Embark on a two or three week guided Off Road Mongolia tour, crossing the Gobi desert to the Eagle Hunters in the Altai mountains and exploring the stunning lakes of Northern Mongolia.

08 FAQs

• What is the duration of the "Altai Tracks to Eagle Hunters" tour?

  The tour lasts for 22 days for the entire loop from Ulaanbaatar across the Gobi desert to the Eagle Hunters in the Altai mountains and back along the northern lakes.

  The tour is also available to join for 16 days as a one way tour from Ulaanbaatar across the Gobi desert to Eagle Hunters and the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park with a domestic flight back to Ulaanbaatar OR a 13 days tour with a domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii for an self drive road trip to the Eagle Hunters, Tavan Bogd National Park and back via the northern lakes like Khyargas to Ulaanbaatar. All of the three tour length options include a night and day with an eagle hunter family in a remote corner of the Altai mountains.

• What kind of landscapes will I experience during the tour?

  On this Mongolia off road tour, you’ll experience an extraordinary variety of landscapes that showcase the country’s natural and cultural diversity. The journey begins in the Gobi Desert, where vast sand dunes, dramatic rock formations, and unique desert wildlife create an unforgettable backdrop. As you head west, the terrain transitions to the rolling open steppes of Western Mongolia, dotted with nomadic herders and their livestock, offering a true taste of Mongolia’s untouched wilderness.

  In the Altai Mountains, you’ll encounter glaciers, alpine peaks, and pristine lakes within Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, including breathtaking sights of the five sacred peaks and sparkling high-altitude lakes. This region is also home to the legendary eagle hunters, providing an authentic cultural experience amidst rugged, remote landscapes.

  Along the way, the tour also visits historical treasures such as Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, and other landmarks that blend Mongolia’s rich history with its dramatic scenery. Other natural highlights include serene and pristine lakes like Khyargas Lake, rolling valleys, and hidden mountain passes, making this two weeks Mongolia or three weeks Mongolia adventure one of the most scenic and diverse off road trips in Mongolia.

  Whether you are exploring the Gobi and Altai regions, tracking the routes of eagle hunters, or trekking in Western Mongolia, every day offers a mix of rugged beauty, cultural encounters, and unforgettable panoramic views.

• Is there a cultural immersion aspect to this tour to the eagle hunters in Altai?

  Absolutely. This Altai tour offers a profound cultural immersion into Mongolia’s rich history, nomadic traditions, and spiritual heritage. Travelers will have the unique opportunity to stay with nomadic families in their traditional gers, experiencing daily life on the open steppes of Western Mongolia. You will participate in routines such as herding livestock, preparing meals, and learning firsthand about the nomadic lifestyle that has persisted for centuries.

  A highlight of the journey is meeting eagle hunters and spending meaningful time in their traditional Kazakh yurts, observing the incredible bond between the hunters and their golden eagles. These encounters provide rare insight into one of Mongolia’s most iconic and enduring cultural traditions.

  Along the route, travelers are treated to live cultural performances that bring Mongolia’s music, dance, and spirituality to life. Depending on the itinerary, this can include private throat singing in the steppes, traditional music from eagle hunters, shaman rituals, and Mongol dances. Combined with visits to Buddhist monasteries and historical sites like Karakorum, the tour ensures an immersive experience that connects travelers with both the cultural and natural landscapes of the Gobi and Altai regions.

  Whether you choose a two weeks Mongolia or three weeks Mongolia itinerary, this journey seamlessly blends adventure and authentic cultural encounters, making it one of the most engaging Mongolia off road trips available.

• What types of activities are included?

  This Mongolia off road tour offers an adventurous and culturally immersive experience, blending thrilling activities with authentic local encounters. The journey features extreme offroading by 4×4 or motorcycle (only one of the two options based on your booking), traversing the rugged terrains of the Gobi and Altai regions, from sandy desert tracks to mountain passes in Western Mongolia.

