Train with an Eagle Hunter, Attend an Eagle Festival & Immerse in Nomadic Traditions
During this 10-day Eagle Hunter & Local Eagle Festival Tour, live with a Eagle Hunter and his family. Under his guidance you’ll help him train and prepare his prized Golden Eagle for the Altantsugts Eagle Festival, one of the smaller, more local, and fiercest competitions for Eagle Hunters in Mongolia. Book this tour early, spots are limited and this is one of our most popular small-group tours!
- Tour Type: Homestay
- Book Now (7 Spots Available)
- 3 Reviews
Dates: September 20 – 29, 2026 (10 Days, 9 Nights)
Group Size: 10 Travelers Maximum
Stay: Homestay with an Eagle Hunter Family and Hotels
Tour Type: Homestay, Cultural, Festival, Photographer’s Dream
Included: English-Speaking Guide, Private Drivers, Meals, Accommodation, Domestic Flights, Airport Transfers
Price to Book: $4,500 USD
For anyone who has dreamed of spending time with an Eagle Hunter and their family, this is the bucket list trip for you.
As part of this small group trip, you’ll travel to the farthest corner of Western Mongolia to live alongside, and learn from, one of the country’s most decorated Eagle Hunters. With his guidance, you’ll learn everything about working with these incredible birds, and you’ll begin to understand this centuries-old tradition firsthand.
Come experience this unique way of living first-hand, from the real Eagle Hunters who still live this way. This isn’t just a show for tourists! This is your chance to be invited into their home like family.
Through their knowledge you’ll learn how to live a nomadic lifestyle while appreciating one of the most beautiful and untouched landscapes in the world.
This 10-day trip starts and ends in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital city. Roundtrip domestic tickets are included in this experience, along with everything on the ground during the trip dates, including tickets to the Altantsugts Eagle Festival. Here you’ll finish the experience by cheering on your Eagle Hunter as he competes in one of the toughest Eagle Festivals in Mongolia.
The dates for this tour are September 20 – 29, 2026. Book now – spots are limited to 10 travelers!
Highlights of this Eagle Hunter + Eagle Festival Tour and nomadic family homestay experience in Western Mongolia include:
- Living and learning from one of the most experienced and respected Eagle Hunters in Mongolia – he’s a 3x recognized Champion!
- Help train and prepare alongside the Eagle Hunter for the Altantsugts Eagle Festival, where you’ll cheer him on as he competes for the top prizes. This festival is smaller and more local, with only 40 of the best Eagle Hunters invited to compete.
- Accompany a group of Eagle Hunters out on a hunt on horseback to see what these incredible Golden Eagles can do.
- Spend your nights in a traditional and comfortable nomadic ger (with beds!) and enjoy the quietness of the steppe. Stargaze in the evening and look for shooting stars in Mongolia’s famous dark skies.
- Meet talented local artisans who create intricate textiles, embroidery, and felt crafts, keeping their ancestors’ traditions alive. Make your own handcrafted souvenir – a personal keepsake of this remarkable day.
- Sink into the sounds of a private folk concert at camp where musicians will perform traditional songs with instruments like the dombra.
- Take part in centuries-old Kazakh games, including Kokpar – an intense horseback game often compared to polo, played with a goat carcass!
Table of Contents
Want to extend your trip? Add-on these Experiences
🐴 Day Trip to Terelj National Park and the Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue (Book for any day, it’s the perfect day trip to get into the spirit of Mongolia.)
🤝 Visit the Black Market with a Local (Book for any day except Tuesdays (closed), great for gear shopping, souvenir browsing, and feeling like a local.)
🥟 Sights of the Capital: Ulaanbaatar City Tour (Get to know Mongolia’s capital city through it’s history, museums, and local food spots.)
10-day Itinerary: Eagle Hunter & Festival Tour 2026
If you plan to join this trip you need to arrive in Ulaanbaatar on or before September 20, 2026. You will have today to get settled in before meeting your guide and the rest of the group for a Welcome Dinner in the evening.
