Round trip Eagle hunters and Mountain Ghosts
Travel to the heart of the inhospitable Altaj where golden eagles, eagle hunters and the mysterious snow leopard survive in a mythical landscape consisting of cliffs, valleys and rocky slopes.
Enrich your knowledge of the exceptional flora and fauna on guided hikes through the rugged area, get to know Kazakh culture and learn how falconers or 'Berkutchi' train their birds of prey to become accomplished hunters. The abundant presence of prey such as Argali sheep, Saiga antelope, Siberian ibex and marmots make the chances of spotting the mystical mountain ghost in its natural habitat here the highest.
Tips & tops from Expedition Altaj:
- In Ulaan Bataar , a visit to the Buddhist Gandan monastery, the Zanzabar Museum of Fine Arts and the winter palace of the last monarch are well worthwhile
- During your stay in the habitat of the snow leopard, you will experience scientific research on the elusive animal up close and personal
- It is said that the famous Mongolian throat song, Khoomei, began in Chandman soum
- The Khov Gol flows into Khar Us Nuur-the centerpiece of the national park of the same name-which has resulted in a giant bird-rich marsh delta
- Exploring Jargalant Khairkhan, you take a magnificent hike to Rashantiin Am, a sacred valley full of rocky outcrops, ancient poplars and a spring known for its medicinal properties
- From the traditional summer home of a "berkutchi," you will be initiated into hunting with golden eagles; from training from capture to release as an experienced adult hunter
- Did you know that female eagles are larger, heavier and more aggressive than their male counterparts and can bring in even larger prey?
- Search the skies in the remote rugged Khukh Serkhiyn Nuruu National Park for golden eagles, steppe eagles, black vultures, bearded vultures and the snake falcon
- Imagine yourself in the Wild West in Ölgii, a windswept frontier town on the banks of the Khovd, surrounded by gerd districts and rocky escarpments, known for Kazakh music, embroidery and art but above all for its spectacular golden eagle festival