  Adventurers can enjoy horseback and camel riding across the open steppes and desert dunes, providing a traditional Mongolian way to explore the landscape. Hiking excursions take you into the dramatic Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, where glaciers, alpine lakes, and majestic peaks await. At night, you’ll experience camping under the stars, with the remote wilderness of the Gobi and Altai providing a spectacular natural backdrop.

  A highlight of the tour is practicing hunting with golden eagles alongside eagle hunters, a unique cultural tradition preserved in Western Mongolia. Travelers also enjoy traditional music performances, meet Buddhist monks, and tour centuries-old monasteries, connecting with the spiritual heritage of the region.

  Additional activities include visiting historical sites of the Mongol Empire, exploring hidden valleys, and observing wildlife unique to Mongolia. Whether you choose the two weeks Mongolia tour or extend to three weeks Mongolia, this Altai tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of the most unforgettable Mongolia off road trips available.

• What type of vehicles can I choose from on the Altai Tracks to Eagle Hunters tour?

  For the Altai Tracks to Eagle Hunters tour, you can select from a range of reliable and comfortable off-road vehicles designed to tackle the diverse terrains of Western Mongolia, including the Gobi Desert, remote valleys, and the high-altitude passes of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. Available options include:

  UAZ Patriot – A rugged and dependable off-road vehicle, ideal for navigating dirt tracks, rocky paths, desert steppes, and mountainous trails during your Altai adventure.

  Toyota Land Cruiser 76 – Known for its durability and off-road performance, this vehicle ensures a smooth and safe ride across challenging landscapes while exploring Western Mongolia, the Gobi, and Altai regions.

  Toyota Land Cruiser 250 – A luxurious option combining comfort, power, and premium amenities, perfect for travelers who want a high-end experience while journeying through remote areas and meeting eagle hunter families.

  All vehicles are meticulously maintained, and a support team is available throughout the journey to ensure a safe and reliable expedition. Choosing the right vehicle enhances your adventure, making this Mongolia off road tour both thrilling and comfortable.

  For more details on vehicle options and guidance for off-road travel in Mongolia, see our Mongolia 4×4 car rental guide: https://themongoliatour.com/mongolia-4×4-car-rental-guide/

• What is included in the tour package?

  The package includes a support crew (guide and cook), dedicated specially equipped modern off-road vehicles or motorcycle for each participant to drive (2 participants share one 4×4 vehicle), fuel, accommodations, a private chef with meals and beverages, cultural activities, all national park entries, activities and staying with eagle hunters and nomadic families and more.

• Can I customize my tour?

  Yes, custom tour options to the Eagle Hunters in the Altai mountains for private tours are available upon request. Contact us for more information.

• What are the accommodation options during the tour to Altai?

  Accommodations on this Mongolia off road tour are designed to provide comfort while immersing travelers in the local culture and stunning landscapes of Western Mongolia, the Gobi, and the Altai regions. You will experience a variety of lodging types, ranging from camping under the stars in remote locations to staying in traditional Mongolian ger camps, where modern comforts meet authentic nomadic living.

  In select locations, you will enjoy some of the best hotels in Mongolia, offering a welcome respite after long days of off-road adventure. A standout highlight of the itinerary is staying with Kazakh eagle hunters in their traditional yurts, giving you an intimate glimpse into their way of life and a chance to observe these remarkable birds of prey up close.

  Whether on a two weeks Mongolia tour or extending to three weeks Mongolia, the accommodations are thoughtfully chosen to balance comfort, authenticity, and accessibility to the tour’s major highlights, including Altai Tavan Bogd, the Gobi desert, and key cultural sites. From the vast desert dunes to the alpine lakes and remote valleys of the Altai, each night provides a memorable setting, ensuring your Mongolia off road trip is as immersive as it is adventurous.

• What makes the eagle hunters of Western Mongolia so special?

