Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia – An Unforgettable Cultural Adventure
Golden Eagle Festival Tour 2027 — Mongolia 8-Day Trip, Sept 30 – Oct 7
By Dauren, Bayan-Olgii local guide since 2017
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 · 72 reviews on TripAdvisor · 8+ years of Altai photography expeditions
Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia Tour – Essential Information
8 DAYS – 7 NIGHTS (FROM $2000 )
- Domestic Airfare: Round-trip domestic flights included
- Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
- Price From: $2,000 USD per person
- Tour Type: Cultural and Festival
- Group Size: Maximum 12 participants
- Destination: Western Mongolia – Bayan-Ölgii Province
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Suitable Age: 15–80 years
2027 Festival Dates
Join Our Group Tour:
September 30 – October 7, 2027 — from 2000 USD pp (domestic flights included)
Tour Highlights
- Attend the 28th Golden Eagle Festival in western Mongolia
- Stay in a traditional yurt alongside a local Kazakh eagle-hunter family
- Experience horseback riding in the beautiful Altai Mountains
- Enjoy incredible photography opportunities with traditional eagle hunters and their golden eagles
- Enjoy convenient round-trip domestic flights between Ulaanbaatar and western Mongolia
- Travel with an experienced local team who know the region, its people, and its traditions
- Enjoy an all-inclusive 8-day cultural adventure with accommodation, meals, transportation, and festival tickets included
OVERVIEW
The 28th Annual Golden Eagle Festival will take place at Shar Nuur (15 km from Ölgii) on October 2–3, 2027.
The Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia is one of the country’s most spectacular cultural events, celebrating the ancient tradition of golden eagle hunting among the Kazakh people. Held every year in early October in Bayan-Ölgii Province, the westernmost region of Mongolia, this extraordinary festival offers travelers a rare opportunity to experience authentic nomadic culture surrounded by the breathtaking Altai Mountains.
Every year, hundreds of visitors and eagle hunters gather near Shar Nuur Lake to celebrate the opening of the golden eagle hunting season. Skilled Kazakh eagle hunters demonstrate their remarkable abilities, showcasing the special bond between hunters and their magnificent golden eagles.
Dressed in traditional Kazakh clothing and riding beautifully equipped horses, the eagle hunters create an unforgettable spectacle. The festival also features traditional horseback games, cultural performances, music, and singing, offering a fascinating glimpse into the heritage of Mongolia’s Kazakh community.
For photographers and culture enthusiasts, the Golden Eagle Festival provides incredible opportunities to capture stunning portraits, majestic golden eagles, colorful traditional costumes, and authentic moments of nomadic life.
Beyond the festival, Bayan-Ölgii is a remarkable destination known for its dramatic mountain scenery, pristine lakes, vast valleys, and welcoming nomadic families. The region is the heartland of Mongolia’s Kazakh eagle hunters, who have preserved their unique traditions for generations.
Traveling with a local tour operator allows you to discover more than the festival itself. You can meet eagle-hunting families, learn about their traditional way of life, and explore the spectacular landscapes of the Altai Mountains.
At Discover Altai, we are a locally based tour operator in Bayan-Ölgii Province with more than 10 years of experience organizing authentic cultural and adventure tours in western Mongolia.
Our carefully planned 8-day Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia tour combines the excitement of this unique cultural celebration with opportunities to discover local traditions and explore the beauty of the Altai region.
Whether you are passionate about photography, interested in ancient traditions, or simply looking for an authentic travel experience, we are excited to welcome you to our homeland and share its hidden gems.
Explore our 8-day Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia tour and start planning your adventure in western Mongolia with Discover Altai.
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WHY CHOOSE US?
10+ years Experience
We are local experts who are based in Bayan-Olgii province.
