Golden Eagle Festival in Western Mongolia
Active
7d
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A Majestic Celebration of Mongolian Heritage. The Golden Eagle Festival is one of Mongolia’s most breathtaking cultural events, held annually in the Bayan-Ölgii province. This festival is a living testament to the ancient tradition of eagle hunting, where Kazakh hunters showcase their deep bond with their majestic golden eagles: You will experience activities dueing the festival such as Eagle Hunting Competitions, traditional horse races, Archery & kokbar-where riders compete to grab a goat carcass while on horseback, cultural performances, local handicrafts & cuisine-beautiful handmade crafts and savor authentic Kazakh dishes, including Beshbarmak, a traditional meat and noodle dish.
Available options
Golden Eagle Festival in Western Mongolia
Pickup included
What's included
Breakfast, lunch, dinner. water and light snacks included during trip days
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Meet at the lobby of airport upon airplane arrival
About Ölgii
Ölgii is the capital of Mongolia's Bayan-Ölgii Province, nestled in the Altai Mountains. It's a unique destination known for its Kazakh culture, stunning mountain landscapes, and as a gateway to Mongolia's western wilderness. The region is famous for its eagles, nomadic traditions, and the annual Golden Eagle Festival.
Top Attractions
Golden Eagle Festival
An annual festival celebrating Kazakh eagle hunters and their traditions. It features eagle hunting demonstrations, horse racing, and traditional music and dance.
Cultural
1-2 days
Moderate
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
A stunning national park featuring the highest peaks in Mongolia, including Tavan Bogd (5,195 m). It's a paradise for hikers and mountaineers.
Nature
2-3 days
Moderate
Khövsgöl Nuur
A large freshwater lake known as the 'Blue Pearl of Mongolia'. It's a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping.
Nature
3-4 days
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Beshbarmak
A traditional Kazakh dish made with horse meat and noodles, often served with a rich broth.
Main Dish
Contains meat
Kumis
Fermented mare's milk, a traditional Kazakh beverage.
Drink
Contains dairy
Buuz
Steamed dumplings filled with meat, a popular Mongolian dish.
Snack
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountaineering
Eagle Hunting
Camping
Fishing
Boating
Visiting nomadic families
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the best time to visit Ölgii for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. This is when the Golden Eagle Festival takes place, attracting visitors from around the world.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mongolian
- Widely spoken: Kazakh, Russian
- English: Limited
Currency
Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ölgii is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken, especially in remote areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious with wildlife
- • Stay informed about weather conditions
Getting there
By air
- Ölgii Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Ölgii Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transport in Ölgii. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
City Center
Nomadic Camps
Day trips
Khövsgöl Nuur
1,000 km • 3-4 days
A large freshwater lake known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Golden Eagle Festival • October
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Mongolian to enhance your experience.
- Pack layers of clothing as weather can change quickly.
- Hire a local guide for a more immersive and safe experience.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting nomadic families.
- Try traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak and kumis.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