  The eagle hunters of Western Mongolia are Kazakh nomads who have preserved the ancient and extraordinary tradition of hunting with golden eagles. This centuries-old practice, passed down through generations, is one of the most iconic cultural experiences in Mongolia. By joining our Altai tour or Mongolia off road trip, travelers gain the rare opportunity to meet these legendary hunters, witness their incredible skill, and see the deep, mutual bond they share with their eagles.

  Visitors can watch the eagles in action during hunting demonstrations, learn about training techniques, and gain insight into the nomadic lifestyle that sustains this unique heritage. Staying with eagle hunter families in traditional Kazakh yurts allows for a personal and immersive experience, where you can observe daily life in the remote valleys of Western Mongolia.

  This encounter is more than just sightseeing — it is a window into one of the world’s last living cultural traditions, set against the breathtaking landscapes of the Altai Mountains and the surrounding steppes. Whether on a two weeks Mongolia or three weeks Mongolia itinerary, meeting eagle hunters is a highlight that combines cultural immersion with the adventure of a true Mongolia off road tour.

• Does the tour include both the Gobi and Altai regions?

  Yes. This Mongolia off road tour offers a complete journey through two of the country’s most iconic landscapes: the vast Gobi Desert and the dramatic Altai Mountains. Travelers begin by exploring the Gobi, with its towering sand dunes, flaming cliffs, unique desert wildlife, and historical sites, offering a sense of Mongolia’s endless open spaces.

  From the desert, the tour heads west into Western Mongolia, where the terrain transforms into rugged mountains, alpine valleys, and pristine lakes. Here, you will explore Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, home to Mongolia’s highest peaks, glaciers, and sacred landscapes. This region is also the heartland of the legendary eagle hunters, providing both adventure and deep cultural immersion.

  Whether you choose a two weeks Mongolia or three weeks Mongolia itinerary, this Altai tour is one of the most comprehensive Mongolia off road trips, combining desert adventure, mountain exploration, nomadic culture, and historical landmarks in a single journey. It offers travelers a rare opportunity to experience the full diversity of Mongolia’s natural and cultural treasures.

• How challenging is this Mongolia off road tour?

  Our Mongolia off road tour is designed for adventurous travelers who enjoy rugged landscapes and remote journeys. Expect rough terrain, river crossings, and endless steppe tracks. Whether you choose a two weeks Mongolia itinerary or extend to three weeks Mongolia, the experience blends challenge with incredible rewards.

• What highlights can I expect on an Altai tour?

  An Altai tour takes you deep into Western Mongolia’s most beautiful landscapes.

  Unforgettable Highlights of the Altai Tracks to Eagle Hunters Tour

  Epic 4×4 Off-Road Expedition
  Embark on a 22-day guided self-drive adventure, covering approximately 3,800 km across Mongolia’s diverse terrains, from the Gobi Desert’s sand dunes to the rugged Altai Mountains.

  Immersive Cultural Encounters
  Stay with Kazakh eagle hunter families in traditional yurts, gaining firsthand insight into their ancient hunting practices and nomadic lifestyle.

  Majestic Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
  Explore Mongolia’s highest peaks, including Khuiten Peak, and witness the stunning glaciers and alpine lakes within this UNESCO World Heritage site.

  Golden Eagle Hunting Demonstrations
  Witness the legendary eagle hunters in action as they showcase their skills in hunting with golden eagles, a tradition passed down through generations.

  Traditional Kazakh Cuisine and Hospitality
  Experience authentic Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak and enjoy the warm hospitality of local families, sharing stories and traditions around the hearth.

  Horseback Riding Across Untamed Landscapes
  Traverse the vast steppes and rugged terrains on horseback, mirroring the traditional nomadic way of travel and exploration.

  Camping Under the Stars
  Set up camp in remote locations, enjoying the serenity of Mongolia’s wilderness and the breathtaking night skies.

  Visit to Kharakhorum – Ancient Capital of the Mongol Empire
  Explore the historical ruins of Kharakhorum, gaining insight into the rich history of the Mongol Empire.

  Pristine Lakes of Northern Mongolia
  Discover the tranquil beauty of northern lakes like Khyargas Lake, perfect for relaxation and reflection amidst nature.

