. In the deep forests of the mountains, they worship the sky and nature. The Khotgoid ethnic group live around the fast-flowing Tes River. They’re skilled pathfinders. Khalkh people who worship their colossal mountains and the hard working Darkhad people all live in this area.
Gobi 

The clay from the former shores, hills, and soil of the Cretaceous period look like they are on fire during the sunrise and sunset. You may feel like you are on a different planet. But it’s actually the southern region of Mongolia or Gobi Desert. Dinosaur fossils from millions of years ago still can be found here. Most are small and often hidden by Saxaul forests, which are ubiquitous with the Gobi, so you may pass them by without noticing. Desert plants look dry and withered but capable to store the rainwater for a long period of time due to their tenacity to survive in arid lands.  Even though the footprint you made in a sand dunes can be erased by a wind, but the footprint of the Gobi desert will stay in your heart forever.

<ul>
<li>Explore the Mystical Taiga</li>
<li>Visit Reindeer &amp; Khuvsgul Lake</li>
<li>Explore the heart of the Altai &amp; GOBI</li>
<li>Join Groups</li>
</ul>

Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle are during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong dzhigit.
This trip is getting very popular for our clients as this is big opportunity to have your own experience for eagle hunting and see the Nomad&#8217;s festival. Going side by side with eagle hunters, you will experience an authentic feeling and enjoyable horseback trip. If you get lucky, the eagle can catch some wild animals like rabbit,foxes and wild cats.

The Mongolian Altai Mountains of western Mongolian offer a beautiful landscape coupled with three unique cultures &#8211; Mongolians, Kazakhs, and Tuvans. The area is rich in wildlife and provides one of the last refuges for the Altai Argali, the world&#8217;s largest sheep, as well as the endangered Snow Leopard. In addition, western Mongolia is rich in archaeological sites that vary from ancient petroglyphs to stone carvings from early Turkish nomads. To travel in western Mongolia and visit this area&#8217;s nomadic people between the snows covered peaks of the Altai Mountains means to experience something that cannot be repeated anywhere else in the world. On a trip though this region, one discovers new horizons, will feel the beauty of unexplored wilderness and experience the freedom of nomadic life.
Our horse treks take you through the country, where you’ll find camping in the traditional gers are a perfect way of discovering the traditional Mongol way of life. Mongolia has a unique and durable traditional culture, centered on the herding lifestyle. Herders remain semi-nomadic, moving their animals with the seasons as they have for centuries.
Here you will meet also Altai Nomadic Kazakh people and explore their cultures, especially Eagle hunting skills.

<ul>
<li>Explore the Mystical Taiga</li>
<li>Visit Reindeer &amp; Khuvsgul Lake</li>
<li>Explore the culture of Tsaatan people</li>
</ul>

Central

Snow Leopards are one of the most elusive of all the big cats in the world. Called Irbis by the Mongols. Most people will know it exists in the Himalaya, Pamir, and Hindukush in Inner Asia. Actually, Mongolia (Mongolian Altai) has a reasonably large number of Snow Leopard (second only to China) and with its limited areas of suitable habitat, harbors the densest Snow Leopard populations in the world. Where live Argali Sheep and Siberian Ibex, there you have a chance to see Snow Leopard, who naturally prey on these wild animals rather than domestic livestock. You will learn about on this trip.
Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle are during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong dzhigit.
To train golden eagle – it is the high art. The caught bird gradually accustom to the owner. For it berkutchi some nights doesn&#8217;t close eyes and interdicts to sleep golden eagle. The bird can take feed (bits of uncooked meat) only from hands of the owner. After bird will get used to the hunter- berkutchi, his horse and dog, berkutchi begins to train to hunt for stuffed fox and only then the real hunting begins. Specially trained golden eagle hunts for small animals: rabbits, foxes, and partridge, black hazel grouses
This trip is getting very popular for our clients as this is big opportunity to have your own experience for eagle hunting and see the eagle festival. You will have a part in eagle hunting.Going side by side with eagle hunters, you will experience an authentic feeling and enjoyable horseback trip. If you get lucky, the eagle can catch some wild animals like rabbit,foxes and wild cats.

Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle are during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong dzhigit.
To train golden eagle – it is the high art. The caught bird gradually accustom to the owner. For it berkutchi some nights doesn&#8217;t close eyes and interdicts to sleep golden eagle. The bird can take feed (bits of uncooked meat) only from hands of the owner. After bird will get used to the hunter- berkutchi, his horse and dog, berkutchi begins to train to hunt for stuffed fox and only then the real hunting begins. Specially trained golden eagle hunts for small animals: rabbits, foxes, and partridge, black hazel grouses.

