Explore Altai mountains with horse riding and trekking
A journey through the clouds to witness a thousand-year-old tradition in the wild Altai peaks
$1500.00
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Step into a world where time stands still. Our Altai Mountains & Eagle Hunters Expedition is a rare opportunity to witness the profound bond between the Kazakh nomads and their majestic golden eagles. Set against the backdrop of the rugged, snow-capped Altai peaks, this tour is meticulously designed for adventure seekers, cultural enthusiasts, and professional photographers alike.
Witness the Tradition: Spend authentic days with Kazakh families, learning the art of eagle hunting passed down through generations.
• Dramatic Landscapes: Traverse the high mountain passes and pristine lakes of Western Mongolia, where every turn offers a gallery-worthy shot.
• Photography Focus: Guided sessions to capture the perfect "decisive moment" during the eagle's flight and the intimate daily life of nomadic camps.
• Expert Logistics: Full support including 4x4 transport, traditional ger stays, and expert local guides who speak the language of the mountains.
This is more than a tour; it is a passage into the wild heart of Central Asia. Join Nomad Follows for an unforgettable odyssey where the eagle soars and the spirit of the nomad lives on.
Day 1 – Journey to the Edge: Bayan-Ulgii
Your adventure begins with a domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii, the heart of the Kazakh culture in Mongolia. After meeting Baka and the team, we will explore the local bazaar, where the scents of spices and handmade felt rugs fill the air. We’ll spend the evening discussing the photography plan for the days ahead.
Stay: Boutique Hotel / Local Ger, Ulgii
Day 2 – The Golden Eagle Masters
Today, we drive into the rugged Altai valleys to meet our first Eagle Hunter family. This is a rare opportunity to witness the deep bond between the hunter and the golden eagle. We will spend the afternoon capturing portraits of the hunters in their traditional attire against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains.
Stay: Authentic Kazakh Nomad Family (Private Ger)
Day 3 – Life in the High Altai
Experience a day in the life of a nomad. We will document the morning rituals—milking livestock, preparing traditional tea, and the intricate art of eagle training. Baka will guide you to the best vantage points to capture the "Golden Hour" as the eagles fly from the mountain ridges to their masters' arms.
Stay: Authentic Kazakh Nomad Family
Day 4 – Trekking to the Sacred Peaks
We venture deeper toward the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. This is where the landscape becomes truly dramatic. We will hike or ride horses (optional) toward the base of the holy peaks. Every turn offers a new perspective of glaciers and alpine lakes, perfect for landscape photography.
Stay: Expedition Tents / Eco-Camp
Day 5 – The Spirit of the Shaman & The Hunter
On this day, we focus on the spiritual side of the Altai. If the timing is right, we may witness a local ritual or visit ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) dating back thousands of years. In the afternoon, a private eagle hunting demonstration will be organized exclusively for our group to ensure the best photographic angles.
Stay: Eco-Camp near the mountains
Day 6 – Reflections and Farewell Feast
We begin our journey back to Ulgii. We will stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Khovd River. In the evening, we will enjoy a traditional Kazakh "Besbarmak" feast with our hosts, celebrating the friendships made under the eternal blue sky.
Stay: Boutique Hotel, Ulgii
Day 7 – Return to the Capital
After a final breakfast in the far west, we take the return flight to Ulaanbaatar. The afternoon is free for reflection or a final stroll through the city. Our expedition concludes with memories (and memory cards) full of the Altai’s raw beauty.