Many travelers choose to arrive in Ulaanbaatar at least 1 – 2 days early to adjust to Mongolian time and shop for warm clothes. If you’d like to arrive a few days early, We are happy to help you make arrangements at the hotel using our discounted corporate rate and help you make the most of this time in Ulaanbaatar. If you’d like to visit the Black Market to shop for affordable, warm clothing for this adventure, be sure to book our Black Market tour.
Below you’ll find a day-by-day breakdown of this Eagle Hunter itinerary, the price, and what it includes. We are able to accommodate dietary restrictions, including vegan and vegetarian diets, on this tour.
Day 1 / September 20, 2026: Arrive in Ulaanbaatar
Arrive in Mongolia’s capital city, Ulaanbaatar. Spend the day settling in, exchanging cash, or exploring the city’s museums and local cafes.
In the evening, meet your fellow travelers and guides for a Welcome Dinner, where you’ll go over the week ahead and get your first taste of Mongolian cuisine.
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- Private Airport Transfer from Chinggis Khaan International Airport
- Check into the Hotel in the City Center
- Day at Leisure
- Welcome Dinner
- Stay: Best Western Premier Tuushin or Similar (Double Occupancy)
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation Notes: A 4-star hotel located near the city’s most central point, Sukhbaatar Square. Bookmark this quick guide on what to know about staying in this area.
Day 2 / September 21: Fly to Ulgii & Meet the Eagle Family
Catch a morning flight to Olgii, in Mongolia’s far western province of Bayan-Ölgii, home to the Kazakh nomads and their centuries-old tradition of eagle hunting.
Upon arrival, drive to your host’s fall camp and settle into your private ger. You’ll be welcomed with a homemade Kazakh feast and traditional milk tea as your host shares stories of life as an Eagle Hunter.
- Domestic Flight from Ulaanbaatar
- Drive to Eagle Hunter Camp
- Settle into Countryside Life and Your Ger (Yurt) for the Next Few Days
- Milk Tea Welcome and Homemade Kazakh Feast
- Hear Stories from Your Host About His Life as an Eagle Hunter
- Stay: Eagle Hunter’s Fall Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Eagle Hunter Camp Notes: Gers sleep 2 – 3 people each with beds and warm bedding provided for this experience. No running water or electricity will be available and toilets are outhouse-style. You will need to pack warm clothes for this experience, evenings are very cold this time of year. Use this camping and homestay packing list for advice on what to pack for this experience.
Day 3 / September 22: Meet the Altantsugts people
Today is your tour of the small town. We’ll visit the community’s house of belief, the local mosque, as well as a small bee farm and the village school where children receive their education. Though this village may feel far from the rest of the country, life is vibrant here, rooted in tradition and strengthened by community.
In the evening, you’ll meet the eagle hunters of Altantsugts and witness multiple generations of hunters gathered under one roof. It’s a rare opportunity to hear their stories, learn about their lineage, and understand the deep cultural legacy of Kazakh eagle hunting.
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- Visit the Local Mosque
- Tour a Small, Local Bee Farm
- Stop into the Village School & Meet the Children Studying There
- Dinner with the Eagle Hunters Listening to Stories Under the Stars
- Stay: Eagle Hunter’s Fall Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 / September 23: Eagle Training, Horse-Riding & Kazakh Handicrafts
Today, learn what it takes to train and care for a Golden Eagle, a skill passed down through generations. Watch as your host demonstrates training techniques, from strengthening the bird’s wings to developing trust and obedience. You’ll even have the chance to hold the eagle yourself.
In the afternoon, it’s time to get in the saddle. Practice your horse-riding skills alongside your host to prepare for tomorrow’s hunt. Then, join the women of the family to learn traditional Kazakh embroidery, crafting your own small souvenir to take home.
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- Jump into Training, Learn the Skills Eagle Hunters Have Passed Down Through Generations
- Hold and Work with the Eagle Yourself
- Learn How to Ride Like a Mongol from the Best Horseman in the World
- Spend the Evening with the Women of the Family Learning Traditional Kazakh Embroidery
- Stay: Eagle Hunter’s Fall Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 / September 24: Eagle Hunt Day
Today is the real deal. Set out with your host and his trained eagle for a true Kazakh-style hunt across the open steppe. Watch the bird soar high above and dive in perfect harmony with its master.