  Optional Participation in the Golden Eagle Festival
  Depending on your travel dates, witness the vibrant Golden Eagle Festival, celebrating the ancient tradition of eagle hunting with competitions and cultural performances.

• Is the Gobi part of the itinerary?

  Yes. The Altai Tracks to Eagle Hunters tour begins in the legendary Gobi Desert, one of Mongolia’s most iconic landscapes. Travelers explore sand dunes, the largest lake of the Gobi and home to many migratory birds, snow covered mountain peaks and red toned colorful rock mountains. Each offering unique desert scenery and opportunities to spot wildlife like wild camels, gazelles, and desert foxes.

  From the Gobi, the journey continues off road into Western Mongolia and the Altai Mountains, passing through stunning locations such as Khyargas Lake, the valleys of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, and remote eagle hunter villages. This combination of desert and mountain exploration creates one of the most adventurous Mongolia off road trips, where travelers can experience everything from sweeping sand dunes to glacial peaks, alpine lakes, and nomadic culture in a single journey.

  Whether on the two weeks Mongolia or three weeks Mongolia itinerary, the tour offers a rare chance to traverse both the legendary Gobi and Altai regions, making it a truly complete Mongolia off road adventure.

• Why choose Western Mongolia for an off road trip?

  Western Mongolia is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and untouched natural beauty. This remote region is among the most pristine and unspoiled areas of the country, offering a dramatic mix of landscapes that range from glaciers and alpine peaks in the Altai Mountains to vast steppes, deserts, and pristine lakes.

  Western Mongolia is also home to unique and ancient cultures. Travelers encounter Kazakh eagle hunters, whose golden eagles have been used for hunting for centuries, and Tuvan herders, who maintain traditional nomadic lifestyles in the highlands. Staying with these communities in their traditional yurts offers a rare, authentic cultural immersion that is impossible in the more developed eastern regions of Mongolia.

  For those seeking a Mongolia off road tour that combines thrilling driving across rugged terrain with deep cultural experiences and breathtaking wilderness, Western Mongolia is unbeatable. The region features highlights such as Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, remote eagle hunter villages, the Gobi Desert’s sand dunes and Flaming Cliffs, alpine lakes like Khyargas Lake, and historic sites such as Kharakhorum, making it a truly comprehensive and unforgettable Mongolia off road trip.

  Whether you choose a two weeks Mongolia itinerary or extend to three weeks Mongolia, exploring Western Mongolia allows travelers to experience some of the country’s most extraordinary landscapes and cultural traditions in one adventure-packed journey.

• How long is the Altai Tracks to Eagle Hunters tour?

  We offer flexible itineraries, with two weeks Mongolia or three weeks Mongolia options. The two-week tour covers the main highlights of the Gobi and Altai, while the three-week Mongolia journey allows for deeper exploration of remote valleys, cultural stays, and slower travel.

• What is Altai Tavan Bogd and why is it important?

  Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is Mongolia’s crown jewel, located at the border of Russia and China. It features Mongolia’s highest peak, glaciers, and sacred lakes. Visiting Altai Tavan Bogd is a highlight of any Altai tour, offering both adventure trekking and a chance to connect with nomadic culture.

• What level of driving/fitness is required for this tour?

  This Mongolia off road tour is designed for travelers with a sense of adventure. If you are self-driving, basic 4×4 experience is recommended, but our guides also handle the toughest sections. Fitness requirements are moderate — there are some optional hikes in Altai Tavan Bogd and the Gobi, but most of the tour is accessible to anyone in good health.

• When is the best time of year to do this Altai & eagle hunter adventure?

  The best time to travel Western Mongolia and the Altai is from June to September, when the weather is warm and nomadic families are in the high pastures. This is also the ideal season to visit eagle hunters and explore both the Gobi and Altai landscapes without extreme cold.

• How remote is Western Mongolia on this itinerary?