<ul>
<li>Experience the eagle hunting</li>
<li>Live the Nomad</li>
<li>Take great photos</li>
<li>From Late Sept-Mar</li>
</ul>

This trip is getting very popular for our clients as this is big opportunity to have your own experience for eagle hunting and see the eagle festival. You will have a part in eagle hunting.Going side by side with eagle hunters, you will experience an authentic feeling and enjoyable horseback trip. If you get lucky, the eagle can catch some wild animals like rabbit,foxes and wild cats.

<ul>
<li>Fixed dates</li>
<li>Authentic experience</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh ethnic group</li>
<li>Amazing nature &amp; hospitality of Mongolians</li>
</ul>

Mongolia is the land of two of Nature’s most iconic predators – the Golden Eagle and the Snow Leopard. Snow Leopards – called Altai Irves by the Mongols &#8211; are one of the most elusive of all the big cats in the world. While most people associate it with Asia’s highest mountains such as the Himalaya, Tien Shan and Pamir, the Mongolian Altai and Govi-Altai mountains harbor strong populations with some the highest recorded densities in the world. Critical to their survival are the strong populations of prey, such as Mongolian Argali sheep and Siberian Ibex, as well as abundant Marmots. Here in the Mongol Altai this journey will take you into the heart of Snow Leopard habitat, where an abundance of wild prey ensures that the Irves lives unmolested from persecution. Ongoing scientific research associated with this exclusive itinerary means there is an opportunity to spend time in study areas, intimately experiencing the Snow Leopard’s mountain home, with an exciting possibility of even encountering this magnificent elusive cat.
Soaring over the Altai’s cliffs and slopes are the legendary Golden Eagles – known as the Berkut, which are renowned for their hunting prowess and revered by the Altai Kazakh people. As we go deep into the mountains to encounter the wild Golden Eagles that inspire such Kazakh “berkutchi” hunters, this journey will also give us the opportunity to directly experience the Kazakh Eagle hunting tradition that has been practiced uninterrupted by hunters for over 1000 years. While this Eagle-hunting culture has been recently rediscovered, there remain very few traditional, authentic berkutchi left. Fortunately, we will be able to visit some of these renowned hunters to experience their age-old working relationship with their magnificent eagles at first hand. Larger, more aggressive female eagles are favored by the Kazakh hunters, given the bird’s capacity to bring down large prey, such as foxes, ibex and even wolves. In the old tradition they are taken as eaglets, raised to work with the hunter for many years until fully mature, and then released as experienced hunters back into the wild to join their wild kin.
This itinerary will take us into the heart of the Altai Mountains where Golden Eagles, Eagle hunter and the mysterious Snow Leopard coexist in a truly mythic landscape and culture.

<ul>
<li>Trek to Khukh Serkhi</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh ethnic group</li>
<li>Amazing nature &amp; hospitality of Mongolians</li>
</ul>

Festivals

Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle are during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong zhigit. Altai Eagle Festival of Mongolia is one of the rarest festivals in the world. Over 60 Kazakh Eagle hunters and Kazakh nomads participate to showcase their traditional cultures. The most of the nomadic Kazakh traditions survives here. These hardy Turkic speaking people are Sunni Muslim nomads and they hunt foxes and other small mammals with domestic Golden Eagles.  Only the females, as they are heavier than male eagles.
The eagle festival marks the start of the eagle hunting season, which is throughout the winter in the surrounding Altai Mountains. Hunting with eagles seems to be ancient, dating back some 6000 years. The traditions have been revived over the past two decades following the democratization in Mongolia. Now there are such festivals in March, September and October in various communities.

Trekking/Hiking Exploration

The Tsengel Hairhan Mountain is a standalone eternally snow-capped mountain, located on the way towards Big Lakes- Hoton and Hurgan. Only few hours drive from Olgii and you reach the mountain. In this remote region the traditional way of life has remained un- disturbed and there are many nomads of different ethnic minorities residing. For example the Kazakhs who are Muslims and the Tuvans who are Buddhist and shamanistic.This rock outcropping is the prominent feature beside the Tsengel Hairhan Glacier. You’ll be rewarded by great views, looking to the glacier. Your panorama will include remote views of the TsambaGarav and Twin Peaks behind you and the Altai Tavan Bogd Peaks to the front.
Hunting with Golden Eagle is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh life. The hunter is named kusbegi or berkutchi. The experience of wild birds training was gained by Kazakh kusbegi by centuries, the secrets were impacted from the father to the son and kept deep secret. At the present time we can meet few people with such name. These masters have innate gift of wild birds training. For a hunting they tame falcons, golden eagles and eagles. Names of birds are given depending on their appearance and battle characteristics. The hunting with Golden Eagle are during ten centuries. Was considered, to present the teenager a nestling of hunting bird, means, to wish to him to begin courageous, strong zhigit.