It’s a raw and humbling experience that few ever get to witness. Return to camp in the evening for warm food, laughter, and stories by the fire.
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- Join Your Eagle Hunter Host on a Hunt!
- Ride Horses Alongside the Eagle Hunters
- Return to Camp and Share Stories from the Day
- Stay: Eagle Hunter’s Fall Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 / September 25: Uriankhai Archery Lessons & Kazakh Games
This morning, you’ll visit a nearby Uriankhai family, known for their traditional archery skills. Take lessons from expert archers and practice your aim, those who get really good may even compete at the festival later in the week!
In the afternoon, join in on ancient Kazakh games that showcase horsemanship and skill. Watch (or play!) Kokpar, a polo-like game played with a goat carcass, and try your hand at Togyz Kumalak, the strategic “Kazakh chess.”
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- Meet an Uriankhai Family and Learn Traditional Archery
- Watch and Participate in Kazakh Games Such as Kokpar and Togyz Kumalak
- Stay: Eagle Hunter’s Fall Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Days 7 / September 26: Altantsugts Eagle Festival Opening Day
Welcome to the Altantsugts Eagle Festival and two incredible days filled with excitement, color, and tradition!
Watch as Eagle Hunters from all across western Mongolia gather in full traditional attire to compete in speed, obedience, and accuracy events. Your host will be among the competitors. Cheer him on as he aims for a championship title!
Between competitions, explore the festival grounds filled with local food stalls, music, and dancing. On the final evening, join a grand feast with all the hunters, their families, and visitors — a celebration of culture, community, and the golden eagles that bring everyone together.
Please note that lunch is not included during these two days of the itinerary. Food stalls with plenty of options will be available at the Altantsugts Eagle Festival grounds. We recommend bringing cash to buy lunch today to support the local vendors.
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- Attend the Altantsugts Eagle Festival, One of the Smallest but Fiercest Competitions for Eagle Hunters in Mongolia
- Cheer on Your Eagle Hunter Host as He Competes to be Recognized as a Champion Hunter
- Purchase Lunch from Local Food Vendors
- Browse Local Artisans Goods, From Textiles to Handmade Apparel
- Feast with the Eagle Hunters and Bonfire to Celebrate the End of a Memorable Few Days Together
- Stay: Eagle Hunter’s Fall Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 / September 27: Altantsugts Eagle Festival Day 2 & Return to Ulgii
Today is the second day of the festival, and we’ll begin the morning by packing up and saying our goodbyes to our Kazakh host family after breakfast. It’s another exciting day at Altantsugts Eagle Festival as today’s events include tug-of-war, archery contests, camel races, and plenty of opportunities to browse local vendors for any last souvenirs.
This afternoon, the winners of the Altantsugts Eagle Festival will be announced, followed by a special chance to take a group photograph with all the eagle hunters, a moment you’ll want to capture.
Once the festival concludes, we’ll say farewell to our eagle hunter hosts and begin the drive back to Olgii. Before dinner, you’ll have time to stop by the local black market for any final shopping. We’ll end the night with a farewell dinner alongside your local guide and driver.
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- Attend Day 2 of the Altantsugts Eagle Festival
- Cheer on Locals as They Compete in Traditional Games
- Say a Tearful Goodbye to Your Eagle Hunter Family Hosts
- Drive to Olgii, the Capital City of Bayan-Olgii Province
- Farewell Dinner
- Stay: Local Hotel in Olgii (Double Occupancy)
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 / September 28: Fly Back to Ulaanbaatar & Farewell Dinner
Catch your morning flight back to Ulaanbaatar. Spend the afternoon relaxing, exploring the city, or shopping for last-minute souvenirs (hello, Gobi Cashmere!).
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- Domestic Flight to Ulaanbaatar
- Afternoon and Evening at Leisure
- Stay: Best Western Premier Tuushin or Similar (Double Occupancy)
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 / September 29: Depart Mongolia
Airport transfers will be arranged for your departure. Until next time — Sapar zhol bolsyn! (Safe travels!)
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- Private Airport Transfer to Chinggis Khaan International Airport
- Meals: Breakfast
What's Included
- All airport transfers (including your international arrival/departure and transfers for your domestic flight).
