Stretching across the far western reaches of Mongolia, the Altai Mountains form one of the last truly untamed mountain wildernesses on Earth. Running roughly 1,000 kilometers from the Russian border in the northwest down toward the Gobi-Altai in the south, this range is a world of staggering contrasts. Think: jagged glaciated peaks towering above sweeping steppe valleys, braided glacial rivers cutting through terrain that sees almost no foot traffic.

For the outdoor enthusiast, it’s a rare and humbling place.

The highest summits cluster in the Tavan Bogd (“Five Saints”) massif in Bayan-Ölgii province, where Khuiten Peak (Cold Peak, in English) reaches 4,374 meters, marking Mongolia’s rooftop. Here, permanent glaciers drape the high ridges, feeding rivers that flow through valleys that are home to snow leopards, argali (Marco Polo sheep), ibex, and golden eagles. Below the snowline, larch forests give way to rolling alpine meadows dotted with the gers of Kazakh herders.

This 10-day tour takes you to the heart of the Altai, where you’ll spend four days traversing this once-in-a-lifetime landscape.

The first half of the trip is spent exploring Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, arguably the most beautiful national park in Mongolia. Hike through river valleys, alpine meadows, glacier-fed lakes, and quiet mountain terrain while soaking in every moment of this surreal experience. Camp under open skies and experience western Mongolia at a slower pace, far from roads, cell phone service, and the outside world.

After your time in the national park, embrace a different adventure. Watch and cheer on Eagle Hunters as they show off their hunting skills at the Tolbo Eagle Festival, a fierce competition with big bragging rights for the victor.

The immersion into Kazakh cultural life continues with a special experience getting to know a local eagle hunter family for a deeper understanding of this tradition beyond the festival grounds.

Balanced between wilderness immersion and cultural experience, this itinerary offers a grounded introduction to Mongolia’s western frontier.

Highlights of this 10-day Altai Hiking & Tolbo Eagle Festival tour include:

• Hike in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, one of Mongolia’s most dramatic and picturesque mountain regions.
• Camp along rivers, alpine valleys, and the shores of Khoton Lake.
• Visit ancient petroglyphs revealing early nomadic history.
• Experience the Tolbo Eagle Festival, where horsemanship and eagle hunting shine.
• Meet Kazakh eagle hunters and learn about the tradition firsthand.
• Enjoy wide open landscapes shaped by steppe, mountains, glaciers, and lakes.
• Combine active hiking with cultural immersion.