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Clement Court’s journey through Mongolia in the early nineteenth century was a huge undertaking. But what an epic journey it must have been. To soar through the Altai mountains with golden eagles, roam through the snowcapped mountains of Bayan-Ölgi and meander through the vast landscapes of the Gobi desert. Thankfully the beauty of Mongolia has gracefully matured with age and we are revisiting it for one epic, exhilarating experience.
One of the few remaining unspoilt destinations in Asia, we’ve come up with a trip that will get your jaw dropping. Experience the dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, ancient temples and ruins, with the infiltration of cosmopolitan cities and western way of living. It’s truly quite something.
But the real edge to our trip comes in the form of hunting with golden eagles, Kazakh hospitality, and mountain trekking. This is one action-packed adventure.
snow capped mountains
meet the red hero
Stop over in Ulaanbaatar – meaning ‘Red Hero’ – Mongolia’s glittering capital city. This is where tradition meets modernity; Ulaanbaatar is a hub of Mongolia’s bohemian culture and pulsating lifestyle. As shocking as it is electrifying, picture ornate flowing eaves of the monastery temples standing beside communist planned courtyards and modern sky scrapers.
Be met on arrival by your driver and guide who knows this city like the back of his hand. He’ll take you to each and every hotspot, to marvel at the city’s spectacular sights, taste the local cuisine, and feel the vibe of the bustling city. An eye-opening introduction to this fascinating country, Ulaanbaatar is where it all begins.
hunting with eagles
Next, catch an early-morning flight out to Ulgii, predominantly a Kazakh city that happens to be in Mongolia. Here, Muslim influence is widespread, so from the religion to its people, clothes to the food, Ulgii shines within its unique and special atmosphere. Ulgii is your gateway to the remote far west, so following a whistle-stop tour, you’ll be up and out to Altantsogts with a stop en route to Oni Mountain, the birthplace of these astonishing birds.
legendary eagles
Meet Sailau and his family. Sailau is one of the most experienced eagle hunters in the region, and your ticket to experience firsthand Kazakh hospitality and the nomadic lifestyle. You’ll roam the vast, empty lands learning the unique skills and techniques of eagle hunting. From the horse’s mouth, Sailau excels in passing on all there is to know about eagle hunting and its fascinating history.
Before embarking on a hunt, you’ll take training sessions with an eagle against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and breathtaking glaciers. Then on board horses, or on foot if you wish, you’ll trek deep into the Altai Mountains to begin the hunt, watching the eagles soar to monumental heights before swooping down to catch prey.
Hunting with eagles is a life’s profession in fact; master and bird have an intimate relationship which is built on over 20 years of trust. It is an all-consuming relationship too, particularly considering that when young, the growing bird will depend entirely on their master for sight. As legend goes the man trains the eagle, so does the eagle train his man. This is one truly thrilling, unusual and inspiring sport. And in true competitor style, every October a magnificent festival showcases the very best in eagle hunting to a panel of Mongolians. Judgements are based on the most elaborate and ornate dress costumes, the agility and accuracy of the golden eagle itself and finally a game of kekbar (passing of goat skins). To ride in the shadow of golden eagle wings is a rare opportunity – one that we just can’t help but get excited about.
shamans, cashmere and caviar
Before returning to Ulaanbaatar (one night was never going to be enough), you’ll travel to meet a local shaman. Shamans are the messengers between the human world and the spirit world. They are said to mend the soul through treatments, seeking to restore balance and wholeness to the individual. An intricate art form, the shaman will welcome you and provide a unique insight into his world.
For one final night, kick back in Ulaanbaatar and enjoy the city as you will. Stock up on all those things that caught your eye; cashmere jumpers, Mongolian boots, fur hats and caviar. Complete your evening with a farewell meal at one of our favourite restaurants.
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