Don’t Wing It! Plan Your Visit with Mongolian Eagle Hunters Like a Pro
Visiting the Mongolian eagle hunters is a must for those seeking an unforgettable cultural experience in Asia. Eagle hunting is a centuries-old tradition passed down through generations of nomadic Kazakh tribes in western Mongolia.
Visitors to Mongolia have the opportunity to witness this ancient practice firsthand and gain insight into the nomadic people’s unique way of life and culture.
The length of time visitors stay with Mongolian eagle hunters can vary–some tours may only last a few hours, while others can last several days or weeks.
Typically, visitors can choose from a range of Mongolian eagle hunter experiences, from day trips to multi-day expeditions, where they can live alongside the eagle hunters and learn about their way of life.
These extended programs offer a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the hunters in action, help with chores and tasks, and participate in cultural events and celebrations.
Booking a Mongolian eagle hunter trip requires some research and planning, but there are several ways to make it happen.
Here are some places where you can see and experience Mongolian Eagle hunters:
- Bayan-Ölgii Province: This is Mongolia’s most popular destination for eagle hunting. Bayan-Ölgii is a western province that borders Kazakhstan and China, and it is home to a significant population of Kazakh nomads who have practiced eagle hunting for centuries.
- Khovd Province: Khovd Province is another region in western Mongolia where eagle hunting is still practiced. It is a less popular destination than Bayan-Ölgii but is still worth considering if you want a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: This national park is located in Bayan-Ölgii Province and is a popular destination for Mongolian eagle hunter tours. The park is home to stunning landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and lakes, and it is also a great place to learn about the culture of the Kazakh nomads.
- Tsagaan Suvarga: Tsagaan Suvarga is a stunning natural landmark in the Dundgovi Province of central Mongolia. It is also a popular destination for Mongolian eagle hunter tours, and visitors can witness the spectacle of eagle hunters in action against the backdrop of the unique landscape.
- Gobi Desert: The Gobi Desert is a vast region that spans Mongolia and China. It is home to several Mongolian eagle hunters who have adapted their hunting techniques to the desert environment. Visiting the Gobi Desert can provide a unique perspective on Mongolian eagle hunting.
Here are some steps to follow when booking a trip:
Research tour companies that offer eagle hunting experiences in Mongolia. Many companies online specialize in cultural tours, and eagle hunting is often included in their itineraries.
Consider the length and type of trip you want. Decide whether you want a short-day trip or a more extended, multi-day excursion that includes more immersion in the culture and lifestyle of the Mongolian eagle hunters.
Check the availability and prices of the tours you are interested in. Be sure to read reviews and check the tour operator’s reputation to ensure that they offer high-quality experiences.
Contact the tour company to make your booking. Be sure to ask any questions about the trip, including what is included in the price, what to expect on the tour, and what kind of accommodations will be provided.
Did you know?
Mongolian eagle hunters have a unique way of communicating with their eagles. The hunters develop a close bond with their birds and use a series of vocalizations to communicate with them.
For example, they may use a high-pitched whistle to signal the eagle to fly to a specific location or a low growl to indicate it is time to attack prey. They may also use a variety of hand gestures and body language to communicate with their birds.
This method of communication between humans and animals is fascinating and showcases the deep connection between eagle hunters and their eagles.
A little history:
Mongolian eagle hunters have been around for of over a thousand years. The practice of using eagles for hunting prey, such as foxes and rabbits, was initially developed by the nomadic tribes of Central Asia, including the Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, and Mongolians.
The tradition was handed down from generation to generation, becoming an essential part of their culture and way of life. Eagle hunting was a crucial source of food and clothing for these tribes, and the hunters often trained their birds from a young age to ensure their loyalty and effectiveness.
The practice declined during the Soviet era when hunting was prohibited, but it experienced a revival in the 1990s following the fall of the Soviet Union and the establishment of Mongolia as an independent nation.
Mongolian eagle hunters are recognized as an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage. It continues to be practiced by a few skilled and dedicated hunters who have mastered the art of eagle hunting.
