Every October, during the first week, the Eagle Festival is held at Sayat Tolgoi in Bugat County, Bayan-Ulgii Province, celebrating the ancient tradition of Kazakh eagle hunting. Since its inception in 2000, the festival has grown into a major cultural event, attracting over 100 eagle hunters and heritage bearers from across the region.
The festival lasts for two days, showcasing not only eagle hunting competitions but also traditional Kazakh games, music, and craftsmanship. If you’re interested in attending or participating in the next festival, please contact us at info@mnomada.com or visit our website for more information.
About Bayan-Ulgii Province
Bayan-Ulgii is Mongolia’s westernmost province, home to stunning mountain landscapes and unique cultural heritage. It is home to:
Khüiten Peak – Mongolia’s highest point.
Maanit Mountain – the country’s westernmost location.
A population of ~110,000, with 91% being ethnic Kazakh.
The province offers a range of activities for outdoor and cultural enthusiasts, including trekking, horseback riding, photography, wildlife watching, and deep immersion into nomadic Kazakh culture.
Weather in October
Located at high altitude, Bayan-Ulgii has an extreme continental climate, with average annual temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C. October weather can vary greatly: from sunny and crisp to cold and snowy.
Tip: The cold conditions are ideal for eagle hunting but can be uncomfortable for spectators. We recommend bringing hand warmers, warm blankets, and proper winter gear.
How to Get There
Bayan-Ulgii is located 1,700 km from Ulaanbaatar. Travel options include:
By Car
A road trip takes 1–2 days, passing through Bayankhongor, Gobi-Altai, and Khovd.
Best done with a professional tour company.
By Air
Charter flights by Hunnu Air operate during festival days (book 6+ months in advance).
Regular flights are available via MIAT Mongolian Airlines.
Fewer flights have been available since the pandemic, so early booking is essential.
By Bus
Daily buses from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii take ~36 hours non-stop.
From Ulgii, you can join local tours to the festival site.
Where to Stay
Accommodations include:
Modern hotels in Ulgii
Tourist camps, guesthouses, and homestays with eagle hunters
Luxury camping options
Tip: Availability is limited during the festival. For comfort, book at least a year in advance through a tour company.
What to Eat
Mongolian and Kazakh cuisines are meat-based, with popular dishes like:
Beshbarmak (boiled meat with pasta)
Kaz (horsemeat)
Jambas (bone-in cuts)
Kazakh food is halal, and Ulgii also offers Turkish, Mongolian, and European cuisine.
Vegetarians should inform their tour operator in advance to ensure suitable meals.
Souvenirs & Shopping
The Eagle Festival is also a showcase of Kazakh craftsmanship:
Handmade goods (textiles, leather, metalwork)
Traditional food and drinks
Tip: Bargaining is common, and part of the fun!
Infrastructure & Practical Info
Festival site is 10 km from Ulgii, accessible off-road.
Temporary facilities: food stalls, wooden toilets, and parking areas.
No electricity or reliable mobile service at the site.
Bring power banks, fully charged devices, and other essentials for personal comfort.
Day 1:
- Opening parade of 100+ eagle hunters
Eagle Calling Contest – where hunters call their birds from a distance
Tenge Ilu – horseback riders collect coins at high speed
Uriankhai Archery – traditional bowmanship
Evening performance of Kazakh traditional music and dance
Day 2:
Shirga Tatu – hunters ride while their eagles pursue dummy prey
Kizkhuar – women chase men on horseback, a fun and fast-paced event
Kukpar – a tug-of-war game on horseback using a goat carcass
Final crowning of the year’s top eagle hunter
Photography Tours
Extend your stay for a dedicated photography experience:
Visit Kazakh families in Sagsai, Altantsugts, and other areas
Take portraits of eagle hunters in natural settings
Explore Altai Tavan Bogd National Park for nature and wildlife shots
We offer professional photo tours led by expert guides.
Contact: info@mnomada.com
Alternative Eagle Festivals (September)
Smaller, more intimate festivals are held in:
Sagsai, Altantsugts, Tolbo, Altai counties
These offer:
Closer interaction with hunters, Milder weather, Lower costs, Better access to other western Mongolian attractions
A great option for those seeking an authentic, less crowded experience.