Flexible
Please feel free to choose our scheduled group departure or create your own
Reasonable Price
Price effective. Best trips with a reasonable price
Please join our scheduled group departure from 30th September to 7th October 2027, or create your own perfect tour of the Golden Eagle Festival 2027
Tour Itinerary
Enjoy an all-inclusive 8-day cultural adventure with accommodation, meals, transportation, and festival tickets included
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DAY1
Day 1Day 1: Welcome to Ulaanbaatar
Welcome to Mongolia, a land of vast steppes, majestic mountains, ancient traditions, and unforgettable adventures!
Upon arrival, our local guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
At 3:00 PM, please be ready in the hotel lobby to begin exploring Ulaanbaatar. Enjoy a guided walk through the city and visit the famous Sukhbaatar Square, the heart of Mongolia’s capital.
In the evening, join us for a welcome dinner featuring traditional Mongolian cuisine — a perfect introduction to Mongolian culture and hospitality!
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DAY2
Day 2Day 2: Fly to Western Mongolia
Early in the morning, our Ulaanbaatar guide will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your domestic flight to western Mongolia.
Upon arrival at Ölgii or Khovd Airport, our local team will welcome you and transfer you to our traditional yurt camp, where you’ll meet a local Kazakh eagle hunter and his family.
Experience authentic nomadic hospitality as you settle into a traditional yurt, beautifully decorated with colorful local ornaments and equipped with a central heating stove to keep you warm. Each yurt accommodates up to four guests. If you prefer a private yurt or accommodation for two people, please let us know in advance.
In the evening, enjoy a warm welcome dinner with your eagle-hunter host family and fellow travelers, sharing your first memorable moments in the heart of western Mongolia.
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DAY3Day 3
Day 3: Experience the Golden Eagle Festival
Our traditional yurt camp is located approximately 30 minutes’ drive from the Golden Eagle Festival grounds at Shar Nuur Lake.
After breakfast, we’ll drive to the festival venue to experience one of Mongolia’s most spectacular cultural celebrations. On the first day, you’ll witness the opening ceremony, the colorful parade of eagle hunters in their traditional Kazakh clothing, and the first round of the golden eagle hunting competitions.
More than 100 eagle hunters gather to demonstrate their skills alongside hundreds of other participants competing in traditional Kazakh games and activities. It’s an incredible opportunity to photograph the magnificent golden eagles, beautifully dressed hunters, and vibrant local traditions.
Our Discover Altai team will set up a traditional yurt at the festival grounds, where you can relax and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch. Hot tea and coffee will be available throughout the day to keep you warm and comfortable.
After an exciting day at the festival, we’ll drive back to our yurt camp, where our expedition chef will prepare a delicious dinner for the group.
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DAY4
Day 4Day 4: Golden Eagle Festival – Day 2
On the second day of the Golden Eagle Festival, enjoy more exciting traditional competitions and cultural performances. You’ll have the opportunity to watch thrilling horseback games, including tug-of-war on horseback, horse racing, and the famous coin-picking game, along with traditional Mongolian archery competitions.
Explore the lively open-air market, where local vendors display and sell traditional Kazakh handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. It’s a wonderful opportunity to find unique gifts for your loved ones and take home a special memory of your Mongolian adventure.
Around 4:00–5:00 PM, the festival concludes with the award ceremony, celebrating the winners and their remarkable achievements.
After two unforgettable days immersed in Kazakh culture and the spectacular world of eagle hunting, we’ll return to our traditional yurt camp for a relaxing evening.
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DAY5Day 5
Day 5: Horseback Riding with Kazakh Eagle Hunters
Today, you’ll experience the authentic lifestyle of Kazakh eagle hunters and enjoy a memorable horseback adventure in the beautiful Altai Mountains.
We’ll invite several local eagle hunters to join us for a journey into the surrounding mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the vast valleys and rugged mountain landscapes.
Along the way, the eagle hunters will demonstrate their traditional skills and training techniques with their golden eagles, offering you a closer look at this remarkable ancient tradition.
Bring your camera and feel free to take photographs and videos of the eagle hunters, their magnificent birds, and the stunning scenery. This is a fantastic opportunity for cultural photography and unforgettable memories.
