Altai Eagle Hunter Trek: Western Mongolia
August 20 to 31, 2027 | USD 5800 PP
We created this unique expedition several years ago, and have now perfected it (after exploring multiple variations over then last 10 years). Safe to say, it is one of our favourites. So, imagine if you will, joining a small-group expedition to discover a spectacular and unexplored corner of the Altai mountains (that until 2015 was completely off-limits to outsiders), supported by a bactrian camel train, and exclusively led by Adrian (who has personally hosted this expedition 5 times now), in collaboration with one of the region's fabled eagle hunters.
And there's more. Our team will trek deep into the larch-forested valleys, crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped peaks that straddle the wild border with China - home to snow leopard, brown bears, golden eagles and ibex - and tackle a final trip challenge to discover the wild and wonderful 'Bear Lake'. Finally, at the eagle hunter family ger camp of our trusted friend and guide, we will experience warmhearted Kazakh hospitality and witness an authentic eagle training session as the raptor is prepared for the winter hunts.
Why Join Our Team?
Participate in a unique expedition to explore a remote corner of the Altai, exclusively created by Whistling Arrow.
Get off the grid, on a remote adventure, that is guaranteed to see no other people (apart from the odd nomadic family).
Gain immersive access to one of the fabled eagle hunters as our good friend helps guide our team through the Altai.
The Eagle Hunters of Western Mongolia - Training a Young Eagle.
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Expedition Plan
This route was pioneered by Whistling Arrow in 2017 and travels through a remote region of western Mongolia that requires a reasonable degree of flexibility and self-reliance from the team. The following is only the outline daily plan.
August 20, 2027
Fly to Ulan Bator (IATA: ULN). Transfer to the Kublai Hotel (closer to the airport to avoid the traffic). Enjoy an introductory team dinner and drinks.
August 21, 2027
Catch the early morning flight to Ulgii. Drive for 6 hours to rendezvouz with our camels and our eagle hunter guide (and camels) at our first camp by the shores of Shergaty Lake.
August 22, 2027
Trek for 6 hours over Yolt Pass to a spectacular lookout, before descending to our campsite by a small river (there are also interesting petroglyphs nearby).
August 23, 2027
Trek for 6 hours, over another gradual mountain pass before descending to our next campsite alongside at the foot of a large escarpment. This area is notable for it's wild eagles and ibex.
August 24, 2027
Trek an exploratory route for 6 hours, climbing up onto a spectacular ridge, before descending into 'Black Goat' Valley and our campsite by a small stream.
August 25, 2027
Trek for 6 hours, first up the valley and over another pass before climbing onto an incredibly panoramic ridge and descending to our next campsite. The views today are breathtaking.
August 26, 2027
Today the camels will leave us, and we will travel for one hour by vehicle to the start of a wonderful hike up to a beautiful wild lake (teaming with fish) that we discovered in 2026. Descend to our vehicle and drive an additional hour to our final campsite.
August 27, 2027
We will stay at this final campsite for 2 nights (it is very special) and use it as a base today to explore up to Bear Lake. Again the views, particularly on the descent are stupendous.
August 28, 2027
Today we will drive for 1 hour to our custom-assembled, private ger camp built alongside the eagle hunter family. This afternoon, we will climb a spectacular escarpment and witness a training session with one of the family's golden eagles.
August 29, 2027
This morning, we will drive back to Ulgii to stay in my friends local hotel. There will be time for some souvenir shopping, followed by dinner at a rooftop restaurant.
August 30, 2027
This morning we will fly back to Ulan Bator. There we will visit the best cashmere factory outlet before checking into the Novotel Hotel. There will be time for a visit to the newly opened Chinggis Khan Museum, before our final dinner at my favourite restaurant.
August 31, 2027
Transfer to the airport, and fly home. Safe travels, and see you next time!
Expedition Location
Practical Information
Rest assured we will be here to advise you on all aspects of preparing for, and participating in, this trip. Here are a few obvious places to start.
Accomodation
Will be in good quality hotels in Ulan Bator and Ulgii. On the trek we will be camping in large, high-quality tents (each person will have their own 3-man tent). On the final evening of the trek we will stay in comfortable gers. (with a proper bed).
Altitude
Altitude is not typically an issue on this trip. The maximum altitude en route will be approximately 2800m when crossing the second mountain pass.
Communication
On the trek there will be no phone/data coverage but we will carry a mini Starlink for emergency communication.
Difficulty
The trip is moderately challenging so everyone needs to be reasonably prepared, both mentally and physically.
Equipment
We will supply all (rigourously cleaned) camping equipment, although we recommend that you bring your own sleeping bag. Please refer to our typical kit list for a guide as to what else to bring.
First Aid
We carry a comprehensive medical kit, including Diamox to treat any signs of altitude sickness, although this is not expected to be an issue on the trek. Emergency evacuation proceedures have also been carefully thought through if needed.
Food
A good variety of food will be prepared by our expedition cooks. Lunches will be picnic style. Breakfast & dinner will be served in our large dining tent.
Flights
The trip begins and ends in Ulan Bator (IATA: ULN). All guests to arrive in Ulan Bator by the evening of August 20. Domestic flights are included in the cost of the trip.
Insurance
All guests must have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes emergency medical evacuation.
Support
The expedition will have a full support crew. On the trek your large rucksacks will be transported by camels and vehicle. You only need to carry a day pack while hiking.
Temperatures
Typically will range between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius during the day, but may fall to as low as zero degrees at night. In late August the weather should be fine and stable.
Toilets & Washing
On the trek itself we will be camping, but basic washing facilities and toilet tents will be provided.
Visas
Most nationalities can now travel to Mongolia visa free. Whistling Arrow will confirm if your nationality is not included and help with any relevant visa application.
We couldn't do it without them - during the adventure trek we will be supported by a team of (occasionally grumpy) bactrian camels.
A Final Word From A Previous Guest
Our 12 days in Mongolia's Altai Highlands were truly spectacular. The landscape, the nature and the people together made this a trip of a lifetime. Most importantly, none of this would have been possible without Adrian and his team at Whistling Arrow. Both planning and execution were spot on. Our route had been carefully thought through and as we trekked over some of the most stunning landscape we were well looked after at all times.
Adrian's own hands-on approach also made the trip special. He was a great guide and companion over our days together. Of course the key question is "would you do it again or a similar trip (with Whistling Arrow) and the emphatic answer is YES.