The Mongolian Altai Mountains of western Mongolian offer a beautiful landscape coupled with three unique cultures &#8211; Mongolians, Kazakhs, and Tuvans. The area is rich in wildlife and provides one of the last refuges for the Altai Argali, the world&#8217;s largest sheep, as well as the endangered Snow Leopard. In addition, western Mongolia is rich in archaeological sites that vary from ancient petroglyphs to stone carvings from early Turkish nomads. To travel in western Mongolia and visit this area&#8217;s nomadic people between the snows covered peaks of the Altai Mountains means to experience something that cannot be repeated anywhere else in the world. On a trip though this region, one discovers new horizons, will feel the beauty of unexplored wilderness and experience the freedom of nomadic life.
Our horse treks take you through the country, where you’ll find camping in the traditional gers are a perfect way of discovering the traditional Mongol way of life. Mongolia has a unique and durable traditional culture, centered on the herding lifestyle. Herders remain semi-nomadic, moving their animals with the seasons as they have for centuries.
Here you will meet also Altai Nomadic Kazakh people and explore their cultures, especially Eagle hunting skills.
Dates:
2020- 2021,
EFA-01. 12-26 of September, 2020
EFA-02. 26 of September- 10 of October, 2020
EFA-01. 13-27 of March, 2021

<ul>
<li>Experience the eagle hunting</li>
<li>Live the Nomad</li>
<li>Take great photos</li>
<li>Fixed Dates</li>
</ul>

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

<ul>
<li>Trek to Altai Mountain</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh ethnic group</li>
<li>Amazing nature &amp; hospitality of Mongolians</li>
</ul>

Highlights of Kharkhiraa and Turgen mountains of Mongolian Altai are snow capped mountains, glaciers, ancient archaeological sites, unique nomadic customs of local nomads as Dorvod, Hoton, Kazakh, Tuvan ethnic groups. This mountain range with eternal snow, glaciers, traces and signs of ancient ice covers, has well preserved due to constantly cold climate and cold winds. The area is inhabited with some endangered animals (such as Argali sheep, Ibex, Snow leopard and Altai snow cock) and plants (such as Dwarf Siberian Pine and White Gentians).
Twing Peaks – Kharkhiraa and Turgen are located in Uvs aimag- northwestern province, bordered to the north by Russia, the east by Zavkhan province, the south by Hovd province and the west by Bayan-Ulgii province. Uvs, which means grass in Mongolain, is land of desert mountains and big lakes (including Uvs lake – the biggest lake in Mongolia).

<ul>
<li>Explore nomadic life by horse</li>
<li>Enjoy sky full of stars</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh ethnic group</li>
<li>Long horse riding</li>
</ul>