After our mountain adventure, we’ll return to the eagle hunters’ camp for a relaxing evening and another taste of authentic nomadic hospitality.
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DAY6Day 6
Day 6: Drive to Ölgii
Enjoy a relaxing morning at the eagle hunters’ camp, with free time until lunch. You can choose how to spend your final hours in the countryside: take a scenic hike, photograph the eagle hunters with their magnificent golden eagles, visit another local eagle-hunting family, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
After lunch, we’ll drive to Ölgii, the capital of Bayan-Ölgii Province. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your hotel and have time to refresh.
Later, enjoy a short walk around downtown Ölgii to discover the local atmosphere and everyday life of this unique western Mongolian town.
In the evening, we’ll gather for dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying delicious food and sharing memories of our Golden Eagle Festival adventure
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DAY7Day 7
Day 7: Fly Back to Ulaanbaatar – City Tour
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Ölgii Airport for your flight back to Ulaanbaatar.
Upon arrival, our local guide will welcome you and take you to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore Mongolia’s capital with a guided city tour before checking in to your hotel.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner with the group, sharing stories, photos, and unforgettable memories from our journey to the Golden Eagle Festival and the beautiful Altai Mountains.
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DAY8Day 8
Day 8: Departure – Farewell Mongolia!
Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey through Mongolia! We hope you’ve enjoyed the Golden Eagle Festival, discovered the rich traditions of Kazakh eagle hunters, and created wonderful memories in the beautiful Altai Mountains.
After breakfast, our Ulaanbaatar guide will transfer you to the airport or another destination of your choice.
We wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back to Mongolia for another adventure in the future!
Thank you for traveling with Discover Altai. Have a wonderful trip!
Reserve your spot
8-day Golden Eagle Festival tour · Sept 30 – Oct 7, 2027 · max 12 · from $2,000
Good to Know – FAQ
How do I get to Mongolia?
Please book your international flight to Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital. This is the city’s main international airport and the departure point for domestic flights to western Mongolia.
Are domestic flights included, and how do they work?
The Golden Eagle Festival is one of Mongolia’s most popular annual events, so domestic flights to Ölgii can be difficult to book during the festival period. Tickets often sell out well in advance, and last-minute fares may be significantly higher. Alternative flights to neighboring provinces may sometimes be necessary.
We strongly recommend booking your tour as early as possible. Our tour package includes round-trip domestic flights between Ulaanbaatar and western Mongolia.
The standard domestic baggage allowance is 15 kg per passenger. Excess baggage is charged at approximately $1.50 USD per additional kilogram, subject to airline policies.
What is the weather like, and what should I wear?
Early October marks the beginning of the colder season in western Mongolia, and snowfall is possible. Daytime temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F), with strong winds making it feel even colder.
Please bring warm winter clothing, including a winter jacket, thermal layers, a warm hat, gloves, and insulated footwear. Being properly prepared will help you enjoy the festival comfortably.
Where will I stay during the tour?
During our 8-day tour, you’ll stay in a combination of hotels and traditional Mongolian yurts:
Mattresses and sleeping bags are provided at the yurt camp. If you prefer private accommodation, please check our available accommodation options when booking.
- Ulaanbaatar: 2 nights in a hotel
- Ölgii: 1 night in a hotel
- Traditional yurt camp: 4 nights with a local Kazakh eagle-hunter family
What about meals and dietary requirements?
Our expedition chef prepares three meals a day during the trip, using fresh ingredients whenever available. Fresh drinking water, hot tea, coffee, salads, and snacks are also provided.
If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know in advance. We’ll do our best to accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary needs, as well as food allergies.
What vehicles are used on the tour?
We use reliable 4WD vehicles suitable for the rugged roads of western Mongolia, including Russian UAZ Buhanka vans and Toyota Land Cruiser 100, 105, and 200 series, depending on group size and availability.
Our experienced local drivers know the region well and are committed to providing a safe and comfortable journey.