  Western Mongolia is the most untouched region of the country. Expect long off road drives, mountain passes, and valleys far from modern infrastructure. This Altai tour takes you to places without hotels, restaurants, or paved roads — making it a true Mongolia off road trip.

• What kinds of accommodation options are included (gers, camps, lodges)?

  Accommodation is a mix of premium hotels, traditional nomadic gers, family guesthouses, tented camps, and simple local lodges. Staying with eagle hunter families in the Altai is often the highlight, offering authentic cultural immersion. In the Gobi, nights under the desert stars make the journey unforgettable.

• Will I need special gear or clothing for weather extremes?

  Yes. Mongolia’s weather can shift quickly — hot days in the Gobi, cold nights in the Altai. We recommend layered clothing, a good jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and a sleeping bag rated for cool temperatures. Your packing list will be provided before departure.

• How long are the daily drives, and how much off-road vs paved road can I expect?

  Most days include 4–7 hours of driving, with plenty of stops for photography, hiking, and meeting locals. Around 70–80% of the journey is true off road travel across the steppe, desert, and mountains. Paved roads are rare once you leave Ulaanbaatar. The last days driving from Uvs province Ulaangom back to Ulaanbaatar are mostly paved roads.

• Is there cell service / internet access during the journey?

  Coverage in Western Mongolia and Altai Tavan Bogd is extremely limited. Some small towns have basic cell networks, but much of the trip is offline. This is part of the adventure — a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nomadic life and untouched wilderness.

• What safety measures are in place for wildlife, altitude, and terrain?

  Our guides are trained in first aid and carry satellite communication devices for emergencies. Altitude in the Altai is moderate (around 2,500–3,500 m), so most travelers adjust easily. Vehicles are fully equipped for off road terrain, and backup plans are in place in case of breakdowns.

• What meals are provided, and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

  Meals on this Mongolia off road tour are a delicious mix of traditional Mongolian cuisine and carefully prepared Western dishes. Alongside some of the best local specialties, travelers can enjoy hearty meals such as tender tomahawk steaks paired with fine red wine, fresh salads, and other familiar Western favorites. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can also be arranged with advance notice, ensuring every traveler enjoys flavorful, satisfying meals even in the remote Gobi and Altai regions.

• Do I need travel insurance, visa, or immunizations to travel in Western Mongolia / Altai region?

  Yes, travel insurance including air evacuation is highly recommended for all Mongolia off road tours. Most travelers do not need a visa for Mongolia (check your nationality requirements or contact us). No specific immunizations are required, but standard travel vaccinations are recommended.

• What happens in case of mechanical failures or emergencies during the off-road portions?

  Our 4×4 vehicles are maintained for rugged terrain, and spare parts are carried. In case of mechanical issues, your guides can make field repairs or arrange support vehicles. Satellite phones ensure that help is available even in the most remote parts of the Altai or Gobi.

• Can solo travelers or couples join, or is there a minimum group size?

  Yes, solo travelers and couples are welcome and can either self drive a vehicle alone in the convoy or join the crew car.

• How culturally immersive is the tour — will I meet eagle hunters and stay with nomadic families?

  Yes. This Altai tour is one of the most culturally immersive in Mongolia. You’ll visit eagle hunter families, learn about their traditions, and share meals in their homes. You’ll also meet nomads in the Gobi and Western Mongolia, gaining insight into their daily life.

• What wildlife and natural scenery will I see (glaciers, mountain peaks, lakes)?

  Expect incredible variety: golden eagles, marmots, ibex, and possibly snow leopards in the Altai; camels and gazelles in the Gobi. Natural highlights include glaciers, alpine lakes, sand dunes, and the snow-capped peaks of Altai Tavan Bogd.

• What are the highlights if I choose the two-week vs the three-week version of the tour?

  The two weeks Mongolia tour covers the Gobi, Altai, eagle hunter visits, and key highlights of Western Mongolia. The three weeks Mongolia tour adds extra time for trekking in Altai Tavan Bogd, deeper cultural immersion, and slower exploration of remote valleys.