Witness Kazakh eagle hunters, horseback competitions, and Altai glaciers at the Golden Eagle Festival in Bayan-Ölgii. This seven-day cultural and land-adventure blends dramatic wildlife displays with nomadic hospitality and high-country scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold wind lifts off the steppe as a line of riders appears on the horizon, eagles perched like living crowns on heavy leather gauntlets. At the Golden Eagle Festival in Bayan-Ölgii, Kazakh hunters turn the wide Altai plain into an arena—eagles launch, horses thunder, and the air fills with a mix of dust, yak-skin tents, and frying oil from tea houses.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: comfortable with full-day travel, short high-altitude walks, and mounting/standing during demonstrations.
Wildlife
History
Eagle hunting is a Kazakh cultural practice with roots over a thousand years old; the festival itself was revived as a public event to celebrate and preserve that living skill.
Conservation
Altai Tavan Bogd lies within protected land; visitors should stick to established routes, avoid disturbing wildlife, and minimize campfire and waste impacts to support fragile alpine ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Golden Eagle Festival in Western Mongolia today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for wide temperature swings
Days can be warm in sun but drop quickly with wind; pack an insulated mid-layer and a windproof shell.
Bring cash and small bills
ATMs are limited in Ölgii and remote camps often accept only cash for crafts and tips.
Prepare for bumpy transfers
Expect long dirt-road drives and reserve motion-sickness remedies if needed; travel times can be longer than map estimates.
Ask before photographing people or eagles
Respect hunters’ space and cultural protocol—request permission and offer a small tip for portrait shots.
Warm insulated jacket
Key for cold evenings and winds on the Altai steppe.
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Sturdy walking boots
Needed for uneven trails, rocky viewpoints, and bumpy transfers.
Wide-brim hat & sunscreen
High-altitude sun is intense even when air is cool; protect skin and eyes.
fall
Daypack with water reservoir
Keeps snacks, layers, and water accessible during festival grounds and short hikes.