- All accommodation and transportation during the trip dates.
- Two local guides – one Mongolian guide who will meet and travel with you from Ulaanbaatar as well as one local Mongolian/Kazakh guide in Western Mongolia.
- All activities listed on the itinerary, including tickets to the Altantsugts Eagle Festival.
- Meals* (breakfast, lunch, dinner) as outlined on the trip itinerary.
*Please let me know of any dietary restrictions before booking.
What's Not Included
- International airfare.
- Excess baggage fees on the domestic flight to/from western Mongolia. There is a 15 kg limit on checked bags and 5 kg limit on handbags. Overages are subject to additional fees (5,000 Mongolian Tugrik for every 1 kg over the weight limit).
- Visa costs and fees.
- Travel Insurance that covers medical evacuation and cost of participation (required).
- Personal expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, telephone calls, optional activities, and meals which are not included in the trip itinerary.
- Tips and additional gratuities.
Visit our tour cancellation policy page if you have any additional questions.
Book Now
The price to book this 10-day Eagle Hunter & Local Festival Tour is $4,500 USD per person.
- Authentic Cultural Immersion: Live among eagle hunters and nomadic families, experiencing their way of life firsthand.
- Thrilling Adventures: Participate in real eagle hunting, horseback games, and traditional archery.
- Exclusive Access: Witness the Altansug Eagle Festival, a rare event showcasing ancient Kazakh traditions.
- Hands-on Experiences: Train an eagle, create your own crafts, and try your hand at traditional sports.
This once in a lifetime experience happens September 20 – 29, 2026. Book now – spots are limited to 10 travelers!
To book your spot, please complete the Google form linked below. Once received, we will reach out with everything you’ll need to complete your booking.
About Aagie, Your Local Mongolian Guide & Trip Leader
My name is Aagie (short for Agarmaa) and I am a professional certified tour guide and the head of tours at Meanwhile in Mongolia.
Born into a second-generation city life, I rediscovered my roots through travel and guiding. After three years and 30+ tours across the country, I’ve connected deeply with my heritage, from the Gobi to Mongolia’s diverse ethnic groups like the Kazakhs.
Along the way, I’ve encountered snow leopards, hunted with eagles, and explored Mongolia’s vast landscapes. I’m proud to share the beauty and traditions of my country while continuing to learn from it every day.
I will do everything I can to guide you on your adventures with what I’ve learned so far, but there’s also a good chance we’ll discover new things together along the way.
Is this trip right for me?
There are a few important things to know about this trip.
- Accommodations will be shared and that means you will share a ger (yurt) with another 1-2 travelers on the trip. This is typical in Mongolia and is part of the experience. No single supplements are available once we leave Ulaanbaatar.
- The temperature in September in Western Mongolia can get very cold. We will do our best to keep you as warm and comfortable as possible, but please keep in mind that we will be spending a lot of time outside. If you need help deciding what to pack, shop some of my favorite winter clothing and gear.
- You will be living off-grid. That means running water, regular electricity, hot showers, and reliable data and cellular service will not be available. This is your chance to disconnect from the outside world!
- We will be driving off-road. It’s not easy to get to these remote corners of Mongolia, but the journey is always worth it. Please let us know in advance if you get car sick. If you do, we recommend purchasing these motion sickness glasses.
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Growing up in a rural agricultural area of Southern California, I had a very close relationship with the Red-Tailed Hawk. Seattle Washington gave me the incredible thrill of seeing Eagles. I’ve had dreams where I was one with the Eagles, with one resting on my arm. Through Meanwhile In Mongolia, in the Kazakh steppe of Ulgii, that dream came true. A true treasured opportunity to be immersed deeply in an ancient nomadic culture, food, song, and dance, my fellow travelers and I lived a dream
I do not even know how I ended up here but I thought this post was great I do not know who you are but certainly youre going to a famous blogger if you are not already Cheers.
I was in Mongolia mid Sept thru the end of the month. Small tour group, Aagie great a tour guide / interpreter. They offered everything I wanted in Mongolia plus more. The weather was perfect.
If I ever go back to Mongolia I would choose ” Meanwhile in Mongolia” without a doubt !!!