Every October, eagle hunters, or "berkutchi", come together with their magnificent birds to showcase skills that have been handed down through generations. Amid sweeping Altai landscapes and the crisp autumn air, the festival offers travelers an unforgettable cultural immersion — one where history, wilderness, and spirit collide.

A Celebration Rooted in Ancient Tradition

Eagle hunting is an ancient art, believed to be practiced for over 6,000 years on the steppes of Central Asia. In Mongolia, it remains preserved primarily by the ethnic Kazakhs of the west. Traditionally, hunters capture a young female eagle — prized for its size and strength — and spend years training her with patience and respect. These majestic birds are partners, not pets; after about 8 to 10 years of companionship, they are released back into the wild to live free.

The Golden Eagle Festival began in 1999 as a way to preserve and promote this endangered cultural practice. Today, it stands as one of Mongolia’s most spectacular cultural events, drawing visitors and photographers from around the world.

What to Expect at the Golden Eagle Festival

Over two thrilling days, around 100 eagle hunters in traditional clothing — adorned with fox furs, embroidered patterns, and tall hats — demonstrate their mastery through a series of competitions:

• Eagle Calling: The hunter releases their eagle from a mountain slope; it must recognize and fly swiftly back to its master’s glove.
• Agility Tests: Eagles must catch lures, often fox skins or rabbit carcasses, demonstrating speed, accuracy, and technique.
• Horsemanship Competitions: Hunters showcase their riding skills, including traditional games like Kokpar (a tug-of-war played on horseback with a goat carcass).
• Traditional Costume Contest: Hunters are judged on the beauty and authenticity of their traditional Kazakh dress.
• Cultural Performances: Folk songs, dombra music, dance, throat singing, and storytelling bring the festival grounds to life.

In between events, the festival becomes a living museum: nomadic families set up yurts, artisans display handmade crafts, and vendors serve delicious Kazakh and Mongolian cuisine.

Why You Should Experience It

🌏 Rare Cultural Insight The festival offers a glimpse into one of the last strongholds of ancient falconry traditions, untouched by mass modernization.

🏔 Spectacular Scenery The snow-capped Altai Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, making every moment a breathtaking photo opportunity.

🦅 Incredible Wildlife Interaction Up close and personal with trained golden eagles — some weighing up to 7 kilograms — soaring across the open plains.

🎶 Music and Dance Witness authentic Kazakh folk performances that echo the spirit of the steppe.

🍲 Taste Local Life Enjoy traditional Kazakh and Mongolian dishes such as beshbarmak (meat and noodle stew) and airag (fermented mare’s milk).

🤝 Meet Real Nomads Stay in authentic ger (yurt) camps, converse with eagle hunters, and learn their incredible life stories firsthand.

When and Where

• 📍 Location: Ölgii City, Bayan-Ölgii Province, Western Mongolia
• 📅 Date: Generally the first weekend of October (In 2025, it is expected to be around October 4–5, TBC)

Bonus: A smaller, more intimate Sagsai Eagle Festival is held nearby a few days earlier if you want an even closer experience.

Join the Journey with Juulchin Tours Mongolia

Juulchin Tours Mongolia is proud to offer an expertly organized journey to the Golden Eagle Festival with our Golden Eagle Festival 2025 Tour.

Our package includes:

• ✈️ Domestic flights between Ulaanbaatar and Ölgii
• 🛖 Comfortable accommodations in ger camps and local hotels
• 🚗 Private transportation and professional English-speaking guides
• 🦅 Access to exclusive eagle hunter experiences and festival activities
• 🍽 All meals included during the trip

Why Travel with Juulchin Tours Mongolia?

With over 70 years of experience showcasing the best of Mongolia, Juulchin Tours offers not just trips, but true cultural connections. We create journeys that are respectful to local traditions and designed to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

✅ Local Expertise ✅ Authentic Experiences ✅ Comfort and Safety Guaranteed

Are You Ready to Witness the Dance of Eagles in the Mongolian Sky?

📅 Limited spots available for 2025! 🦅 Book your Golden Eagle Festival Tour today and experience the unforgettable harmony of human, bird, and nature.