The Golden Eagle Festival is one of Mongolia’s most spectacular cultural events. It showcases the traditions of Kazakh eagle hunters—passing their hunting skills, heritage, and craftsmanship to the next generation. This festival has become a world-famous experience for photographers, adventurers, and culture lovers.
Where Are the Golden Eagle Festivals Held?
Most festivals take place in Bayan-Ölgii Province, Mongolia’s westernmost region, home to the country’s largest Kazakh population. Events are usually held 7–14 km outside Ölgii town, offering easy access while maintaining a stunning mountain backdrop.
A smaller Spring Eagle Festival is held near Ulaanbaatar, making it accessible for those short on time.
How to Travel to Bayan-Ulgii
Flights operate from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii on Hunnu Air or Aero Mongolia, MIAT.
Flight schedules vary each year with limited seats.
During festival weeks, tickets sell out fast and may cost up to USD 500 one way.
How Many Eagle Festivals Are There?
Mongolia hosts several Golden Eagle Festivals each year:
Festival Name | Dates | Location | Tour Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
Spring Golden Eagle Festival | 07-08 March | Near Ulaanbaatar | |
Altai Golden Eagle Festival | 12-15 September | Bayan-Ölgii | |
Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival | 17-18 September | Bayan-Ölgii | |
Main Golden Eagle Festival | 03-04 October 2026 | Bayan-Ölgii |
September Golden Eagle Festival
If you prefer avoiding crowds and enjoying milder weather, the September Golden Eagle Festival is an excellent choice. It offers spectacular sights and a friendly atmosphere, with locals happy to chat and pose for photos. The competitions are held upfront, allowing you to enjoy each event without long waits and capture stunning moments effortlessly. Around 40–50 eagle hunters participate in this festival.
October Golden Eagle Festival
The October Golden Eagle Festival, organized by the Mongolian Eagle Hunters’ Association, is the largest of its kind. It draws many tourists and photographers from around the world. Approximately 80–100 eagle hunters compete, making it a bigger and more competitive event.
Due to limited space on domestic flights and in local accommodations, we strongly recommend planning and booking your tour well in advance if you wish to attend this popular festival.
Spring Ulaanbaatar Eagle Festival
The Spring Golden Eagle Festival takes place near Mongolia’s capital at the Chinggisiin Khuree complex on March 8–9 each year.
Over 20 eagle hunters, aged 15 to 80, travel from western Mongolia to participate. This festival provides a unique opportunity to meet eagle hunters and witness thrilling competitions without having to travel to the remote Far West of Mongolia.
Why Are There Multiple Festivals?
The October festival attracts many visitors, and due to limited flights and accommodation, additional September and March festivals were created later. They offer the same cultural experience but with fewer competitors (around 40–50 hunters instead of 80).
What Happens During the Festival?
The festival lasts two days and features:
Grand opening parade of eagle hunters in full traditional attire
Eagle calling competition
Eagle agility test with moving bait
Horse & camel races
Archery demonstrations
Traditional games (coin grabbing, tug-of-war, Kyz Kuar)
Kazakh folk concert
Opportunities to meet and photograph the hunters up close