Is there electricity for charging devices?
A generator is available at the yurt camp during the evening for a few hours, typically until 10:00 PM. Electricity is limited outside these hours, so we recommend bringing a power bank to keep your phone, camera, and other essential devices charged.
What should I pack?
We recommend bringing the following essentials:
- Warm winter jacket and thermal layers
- Warm hat, gloves, and insulated boots
- Sunglasses and personal toiletries
- Towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Phone and camera chargers
- Power bank
- Personal medication and basic first-aid items
- Some cash for personal purchases and souvenirs
Can the Tour Be Customized?
Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has different interests and preferences. If you’d like to extend your stay, spend more time with an eagle-hunter family, or include additional cultural experiences, we can arrange a customized private tour to suit your needs.
Simply let us know what you have in mind, and we’ll be happy to help.
Who is the local support team?
Throughout your journey, you’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide and an experienced local driver. In western Mongolia, our expedition chef will also join the group to prepare fresh meals throughout your adventure.
As a locally based tour operator in Bayan-Ölgii, Discover Altai takes pride in sharing our homeland, culture, and traditions with travelers from around the world. We’ll be there to help make your Golden Eagle Festival experience as comfortable, authentic, and memorable as possible.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand that travel plans can sometimes change. If you need to cancel your booking, the following cancellation fees will apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: $400 USD cancellation fee.
- 45–60 days before departure: $500 USD cancellation fee.
- Less than 30 days before departure: $600 USD cancellation fee.
The remaining amount paid will be refunded after deducting the applicable cancellation fee.
How do I book this tour?
Booking your Golden Eagle Festival adventure with Discover Altai is simple!
- Confirm your tour details: Agree on the itinerary, travel dates, and tour price.
- Pay the deposit: Secure your booking with a deposit of $600 USD per person.
- Send your passport copies: Please provide a copy of each traveler’s passport so we can arrange your domestic flight tickets.
- Pay the remaining balance: The final payment is due two months before the tour departure date
Tour Price includes
Tour price excludes
Please Come & Enjoy the Best-planned Mongolian Adventure
Tour Price & Scheduled dates: Sept 30 – Oct 7, 2027
Golden Eagle Festival Tour – Pricing per Person
| Joinning the group | Shared accommodation | Private Hotel | Private hotel +Private yurt |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | 2600 | 2900 | 3300 |
| 2 person | 2300 | 2300 | 2600 |
| 3 person | 2150 | 2150 | 2300 |
| 4 person | 2000 USD | 2200 | 2400 |
Accommodation options
- Shared accommodation: Twin hotel room for 3 nights and a traditional shared yurt for 4 nights, accommodating up to 4 people.
- Private hotel: Private hotel accommodation, with a shared traditional yurt during the 4 nights at the eagle hunters’ camp.
- Private hotel + private yurt: Private hotel accommodation and a private yurt during the stay with the eagle hunters.
Cancellation Policy:
We understand that travel plans can sometimes change. If you need to cancel your booking, the following cancellation fees will apply:
· More than 60 days before departure: $400 USD cancellation fee.
· 45–60 days before departure: $500 USD cancellation fee.
· Less than 30 days before departure: $600 USD cancellation fee.
The remaining amount paid will be refunded after deducting the applicable cancellation fee.
How to Book Your Tour
- Confirm your tour details: Agree on the itinerary, travel dates, and tour price.
- Pay the deposit: Secure your booking with a deposit of $600 USD per person.
- Send your passport copies: Please provide a copy of each traveler’s passport so we can arrange your domestic flight tickets.
- Pay the remaining balance: The final payment is due two months before the tour departure date
Booking your Golden Eagle Festival adventure with Discover Altai is simple!
The tour will start on 30th September and finish on 7th October 2027. It is an all-inclusive package tour with an experienced support team.
Come and enjoy the unforgettable Golden Eagle Festival with the Discover Altai team. See you at the Festival!
If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us!
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