Overview
The mystical Altai Mountains in Western Mongolia are one of the last true wilderness areas of Asia. Their stunning beauty—with several snow-capped peaks reaching upwards of 14,000 feet—is the backdrop for this extraordinary adventure. From pristine lakes teeming with fish to meadows strewn with fuchsia and topaz wildflowers to magnificent alpine scenery, this extension provides a rare glimpse of some of Mongolia's most remote and uncharted areas. A highlight is the chance to interact with local Kazakh families and learn about their unique culture and pastoral-nomadic lifestyle that has been preserved through the ages. You’ll have a chance to meet them in their gers, hike in the surrounding mountains, and spend a day with a group of eagle trainers, who hunt with their eagles for fox and hare during the winter months.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Bayan Ulgii province, Altai Soum
Transfer to the airport for an early morning, 3-hour flight to Ulgii, capital of Bayan-Ulgii, Mongolia’s westernmost province. Upon arrival, drive through spectacular mountain valleys, following the Sagsai River, to our campsite at Altai Soum. This is a popular summer camp for local nomads and was a movie location for The Eagle Huntress. Overnight in gers...BLD
Approximately 3-4 hours of driving
Bayan Ulgii province, Altai Soum - Day 1
Mongolian Ger Camps
Mongolia
Days 1 to 3 (3 nights)
Gers are the traditional yurt-like tents used by Mongolian nomads for centuries, and these simple fixed camps are specially built and operated for visitors. They come equipped with beds and linens (and may also have a small table and stools), and are heated by a wood or coal stove. Meals are served in a central lodge or tent. Most of the camps have centrally located shared bathrooms. Please be prepared for limited shower use, as shower water is often solar heated and may not be available daily. Gers provide an authentic and memorable taste of Mongolian culture and allow us to visit areas that otherwise lack traveler accommodations. Most visitors find their stays at ger camps to be among their most enjoyable experiences in Mongolia.
Day 2
Jalangash
Ninety percent of the population of Bayan-Ulgii is Kazakh and while here, you will have ample opportunity to meet local families and experience the unique Kazakh culture. The isolated area has preserved the language, culture, and traditions of the Kazakhs and provides some of the most spectacular scenery in Mongolia. After breakfast, visit Kazakh families camping nearby. Many Kazakhs in Bayan-Olgii maintain traditional semi-nomadic herding by moving with their animals several times a year, and living in a Kazakh-style ger (larger and taller than a Mongolian ger) during the summer. Unlike gers in other regions of Mongolia, traditional Kazakh gers have no support columns in the center of a ger. Kazakh women are renowned for their skills in embroidery and appliqué, and their gers are decorated in a dazzling mosaic of colors. A project run by Ulaanbaatar Tourism Association helps local women get their handiwork supply to the markets in Ulaanbaatar to supplement family incomes. You will meet with members of a local women cooperative and learn how traditional embroideries are made. You will also have an opportunity to trek in the towering mountains and/or fish at the lake and adjacent river Chigertei (participants should bring their own fishing rod). Following tonight’s dinner, enjoy a cultural performance by local artists and nomads. Overnight in gers...BLD
Jalangash - Day 2
Mongolian Ger Camps
Mongolia
Days 1 to 3 (3 nights)
Gers are the traditional yurt-like tents used by Mongolian nomads for centuries, and these simple fixed camps are specially built and operated for visitors. They come equipped with beds and linens (and may also have a small table and stools), and are heated by a wood or coal stove. Meals are served in a central lodge or tent. Most of the camps have centrally located shared bathrooms. Please be prepared for limited shower use, as shower water is often solar heated and may not be available daily. Gers provide an authentic and memorable taste of Mongolian culture and allow us to visit areas that otherwise lack traveler accommodations. Most visitors find their stays at ger camps to be among their most enjoyable experiences in Mongolia.
Day 3
Meeting the Eagle Hunters
Today you will have an opportunity to meet a group of eagle trainers, who hunt with their eagles for fox and hare during winter months. Passed down from their Turkic ancestors, many Kazakhs still hunt with trained Golden Eagles. Female eagles are preferred since they are believed to be more aggressive and weigh as much as fifteen pounds (nearly one-third more than the males). Spend a day learning from the hunters, visiting their homes and riding along to watch them train their eagles and help document this centuries-old tradition. There is an ongoing research project supported by the local Eagle Hunters Association and Mongolian Bird Conservation Center. Participants who are interested will be able to help collect more data, including photos of birds and record interviews with hunters. Today you will also have chance to learn how traditional dish of bismarmak is made. Overnight in gers...BLD
Meeting the Eagle Hunters - Day 3
Mongolian Ger Camps
Mongolia
Days 1 to 3 (3 nights)
Gers are the traditional yurt-like tents used by Mongolian nomads for centuries, and these simple fixed camps are specially built and operated for visitors. They come equipped with beds and linens (and may also have a small table and stools), and are heated by a wood or coal stove. Meals are served in a central lodge or tent. Most of the camps have centrally located shared bathrooms. Please be prepared for limited shower use, as shower water is often solar heated and may not be available daily. Gers provide an authentic and memorable taste of Mongolian culture and allow us to visit areas that otherwise lack traveler accommodations. Most visitors find their stays at ger camps to be among their most enjoyable experiences in Mongolia.
Day 4
Ulgii
After breakfast drive to Ulgii. Upon arrival, have lunch at a local Turkish restaurant and, time allowing, visit the local mosque and flea market. Dinner and overnight at a local hotel...BLD
Ulgii - Day 4
Duman Hotel
Ulgii, Mongolia
Day 4 (1 night)
In Ulgii, we stay at a very basic hotel. Given its remote location, few amenities are available, but the beds are comfortable and it’s a convenient place to spend our last night before returning to Ulaanbaatar.
Day 5
Ulgii / Ulaanbaatar
After an early morning breakfast, fly to Ulaanbaatar. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Optional visit to a local artist’s studio to learn about contemporary art in Mongolia...B
Ulgii / Ulaanbaatar - Day 5
Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Day 5 (1 night)
You can expect traditional Mongolian friendliness and hospitality at this large modern hotel, set in the heart of Ulaanbaatar. It’s close to all the major sites of the city and an ideal place to relax during your time in Mongolia’s capital city. Guest rooms are spacious, and there’s a great view from the bar on the top floor. Facilities include three restaurants, a fitness center, sauna, and spa, where you can treat yourself to a relaxing massage.
Day 6
Depart
In the morning, transfer to the airport for your return flight home...B