Trekking, cultural highlights, possible climbing to Malchin Peak- 4025 m/
Belukha Mountain is the highest peak of the Altai Mountains, located partially on the territory of Russia and also in Kazakhstan, Mongolia and China. The highest point of Altai &#8211; Belukha (4506 m). This is a magic mountains.
The snow-white pearl among the boundless sea of a taiga, fairy Belukha is not just a mountain, object for climbing. This is alive beating heart of Altai, the place of extreme power.
In July and August, the alpine meadows are in luxuriant bloom. There you can meet Siberian wapiti (red deer), musk deer, brown bear, sable, Siberian weasel, squirrel, chipmunk, Siberian ibex (mountain goat). The elusive snow leopard and the Altai snow cock also make a home of these lands. The tour takes us to the west and east parts of the Katunsky ridge: to the canyons of Kucherla and Ak-Kem rivers. Mountain passes provide extensive panoramas of the Katunsky Ridge and ice-covered Belukha Mountain.
The Kucherla river is one of the most lovely mountain rivers of the Katunsky ridge and has milky blue water. One of the sides of the Kucherla gorge is forest-steppe with larch and stone ridges, while cedars and firs cover the opposite side. Higher along the route, there are cedar pine forests and alpine meadows.
Another famous lake we will visit is the Akkem lake. It is not very big, but its waters reflect the peak and glaciers of Mount Belukha. These places are a real Mekka for mountaineers and artists.
To make the trek easier, the pack horses will carry the camp equipment and major food supply. The tour requires the middle physical fitness and basic backpacking experience.
Brief Outline Itinerary
You will fly to either of Barnaul (Russian Altai region) via Moscow or to Olgii (Mongolian Altai). There are a number of extension trips in westernmost Mongolia. Flight connections are best negotiated with Russian Aeroflot Airlines who fly on-line to both Barnaul/GornoAltaisk and Ulaanbaatar (ULN). The trip is vehicle supported and we will make use of the small and intimate Hotel Rublevka, situated directly on the banks of the Katun River and the Blue Wolf Ger Camp in Olgii. During trekking on Belukha Mountain, there will be tented camping, and cooks and guide brought along for the journey.
The border crossing at Tashanta (Russian Altai) and Tsaagannuur (Mongolian Altai) is open for third country nationals as of 2005 only.
The Tsengel Hairhan Mountain is a standalone eternally snow-capped mountain, located on the way towards Big Lakes- Hoton and Hurgan. Only few hours drive from Olgii and you reach the mountain. In this remote region the traditional way of life has remained un- disturbed and there are many nomads of different ethnic minorities residing. For example the Kazakhs who are Muslims and the Tuvans who are Buddhist and shamanistic.This rock outcropping is the prominent feature beside the Tsengel Hairhan Glacier. You’ll be rewarded by great views, looking to the glacier. Your panorama will include remote views of the TsambaGarav and Twin Peaks behind you and the Altai Tavan Bogd Peaks to the front.

<ul>
<li>The heart of the Altai mountains</li>
<li>Altai Eagle Festival with Aisholpan</li>
<li>Meet Kazakh ethnic group</li>
</ul>

“Possible Malchin Climb-4025m and Visit Kazakh Eagle hunters”
Altai Mountains are the highest of three major mountain ranges in Mongolia, straddling the Russian and Chinese frontiers in the Far West. Mountains of eternal snow capped mountains and glaciers. In these remote regions live many nomads of ethnic minorities. The Kazakhs are Muslims, and speak an ancient Kazakh language, as well as Tuvans, who are Buddhist and shamanistic. This dramatic journey will bring us to Mongolia’s highest mountain region. We will trek to the Potanin glacier supported by pack camels and locals. We will then continue across the high Altai and trek into the lakes region, next to the Chinese frontier. Local Kazakh herdsmen will keep their priced Golden Eagles next to their yurts.
Brief Outline Itinerary
On this dramatic journey we use low impact traditional modes of transport. Our equipment will be carried on pack-camels, possibly also in addition, packhorses. We will fly to west Mongolia on an almost 4 hour domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar. We will transfer out to the mountain regions from Olgii, the Kazakh provincial capital, by 4wd Russian vehicles. Our crew will be Kazakhs and/or Tuvan. The local guide is multilingual at least: English, Mongolian and Kazakh. Possibly also Tuvan and Russian.
The Tsengel Hairhan Mountain is a standalone eternally snow-capped mountain, located on the way towards Big Lakes- Hoton and Hurgan. Only few hours drive from Olgii and you reach the mountain. In this remote region the traditional way of life has remained un- disturbed and there are many nomads of different ethnic minorities residing. For example the Kazakhs who are Muslims and the Tuvans who are Buddhist and shamanistic.This rock outcropping is the prominent feature beside the Tsengel Hairhan Glacier. You’ll be rewarded by great views, looking to the glacier. Your panorama will include remote views of the TsambaGarav and Twin Peaks behind you and the Altai Tavan Bogd Peaks to the front.

The Tsengel Hairhan Mountain is a standalone eternally snow-capped mountain, located on the way towards Big Lakes- Hoton and Hurgan. Only few hours drive from Olgii and you reach the mountain. In this remote region the traditional way of life has remained un- disturbed and there are many nomads of different ethnic minorities residing. For example the Kazakhs who are Muslims and the Tuvans who are Buddhist and shamanistic.This rock outcropping is the prominent feature beside the Tsengel Hairhan Glacier. You’ll be rewarded by great views, looking to the glacier. Your panorama will include remote views of the TsambaGarav and Twin Peaks behind you and the Altai Tavan Bogd Peaks to the front.

<ul>
<li>Spend some time horse riding with the locals</li>
<li>Travel in comfort, yet feel the country&#8217;s pulse</li>
<li>Enjoy sky full of stars</li>
</ul>

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