Nomadic Expeditions in Mongolia
Eagle Festival in Ulgii
Nomadic Expeditions, Tour Operator
Celebrating ancient falconry traditions
Once a year (late September, early October), this remote hillside town deep in the heart of the Bayan-Ulgii Province buzzes with excitement during a festival showcasing the skill of local falconers who use these magnificent birds to hunt for fox and rabbits in the bone-chilling winters of the Altai Mountains. Founded by Jalsa Urubshurow (Founder and CEO of Nomadic Expeditions), the Golden Eagle Festival celebrates the ancient tradition of falconry, mastery of the birds’ agility, speed, and precision.
A celebration of traditional heritage, the festival is well worth seeing. And despite its growing popularity (thanks to The Eagle Huntress documentary), the festival still feels authentic, with plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the local Kazakh people.
Nomadic Expeditions in Mongolia
Experiencing the Golden Eagle Festival
the look.
Simple yet comfortable gers set up near the festival location, with minimal disruption to the natural surroundings.
the experience.
Observe the first day's parade of proud eagle hunters draped in fox furs, felt, and traditional dress.
Marvel at the beautifully adorned horses participating in the joroo horse race.
Delight in watching graceful archers shoot at a small target ball at the Uriankhai Archery contest.
Enjoy listening to traditional Kazakh concerts.
the impact.
Conservation-focused: Tour operator is heavily invested in raptor conservation through its Golden Eagle Conservation Project in partnership with the Wildlife Science and Conservation Center of Mongolia (WSCC).
Eco-design: Low-impact camps committed to leaving no trace behind.
Community-driven: 100% of their in-country staff is local and much emphasis is placed on capacity building and training. Nomadic Expeditions is also committed to raising awareness of Mongolia’s cultural arts by regularly hosting talented Mongolian performance groups.
Photos courtesy of: Nomadic Expeditions