SAGSAI GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL TOUR 2024
The unbelievable tradition of Eagle Hunting is still kept by the Kazakh tribes of Mongolia in the 21st century. Imagine an eagle hunter on a horseback, galloping at full speed with an eagle on his/her arm in the background of the rugged Altai Mountains and picturesque Sagsai river. Does not it bring you back to ancient times?
Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival is dedicated to photographers, filmmakers, and photojournalists. The two days of the festival gives you great chances to shoot giant golden eagles' action, flights, ethnic people's faces thrilling competitions and enjoy cultural performances. Also, all visitors are invited to have an interview with eagle hunters, get a good knowledge of eagle hunting through speeches and all of these activities make Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival more spectacular and unique. Information about the Festival.
Highlights
- Ancient tradition of eagle hunting
- Nomadic Lifestyle of Kazakh People
- Photographic sessions
- Ethnic Cultural Performances
- Traditional Games and competition on horseback
Tour Itinerary
Day 1. /SEP 15/
Take a domestic flight to Ulgii town in the morning. Ulgii is the center of Bayan-Ulgii province where 90% of the population is Kazakhs who have their own language and unique culture. Meet local drivers with vehicles and then visit the local museums to know more about this place. Overnight in Tourist camp. (L/D)
Day 2. /SEP 16/
Drive to Sagsai to visit the Eagle hunter’s family to learn about their daily lifestyle, eagle hunting culture. Then return to Ulgii. Overnight in Tourist camp. (B/L/D)
Day 3. /SEP 17/
The first day of Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival is to experience culture and lifestyle of nomadic eagle hunters. Kazakh eagle hunters in Mongolia have been living in both pastoral and eagle falconry living ways. Pastoral living is summer time, eagle falconry living in winter time. This kind of lifestyle makes them a true nomadic eagle falconers and heritage keepers in this modern world. Today we will learn all about their life and culture. The procedure of assembly of Kazak Ger (yurt) and the Migration of nomadic family will be the highlights of the first day of the festival. (B/L/D)
Day 4. /SEP 18/
The second day of Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival starts with its opening parades and competitions for costuming and hunting techniques. This is the day of eagle hunting competitions. The eagle hunters try to land their eagles on their hands, eagles release from the top of the mountain, and points are given for their speed and gripping ability. The eagle chases fox skins dragged by their masters on horseback. Other events, such as Tenge-Ilu (Coin grabbing while riding a horse), the best costume competition, Kokbar (Thug of War), and Kizkhuar (Traditional Khazak Couples Game) take place. Festival winners are announced at the closing ceremony. Stay overnight in Tourist camp. (B/L/D)
Day 5. /Sep 19/
Take flight back to Ulaanbaatar. (B)
The atmosphere of Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival
Prices & Inclusions
Group size |
Price/Per person |
2 pax | 2035$ |
3-5 pax | 1865$ |
6-8 pax | 1675$ |
Includes
Accommodation: Tourist camp in Ulgii town
Photography sessions
A photo guide and interpreting service
Full board meals
Transport: Off-road 4x4 minivan
Domestic Round-trip Flight (UB-Ulgii-UB)
Festival tax
Museums and cultural performance
Transfer from/ to airport in Ulaanbaatar
Not Includes
International airfare
Personal equipment
Optional activity cost
Excess baggage charges
Single room supplement
Alcoholic drinks
Travel Insurance
The extra cost for photography in museums